Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV

Please note:

To view the current Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar.html.

| Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV Calendar | Summer 2021

Biological Physics Honours

Bachelor of Science

This bachelor of science (BSc) honours program is for students who are interested in using physical approaches to tackle biological problems.

Students should speak with an advisor as soon as possible to schedule their programs.

Honours program graduates may undertake graduate work in either physics or molecular biology, or related areas, and should choose their courses accordingly.

Minimum Grade Requirement

Students wishing to enrol in physics courses must obtain a C- grade or better in prerequisite courses.

Program Requirements

Students are strongly encouraged to complete CMPT 120 - Introduction to Computing Science and Programming, in addition to the following requirements.

Lower Division Requirements

Complete all of

BISC 101 - General Biology (4)

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 with C- or better, or BISC 113 with C+ or better, or HSCI 100 with C+ or better; and High school Chemistry 12 (or equivalent) with a C grade or better, or CHEM 111 with a C- or better. Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Onkar Bains
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 9:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 1:30–3:20 p.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
BISC 102 - General Biology (4)

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 equivalent) with a C grade or better, or BISC 100 with C- or better, or BISC 113 with C+ or better, or HSCI 100 with C+ or better. Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Rolf Mathewes
Miranda Meents
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D201 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D202 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D203 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D204 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D205 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D206 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D207 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D208 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D209 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D210 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
BISC 202 - Genetics (3)

Principles and concepts of the transmission of genetic information treated comparatively in man, animal, plant and microbe. Prerequisite: BISC 101 and 102 with a grade of C- or better.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Kathleen Fitzpatrick
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
CHEM 121 - General Chemistry and Laboratory I (4)

Atomic and molecular structure; chemical bonding; thermochemistry; elements; periodic table; gases liquids, solids, and solutions. This course includes a laboratory component. Prerequisite: Chemistry 12 with a minimum grade of C, or CHEM 109 or 111 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 120 or 125 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

CHEM 122 - General Chemistry II (2)

Chemical equilibria; electrochemistry; chemical thermodynamics; kinetics. Students who intend to take further laboratory courses in chemistry should take CHEM 122 concurrently with CHEM 126. Prerequisite: CHEM 120 or 121 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 124 or CHEM 180 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Hogan Yu
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D110 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
CHEM 281 - Organic Chemistry and Laboratory I (4)

Structure, bonding, physical and chemical properties of simple organic compounds. Introduction to spectroscopy. Kinetics and mechanisms of organic reactions. This course includes a laboratory component. Prerequisite: CHEM 121 with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: CHEM 122. Students with credit for CHEM 280 or CHEM 285 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

CHEM 282 - Organic Chemistry II (2)

Polyfunctional organic compounds and complex organic reactions. Introduction to natural products. Prerequisite: CHEM 281 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for CHEM 283 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Vance Williams
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
MATH 152 - Calculus II (3)

Riemann sum, Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, definite, indefinite and improper integrals, approximate integration, integration techniques, applications of integration. First-order separable differential equations and growth models. Sequences and series, series tests, power series, convergence and applications of power series. Prerequisite: MATH 150 or 151, with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 154 or 157 with a grade of at least B. Students with credit for MATH 155 or 158 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Vijaykumar Singh
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
OP01 TBD
MATH 251 - Calculus III (3)

Rectangular, cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Vectors, lines, planes, cylinders, quadric surfaces. Vector functions, curves, motion in space. Differential and integral calculus of several variables. Vector fields, line integrals, fundamental theorem for line integrals, Green's theorem. Prerequisite: MATH 152 with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 155 or MATH 158 with a grade of at least B. Recommended: It is recommended that MATH 240 or 232 be taken before or concurrently with MATH 251. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Steven Ruuth
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Jamie Mulholland
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
OP01 TBD
OP02 TBD
MATH 252 - Vector Calculus (3)

Vector calculus, divergence, gradient and curl; line, surface and volume integrals; conservative fields, theorems of Gauss, Green and Stokes; general curvilinear coordinates and tensor notation. Introduction to orthogonality of functions, orthogonal polynomials and Fourier series. Prerequisite: MATH 240 or 232, and 251, all with a minimum grade of C-. MATH 240 or 232 may be taken concurrently. Students with credit for MATH 254 may not take MATH 252 for further credit. Quantitative.

