Course Information

Ben Rubin talking about lichen to students

The Department of Biology has an undergraduate curriculum that is comprised of 78 courses that range from Biology 1001A and 1002B each with over 2000+ students to a diversity of fourth-year courses where the enrolments are often less than 20 students.

Featured Courses

Biology of the Fungi - 3218G

This course provides an introduction to the fungi with emphasis on their biology, ecology, genetics and interactions with other organisms, including humans and their crops.

Animal Behaviour - 3436F

A comparative experimental approach is used to illustrate topics such as the development, control, and organization of behaviour, foraging, predation, mate choice and more.

All Courses

Biology is a diverse and ever-changing subject and the Department of Biology offers courses in all the major subdisciplines: genetics, evolution, biochemistry, cell biology, physiology and ecology.

Biology Modules and Courses Flowchart (PDF)

A central feature of the curriculum is what is called the BioCore. This is a group of foundational courses that almost all students are required to take. The BioCore consists of two first year (1000-level) courses:

1001A Biology for Science I
1002B Biology for Science II

and six 2000-level courses:

2244A/B Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data
2290F/G Scientific Method in Biology
2382A/B Cell Biology

2483A/B Ecology
2581A/B Genetics
2601A/B Organismal Physiology

The goal of the BioCore is to expose you to the breadth of biology early on so that you can find an area that really interests you and perhaps concentrate more in that area in years three and four of the program. Thus to be most effective the BioCore should be completed by the end of year two.

1000 Level Courses

1001A: Biology for Science I

Description	The principles of biology taught using an integrative, question-based approach. Topics include inheritance, evolution and ecology. This course is intended for students registered in the Faculty of Science.
Instructor(s)	N. Sharan E. MacDougall Shackleton
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours. 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 1201A, Biology 1225.
Prerequisites & Notes	Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology or Grade 11U (SB13UA) Biology and permission of the Department. A minimum mark of 80% in Grade 12 U Biology (SB14U) is recommended for students registered in a faculty other than the Faculty of Science. Note: The combination of Biology 1001A and 1002B (with appropriate marks) are the prerequisites for senior Biology courses and admission to modules offered by the Department of Biology and the Basic Medical Science Departments.
Course Outline	Current Outline

1002B: Biology for Science II

Description	The principles of biology taught using an integrative, question-based approach. This course is primarily intended for students enrolled in the Faculty of Science. Topics include enzyme structure/function, membrane structure/function, bioenergetics, photosynthesis, respiration, molecular genetics.
Instructor(s)	D. Maxwell N. Sharan
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours. 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 1202B, Biology 1225.
Prerequisites & Notes	Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology or Grade 11U (SB13UA) Biology and permission of the Department. A minimum mark of 80% in Grade 12U Biology (SB14U) is recommended for students registered in a faculty other than the Faculty of Science. Note: The combination of Biology 1001A and 1002B (with appropriate marks) are the prerequisites for senior Biology courses and admission to modules offered by the Department of Biology and the Basic Medical Science Departments.
Course Outline	Outline

1201A: General Biology I - Not Offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	This course provides an understanding of fundamental biological concepts with emphasis on function in and relevance to humans. Topics include inheritance, evolution, ecology, behaviour, ecosystem health. This course is not available to students enrolled in the Faculty of Science (students registered in the Faculty of Science should select Biology 1001A).
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours. 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 1001A, Biology 1225.
Prerequisites & Notes	Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology or Grade 11U (SB13UA) Biology and permission of the Department. Note: The combination of Biology 1201A and 1202B (with the appropriate marks) can be a prerequisite for senior Biology courses and admission to modules offered by the Department of Biology and the Basic Medical Science departments.
Course Outline	Outline

1202B: General Biology II - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	This course provides an understanding of fundamental biological concepts with emphasis on function in and relevance to humans. Topics include molecular genetics, physiology, bioenergetics. This course is not available to students enrolled in the Faculty of Science (students registered in the Faculty of Science should select Biology 1002B).
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours. 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 1002B, Biology 1225.
Prerequisites & Notes	Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology or Grade 11U (SB13UA) Biology and permission of the Department. Note: The combination of Biology 1201A and 1202B (with the appropriate marks) can be a prerequisite for senior Biology courses and admission to modules offered by the Department of Biology and the Basic Medical Science departments.
Course Outline	Outline

1225: An Introduction to the Biology of Organisms - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	A study of the whole organism with emphasis on organization, growth, development, integration, reproduction and heredity.
Instructor(s)	Not Offered
Hours	3 lecture hours. 1.0 course. Offered only by Distance Studies
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 1001A, Biology 1002B, Biology 1201A, Biology 1202B.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 1225 is not intended to serve as a prerequisite for other Biology courses and will not fulfill the requirements for entry into the Biology modules.
Course Outline	Outline

1229A/B: Biology: The Secrets of Life - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	A course intended for non-scientists who want to make sense of life from a biological point of view. We will cover all levels from genes to ecosystems, and the biology behind curent environmental and societal issues through case studies and discussions. Students will learn to read/interpret a scientific paper.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 1001A, 1002B, 1201A, 1202B
Prerequisites & Notes	No information available
Course Outline	N/A

1290B: Biology and Microorganisms

Description	The fundamental principles of biology with emphasis on cell function and the role of microorganisms in public health, sanitation, food, and nutrition. Restricted to Food and Nutrition modules or by permission of the Department of Biology.
Instructor(s)	P. McDonald
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Grade 12U (SBI4U) Biology. Note: May not be taken for credit by students registered in any modules offered by either the Faculty of Science or the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.
Course Outline	Outline

2000 Level Courses

2217B: Economic Botany

Description	An introduction to economically important plants and their products, especially as sources of food, fuel, drugs and industrial raw materials. National and international programs relating to food and other plant resources.
Instructor(s)	B. Rubin
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B, or Integrated Science 1001X; or registration in Foods and Nutrition modules.
Course Outline	Outline

2244A: Statistics for Science

Description

An introductory course in the application of statistical methods, intended for students in departments other than Statistical and Actuarial Sciences, Applied Mathematics, Mathematics, or students in the Faculty of Engineering. Topics include sampling, confidence intervals, analysis of variance, regression and correlation.

