XII. Course Descriptions
Biology
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences
Department of Integrative Biology
Department of Molecular and Cell Biology
| BIOL*1020 Introduction to Biology F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course will introduce important concepts concerning the organization of life on our planet, from cells to ecosystems. The dynamic and interactive nature of all living systems will be emphasized. This course will be valuable for students without 12U or OAC biology who are interested in environmental issues, medicine, advances in biotechnology and related topics. | |
| Restriction(s): | BIOL*1030, BIOL*1040 |
| BIOL*1030 Biology I F,W (3-3) [0.50] |
|---|
| A lecture and laboratory course which introduces the concepts and controversies in contemporary biology and their implications. Using an integrative approach, the course examines some of the basics of biology and two of the common challenges of life, acquisition and processing of nutrients and information flow. How these challenges are faced by animals, microbes and plants and the diversity of structures and processes that have evolved in response to them will be discussed. This is the first course in a two course biology series. When you select it, you are strongly advised to take the second course, BIOL*1040, immediately thereafter. Material from BIOL*1030 will be referred to in BIOL*1040 to emphasize the integrated nature of biology. Students lacking 4U or OAC Biology should consult with their program counsellor prior to taking BIOL*1030. |
| BIOL*1040 Biology II F,W (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| A continuation of BIOL*1030. A lecture and laboratory course which continues with additional challenges of life faced by animals, microbes and plants and the diversity of structures and processes that have evolved in response to them. To indicate the value of biology to society, some topical issues in biology will be addressed. This is the second course in a two course biology series and should be taken immediately after successfully completing BIOL*1030. Materials introduced in BIOL*1030 will be built on and referred to in BIOL*1040. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1030 |
| BIOL*1500 Humans in the Natural World S,F,W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course will examine past and present human interactions with Nature from an ecological perspective. It investigates current global issues that require multi-disciplinary environmental analysis. (Also offered through distance education format.) | |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*1500 |
| Restriction(s): | Students in the B.Sc. program cannot take this course for credit. This course may not count toward the requirements for the biology minor. |
| BIOL*2060 Ecology F,W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This is a basic course that presents a discussion of the ecology of plants, animals, fungi and bacteria as individual organisms, interacting populations, communities and ecosystems. Lectures and discussion groups are used to demonstrate the tremendous difficulty of interpreting ecological data derived from field studies. The value of laboratory-based research in ecology will also be discussed. The course will be important for anyone who wishes to understand what we know and need to know about the way ecological systems work. Department of Integrative Biology. (Also offered through distance education format.) | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040 |
| Restriction(s): | BIOL*3110, BIOL*3120 |
| BIOL*2150 Natural History of Ontario S,F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course provides an introduction to the natural history of Ontario. The course begins with a review of geological, ecological and evolutionary factors that have influenced species diversity in the province. Distributions and abundances of biota, primarily animals, are discussed within the context of the four major ecozones. Human impacts on the biotic diversity of Ontario are examined and the conservation of habitats and species is discussed. Students are required to do three reports, one of which involves field work. (Offered through distance education format only.) | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040 |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*2050 |
| BIOL*2250 Biostatistics and the Life Sciences W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course in biostatistical methods will emphasize the design of research projects, data gathering, analysis and the interpretation of results. Statistical concepts underlying practical aspects of biological research will be acquired while working through the process of scientific enquiry. Weekly computer laboratory sessions will focus on practical data visualization and statistical analysis using computer statistical packages. Simple parametric and nonparametric methods are reviewed, followed by more advanced topics that will include some or all of the following: two factor ANOVA and multiple regression, and introductions to discriminant analysis, cluster analysis, principle components analysis, logistic regression, and resampling methods. (Also listed as STAT*2250.) Departments of Mathematics and Statistics and Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | STAT*2040 or STAT*2100 |
| Equate(s): | STAT*2250 |
| Restriction(s): | STAT*2050 |
| BIOL*3010 Laboratory and Field Work in Ecology F (0-6) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course emphasizes field and laboratory work in ecology. Students will gain experience in experimental designs, sampling, analysis and interpretation of data collected to answer ecological questions. Local field sites will be used to run in-course experiments. Critical thinking about ecological issues relevant to society will be emphasized. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040 or STAT*2040 |
| Co-requisite(s): | BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110 |
| BIOL*3020 Population Genetics F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is designed to explore the concepts of random mating, inbreeding, random drift, assortative mating and selection as they relate to natural populations. The dynamic genetic structure of populations and its relationship to the process of speciation is examined. The role and significance of molecular genetics as it relates to population genetics, evolution, systematics and phylogeny is also considered. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MBG*2000 |
| Equate(s): | MBG*3000 |
| BIOL*3050 Mycology W (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course provides an introduction to the fungal lifestyle and to classification and evolution of the major groups of fungi, including microfungi, yeasts and other eukaryotic microbes. The characteristics of fungal cell structure, genetics and metabolism will be presented, and fungal reproduction and sporulation processes discussed with reference to the life cycles of representative forms. The ecological and economic importance of fungi will be demonstrated by considering fungal ecology, symbiotic relationships, mycotoxins and pathogenic fungi and industrial applications of fungi and yeasts. Laboratory work will provide familiarity with procedures for culturing, examining and identifying fungi and yeasts. Department of Integrative Biology and Department of Mollecular and Cellular Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BOT*2100 or MICR*2030 |
| Restriction(s): | BOT*3200, MICR*3100 |