MATH 260 - Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations (3)

First-order differential equations, second- and higher-order linear equations, series solutions, introduction to Laplace transform, systems and numerical methods, applications in the physical, biological and social sciences. Prerequisite: MATH 152 with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 155 or 158, with a grade of at least B; MATH 232 or 240, with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for MATH 310 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Justin Gray
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
Vijaykumar Singh
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D201 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D202 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D203 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
MBB 222 - Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

The structure, function and synthesis of proteins, RNA and DNA and their interrelated biological functions within the cell. An introduction to molecular biology techniques and methods of protein purification and analysis. Prerequisite: or Corequisite CHEM 281.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Irina Kovalyova
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
MBB 231 - Cellular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

A study of the molecular processes which underlie cell structure and function, integrating ultrastructural, physiological and biochemical approaches. Modern techniques used in the analysis of organelle and cell function are integral parts of the course. Prerequisite: MBB 222, BISC 101, CHEM 281 with grades of C- or better. Corequisite or Prerequisite: CHEM 282 or CHEM 283.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Sophie Sneddon
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHYS 132 - Physics Laboratory I (1) *

Introduction to experimental physics with an emphasis on measurement and experimental design. Includes elementary experiments in mechanics designed to support and enrich conceptual learning. Corequisite: PHYS 101 or 120 or 125. Students with credit for PHYS 140 may not take PHYS 132 for further credit. Quantitative.

PHYS 133 - Physics Laboratory II (1) *

Introduction to experimental physics with an emphasis on measurement and experimental design. Includes elementary experiments in electromagnetism and optics designed to support and enrich conceptual learning. Prerequisite: PHYS 132 or 140 or ENSC 120 (no substitutions), with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: PHYS 102 or 121 or 126. Students with credit for PHYS 141 may not take PHYS 133 for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Simin Bagheri Najmi
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHYS 201 - Physics Undergraduate Seminar (1)

A seminar to expose students majoring in any Physics program to opportunities available with a physics degree. Seminar will include invited speakers, group discussions, and student presentations on topics including modern physics research, industrial physics, career opportunities, and communication and other professional skills. May be repeated once for credit. Graded as pass/fail (P/F). Prerequisite: PHYS 121 or PHYS 126 or PHYS 141, with a minimum grade of C-, or PHYS 102 with a minimum grade of B.

PHYS 211 - Intermediate Mechanics (3)

An intermediate mechanics course covering kinematics, dynamics, calculus of variations and Lagrange's equations, non-inertial reference frames, central forces and orbits, and rigid body motion. Prerequisite: MATH 251; MATH 232 or MATH 240; PHYS 255 or ENSC 380. All prerequisite courses require a minimum grade of C-. Recommended Corequisite: MATH 260 or MATH 310. Quantitative.

PHYS 233 - Physics Laboratory III (3)

Statistical data analysis, experimental design and scientific communication, studied in the context of experiments spanning a range of physical systems. Prerequisite: PHYS 133 or PHYS 141 or ENSC 280, with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended Prerequisite: CMPT 120. Quantitative.

PHYS 255 - Vibrations and Waves (3)

The physics of vibrations and waves. Topics include periodic motion, including free and forced oscillations, coupled oscillators, normal modes, and waves in one and higher dimensions. Prerequisite: PHYS 126 or PHYS 121 or PHYS 141, with a minimum grade of C-, or PHYS 102 with a minimum grade of B. Corequisite: MATH 251; MATH 232 or MATH 240. Recommended Corequisite: MATH 260 or MATH 310. Quantitative.

and one of

MATH 150 - Calculus I with Review (4)

Designed for students specializing in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computing science and engineering. Topics as for Math 151 with a more extensive review of functions, their properties and their graphs. Recommended for students with no previous knowledge of Calculus. In addition to regularly scheduled lectures, students enrolled in this course are encouraged to come for assistance to the Calculus Workshop (Burnaby), or Math Open Lab (Surrey). Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least B+, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least B-, or achieving a satisfactory grade on the Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV Calculus Readiness Test. Students with credit for either MATH 151, 154 or 157 may not take MATH 150 for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Seyyed Aliasghar Hosseini
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
OP01 TBD
MATH 151 - Calculus I (3)