Instructor(s)

J. Peter

Hours

2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.

Antirequisite(s)

Economics 2122A/B, Economics 2222A/B, Geography 2210A/B, Health Sciences 3801A/B, MOS 2242A/B, Psychology 2810, Psychology 2820E, Psychology 2830A/B, Psychology 2851A/B, Social Work 2207A/B, Sociology 2205A/B, Statistical Sciences 2035, Statistical Sciences 2141A/B, Statitistical Sciences 2143A/B, Statistical Sciences 2244A/B, Statistical Sciences 2858A/B, Statistical Sciences 2037A/B if taken prior to Fall 2010, former Psychology 2885 (Brescia), former Statistical Sciences 2122A/B, former Social Work 2205.

Prerequisites &
Notes

1.0 Mathematics course or equivalent numbered 1000 or above. Statistical Sciences 1024A/B can be used to meet 0.5 of the 1.0 mathematics course requirement.

Note: It may NOT be used in any degree as a 2000-level half course in Biology with a laboratory component. Biology 2244A/B and Statistics 2244A/B are the same, cross-listed courses.

Course Outline

Outline

2244B: Statistics for Science

Description	An introductory course in the application of statistical methods, intended for students in departments other than Statistical and Actuarial Sciences, Applied Mathematics, Mathematics, or students in the Faculty of Engineering. Topics include sampling, confidence intervals, analysis of variance, regression and correlation.
Instructor(s)	J. Peter
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Economics 2122A/B, Economics 2222A/B, Geography 2210A/B, Health Sciences 3801A/B, MOS 2242A/B, Psychology 2810, Psychology 2820E, Psychology 2830A/B, Psychology 2851A/B, Social Work 2207A/B, Sociology 2205A/B, Statistical Sciences 2035, Statistical Sciences 2141A/B, Statitistical Sciences 2143A/B, Statistical Sciences 2244A/B, Statistical Sciences 2858A/B, Statistical Sciences 2037A/B if taken prior to Fall 2010, former Psychology 2885 (Brescia), former Statistical Sciences 2122A/B, former Social Work 2205. Note: Statistical Sciences 1024A/B is not an antirequisite.
Prerequisites & Notes	1.0 Mathematics course or equivalent numbered 1000 or above. Statistical Sciences 1024A/B can be used to meet 0.5 of the 1.0 mathematics course requirement. Note: It may NOT be used in any degree as a 2000-level half course in Biology with a laboratory component. Biology 2244A/B and Statistics 2244A/B are the same, cross-listed courses.
Course Outline	Outline

2290F: Scientific Method in Biology

Description

A laboratory course designed to promote understanding of the scientific method by acquainting students with selected technical and conceptual tools that will enable them to generate, analyze and communicate data from experimental investigations of their own design in the areas of cell biology, population biology and genetics.

Instructor(s)

M. Belton

T. Hain

Hours

0.5 course.

Prerequisites &
Notes

A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B, or Integrated Science 1001X.

Note: Mandatory course in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.

Course Outline

Outline

2290G: Scientific Method in Biology

Description

Instructor(s)

M. Belton

T. Hain

Hours

0.5 course.

Prerequisites &
Notes

A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B, or Integrated Science 1001X.

Note: Mandatory course in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.

Course Outline

Outline

2382B: Cell Biology

Description

Molecular and structural organization of cells in relation to function. Composition and dynamics of the plasma membrane and membrane-bound compartments in cells. Synthesis and trafficking of proteins. Cytoskeleton and cell motility. Membrane receptors in signal and energy transduction, cell-cell adhesion and recognition. Excitable membranes.

Instructor(s)

S. Damjanovski

R. Cumming

Hours

2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.

Prerequisites &
Notes

A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B; Chemistry 1301A/B and 1302A/B or the former Chemistry 1010A/B and Chemistry 1200B. Integrated Sciencd 1001X with a minimum mark of 60% can be used as a prerequisite in place of Biology 1002B and Chemistry 1302A/B.

Note: Mandatory course in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.

Course Outline

Outline

2471A/B: Vertebrate Biology - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	The biology of vertebrates including evolution and structural adaptation in a variety of vertebrates. Emphasis will be on features of animal biology unique to the vertebrates.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B.
Course Outline	N/A

2483A: Ecology

Description	An introduction to ecology, the scientific study of the interactions that determine the distribution and abundance of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Ecological concepts at the organism, population and ecosystem levels will be considered, including tolerance limits, life history evolution, competition, predation, population growth and control, and ecosystem dynamics.
Instructor(s)	G. Taylor T. Hain
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X.
Course Outline	Outline

2485B: Environmental Biology

Description	Basic principles of environmental biology, human ecology, ecosystem structure and function. Human population growth and its impact on soil, water, energy, agriculture and natural populations of plants and animals. Environmental problems created by resource exploitation and possible solutions.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 2 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and either Biology 1002B or Biology1202B, or Integrated Science 1001X.
Course Outline	Outline

2581B: Genetics

Description	The structure, transmission and expression of genetic elements in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms and populations.
Instructor(s)	D. Jeffery
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X; Biochemistry 2280A. Note: Mandatory course in most modules offered by the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	Outline

2601A: Organismal Physiology

Description	This course provides a general background in the mechanisms and consequences of physiological processes in plants and animals. It will take an integrated approach and include a comparative context, wherever possible. It will include hands-on laboratory work with both plants and animals.
Instructor(s)	M. Bernards J. Staples
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours. 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X.
Course Outline	Outline

