Biological Sciences Courses
Department of Biological Sciences | Faculty of Science
間眅埶AV Calendar 2012 Spring
The following are all the courses offered in this area. To view the current course catalog and/or course schedule on the Student Information System, visit (select "Class Search/Course Schedule" on the left menu).
Prerequisite Minimum Grade Requirement
Unless stated, a grade of C- or better is required on all prerequisite BISC and MBB courses.
BISC 100-4 Introduction to Biology
An introduction to the basic concepts of biology, emphasizing evolution as a unifying theme. Topics include cell structure, mitosis and meiosis, DNA structure and function, evolution and population and ecosystem ecology. Students with credit for BISC 101 or 102, or succeeding biology courses, may not take BISC 100 for further credit. Students with a C or better in Biology 12, who are considering a BISC Major, are encouraged to proceed directly to BISC 101 and 102. Breadth-Science.
BISC 101-4 General Biology
An introduction to the biochemical and physiological mechanisms of living organisms. Topics covered include cell structure and function, DNA replication and the flow of genetic information, enzyme function, metabolism and physiology of microorganisms, plants, and animals. Prerequisite: High school biology 12 (or equivalent) with a C grade or better, or BISC 100. BISC 101 and 102 may be taken in any order, and are available for B-Sci credit, but are primarily designed to deliver prerequisite information to biological sciences majors and related departments and faculties. Non-science students are encouraged to earn their B-Sci units in other BISC breadth courses (e.g. BISC 100 or 110). Breadth-Science
BISC 102-4 General Biology
Survey of the diversity of life, and its evolutionary history on earth. The student is introduced to the study of genetics, development, and evolution, giving an overview of how these processes interact to produce form and function. Also included are principles of behavior and ecological relationships of organisms to each other and their environment. Prerequisite: High school biology 12 (or equiv) wit a C grade or better, or BISC 100. BISC 101 and 102 may be taken in any order, and are available for B-Sci credit, but are primarily designed to deliver prerequisite information to BISC majors and related departments and faculties. Non-science students are encouraged to earn their B-Sci units in other BISC breadth courses (e.g. BISC 100 or 110). Students with credit for BISC 110 may not complete this course for further credit. Breadth-Science
BISC 110-3 The Evolution and Diversity of Life on Earth
Current theories about the origin and evolution of life on this planet. The course will include a survey of the five kingdoms to emphasize both the structural and functional diversity of living forms, as well as the characteristics shared by members of each major group. Students having credit for BISC 102 may not take BISC 110 for further credit. Breadth-Science.
BISC 111-3 Special Topics: Current Topics in Biology I
Selected topics in biology intended to fulfil breadth requirements for non-majors. Topics will vary depending on instructor. Breadth-Science.
BISC 112-3 Special Topics: Current Topics in Biology II
Selected topics in biology intended to fulfil breadth requirements for non-majors Topics will vary depending on instructor. Breadth-Science.
BISC 202-3 Genetics
Principles and concepts of the transmission of genetic information treated comparatively in man, animal, plant and microbe. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102.
BISC 204-3 Introduction to Ecology
An introduction to biotic-environmental relationships and dynamics; ecological concepts; population dynamics, variation, adaptation and evolution. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102. Credit will not be granted for both BISC 204 and GEOG 215.
BISC 272-3 Special Topics in Biology
Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced in the Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations. Entry into this course normally requires completion of the lower division core for biological sciences, or permission of the department.
BISC 300-3 Evolution
The phenomenon of organic evolution, and the major forces leading to changes in allele frequencies over time, i.e. natural selection and genetic drift. Topics include adaptation, speciation, the origin of life, and the major evolutionary trends over geological time. Prerequisite: BISC 202. Recommended: BISC 204. Students with credit for BISC 400 may not take BISC 300 for further credit.
BISC 302-3 Genetic Analysis
Discussion and manipulations of some of the organisms and techniques applicable to genetic analysis. Students are required to come into the lab on average of two hours per week in addition to the four hour scheduled lab each week for project work. Prerequisite: BISC 202 with a grade of C- or better.