Designed for students specializing in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computing science and engineering. Logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometric functions, inverse functions. Limits, continuity, and derivatives. Techniques of differentiation, including logarithmic and implicit differentiation. The Mean Value Theorem. Applications of differentiation including extrema, curve sketching, Newton's method. Introduction to modeling with differential equations. Polar coordinates, parametric curves. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least A, or MATH 100 with a grade of at least B, or achieving a satisfactory grade on the Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV Calculus Readiness Test. Students with credit for either MATH 150, 154 or 157 may not take MATH 151 for further credit. Quantitative.

and one of

MATH 232 - Applied Linear Algebra (3)

Linear equations, matrices, determinants. Introduction to vector spaces and linear transformations and bases. Complex numbers. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors; diagonalization. Inner products and orthogonality; least squares problems. An emphasis on applications involving matrix and vector calculations. Prerequisite: MATH 150 or 151 or MACM 101, with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 154 or 157, both with a grade of at least B. Students with credit for MATH 240 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Justin Chan
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
OP01 TBD
MATH 240 - Algebra I: Linear Algebra (3)

Linear equations, matrices, determinants. Real and abstract vector spaces, subspaces and linear transformations; basis and change of basis. Complex numbers. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors; diagonalization. Inner products and orthogonality; least squares problems. Applications. Subject is presented with an abstract emphasis and includes proofs of the basic theorems. Prerequisite: MATH 150 or 151 or MACM 101, with a minimum grade of C-; or MATH 154 or 157, both with a grade of at least B. Students with credit for MATH 232 cannot take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Shuxing Li
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and one of

CHEM 260 - Atoms, Molecules, Spectroscopy (4)

Elements of physical chemistry from the molecular point of view. Introduction to quantum chemistry, atomic and molecular structure, and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: CHEM 122, MATH 152, and PHYS 121, 126 or 141 (or PHYS 102 with a minimum grade of B), all with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: MATH 232. PHYS 285 will be accepted in lieu of CHEM 260. Quantitative.

PHYS 285 - Quantum I (3)

The concepts of quantum mechanics introduced through two-level systems and explored in a way that requires only familiarity with general concepts of linear algebra. Introduction to concepts in classical and quantum information theory, bits and qubits, quantum dynamics, quantum communication and cryptography, and quantum circuits. Prerequisite: Either MATH 232 or MATH 240, with a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

and one of

PHYS 101 - Physics for the Life Sciences I (3)

Force and motion, conservation of energy and momentum, fluids, properties of soft matter and thermal physics with applications taken from the life sciences. Prerequisite: BC Principles of Physics 12 or PHYS 100 or equivalent, with a minimum grade of C-. This prerequisite may be waived, at the discretion of the department, as determined by the student's performance on a regularly scheduled PHYS 100 final exam. Please consult the physics advisor for further details. Corequisite: MATH 150 or 151 or 154 or 157; BISC 100 or 101 or 102. Recommended Corequisite: PHYS 132. Students with credit for PHYS 120, 125 or 140 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Andrew DeBenedictis
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHYS 120 - Mechanics and Modern Physics (3)

A general calculus-based introduction to mechanics. Topics include translational and rotational motion, momentum, energy, gravitation, and selected topics in modern physics. Prerequisite: BC Principles of Physics 12 or PHYS 100 or equivalent, with a minimum grade of C-. This prerequisite may be waived, at the discretion of the department, as determined by the student's performance on a regularly scheduled PHYS 100 final exam. Please consult the physics advisor for further details. Corequisite: MATH 150 or 151 or 154. Recommended Corequisite: PHYS 132. Students with credit for PHYS 101, 125 or 140 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

PHYS 125 - Mechanics and Special Relativity (3) +

An enriched course in mechanics for students with good preparation in physics and mathematics. Special relativity and classical topics such as translational and rotational dynamics and conservation laws will be given a much more sophisticated treatment than in our other first-year courses. Prerequisite: Permission of the department. Corequisite: MATH 151. Recommended Corequisite: PHYS 132. Students with credit for PHYS 101, 120 or PHYS 140 may not take PHYS 125 for further credit. Quantitative.