3000 Level Courses

3218G: Biology of the Fungi

Description	This course provides an introduction to the fungi with emphasis on their biology, ecology, genetics and interactions with other organisms, including humans and their crops. Emphasis is on the true fungi, including yeasts, with brief treatment of other fungus-like microbes of the Kingdoms Chromalveolata and Amoebozoa.
Instructor(s)	G. Thorn
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	At least 1.0 course in Biology at the 2200-level or higher.
Course Outline	Outline

3220Z: Field Studies in Biology

Description	Specialized field courses given by biologists from Ontario universities at various times during the year. Students should be prepared to meet travel and living expenses.
Instructor(s)	B. Rubin G. Taylor P. Mensink
Hours	Sessions and hours by arrangement, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Permission of the Department of Biology. See the departmental office in January of each year for list of offerings, requirements, and credits. This course may be used as a half laboratory course.
Course Outline	See the Field Courses page

3222F: Selected Topics - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	Selected topics of current interest in Biology. The topics may vary each year. Specific topics will be available from the Department prior to registration.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours. 1 tutorial/lecture hour. 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X, and at least one half course in Biology at the 2200 level or above, or permission of the Department.
Course Outline	N/A

3222G: Ecosystem Management

Description	Text for course description goes here
Instructor(s)	R. Buchkowski
Hours	2 lecture hours. 1 tutorial/lecture hour. 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X, and at least one half course in Biology at the 2200 level or above, or permission of the Department.
Course Outline	Outline

3224G: Molecular Sense and Signalling Plants

Description	Selected topics of current interest in Biology. The topics may vary each year. Specific topics will be available from the Department prior to registration.
Instructor(s)
Hours	0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X, and at least one half course in Biology at the 2200 level or above, or permission of the Department.
Course Outline	N/A

3229G: Animal Diversity: Ancestral Vertebrates to Jellyfish

Description	An introduction to animal phyla focused on understanding the diversity of body plans across the animal kingdom. Characteristics defining major animal groups, and key evolutionary designs and innovations are discussed in relation to ecology and life habits. Both extant, and some fossil, forms will be considered to illustrate animal evolution.
Instructor(s)	G. Taylor
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	At least 1.0 course from: Biology 2290F/G, Biology 2382A/B, Biology 2483A/B, Biology 2581B, Biology 2601A/B and registration in third or fourth year.
Course Outline	>Outline

3230F: Field Research in Biology

Description	This field course provides a theoretical and hands-on introduction to the planning and execution of field studies in biology using quantitative tools. A breadth of study organisms and systems will be covered. This course includes four or five field trips during the lab and lecture timeslots.
Instructor(s)	B. Rubin
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A, and Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X, and Biology 2244A/B or Statistical Science 2244A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3316B: Advanced Cell Biology

Description	The functional organization and physiology of cells with special reference to cellular membranes, energetics, cell motility, cell specializations, and cell-cell interactions. The course is based on the interpretation of experimental observations.
Instructor(s)	G. Kelly
Hours	2 lecture hours, 2 demonstration/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2382A/B
Course Outline	Outline

3326F: Cell Biology Laboratory

Description	Training in current cell biological methods such as tissue culture, cell fractionation, computer-assisted microscopic analysis and immunocytochemistry.
Instructor(s)	A. Timoshenko
Hours	5 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2290F/G, Biochemistry 2280A; a minimum mark of 70% in Biology 2382A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3326G: Cell Biology Laboratory

Description	Training in current cell biological methods such as tissue culture, cell fractionation, computer-assisted microscopic analysis and immunocytochemistry.
Instructor(s)	A. Timoshenko
Hours	5 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2290F/G, Biochemistry 2280A; a minimum mark of 70% in Biology 2382A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3338A: Developmental Biology

Description	Principles underlying the molecular, biochemical, and cellular mechanisms by which an organism develops. Classic and contemporary perspectives in embryology and development.
Instructor(s)	S. Damjanovski
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2581B, and Biology 2382A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3355A: Molecular Cell Biology of Stress

Description	This course will cover a range of environmental, physiological, and pathological stresses common to animal systems. The focus will be on evolutionary conserved cell stress responses, individual signaling pathways and the molecules controlling the action of specific stress stimuli.
Instructor(s)	A. Timoshenko
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2382A/B
Course Outline	Outline

3403A: Flora and Vegetation of Ontario - Not Offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	A study of the flora and vegetation of Southwestern Ontario, teaching the elements of plant classification, identification, distribution, and conservation. Students will become familiar with the dominant native and non-native flora, and the basis of their distribution as affected by geology, climate and anthropogenic changes. Some local field work included.
Instructor(s)	Not Offered
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B NOTE: This course will be offered in odd years.
Course Outline	outline

3404F: Evolution of Plants - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	This course provides an introduction to the major groups of photosynthetic organisms - now classified in three Domains and numerous Kingdoms. These organisms feed the world, produce many of today's medicines and provide numerous ecosystem functions. Lectures emphasize diversity, evolutionary relationships and importance, and labs emphasize morphology and recognition.
Instructor(s)	G. Thorn
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either BIology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X. Note: Offered in alternate years.
Course Outline	N/a

3415G: Aquatic Ecology

Description	This course examines water as a habitat for life and the ecology of freshwater and marine environments. Emphasis will be placed on the diversity and roles of zooplankton and microorganisms in aquatic ecosystems. Ecological impacts of ocean acidification, invasive species, and eutrophication will also be examined.
Instructor(s)	V. Tai
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisites, Prerequisites & Notes	Prerequisite: Biology 2483A/B
Course Outline	Outline

3425G: Global Change Biology

Description	Selected topics of current interest in Biology. The topics may vary each year. Specific topics will be available from the Department prior to registration. Topic: Global Change Biology
Instructor(s)	J. Frank-Webb
Hours	0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2290F/G; Biology 2483A/B; Biology 2601A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3435G: Animal Ecology