BISC 302W-3 Genetic Analysis
Discussion and manipulations of some of the organisms and techniques applicable to genetic analysis. Students are required to come into the lab on average of two hours per week in addition to the four hour scheduled lab each week for project work. Prerequisite: BISC 202 with a grade of C- or better. Writing
BISC 303-4 Microbiology
The biology of micro-organisms and their significance in the understanding of cellular processes. Students are required to come into the lab on average of two hours per week in addition to the four hour scheduled lab each week for project work. Prerequisite: BISC 102 and MBB 231.
BISC 304-3 Animal Ecology
A study of the interrelationships of animals and their physical and biotic environment. Prerequisite: BISC 101, 102 and 204.
BISC 304W-3 Animal Ecology
A study of the interrelationships of animals and their physical and biotic environment. Prerequisite: BISC 101, 102, and 204. Writing.
BISC 305-3 Animal Physiology
A comparative study of basic physiological mechanisms in invertebrates and vertebrates. Prerequisite: MBB 231 and PHYS 102 (or PHYS 121 or 126 or 141) with a grade of C- or better.
BISC 306-4 Invertebrate Biology
An introduction to selected invertebrate phyla with an emphasis on functional morphology, diversity and ecology. Prerequisite: BISC 101, 102 and 204.
BISC 307-3 Animal Physiology Laboratory
A laboratory course using contemporary techniques of animal physiological research. Prerequisite: BISC 305 with a grade of C- or better.
BISC 307W-3 Animal Physiology Laboratory
A laboratory course using contemporary techniques of animal physiological research. Prerequisite: BISC 305 with a grade of C- or better. Writing
BISC 309-3 Conservation Biology
An examination of the primary threats to biodiversity, how biological processes contribute to the persistence of populations and structure of communities, and species and landscape approaches to conservation in the real world. Prerequisite: BISC 204. Students who have taken BISC 474 in spring 2006 or BISC 475 in spring 2008 as special topics courses titled 'Conservation Ecology' cannot take this course for further credit.
BISC 310-3 The Natural History of British Columbia
Field course on the ecology, distribution, and characteristics of organisms representative of various biotic regions of the province (both terrestrial and marine). Sampling techniques are emphasized. The course will normally be taught as a full-time, intensive, three week course with field trips of one to several days duration. Prerequisite: BISC 204, and one of the following: BISC 306, 316, 317, 326, 337.
BISC 313-3 Environmental Toxicology
This course introduces students to basic principles of toxicology and several classes of widely encountered environmental pollutants. Emphasis is on toxicology as an interdisciplinary science. This course is a prerequisite for all advanced toxicology courses. Prerequisite: MBB 231.
BISC 316-4 Vertebrate Biology
A review of the evolution and the taxonomy of the vertebrate classes. A comparative study of their organ systems and functions with particular reference to reproduction. A comparison of the functional morphology of some species by laboratory dissections. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102.
BISC 317-3 Insect Biology
Life histories, bionomics, comparative morphology, and classification of insects and related organisms. A collection may be required, depending on instructor. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102.
BISC 326-3 Biology of Algae and Fungi
A survey of form, function and phenetics. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102.
BISC 329-4 Introduction to Experimental Techniques
This course is designed to introduce students to basic measurement methods and instrumentation as used in modern biology. Prerequisite: CHEM 121 and 122, MBB 231, PHYS 102 (or PHYS 121 or 126 or 141), STAT 201.
BISC 333-3 Developmental Biology
Classical and modern experimental approaches will be described for understanding development of embryos of several species having common and distinctive features. These approaches are at the organismal, cellular, molecular and genetic levels. Prerequisite: BISC 202, MBB 222, MBB 231.
BISC 337-4 Plant Biology
An introductory course covering many aspects of plant biology including the origin and evolution of plants, basic anatomy, plant growth and development and the utilization and impact of plants in human society. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102.