PHYS 140 - Studio Physics - Mechanics and Modern Physics (4) *

A general calculus-based introduction to mechanics taught in an integrated lecture-laboratory environment. Topics include translational and rotational motion, momentum, energy, gravitation, and selected topics in modern physics. Prerequisite: BC Principles of Physics 12, or PHYS 100 or equivalent, with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: MATH 150 or 151 or 154. Students with credit for PHYS 125 or 120 or 101 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

and one of

PHYS 102 - Physics for the Life Sciences II (3)

Waves and optics; electricity and magnetism; modern physics emphasizing radioactivity, with applications taken from the life sciences. Prerequisite: PHYS 101 or 120 or 125 or 140; MATH 150 or 151 or 154 or 157; both with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: BISC 100 or 101 or 102. Recommended Corequisites: MATH 152, 155 or 158; PHYS 133. Students with credit for PHYS 121, 126, or 141 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Andrew DeBenedictis
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHYS 121 - Optics, Electricity and Magnetism (3)

A general calculus-based introduction to electricity, magnetism and optics. Topics include electricity, magnetism, simple circuits, optics and topics from applied physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 120 or 125 or 140, with a minimum grade of C-, or PHYS 101 with a minimum grade of B. Corequisite: MATH 152 or 155. Recommended Corequisite: PHYS 133. Students with credit for PHYS 102, 126 or 141 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Sarah Johnson
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHYS 126 - Electricity, Magnetism and Light (3) +

An enriched course in electromagnetism for students with good preparation in physics and mathematics. Classical topics such as waves, electricity and magnetism, as well as wave particle duality and the birth of Quantum Mechanics, will be given a much more sophisticated treatment than in our other first year courses. Prerequisite: PHYS 125 or permission of the department. Corequisite: MATH 152. Recommended Corequisite: PHYS 133. Students with credit in PHYS 102, 121 or 141 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

PHYS 141 - Studio Physics - Optics, Electricity and Magnetism (4) *

A general calculus-based introduction to electricity, magnetism and optics taught in an integrated lecture-laboratory environment. Topics include electricity, magnetism, simple circuits, optics and topics from applied physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 120 or PHYS 125 or PHYS 140, with a minimum grade of C-, or PHYS 101 with a minimum grade of B. Corequisite: MATH 152 or MATH 155. Students with credit for PHYS 126 or 121 or 102 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative/Breadth-Science.

* students with credit for PHYS 140 and 141 are not required to complete PHYS 132 or 133

+ recommended

Upper Division Requirements

Complete all of

MBB 322 - Molecular Physiology (3)

Biochemical and molecular aspects of cellular function, interactions and communication including cell cycle, apoptosis, cancer, immune system, neuronal transmission and the signal transduction pathways that integrate them. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 331 - Molecular Biology (4)

The study of DNA and RNA in relation to gene structure and expression: DNA replication and the regulation of gene expression in bacteria and higher organisms. Introduction to recombinant DNA and cloning theory; natural vector structures and recombinant vector construction. Prerequisite: MBB 231, and BISC 202, with a minimum grade of C.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Irina Kovalyova
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
PHYS 321 - Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism (3)

Development and application of Maxwell's equations in vector differential form. Notation and theorems of vector calculus; electric charge, fields, potentials, capacitance and field energy; conductors; methods for solving electrostatic problems; electric fields in matter; electrical current and the magnetic field; Ampere's law and the vector potential; magnetic fields in matter; electromotive force, electrical resistance, Faraday's law and inductance; Maxwell's correction to Ampere's law and electromagnetic waves. Prerequisite: PHYS 121 or PHYS 126 or PHYS 141 (or PHYS 102 with a minimum grade of B); MATH 252 or MATH 254; MATH 260 or MATH 310. All prerequisite courses require a minimum grade of C-, unless specified. Quantitative.

PHYS 332W - Advanced Physics Laboratory I (4)

Experiments investigating a range of physical phenomena such as Brownian motion, molecular order, chaotic dynamics, Doppler broadening of stellar spectra, and biophysical forces using techniques such as interference, optical trapping, and spectroscopy. Attention will also be given to more general skills, including experimental design, operating and troubleshooting experimental equipment, modeling of experimental results, data analysis, and the presentation of experimental results. Biological Physics students will do a selected set of experiments. Prerequisite: PHYS 233; PHYS 285 or CHEM 260, both with a minimum grade of C-. Writing/Quantitative.