Description	Key concepts in applied, individual-based animal ecology: limiting factors and the ecological niche, habitat selection, ecological traps, movement, dispersal, migration, growth and bioenergetics, and physiological flexibility. Labs will integrate field-based and quantitative approaches in the study of individual-based ecology.
Instructor(s)	E. Churchman
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B, Biology 2244A/B or Statistical Sciences 2244A/B with a minimum grade of 60%.
Course Outline	Outline

3436F: Animal Behaviour

Description	Introduction to the science of animal behavior with emphasis on the evolution and adaptive nature of behavior. A comparative experimental approach is used to illustrate topics such as the development, control, and organization of behavior, foraging, predation, mate choice, mating systems, parental care, communication, and social behavior.
Instructor(s)	E. Churchman
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Psychology 3221F/G
Pre-or Corequisite(s)	Biology 2483A/B
Prerequisites & Notes	One of the following: Biology 2244A/B , Statistical Science 2244A/B , Psychology 2810 .
Course Outline	Outline

3440A: Ecology of Populations

Description	Knowing how many individuals of a given species there are and identifying the factors that cause population numbers to change is fundamental for conservation, fisheries, forestry, and managing everything from pest insects to pandas. This course combines the central tenets of population ecology with hands-on techniques for its practical application.
Instructor(s)	L. Zanette
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3.0 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B; One of Biology 2244A/B, Psychology 2810, Statistical Sciences 2244A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3442F: Conservation Biology

Description	This course introduces fundamental concepts and issues in conservation biology. We explore the three prongs fo conservation including: (1) the science involved in conserving biodiversity; (2) the political systems that directly affect conservation; (3) how to access the political system to maximize the probability of implementing conservation programs.
Instructor(s)	L. Zanette
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3.0 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3444A: Molecular Ecology

Description	An introduction to the use of molecular tools in addressing both basic and applied questions in ecological research, including population, behavioural, community and ecosystem ecology. Lectures and student-led seminars develop basic knowledge and theory underlying molecular ecology, and present many recent case studies from the primary literature.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lectures hours, 1 tutorial/lecture hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B, Biology 2581a/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3445F: Community Ecology

Description	An integrative approach to ecology, stressing the structure and function of communities. Theoretical explanations for community assembly/disassembly, patterns in space and time, and emergent properties of stability and productivity are evaluated using a variety of community types as examples.
Instructor(s)	Z. Lindo
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B, Biology 2244A/B or Statistical Sciences 2244A/B with a minimum grade of 60%.
Course Outline	outline

3446B: Wildlife Ecology and Management

Description	The application of ecological principles to the management of wildlife species. Topics include techniques, harvest, predation, habitat loss and management, stocking and reintroductions, and economics of wildlife. Identification and biology of game, pest and furbearing species in laboratories; films are used frequently.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3466B: Evolutionary Genetics

Description	The study of evolution in large and small random and non-random mating populations, showing discrete and quantitative inheritance. The roles and importance of mutation, inbreeding, drift, selection and linkage.
Instructor(s)	G. Thomspon
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	One of Biology 2244A/B, Statistical Sciences 2035, 2141A/B, 2244A/B, Psychology 2810; Biology 2581A/B; or permission of the Department.
Course Outline	Outline

3467A: Evolution and Reproduction

Description	Evolutionary concepts taught using the framework of reproduction. Topics include evolution of various forms of reproduction, sex, the cost and consequences of different mating systems, sexual antagonism, egg-sperm co-evolution, reproductive isolation between species. Current understanding of the genetic basis of evolutionary aspects of reproduction will also be discussed.
Instructor(s)	A. Moehring
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial/lecture, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum of 60% in Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3475B: Chemical Ecology Not Offered 2024 - 2025

Description	This course will examine how plants and animals use chemical cues to find essential resources, defend against natural enemies, locate suitable mates, and maintain social systems. How chemical ecology may be used to elucidate basic ecological problems and to provide more environmentally friendly pest management practices will also be discussed.
Instructor(s)
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B, Chemistry 1301A/B and Chemistry 1302A/B or the former Chemistry 1100A/B and Chemistry 1200B.
Course Outline	N/A

3484B: Patterns in the Diversity of Life

Description	This course considers the large-scale patterns in the Earth's biota: patterns in life's diversification and extinction, changing the biota through time; patterns in the form and functioning of organisms, reflected in biological classification; patterns in the global distribution of life's lineages, and in their major responses to Earth's diverse climate.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	At least 1.0 course from: Biology 2290F/G, Biology 2382A/B, Biology 2483A/B, Biology 2581A/B, Biology 2601A/B and registration in third or fourth year.
Course Outline	Outline

3592A: Principles of Human Genetics

Description	Genetic principles and their application to humans. Special attention will be directed to the genetic variation in our species, mutations, mechanisms of gene expression, and mapping the human genome.
Instructor(s)	K. Hill
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3593B: Genetic Engineering

Description	An accounting of the principles in genetics that have led to advances in animal and plant breeding earlier in this century; recombinant DNA and other technologies employed in contemporary biotechnology; and the basis for continued progress in genetic engineering.
Instructor(s)	V. Grbic
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3594B: DNA: Genome Organization, Mutagenesis and Repair

Description	This course will cover concepts related to DNA organization, replication, mutagenesis and repair in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Lecture topics will include current literature in DNA mutagenesis and repair designed to permit direct examination of concepts, experimental design, methodology, data analysis and future trends.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3595B: Advanced Genetics

Description	This course will use examples from diverse biological systems to expand basic genetic principles such as mutation, recombination, gene and genome evolution, complex inheritance and functional genomics. Current research information will be used to inform discussion of the implication and applications of these topics.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum grade of 70% in Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3596A: Genomics and Beyond: A Laboratory Course