BISC 341-3 Practicum I
First term of work experience in the Biological Sciences Co-operative Education Program. Units for this course do not count towards the units required for an 間眅埶AV degree. Prerequisite: acceptance in the biological sciences co-operative education program.
BISC 342-3 Practicum II
Second term of work experience in the Biological Sciences Co-operative Education Program. Units for this course do not count towards the units required for an 間眅埶AV degree. Prerequisite: BISC 341 and re-admission to the science co-operative education program.
BISC 357-3 Gene Cloning
Introduction to various techniques in gene cloning and the applications of gene cloning. Laboratory exercises follow a sequence of events commonly practiced in many molecular genetics laboratories and include novel technologies such as cloning by site-directed recombination. Lecture content spans basic cloning in plasmids to novel large-scale genomics technologies. Prerequisite: BISC 202, MBB 222, 231. Recommended: MBB 331. Credit will not be granted for both BISC 357 and MBB 308. Cannot be taken for credit if already taken as a Special Topics course.
BISC 366-3 Plant Physiology
The plant's physical environment and the physiological basis (mechanisms and principles) of the interaction between plants and their environment in relation to their survival and ecological distribution. Prerequisite: MBB 231.
BISC 367-3 Plant Physiology Laboratory
A laboratory course using contemporary techniques of plant physiological research. Prerequisite: BISC 366 with a grade of C- or better.
BISC 367W-3 Plant Physiology Laboratory
A laboratory course using contemporary techniques of plant physiological research. Prerequisite: BISC 366: Plant Physiology with a grade of C- or better. Writing
BISC 372-3 Special Topics in Biology
Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced in the Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations.
BISC 403-3 Current Topics in Cell Biology
The lectures will explore two or three major themes in current cell biology, such as cell motility, the cell cycle, and cellular signalling. A critical component of the course is to develop an understanding of the experimental basis of our knowledge about cells. Prerequisite: MBB 222, 231 with C- or better, and completion of 75 units, or completion of BISC 305 or 366 with a C- or better.
BISC 404-3 Plant Ecology
The study of the distribution and abundance of plants, including how individuals, populations, and communities are affected by abiotic (climate, soil) and biotic (competition, herbivory) factors. A major focus will be life history evolution (pollination, defence, disperal). Experimental and observational laboratory exercises are primarily conducted outdoors. Prerequisite: BISC 101, 102, and 204.
BISC 404W-3 Plant Ecology
The study of the distribution and abundance of plants, including how individuals, populations, and communities are affected by abiotic (climate, soil) and biotic (competition, herbivory) factors. A major focus will be life history evolution (pollination, defence, disperal). Experimental and observational laboratory exercises are primarily conducted outdoors. Prerequisite: BISC 101, 102, and 204. Writing.
BISC 405-3 Neurobiology
Physiology of neuroscience, focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms. Topics include: cellular and subcellular organization of the nervous system, electrical properties of neurons, ion channels, synaptic transmission, sensory systems, learning and memory, neurodegenerative diseases. Prerequisite: BISC 305: Animal Physiology with a grade of C- or better or KIN 305: Human Physiology I with a grade of C- or better. Students who have completed BISC 472 under the title 'Neurobiology' may not complete BISC 405 for further credit
BISC 406-3 Marine Biology and Oceanography
An introduction to the marine environment, marine organisms and the ecological and oceanographic processes affecting them. Prerequisite: BISC 306 or 316.
BISC 407-3 Population Dynamics
An evaluation of factors influencing the natural fluctuation and regulation of plant and animal population numbers. Prerequisite: BISC 304 or 404.
BISC 410-3 Behavioral Ecology
An introduction to the evolution of behavior and its adaptiveness in a natural context. Corequisite: BISC 304 or permission of the department.
BISC 413-3 Fisheries Ecology
Fisheries from an ecological point of view, whereby the principles of population dynamics, behaviour, competition and predator-prey relationships are applied to conservation and management of the world's fisheries. Prerequisite: BISC 204. Students who have taken BISC 472 with the title "Fisheries Ecology" may not take this course for further credit.