| BIOL*3110 Population Ecology F,W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| An exploration of the structure and dynamics of animal and plant populations. The first part of the course will focus on demographic characteristics of populations and simple models of population growth and natural regulation. The second part of the course will concentrate on a variety of population processes, including predator-prey interactions, spatial dynamics, and disease-host interactions, and consider how these processes affect population dynamics. A quantitative approach emphasizing the use of mathematical models, graphical analysis, and statistics will provide the basic conceptual framework, which will be illustrated by selected case studies. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | (MATH*1080 or MATH*1200), STAT*2040 |
| BIOL*3120 Community Ecology W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| A course on the structure and dynamics of communities, dealing with both theoretical and applied aspects of community ecology. Emphasis is on the modern quantitative view of community ecology, and on the development of problem-solving skills. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*3110 |
| BIOL*3130 Conservation Biology W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is an introduction to the biological basis for conserving wild, living resources, including freshwater and marine fish, plants and wild life. Topics to be covered include principles of population, community and landscape genetics and ecology relevant to the conservation, restoration and management of endangered species, ecosystems and/or renewable resources, including an introduction to the theory and practice of sustained-yield harvesting. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110 |
| BIOL*3300 Applied Bioinformatics W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| New molecular genetic and information technologies have enabled biologists to produce and to access large and informative data sets. This course will provide an introductory understanding of the databases and methods used in computational molecular data analysis. Topics covered will include introducing the UNIX-related operating system, reviewing major molecular databases and their structures, constructing sequence alignments, constructing phylogenies, and finding motifs and genes in biological sequences. Lab sessions will include an introduction to Unix and Perl for the biologist and hands-on use of several molecular data analysis programs. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MBG*2020, (STAT*2040 or STAT*2100) |
| BIOL*3400 Evolution F,W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| A comprehensive introduction to evolutionary biology, the historical development of the discipline, the extent and nature of genetic diversity, and the mechanisms of evolutionary change. Examination of adaptation and speciation, and the origins and patterns of biotic diversity through evolutionary time. Designed to integrate evolutionary theory with other fields of biology such as development, ecology and systematics. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MBG*2000 |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*3300 |
| BIOL*3450 Introduction to Aquatic Environments F,W (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| An introduction to the structure and components of aquatic ecosystems, how they are regulated by physical, chemical and biological factors, and the impact of humans on these environments and their biota. Laboratory periods will centre around computer-based exercises and simulation of aquatic systems. Department of Integrative Biology. (Also offered through distance education format.) | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (CHEM*1050 or CHEM*1310), ZOO*2070 is strongly recommended |
| BIOL*4010 Adaptational Physiology W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course examines adaptations of organisms to various aquatic and terrestrial environments. A mechanistic approach will be used to establish the strategies (anatomical, physiological, biochemical) of environmental adaptation. Examples will include adaptations of deep-sea and polar organisms, adaptations to salinity and desiccation challenges, oxygen availability, sensory adaptations and symbiotic adaptations. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | ZOO*3210 |
| Equate(s): | IBIO*4010 |
| BIOL*4040 Natural Resources Policy W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| An analysis of how political, economic, social and scientific factors interact to determine the policy underlying management of renewable and non-renewable natural resources provincially, nationally and internationally. The course will analyze current policies pertaining to fisheries, wild life, forestry, energy, water, minerals, international treaties and accords. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4050 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in Semester 7 or 8. |
| BIOL*4100 Molecular Evolution and Phylogenetics F (2-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is designed to provide students with an appreciation for the uses of molecular data in the study of evolutionary processes. An overview of the principles of molecular data analysis using a phylogenetic approach will be given. In addition, the importance of incorporating evolutionary history into biodiversity research and other applied topics will be emphasized. Laboratory sessions will be devoted to practical training in analytical tools using specialized computer software, and for student presentation of independent research projects. The course will involve practical training in molecular data analysis using a phylogenetic approach and discussion of current topics from the primary literature. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | (BIOL*3020 or MBG*3000) or (BIOL*3400 or ZOO*3300) |
| BIOL*4110 Ecological Methods F (3-3) [0.75] | |
|---|---|
| An advanced course designed to present theoretical and practical aspects of research methods in ecology. Emphasis will be placed on experimental design, sampling, population estimation, statistical inference, and community characteristics of producers and consumers. Students will participate in research projects of their own design, and will gain experience in preparing research proposals, research papers and posters, and making oral presentations. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*3010, BIOL*3120, STAT*2040 |
| BIOL*4120 Evolutionary Ecology W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| An examination of common ecological circumstances faced by plants and animals and the morphological, behavioral and life history characteristics that have evolved in response. Particular emphasis will be placed on evolutionary processes and on adaptive aspects of thermoregulation, foraging strategies, spatial distribution, social and reproductive strategies. The course will emphasize both the theoretical basis and the empirical evidence for ecological adaptation. There is a 1-hour seminar each week for class discussion of selected lecture topics. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*3110, MBG*2000, [(BIOL*3020 or MBG*3000) or (BIOL*3400 or ZOO*3300)] |