Description	A practical introduction to modern experimental approaches in genetics and molecular biology as applied to such topics as genomics (gene identification and classification), functional genomics (genome expression profiles) and bioinformatics (computational genomic analysis).
Instructor(s)	D. Jeffery
Hours	2 lecture/tutorial hours, 4 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 70% in each of Biology 2290F/G and Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3596B: Genomics and Beyond: A Laboratory Course

Description	A practical introduction to modern experimental approaches in genetics and molecular biology as applied to such topics as genomics (gene identification and classification), functional genomics (genome expression profiles) and bioinformatics (computational genomic analysis).
Instructor(s)	D. Jeffery
Hours	2 lecture/tutorial hours, 4 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 70% in each of Biology 2290F/G and Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3597A: Regulation of Gene Expression

Description	A discussion of the genetic material and molecular mechanisms governing its expression in a variety of organisms.
Instructor(s)	A. Percival-Smith
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 lecture/tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3598A: Behavioural Genetics

Description	The roles of genes and genetic variation in the evolution and expression of animal behaviour are examined. Major themes include the population genetics and quantitative genetics of behaviour, the molecular biology of gene discovery, and the evolution of behavioural traits, including social traits, as studied through vertebrate and invertebrate model systems.
Instructor(s)	A. Simon
Hours	2 lecture hours, 2 tutorial hours, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2581A/B.
Course Outline	OUTLINE

3601A: Animal Physiology I

Description	This course will examine the form and function of physiological and biochemical systems in the vast diversity of non-human animals. It will emphasize the importance of phylogeny and environmental selective pressures on the evolution of these systems.
Instructor(s)	N. Mhatre
Hours	3 lectures hours, 2 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 2601A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3602B: Animal Physiology II

Description	This course explores the mechanisms, integration and evolution of physiological and biochemical systems within animals. By using a comparative approach, we will explore the diversity of evolutionary ⡱strategies⢑ adopted by phylogenetically distinct animals. Animals thriving in extreme environments will be featured. Human physiology will be discussed only briefly.
Instructor(s)	J. Staples
Hours	3 lectures hours, 2 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 60% in Biology 2601A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3603A: Ecophysiology of Plants

Description	This course introduces students to the physiological mechanisms governing the success and distribution of plants in different environments. Specific topics covered will include leaf energy balance, photosynthesis, water transport and mineral nutrition. This course will provide background information for further courses in plant ecology or plant physiology.
Instructor(s)	D. Maxwell
Hours	2 lectures hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2601A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

3625G: Techniques in Physiology & Biochemistry - Not offered in 2024-2025

Description	Training in current techniques used in physiology and biochemistry. Emphasis is placed on the functional integration of systems from the molecules to the whole organism level and the assignment of function to genes. Techniques include chromatography, electrophoresis, protein and nucleic acid blotting, enzyme assays and whole organism or organelle measurements.
Instructor(s)	C. Guglielmo
Hours	1 lecture/tutorial hour, 5 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biochemistry 2280A; Biology 2290F/G, Biology 2382A/B; one of Biology 2601A/B, Physiology 3120 or 3140A.
Course Outline	>Outline

3660B: Plant Metabolism

Description	Plants are photoautotrophs and biosynthesize all of their metabolites using CO2, water, micronutrients and sunlight. This course surveys the major metabolic pathways of plants, including primary (C, N, S and P assimilation, amino acid and nucleotide biosynthesis) and secondary (alkaloids, phenolics, terpeniods) metabolism, with emphasis on enzyme and pathway regulation.
Instructor(s)	M. Bernards
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2601A/B or permission of the Department.
Course Outline	N/A

4000 Level Courses

4200A: Selected Topics in Biology - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	Taught at an advanced undergraduate level. The specific topics taught may vary each year. Consult the Department of Biology for information about the current offering.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial/lecture hour, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above and registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	N/A

4200B: Selected Topics in Biology

Description	This course will enable students to reflect on the biological consequences of human activities for the biotic world. Human beings and their institutions will be considered. Direct physical and chemical effects upon metabolism, development, adaptation, genes, and population structure will be investigated. Indirect effects assessed will include climate change, population density, social conditions and changed patterns of survival.
Instructor(s)	K.Hill
Hours	3 lecture hours
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above and registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	N/A

4218A: Plant Pathology

Description	Plant diseases caused by abiotic and biotic factors with emphasis on effects of important pathogenic viruses, bacteria and fungi. Relationships between host, pathogen and environmental factors, epidemiology and methods of control.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3218F/G, or permission of the Department.
Course Outline	Outline

4223F: Marine Environments - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	The ecological and physiological challenges posed to animal communities of marine (including intertidal, benthic, planktonic, coral reef and deep-sea) environments. Topics include: feeding, movement, defence, developmental and life cycle strategies of animals in these environments. Invertebrate examples dominate discussion but a previous course in invertebrate zoology is not a prerequisite.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above.
Course Outline	N/A

4230A: Ecosystem Health

Description	A characterization of ecosystems, contaminants, and the human health concerns. Course material will cover the production, transport, transformation and fate of environmental contaminants, with an emphasis on their anthropogenic impacts. Emphasis will include the assessment of human health exposure and biomarkers of environmentally associated disease.
Instructor(s)	B.Branfireun
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B or permission of the instructor or registration in year 4 or an Honors Specialization offered by the Department of Biology, Enviromental Science or the Basic Medical Sciences Department or a Major in Ecosystem Health.
Course Outline	Outline

4257Z: Field Studies in Biology

Description	Specialized field courses given by biologists from Ontario universities at various times during the year. Students should be prepared to meet travel and living expenses.
Instructor(s)	B. Rubin G. Taylor P. Mensink
Hours	Sessions and hours by arrangement, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Permission of the Department. See the Department of Biology office in January each year for list of offerings, requirements, and credits. This may be used as a half laboratory course.
Course Outline	See the Field Courses page