BISC 414-3 Limnology
An integrated examination of biological, chemical and physical processes in lakes and running water ecosystems. Interactions among biological, chemical and physical controls on the structure, function and dynamics of aquatic ecosystems are emphasized. Environmental problems resulting from human disturbances to aquatic ecosystems are examined. Prerequisite: 75 units in a science program, including BISC 204 or GEOG 215, or permission of the instructor.
BISC 418-3 Parasitology
Ecology and phylogeny of animal parasites (from protozoa to helminthes), including those of humans, domestic animals and wildlife. Parasite success, host-parasite interactions, general epidemiological principles of parasitic infections, and reproductive strategies used by parasites to increase the likelihood of transmission as well as host responses and medical options for past and current parasite problems. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102, and 204 or HSCI 212 and completion of 75 units. Recommended: BISC 300 and 306.
BISC 419-3 Wildlife Biology
Theoretical and applied aspects of ecology and behavior in relation to wildlife populations and their habitats, with emphasis on important mammals and birds in British Columbia. Attendance on local field trips is required. Prerequisite: BISC 304. Recommended: BISC 316.
BISC 422-3 Population Genetics
Theoretical and experimental aspects of inheritance at the population level. Topics include Hardy-Weinberg, one- and two-locus selection theory, introduction to quantitative genetics, and Fisher's fundamental theorem of natural selection. Prerequisite: BISC 202 and STAT 201.
BISC 429-4 Separation Methods in Biology
A systematic introduction to separation principles and strategies for the purification of biomolecules, with laboratory experiments using contemporary techniques in complex biological systems. Detailed instruction in composing and writing scientific reports. Prerequisite: MBB 222, 231, 75 units.
BISC 429W-4 Separation Methods in Biology
A systematic introduction to separation principles and strategies for the purification of biomolecules, with laboratory experiments using contemporary techniques in complex biological systems. Detailed instruction in composing and writing scientific reports. Prerequisite: MBB 222, 231, 75 units. Writing.
BISC 430-3 Microbe-Plant Interactions
Interactions between major groups of microbes (including fungi, bacteria, viruses, phytoplasmas and viroids) with higher plants, including the chemical signals which trigger the onset of recognition events that result in a parasitic or mutualistic relationship, and the mechanisms of plant defense. Prerequisite: MBB 231 and at least one of BISC 303, 326, 337. Students who have completed BISC 475 under the title 'Microbe-Plant Interactions' may not complete BISC 430 for further credit.
BISC 432-3 Chemical Pesticides and the Environment
The physical, chemical and biological properties of chemical pesticides; risks and benefits associated with their use in pest management. Prerequisite: BISC 305 or 366. Recommended: for those who wish entry to the Master of Pest Management program.
BISC 434-3 Paleoecology and Palynology
The principles of paleoenvironmental reconstruction, emphasizing the study of pollen grains, spores, and other microfossils in solving problems of paleobiology and earth history. Prerequisite: minimum 60 units including BISC 204, or GEOG 215. Some background in botany, biogeography, or earth sciences is desirable.
BISC 435-3 Introduction to Pest Management
Survey of the natures, causes and consequences of pest problems and of the natural and applied factors and processes that determine their occurrence and intensity. Prerequisite: BISC 317, or 75 units.
BISC 439-4 Industrial Microbiology
This course introduces students to the use of microorganisms in biotechnology, e.g. in the environmental, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. The lectures will cover the unique physiology/biochemistry of industrial microorganisms and their use in processes such as fermentation, bioremediation, chemical synthesis and protein production. The laboratory component is designed as a series of exercises that form a complete research project. Prerequisite: BISC 303 or equivalent.
BISC 440-3 Biodiversity
The production and organization of biodiversity (investigations of species, and an in-depth look at taxonomy, systematics and phylogenetics). Evolutionary and ecological theories behind the patterns of biodiversity (the current and future geographic distribution of species, and how biodiversity is related to ecosystem function). The values society gives biodiversity (how our values are reflected in law and regulation). Prerequisite: BISC 300, STAT 201 or equivalent, both with C or better, plus 75 units.