| BIOL*4150 Wildlife Conservation and Management W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course builds on previous courses in population and community ecology to evaluate the long-term dynamics of threatened populations in the context of human intervention. The course will also provide a "hands-on" introduction to computer modeling, with application to contemporary issues in population ecology and resource management. Lectures will be drawn from the following topics: growth and regulation of single populations, long-term persistence of ecological communities, harvesting, bio-economics, and habit modification. Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*3110 or BOT*2050 |
| Restriction(s): | ZOO*4110 |
| BIOL*4350 Biology of Polluted Waters F (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| A practical course in biology of disturbed waters, and toxicity of pollutants to aquatic life. Designed to familiarize students with the characteristics of polluted ecosystems, best methods of field survey, and procedures for toxicity tests. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*3450 |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4350 |
| BIOL*4410 Field Ecology F (3-3) [0.75] | |
|---|---|
| A 12-day field course held in Algonquin Park, Ontario, during August. Students independently conduct and write reports about 2 research projects of their choice and design (in consultation with faculty members), on any of: vertebrate, invertebrate, or plant ecology, and/or behaviour, in terrestrial or aquatic habitats. Emphasis is placed upon students asking ecological questions, designing experiments, and then collecting data from intensive field work. There are no formal lectures, but an organizational meeting is held in the winter semester prior to the field course. The charge by the field station for room and board will be passed on to the student. Students are also responsible for their own transportation to and from the field station. A departmental application form must be submitted for approval at least 4 weeks prior to the last day of course selection for the Summer semester, and the signature of the course coordinator will be required to select the course. This course must be recorded as part of your Fall course selection and tuition and compulsory fees will be calculated accordingly. Students taking this course DO NOT use course numbers reserved for Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 0.5 credits in ecology |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4410 |
| Restriction(s): | Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4600 Tropical Ecology F (1-6) [0.75] | |
|---|---|
| This three-week field course provides an opportunity to study the flora and fauna of marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments of the tropics. Based at field stations in Australia, the course includes lectures, field exercises and a student project. An information session is held in late November. Signature of course coordinator is required for course selection. Students are responsible for costs of food, lodging and transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. This course must be recorded as part of your Fall course selection and tuition and compulsory fees will be calculated accordingly. Students taking this course DO NOT use course numbers reserved for Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology. (Offered in odd-numbered years.) | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 orBIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4600 |
| Restriction(s): | Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4610 Arctic Ecology F (1-6) [0.75] | |
|---|---|
| This three-week field course provides an opportunity to study the flora and fauna of marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments of the high Arctic. Based in the high Arctic, the course includes lectures, field exercises and student projects. An information session is held in January; students are required to register before March. Signature of course coordinator is required for course selection. Students are responsible for cost of food and transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. This course must be recorded as part of your Fall course selection and tuition and compulsory fees will be calculated accordingly. Students taking this course DO NOT use course numbers reserved for Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology. (Offered in even-numbered years.) | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4610 |
| Restriction(s): | Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4700 Field Biology S,F,W (1-6) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students may apply for 2-week courses in the OUPFB (Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology). This program offers a diversity of field courses in biological subjects ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics, microbes to mammals, and covering marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Costs include food and lodging and may include transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4700 |
| Restriction(s): | Permission of the course coordinator. Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4710 Field Biology S,F,W (1-6) [0.25] | |
|---|---|
| Students may apply for 1-week courses in the OUPFB (Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology). This program offers a diversity of field courses in biological subjects ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics, microbes to mammals, and covering marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Costs include food and lodging and may include transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4710 |
| Restriction(s): | Permission of the course coordinator. Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4800 Field Biology S,F,W (1-6) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students may apply for 2-week courses in the OUPFB (Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology). This program offers a diversity of field courses in biological subjects ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics, microbes to mammals, and covering marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Costs include food and lodging and may include transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4800 |
| Restriction(s): | Permission of the course coordinator. Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4810 Field Biology S,F,W (1-6) [0.25] | |
|---|---|
| Students may apply for 1-week courses in the OUPFB (Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology). This program offers a diversity of field courses in biological subjects ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics, microbes to mammals, and covering marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Costs include food and lodging and may include transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4810 |
| Restriction(s): | Permission of the course coordinator. Instructor consent required. |
| BIOL*4900 Field Biology S,F,W (1-6) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students may apply for 2-week courses in the OUPFB (Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology). This program offers a diversity of field courses in biological subjects ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics, microbes to mammals, and covering marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats. Costs include food and lodging and may include transportation. Detailed information is available from the Department of Integrative Biology. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | BIOL*1040, (BIOL*2060 or BIOL*3110) |
| Equate(s): | ZOO*4900 |
| Restriction(s): | Permission of the course coordinator. Instructor consent required. |