PHYS 347 - Introduction to Biological Physics (3)

A physics perspective on cellular structure and composition; random walks and diffusion; properties of fluids, cell motion; entropy and the properties of soft materials; structure and function of proteins; signal propagation in nerves. Prerequisite: Completion of 45 units including CHEM 122; MATH 152 or MATH 155; PHYS 102 or PHYS 121 or PHYS 126 or PHYS 141; all with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: BISC 101. Quantitative.

PHYS 385 - Quantum Mechanics I (3)

Wave mechanics and the Schroedinger equation, the harmonic oscillator, introduction to Dirac notation, angular momentum and spin, the hydrogen atom, atomic structure, time-independent perturbation theory, atomic spectra, and applications. Prerequisite: MATH 252 or 254; PHYS 285 or ENSC 380 or CHEM 260. All prerequisite courses require a minimum grade of C-. Recommended Prerequisite: MATH 260 or MATH 310; PHYS 211. Quantitative.

and one of

CHEM 360 - Thermodynamics and Chemical Kinetics (3)

Elements of physical chemistry from the macroscopic point of view. Thermodynamics, and its applications to chemical equilibrium. Chemical kinetics and reaction rate theories. Prerequisite: CHEM 260 with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: MATH 251. MBB 323 will be accepted in lieu of CHEM 360. Quantitative.

MBB 323 - Introduction to Physical Biochemistry (3)

Introduction to physical biochemistry including thermodynamics, spectroscopic principles and applications, and molecular transport and interactions. The physical properties and structure determination of biomolecules will be emphasized. Prerequisite: MATH 152 (or 155), PHYS 121 (or 102, or 126, or 141), CHEM 122 (or 102), MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C.

PHYS 344 - Thermal Physics (3)

Heat, temperature, heat transfer, kinetic theory, laws of thermodynamics, entropy, heat engines, applications of thermodynamics to special systems, phase transitions. Prerequisite: PHYS 121 or PHYS 126 or PHYS 141; MATH 251; both with a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

and either OPTION A or OPTION B:

Option A

Students who choose this option will complete

either

all of

MBB 308 - Molecular Biology Laboratory (3)

Modern molecular biological and recombinant nucleic acid methods will be covered. Examples are DNA and RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, restriction enzyme digestion, DNA cloning and polymerase chain reaction. Prerequisite: or corequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for BISC 357 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Stephanie Vlachos
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
MBB 309W - Biochemistry Laboratory (4)

Contemporary techniques in biochemistry including protein purification, immunochemical methods, and lipid characterization. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C. Recommended: CHEM 215 and CHEM 286 precede MBB 309W. Writing.

MBB 481 - Directed Research - Honours Thesis (5)

MBB 481 is one of three Directed Research courses taken concurrently to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option A). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out full time laboratory research in molecular biology and biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. The grade for MBB 481 encompasses the research design aspect of the project, consisting of the research proposal and honours thesis. Prerequisite: MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB or Biological Physics Honours Program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the MBB department. Corequisite: MBB 482 and MBB 483.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
MBB 482 - Directed Research - Honours Research Performance (5)

MBB 482 is one of three Directed Research courses taken concurrently to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option A). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out full time laboratory research in molecular biology and biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. The grade for MBB 482 encompasses the research performance aspect of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB or Biological Physics Honours Program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the MBB department. Corequisite: MBB 481 and MBB 483.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
MBB 483 - Directed Research - Honours Thesis Defense (5)

MBB 483 is one of three Directed Research courses taken concurrently to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option A). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out full time laboratory research in molecular biology and biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. The grade for MBB 483 encompasses the defense component of the research project. Prerequisite: MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB or Biological Physics Honours Program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the MBB department. Corequisite: MBB 481 and MBB 482.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD

or

all of

MBB 308 - Molecular Biology Laboratory (3)

Modern molecular biological and recombinant nucleic acid methods will be covered. Examples are DNA and RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, restriction enzyme digestion, DNA cloning and polymerase chain reaction. Prerequisite: or corequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for BISC 357 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Stephanie Vlachos
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
MBB 309W - Biochemistry Laboratory (4)

Contemporary techniques in biochemistry including protein purification, immunochemical methods, and lipid characterization. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C. Recommended: CHEM 215 and CHEM 286 precede MBB 309W. Writing.