4258Z: Field Studies in Biology

Description	Specialized field courses given by biologists from Ontario universities at various times during the year. Students should be prepared to meet travel and living expenses.
Instructor(s)	B. Rubin G. Taylor P. Mensink
Hours	Sessions and hours by arrangement, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Permission of the Department. See the Department of Biology office in January each year for list of offerings, requirements, and credits. This may be used as a half laboratory course.
Course Outline	See the Field Courses page

4259F: Research Hypothesis Testing

Description	This course will equip students with some of the basics of experimental design and statistical analysis useful for understanding, conducting and presenting biological research. The emphasis is on practical application rather than theory, and on problems of particular concern in biological studies.
Instructor(s)	B. Rubin
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2244A/B or Statistical Sciences 2244A/B (see note); and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000-level or above.
Course Outline	Outline

4260B: Cellular Systems Biology

Description	This course focuses on using interdisciplinary systems-level methods to understand both biochemical reaction networks and gene regulatory networks. The application of systems level knowledge to the emerging discipline of synethic biology also forms a major component of the course.
Instructor(s)	J. Karagiannis
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial/lecture hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above.
Course Outline	Outline

4289A: Biosystematics and Phylogenetics

Description	An overview of modern approaches to the classification and identification of living organisms, dealing with such topics as molecular evolution, the theory of biological systematics, phylogenetics, DNA fingerprinting, the Tree of Life and Barcoding projects, and bioinformatics.
Instructor(s)	Vera Tai
Hours	3 lecture hours, 2 tutorial hour, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2581A/B and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above.
Course Outline	Outline

4300G: Selected Topics in Cell Biology - Subcellular Dynamics

Description	Topics will focus on current areas in cell biology and may vary each year. Prior to registration, check with the Department of Biology for specific topics.
Instructor(s)	Joshua Pemberton
Hours	2 lectures hours per week, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3316A/B, Biology 3338A, and completion of at least one additional half course in Biology course at the 3000-level or above; and registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology, or permission from the Department.
Course Outline	N/A

4338G: Advanced Developmental Biology

Description	An analysis of specific topics in the embryology and development of model organisms. The course will focus primarily on genetic and biochemical pathways which have been conserved between distantly related organisms.
Instructor(s)	G. Kelly
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/ tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum grade of 75% in Biology 3338A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

4355F: The Biology of Aging: Cellular and Molecular Aspects

Description	Aging is an extremely complex multifactoral process governed by genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. This course will explore current topics including: model organisms to study aging, identification of ⡱aging genes⢑, longevity variation among different species, signalling pathways and the role of reactive oxygen species in aging and age-associated diseases.
Instructor(s)	R. Cumming
Hours	2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3316A/B and enrollment in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered through the Department of Biology or the Basic Medical Science departments. Note: Completion of one of the following courses is recommended: Biology 3338A, 3592A, 3595A, 3597A/B.
Course Outline	Outline

4405B: Ecosystem Ecology

Description	This course traces the flow of water, energy, and nutrients from their abiotic origins, to their cycles through microbes, plants, and animals. This course will synthesize current advances in ecology with established theory to offer a comprehensive survey of ecosystem pattern and process.
Instructor(s)	G. Sass
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B and 0.5 Biology course at the 3000-level.
Course Outline	Outline

4410F: Restoration Ecology - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	The theory and practice of restoration of habitats for native biodiversity. Topics include ecosystem functioning and relationships at various spatial scales as applied to restoration, invasive species management and reclamation of contaminated sites. The value of ecosystem services, financial and practical considerations will be discussed.
Instructor(s)	R. Buchkowski
Hours	3 lecture/lab hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3442F/G and Biology3445F.
Course Outline	N/A

4412G: Biodiversity Science

Description	A consideration of the major aspects of biodiversity, including the approaches and techniques used for its measurement, assessment, monitoring and management. Biodiversity will be viewed from the level of the gene through species to ecosystems. The causes of biodiversity loss and its ecological and socio-economic impacts will also be discussed.
Instructor(s)	Z. Lindo
Hours	2 lecture hours, 2 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2244A/B or Statistical Sciences 2244A/B with a minimum grade of 60% and at least 0.5 course from Biology 3440A/B, Biology 3442F/G, Biology 3445F/G.
Course Outline	Outline

4420A: Insect Biology - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	An introduction to external and internal insect anatomy and fundamentals of insect physiology. How variations in morphological and physiological traits allow insects to exploit diverse habitats worldwide will also be discussed. The laboratory component will focus on the characteristics of major insect orders and families.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2483A/B and 0.5 Biology course at the 3000-level.
Course Outline	N/A

4436G: Behavioural Ecology

Description	A study of the relationships between animal behavior, ecology and evolution. Topics include: behavioral genetics and learning; mating systems, reproductive strategies and parental investment; foraging behavior, predation and competition; social groups and communication.
Instructor(s)	Y. Morbey
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3436F/G or Psychology 3221F/G and either completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses from the 3000 level or above, or registration in year 4 of the Honors Specialization in Animal Behaviour.
Course Outline	Outline

4441F: Special Topics in Evolution - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description	A critical examination of topics in evolutionary biology such as levels of selection, speciation, patterns of diversification, origin and radiation of selected groups, biogeography, and taxonomy and phylogeny.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory/discussion hours, 0.5 course
Prerequisites & Notes	Either completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses from the 3000-level or above, or registrationi n Year 4 of the Honors Specialization in Animal Behaviour; or special permission from the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	N/A

4510B: Special Topics in Genetics - Not Offered 2024-2025

Description	Topics will focus on current areas in Genetics and may vary each year. Prior to registration, check with the Department of Biology for specific topics.
Instructor(s)	Not offered
Hours	2 lecture hours per week
Prerequisites & Notes	1.0 Biology course at the 3500-level and completion of at least one additional half course in Biology at the 3000-level or above; and registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	N/A