BISC 440W-3 Biodiversity
The production and organization of biodiversity (investigations of species, and an in-depth look at taxonomy, systematics and phylogenetics). Evolutionary and ecological theories behind the patterns of biodiversity (the current and future geographic distribution of species, and how biodiversity is related to ecosystem function). The values society gives biodiversity (how our values are reflected in law and regulation). Prerequisite: BISC 300, STAT 201 or equivalent, both with C or better, plus 75 units. Writing.
BISC 441-3 Evolution of Health and Disease
Application of the principles and theories of evolution and ecology to the study of health and disease, with a particular but not exclusive emphasis on humans. Topics to be covered include the evolutionary ecology of infectious disease, the immune system, cancer, senescence, fetal programming, and the genetic/environmental bases of disease. The course will involve a combination of lectures by the primary faculty member teaching the course, discussions, student research projects (papers, written and revised, and presentations to the class), and specialist guest lectures. Prerequisite: BISC 202 or 204. Recommended: BISC 300.
BISC 443-3 Practicum III
Third term of work experience in the Biological Sciences Co-operative Education Program. Units for this course do not count towards the units required for an 間眅埶AV degree. Prerequisite: BISC 342 and re-admission to the science co-operative education program.
BISC 444-3 Practicum IV
Fourth term of work experience in the Biological Sciences Co-operative Education Program. Units for this course do not count towards the units required for an 間眅埶AV degree. Prerequisite: BISC 443 and re-admission to the science co-operative education program.
BISC 445-3 Environmental Physiology of Animals
A discussion of the physiological mechanisms and adaptations which permit animals to live in diverse environments. The course will adopt a comparative approach to physiology. Prerequisite: BISC 305.
BISC 446-3 Practicum V
Fifth term of work experience in the Biological Sciences Co-operative Education Program. Units for this course do not count towards the units required for an 間眅埶AV degree. Prerequisite: BISC 444-0 and re-admission to the science co-operative education program.
BISC 449-4 Histological Techniques in Biology
Principles of microscopy and histological techniques for sample preparation: fixation, dehydration, embedding, and sectioning. Use of lipid and nucleic acid stains and antibodies for labeling. Prerequisite: BISC 329.
BISC 455-3 Endocrinology
A study of endocrine organs and their role in integrating physiological functions in animals. Prerequisite: BISC 305 and one of BISC 306 or 316.
BISC 457-3 Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
An introduction to plant molecular biology and the techniques, applications and issues of plant genetic engineering. Prerequisite: MBB 222, 231.
BISC 471-3 Special Topics in Biology
Selected topics not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced.
BISC 472-3 Selected Topics in Biology
Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced in the Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations.
BISC 473-3 Selected Topics in Biology
Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced in the Undergraduate Schedule of Classes and Examinations.
BISC 474-3 Special Topics in Biology
Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced in the Course Timetable and Exam Schedule.
BISC 475-3 Special Topics in Biology
Selected topics not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings in the Department of Biological Sciences. Prerequisite: to be announced in the Course Timetable and Exam Schedule.
BISC 490-5 Research Design
Prerequisite: completion of all lower division biological sciences courses, plus upper division BISC courses appropriate to the subject of the intended research as determined by the departmental undergraduate curriculum committee; completion of all physics, chemistry and mathematics requirements for the major or honors program; at the time of application, students will normally have a CGPA of 3.00 (B standing). BISC 490 may be taken in the term prior to BISC 491/492 by students intending to complete the three course ISS.
BISC 491-5 Research Technique
Prerequisite: completion of all lower division biological sciences courses, plus upper division BISC courses appropriate to the subject of the intended research as determined by the departmental undergraduate curriculum committee; completion of all physics, chemistry and mathematics requirements for the major or honors program; at the time of application, students will normally have a CGPA of 3.00 (B standing). Corequisite: BISC 490 and 492.