MBB 491 - Directed Research I (5)

MBB 491 is offered as a stand-alone Directed Research course open to MBB Majors, or as the first of two courses taken consecutively to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option B). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out part time laboratory research in an area of molecular biology or biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. MBB 491 coursework includes preparation of a research proposal and a report and oral presentation on the results of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 308 or MBB 309W and permission of the MBB department. Upper level standing in an MBB major, minor or honours program is required.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
MBB 492 - Directed Research II (10)

MBB 492 is the second of two courses taken consecutively to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option B). Two-thirds of full-time laboratory research in an area of molecular biology or biochemistry. The research project is typically a continuation of the MBB 491 project, supervised by the same faculty member. The course includes the preparation of a research proposal, a report and an oral presentation on the results of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 491, MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB honours program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the department.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD

Option B

Students who choose this option will complete all of

PHYS 384 - Methods of Theoretical Physics I (3)

Applications of mathematical methods in physics, differential equations of physics, eigenvalue problems, solutions to wave equations. Prerequisite: MATH 252 or 254; MATH 260 or MATH 310; PHYS 211; PHYS 255 or ENSC 320. All prerequisite courses require a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

PHYS 415 - Quantum Mechanics II (3)

Foundations of quantum mechanics, time-dependent perturbation theory, radiation, variational methods, scattering theory, advanced topics, and applications. Prerequisite: PHYS 385; PHYS 384 or both MATH 314 and MATH 419; all with a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

PHYS 421 - Electromagnetic Waves (3)

A continuation of PHYS 321: properties of electromagnetic waves and their interaction with matter. Transmission lines and waveguides; antennas, radiation and scattering; propagation of electromagnetic waves in free space and in matter; reflection and refraction at boundaries; polarization, interference and diffraction. Prerequisite: PHYS 321 (no substitution); PHYS 255 or ENSC 380, both with a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

PHYS 432 - Undergraduate Honours Thesis (6)

Undergraduate research and preparation of an honours thesis over the fall and the subsequent spring semesters. The research project may be in experimental or theoretical physics. Prospective students must obtain agreement of a faculty member willing to supervise the project. Prerequisite: All students interested in taking this course must consult with their faculty supervisor regarding prerequisites.

PHYS 445 - Statistical Physics (3)

Postulates of statistical mechanics, partition functions, applications to gases, paramagnetism and equilibrium. Quantum statistics and applications. Prerequisite: PHYS 344 or CHEM 360, with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: PHYS 385. Quantitative.

and upper division MBB or PHYS courses to reach a minimum total of 48 units. BISC 421 and MATH 462 may be included in this requirement. The following courses are suggested:

BISC 421 - Models in Biology: From Molecules to Migration (3)

Students are introduced to models and simulations for biological systems at the ecosystem, organismal, cellular, and molecular levels. They will discover how to design and use models, and will then apply these skills to build their own model using basic mathematical tools, Excel, and Matlab. Prerequisite: MATH 150 or 151, and 152 both with a grade of C+ or better, or MATH 154 and 155 both with a grade of B or better; and at least 60 units; or permission of the instructor. Recommended: A 100 level Biology course. Students who have taken Special Topics course BISC 475 "Movement, Molecules, and Models" may not take BISC 421 for further credit. Quantitative.

MATH 462 - Fluid Dynamics (3)

Incompressible fluid flow phenomena: kinematics and equations of motion, viscous flow and boundary layer theory, potential flow, water waves. Aerodynamics. Prerequisite: One of MATH 314, MATH 418, PHYS 384, with a minimum grade of C-. An alternative to the above prerequisite is both of MATH 251 and (MATH 260 or MATH 310), both with grades of at least B+. Quantitative.

MBB 308 - Molecular Biology Laboratory (3)

Modern molecular biological and recombinant nucleic acid methods will be covered. Examples are DNA and RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, restriction enzyme digestion, DNA cloning and polymerase chain reaction. Prerequisite: or corequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for BISC 357 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Stephanie Vlachos
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 1:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
MBB 309W - Biochemistry Laboratory (4)

Contemporary techniques in biochemistry including protein purification, immunochemical methods, and lipid characterization. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C. Recommended: CHEM 215 and CHEM 286 precede MBB 309W. Writing.