4515B: Genome Biology

Description	The course will present concepts, techniques and approaches that represent basis for the field of modern genomics. The course focus is on the power of genomic and whole genome sequencing as a tool to understand whole genome regulation, expression and interactions between different genomes and discuss experimental design in genomics.
Instructor(s)	V. Grbic
Hours	2 lectures hours per week, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	1.0 course from: Biology 3592A/B, Biology 3593A/B, Biology 3594A/B, Biology 3595A/B, Biology 3596A/B, Biology 3597A/B, Biology 3598A/B; and registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	Outline

4540G: Developmental Genetics

Description	An overview of the genetic principles applied to dissection of biological development in select model organism. Particular emphasis will be placed on axial patterning, morphogens and lateral inhibition.
Instructor(s)	M. Grbic
Hours	2 lecture hours, 3 tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3338A/B or Biology 3597A/B
Course Outline	Outline

4560B: Human Molecular Genetics

Description	This course will offer an up-to-date examination of the current status of human genetics with emphasis on the molecular information. The specific course content is expected to change from year to year reflecting research progress, including the human genome project.
Instructor(s)	M. Grbic
Hours	2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3592A and Biology 3596A/B; one additional 0.5 course in Biology at the 3000 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered through the Department of Biology or a Major in Genetics.
Course Outline	Outline

4561F: Genes & Genomes I

Description	An examination of genome-level analytic methods in the context of more accurately defining the genotype-phenotype relationship. Topics to be covered include functional genomics, synthetic genomics, genome-wide association studies, machine learning, and synthetic genetic arrays.
Instructor(s)	J. Karagiannis
Hours	2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 3596A/B; and one of the following: Biology 3594A/B, Biology 3595A/B, Biology 3597A/B; and one additional 0.5 course in Biology at the 3000 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or a Major in Genetics offered through the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	Outline

4562A: Genes & Genomes II

Description	An examination of our understanding of the organization, structure and function of the genes and genomes of plants, emphasizing recent developments in plant molecular genetics involving model organisms. Topics include plant gene expression, mapping of plant genes, molecular tools for DNA transfer, the interrelationship of nuclear, mitochondrial and chloroplast genes.
Instructor(s)	S. Kohalmi
Hours	2 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module or a Major in Genetics offered through the Department of Biology; or permission of the instructor.
Course Outline	Outline

4563G: Genome Evolution

Description	This course will explore the diversity of genomic architecture across the eukaryotic tree of life. You will examine strange and bizarre genomes - genomes that break all the rules. Discussion will involve controversial hypotheses about genome evolution and the scientists who developed them.
Instructor(s)
Hours	2 lecture hours, 1 tutorial/lecture hour.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	Outline

4583F: Molecular Genetics Laboratory

Description	Project-based inquiry focused on refining the laboratory skills of senior genetics students. Experimental approaches will include analysis of gene expression usig modern tools and techniques.
Instructor(s)	D. Jeffery
Hours	4 laboratory hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum mark of 70% in each of Biology 3596A/B and 1.0 course from: Biology 3466A/B, Biology 3592A/B, Biology 3593A/B, Biology 3594A/B, Biology 3595A/B, Biology 3597A/B, Biology 3598A/B; and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization in Genetics or permission of the Genetics Undergraduate Coordinator.
Course Outline	Outline

4602G: Thermal Physiology

Description	This course examines the roles of heat and temperature as “master regulators” of physiology and biochemistry. It will emphasize how mechanisms underlying thermal effects integrate over spatial and temporal scales. Illustrative examples will be taken from the primary literature about organisms living in extreme or rapidly changing thermal environments.
Instructor(s)	C. Ivy
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	At minimum mark of 65% in one of Biology 3601A/B or Biology 3602A/B.
Course Outline	N/A

4608G: Environmental Plant Physiology

Description	Analysis of the primary literature on the physiological responses of plants to the environment. Topics include plant hormones and stress responses. Students will be encouraged to think broadly about plant biology, both its role in society (e.g. food safety and security, alternative fuels) and the scientific process (experimental design, publication).
Instructor(s)	S. Macfie
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 2601A/B; registration in a Biology module and completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000-level or above. Biology 3603A/B and Biology 3660A/B are recommended.
Course Outline	Outline

4611G: Physiology of Animal Migration

Description	The study of animal migration, focusing on migration as a life history trait, integrating physiology and biochemistry with ecological and evolutionary processes.
Instructor(s)
Hours	3 lecture hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Either Biology 2601A/B or Physiology 3120, and either completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses from the 3000-level or above, or registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization in Animal Behaviour.
Course Outline	Outline

4920F: Seminar in Biology

Description	Current research in biology critically reviewed and discussed through a combination of student presentations and written assignments.
Instructor(s)	G. Taylor
Hours	3 seminar/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 4944F/G, 4950F/G, the former Biology 4930F/G, the former Biology 4931F/G.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered through the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	outline Section 001 N/A Sec 002

4920G: Seminar in Biology

Description	Current research in biology critically reviewed and discussed through a combination of student presentations and written assignments.
Instructor(s)	G. Taylor
Hours	3 seminar/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 4944F/G, 4950F/G, the former Biology 4930F/G, the former Biology 4931F/G.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000 level or above and registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered through the Department of Biology.
Course Outline	N/A

4944G: Seminar in Ecology and Evolution

Description	Current research in ecology and evolution critically reviewed and discussed through a combination of student presentations and written assignments.
Instructor(s)	H. Henry
Hours	3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 4920F/G, Biology 4950F/G, the former Biology 4930F/G, the former Biology 4931F/G.
Prerequisites & Notes	Completion of at least 1.5 Biology courses at the 3000-level or above and registration in Year 4 of an Honors Specialization in Biology.
Course Outline	Outline