BISC 492W-5 Research Reporting
Prerequisite: completion of all lower division biological sciences courses, plus upper division BISC courses appropriate to the subject of the intended research as determined by the departmental undergraduate curriculum committee; completion of all physics, chemistry and mathematics requirements for the major or honors program; at the time of application, students will normally have a CGPA of 3.00 (B standing). Corequisite: BISC 490 and 491. Writing.
BISC 497W-3 Undergraduate Research: Writing Intensive
A student may enrol in this course only with prior written agreement of a faculty member to act as research supervisor, who will also provide instruction and feedback on the writing and presentation of results from the research. A maximum of three research courses can be applied towards degree requirements. Prerequisite: 90 units. Writing
BISC 498-3 Undergraduate Research I
A student will be permitted to enrol in this course only if he/she obtains the prior written agreement of a faculty member to act as research advisor. A maximum of three research courses can be applied towards degree requirements.
BISC 499-3 Undergraduate Research II
A student will be permitted to enrol in this course only if he/she obtains the prior written agreement of a faculty member to act as research advisor. A maximum of three research courses can be applied towards degree requirements.
BISC 601-2 Agriculture, Horticulture and Urban Pest Management
A broad range of agricultural pests and their management, with emphasis on insects, crop diseases, and weeds in greenhouses, orchards and field crops. Pest problems in urban environments, including stored products in and near buildings.
BISC 602-2 Forest Pest Management
Management of insect, microbial, vertebrate and plant pests of forests and forest products, including seed orchards, nurseries, dryland sorting areas. Emphasis is placed on diagnosis, decision-making, interactions and techniques for forest pest management.
BISC 603-5 Farm and Speciality Crop Pest Management
Agricultural pests and their management, with emphasis on insects and crop diseases, and including garden and greenhouse pests.
BISC 604-3 Orchard Crop Pest Management
Insects, diseases, and other pests of fruit trees, including grapevines and small fruits, and their management.
BISC 605-3 Management of Animal Disease Vectors
Management of vectors, especially arthropods, of human and animal diseases, especially microbial; selected topics in epidemiology.
BISC 650-3 Environmental Risk Assessment
This course emphasizes recent development in quantitative human health risk assessment and ecological effects based risk assessment of environmental chemicals. Prerequisite: BISC 313.
BISC 651-3 Toxicity Tests I: Ecological Effects Based Tests
This course provides the basic concepts and practical experience for the application of ecologically-based toxicity tests. Prerequisite: BISC 313.
BISC 652-3 ET Tests II: Mammalian Toxicity Tests
The main focus of this course is on laboratory testing procedures currently employed in the toxicological evaluation of chemicals. Prerequisite: BISC 313 or permission of the department.
BISC 654-3 Food and Drug Toxicology
Investigates those toxic compounds in the environment which are added to, contaminate, or supplement one's diet. Prerequisite: BISC 313 or equivalent.
BISC 655-3 Environmental Toxicology Seminar
A structured series of seminars on the recent developments of environmental toxicology.
BISC 656-6 Master of Environmental Toxicology Project
One term experience in a university or commercial laboratory according to student's interests. Prerequisite: acceptance into the environmental toxicology program.
BISC 657-0 Co-Op Practicum I
First work experience for MET students. Prerequisite: permission of the department.
BISC 658-0 Co-op Practicum II
Second work experience for MET students. Prerequisite: Permission of the department.
BISC 800-1 Basic Skills for a Career in Science
Introduction to methods of writing research articles and grant proposals, preparing talks for scientific and non-scientific audiences, and writing for the media. The student-supervisor relationship and conflict resolution are also discussed.
BISC 806-3 Evolutionary Theory
A consideration of recent advances and current controversies in our understanding of the development, diversification and adaptation of life through natural selection.
BISC 807-3 Ecological and Evolutionary Physiology
This course considers what physiology has to offer behavioral and evolutionary ecology (and vice versa), with a focus on whole organism or 'integrative physiology.'
BISC 812-3 Marine Research Techniques: Scientific Diving
An introduction to the use of diving in marine/freshwater research, related underwater methodology, diving competency and current issues in marine biological research and scientific diving.