MBB 321 - Intermediary Metabolism (3)

The enzymes and intermediates of major catabolic and anabolic pathways. Their regulation and integration in health and disease states. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
Ingrid Northwood
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Mon, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
MBB 342 - Introductory Genomics and Bioinformatics (3)

Major topics in genomics and bioinformatics, with integrated discussion of associated ethical/legal/social issues. An overview of laboratory and computer-based methods to study genomes, and their applications. Hands-on computer lab session providing an opportunity to use and experiment with bioinformatics software and databases utilized in genomics and bioinformatics research. Prerequisite: MBB 231, BISC 202 and either MBB 243 or 3 units of CMPT or equivalent, all with a minimum grade of C. Recommended: STAT 201 (or an equivalent statistics course) or STAT 270.

MBB 421 - Nucleic Acids (3)

Recent literature is examined for insights into the structure and properties of DNA and RNA, drawing on a variety of biochemical, chemical and molecular biological perspectives. Prerequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 422 - Biomembranes (3)

A review of recent research on the structure, dynamics, function and biosynthesis of membranes, membrane lipids and proteins. Prerequisite: MBB 322 and MBB 309W with a minimum grade of C, MBB 324 as a pre or co-requisite.

MBB 423 - Protein Structure and Function (3)

Mechanistic principles for how protein molecules achieve diverse functions such as chemical catalysis and conformational switching. Students will learn to critique hypotheses about structural mechanisms, and to interpret the primary literature reporting on structural evidence from X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: MBB 323 or MBB 324, with a minimum grade of C.

PHYS 395 - Computational Physics (3)

Computer-based approaches to solving complex physical problems. Includes topics such as Monte-Carlo and molecular dynamics techniques applied to thermal properties of materials; dynamical behavior of systems, including chaotic motion; methods for ground state determination and optimization, including Newton-Raphson, simulated annealing, neural nets, and genetic algorithms: symplectic methods; and analysis of numerical data. Prerequisite: MATH 260 or MATH 310; PHYS 255; CMPT 120 or equivalent. All prerequisite courses require a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

PHYS 413 - Advanced Mechanics (3)

Central forces, rigid body motion, small oscillations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of mechanics. Prerequisite: PHYS 384, with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the department. Non-physics majors may enter with MATH 252; MATH 260 or MATH 310; PHYS 211. All prerequisite courses require a minimum grade of C-. Quantitative.

PHYS 445 - Statistical Physics (3)

Postulates of statistical mechanics, partition functions, applications to gases, paramagnetism and equilibrium. Quantum statistics and applications. Prerequisite: PHYS 344 or CHEM 360, with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: PHYS 385. Quantitative.

PHYS 455 - Modern Optics (3)

Optical physics, including geometrical and physical optics, waves in anisotropic media, coherence, image formation and Fourier optics, guided wave optics and selected advanced topics such as lasers, nonlinear optics, photonics and quantum optics. Prerequisite: PHYS 321 with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: PHYS 385. Quantitative.

PHYS 492 - Special Topics in Physics (3)

Studies in areas not included within the undergraduate course offerings of the Department of Physics. Prerequisite: Permission of the department.

University Honours Degree Requirements

Students must also satisfy University degree requirements for degree completion.

Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements

Students admitted to Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.

WQB Graduation Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit

Requirement

Units

Notes
W - Writing

6

Must include at least one upper division course, taken at Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV within the student’s major subject
Q - Quantitative

6

Q courses may be lower or upper division
B - Breadth

18

Designated Breadth Must be outside the student’s major subject, and may be lower or upper division
6 units Social Sciences: B-Soc
6 units Humanities: B-Hum
6 units Sciences: B-Sci

6

Additional Breadth 6 units outside the student’s major subject (may or may not be B-designated courses, and will likely help fulfil individual degree program requirements)

Students choosing to complete a joint major, joint honours, double major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors may satisfy the breadth requirements (designated or not designated) with courses completed in either one or both program areas.

Μύ

Residency Requirements and Transfer Credit

  • At least half of the program's total units must be earned through Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV study.
  • At least two thirds of the program's total upper division units must be earned through Ά‘ΟγΤ°AV study.

Elective Courses

In addition to the courses listed above, students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.