BISC 815-3 Contemporary Problems in Plant Physiology
Directed studies in modern laboratory approaches to specific areas of research.
BISC 816-3 Biology and Management of Insects
Bionomics, ecology, economic impact, and management of the major groups of insects, based on intensive reviews of information on representative species. Prerequisite: BISC 317 or permission of the department.
BISC 820-3 Molecular Mechanisms of Microbial Pathogenesis
A survey of the diverse molecular mechanisms used by selected bacteria, viruses, fungi, and prions to colonize the human host and cause disease. Prerequisite: undergraduate course in microbiology or permission of the instructor.
BISC 821-1 Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium
This seminar course provides a rigorous introduction to recent research in cell biology. Papers will be selected along a particular theme, but there is always a strong emphasis on the experimental basis of our knowledge about celluar mechanisms. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. A student may not take more than 3 units of Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium courses, including MBB 821, 822, 823.
BISC 822-1 Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium
This seminar course provides a rigorous introduction to recent research in cell biology. Papers will be selected along a particular theme, but there is always a strong emphasis on the experimental basis of our knowledge about celluar mechanisms. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. A student may not take more than 3 units of Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium courses, including MBB 821, 822, 823.
BISC 823-1 Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium
This seminar course provides a rigorous introduction to recent research in cell biology. Papers will be selected along a particular theme, but there is always a strong emphasis on the experimental basis of our knowledge about celluar mechanisms. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. A student may not take more than 3 units of Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium courses, including MBB 821, 822, 823.
BISC 824-3 Survival and Reproductive Strategies
An examination of strategies for resource acquisition and allocation, and the behavioral, ecological and life history means whereby organisms maximize lifetime reproductive success.
BISC 827-1 Seminar in Evolutionary and Behavioral Ecology
An introduction to the important issues, methods and philosophy of behavioral ecology, and discussion of current topics. Prerequisite: BISC 304 and 410 or permission of the department.
BISC 828-3 Models in Behavioral Ecology
An intensive survey course of current modeling techniques used for analysis of problems in behavioral ecology.
BISC 829-3 Conservation Ecology
This course will illustrate the value of applying ecological theory, particularly concerning life history and demography, to issues of management and conservation. Examination of life history characteristics and variability of individuals will demonstrate how knowledge of demography and population parameters are essential for effective conservation. Emphasis will be on vertebrate species.
BISC 830-3 Community Ecology and Macroecology
Interspecific interactions, community assembly, and diversity estimation in ecology.
BISC 831-1 Research Seminars in Biological Sciences
Advanced research seminars on a variety of current, cutting-edge biological topics.
BISC 832-1 Research Seminars in Biological Sciences
Advanced research seminars on a variety of current, cutting-edge biological topics.
BISC 833-1 Research Seminars in Biological Sciences
Advanced research seminars on a variety of current, cutting-edge biological topics.
BISC 834-3 Essential Cell Biology
Review of basic processes in cell biology including, but not limited to, cell adhesion/migration, cytoskeleton, endo/exocytosis, intracellular trafficking, signal transduction, ion homeostasis, energy generation, protein processing/apoptosis, post-translation modifications, genomics. A review of each topic will be followed by an introduction to cutting-edge work in this field. Prerequisite: permission of the course co-ordinator.
BISC 838-3 Population Dynamics and Demography
Theory and practice of population modeling and demographic analysis.
BISC 839-3 Industrial Microbiology
This course introduces students to the use of micro-organisms in biotechnology, e.g. in the environmental, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. The lectures will cover the unique physiology and biochemistry of industrial micro-organisms as well as discussing their use in various processes including industrial fermentation, bioremediation, chemical synthesis and protein production (e.g. vaccines) by recombinant organisms. Prerequisite: a second or third year undergraduate microbiology course.
BISC 841-3 Plant Disease Development and Control
An examination of the major factors that lead to development of soil-associated and foliar plant diseases in cultivated crops, in relation to the nature, underlying principles, application and limitations of various types of control practices.
BISC 842-3 Molecular Physiology of Insects
An examination of hormonal and nutritional factors that influence growth and development, as well as energy metabolism in insects, with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms involved in their regulation.
BISC 844-3 Biological Controls
Principles, theory, and practice of the use of living organisms in the natural regulation and the control of organisms. Emphasis will be on parasitic insects, and include host specificity, genetics, genetic controls, and the evolution of host-parasite associations.
BISC 846-3 Insecticide Chemistry and Toxicology
The chemistry of insecticides, with emphasis on their toxicology, metabolism and molecular mechanism of action.
BISC 847-3 Pest Management in Practice
Status and special problems of research development and implementation of pest management programs in different kinds of ecosystems; consideration of factors such as management systems, economics, communication, legal and social constraints, and ethics in the practice of pest management.
BISC 849-6 Master of Pest Management Thesis
An independent research thesis based on laboratory or field-based research and focused on some aspect of pest management. The research may be supervised by any faculty member in the Department of Biological Sciences.
BISC 851-3 Vertebrate Pests
Evaluation of the biology of vertebrates that are in conflict with human activities; discussion of control strategies and economic and social impacts.
BISC 852-3 Biology of Animal Disease Vectors
Physiological, molecular, and behavioral interactions between parasites of human importance and their insect vectors. Emphasis is placed on current literature relating to modern approaches in reducing parasite transmission.
BISC 854-3 Ecotoxicology
The proposed course will detail the physiochemical factors that influence contaminant behavior in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Prerequisite: BISC 101, 312, CHEM 102, and 103. Recommended: BISC 414.
BISC 855-3 Biochemical Toxicology
This course examines the biodynamics and actions of toxicants on several key biological systems within living organisms at the biochemical and molecular levels. Prerequisite: BISC 313.
BISC 859-3 Special Topics I
Selected topics in biological science. The content of this course varies from term to term.
BISC 867-3 Ecology of Infectious Diseases in the Community
Addresses the complexities of a community of host species infected by a single pathogen and multiple-host-multiple-parasite systems and sequential hosts acting on different trophic levels. Prerequisite: admission to the graduate program, or permission of the instructor.
BISC 869-3 Special Topics II
BISC 879-3 Special Topics III
BISC 880-3 Special Topics in Behavioral Ecology
A consideration of advanced special topics in the field of behavioral ecology.
BISC 881-3 Special Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
A student participation seminar course focusing on recent literature on selected topics in cellular, developmental, and molecular biology. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor
BISC 883-3 Special Topics in Environmental Toxicology
Special topics course with emphasis on recent developments in environmental toxicology.
BISC 884-3 Special Topics in Pest Ecology and Management
A course that provides graduate students with an in-depth analysis of a topic in pest ecology and management. The course content will change from year to year to reflect student interests and topical research, and can be taught by any faculty member of the Department of Biological Sciences.
BISC 885-3 Special Topics in Animal Physiology
Special topics in comparative vertebrate and invertebrate functional mechanisms and adaptations. Prerequisite: undergraduate course in animal physiology.
BISC 886-3 Special Topics in Marine and Aquatic Biology
Special topics course emphasizing recent developments in the area of aquatic and marine biology.
BISC 887-3 Special Topics in Plant Biology
Advanced treatment of selected topics or specialized areas in plant biology. The special topics to be discussed will vary from term to term.
BISC 888-1 Directed Readings in Biology
Programs of directed readings and critical discussions offered by staff members to individual students. A formal description of the study program is required (forms available from the graduate secretary). These forms must be approved by the departmental graduate studies committee at the beginning of the term, prior to enrolment.
BISC 889-2 Directed Readings in Biology
Intended to cover the same ground as a normal graduate course, it may be given to one or two students when a lecture/seminar is inappropriate.
BISC 890-3 Directed Readings in Biology
Programs of directed readings and critical discussions offered by staff members to individual students. A formal description of the study program is required (forms available from the graduate secretary). These forms must be approved by the departmental graduate studies committee at the beginning of the term, prior to enrolment.