4950F: Seminar in Genetics

Description	Current research in genetics critically reviewed and discussed through a combination of student presentations and written assignments.
Instructor(s)	P. McDonald
Hours	3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 4920F/G, Biology 4944F/G, the former 4930F/G, the former Biology 4931F/G
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum grade of 70% in Biology 3596A/B and enrolment in year 4 of the Honors Specialization in Genetics, or permission of the Genetics Undergraduate Coordinator.
Course Outline	Section 001 n/a Sec 002

4950G: Seminar in Genetics

Description	Current research in genetics critically reviewed and discussed through a combination of student presentations and written assignments.
Instructor(s)	Y. Morbey
Hours	3 lecture/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 4920F/G, Biology 4944F/G, the former Biology 4930F/G, the former Biology 4931F/G
Prerequisites & Notes	A minimum grade of 70% in Biology 3596A/B and enrolment in year 4 of the Honors Specialization in Genetics, or permission of the Genetics Undergraduate Coordinator.
Course Outline	Outline

4970F: Independent Study in Biology

Description	Biology 4999E/4970FG Information Session slides from Jan 29, 2024 HERE NOTE: The course outline provided is still for the 2023/2024 year. Course information will be updated later in 2024. As for the last two years: Biology 4970F/G projects can ONLY be supervised by a regular Biology faculty member, a Cross-Appointed or Adjunct Faculty in Biology. The link to the Biology 4970F/G/Z 2023/2024 application form can be found HERE . The deadline for the submission of Biology 4970F applications starting in September 2024 is June 30, 2024. Biology 4970F allows to conduct a major laboratory or field project in Biology that emphasizes experimental design, instrumentation, collection and analysis of data and communication of experimental results by oral and written presentations. Biology 4970F provides an opportunity for students to conduct an independent research project in the lab of a Biology Faculty member or Adjunct Faculty member. The Regulations for Biology Research Projects are listed in the course outline. Spaces are limited, and students wishing to pursue a research project must do two important things: Choose a supervisor. A list of faculty able to support research projects for any given academic year is posted within the Department. A list is given HERE but students are encouraged to visit faculty profiles on the Department of Biology website and view the research interests of Biology faculty to find one or more who's research interests them. They should then make an appointment with potential supervisors to discuss possible projects. Students should also take an unofficial transcript with them to these meetings. Submit an application form to the Department. The application form should be downloaded and completed with appropriate signatures. Email completed application form to the Biology 4970F Course Coordinator, Undergraduate Chair at biougcha@uwo.ca
Instructor(s)	various
Hours	8 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology or an Honors Double Major in Biology (which includes a Major in Biology). Students must have arranged a project with a supervisor before completing registration. A current listing of projects is available from the Biology Department Office. See research notice boards for areas of specialization of the faculty and fields available.
Course Outline	Outline REQUIRES APPLICATION TO BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT, please see course outline for details. Submit forms to the Undergrad Chair Before June 30, 2024 to biougcha@uwo.ca

4970G: Independent Study in Biology

Description

Biology 4999E Information Session slides from Jan 29, 2024 HERE

NOTE: The course outline provided is still for the 2022/2023 year. Course information will be updated later in 2024. As for the last two years: Biology 4970F/G/Z projects can ONLY be supervised by a regular Biology faculty member, a Cross-Appointed or Adjunct Faculty in Biology.

The link to the Biology 4970G 2024/2025 application form can be found HERE .

The deadline for the submission of Biology 4970G applications starting in Jan 2025 is Nov 30, 2024.

Biology 4970G allows to conduct a major laboratory or field project in Biology that emphasizes experimental design, instrumentation, collection and analysis of data and communication of experimental results by oral and written presentations.

Biology 4970G provides an opportunity for students to conduct an independent research project in the lab of a Biology Faculty member or Adjunct Faculty member. The Regulations for Biology Research Projects are listed in the course outline. Spaces are limited, and students wishing to pursue a research project must do two important things:

Choose a supervisor. A list of faculty able to support research projects for any given academic year is posted within the Department. A list is given HERE but students are encouraged to visit faculty profiles on the Department of Biology website and view the research interests of Biology faculty to find one or more who's research interests them. They should then make an appointment with potential supervisors to discuss possible projects. Students should also take an unofficial transcript with them to these meetings.
Submit an application form to the Department. The application form should be downloaded and completed with appropriate signatures.
Email completed application form to the Biology 4970G Course Coordinator, Undergraduate Chair at biougcha@uwo.ca

Instructor(s)

various

Hours

8 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.

Prerequisites &
Notes

Registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology or an Honors Double Major in Biology (which includes a Major in Biology). Students must have arranged a project with a supervisor before completing registration. A current listing of projects is available from the Biology Department Office. See research notice boards for areas of specialization of the faculty and fields available.

Course Outline

Outline

REQUIRES APPLICATION TO BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT, please see course outline for details. Submit forms to the Undergrad Chair Before Nov 30, 2024: biougcha@uwo.ca

4971G/Z: Independent Study in Biology - Not offered in 2024 - 2025

Description

Biology 4999E, B4970F/G/Z, B4971G/Z Information Session slides from March 14, 2022 HERE

NOTE: The course outline provided is still for the 2021/2022 year. Course information will be updated when offered next. As for the last two years: Biology 4971G/Z projects can ONLY be supervised by a regular Biology faculty member, a Cross-Appointed or Adjunct Faculty in Biology.

The link to the Biology 4971G/Z 2022/2023 application form can be found HERE.

The deadline for the submission of Biology 4971G/Z applications starting in Sept 2022 is June 30, 2022.

Biology 4971G/Z allows to conduct a major laboratory or field project in Biology that emphasizes experimental design, instrumentation, collection and analysis of data and communication of experimental results by oral and written presentations.

Biology 4971G/Z provides an opportunity for students to conduct an independent research project in the lab of a Biology Faculty member or Adjunct Faculty member. The Regulations for Biology Research Projects are listed in the course outline (see below for the 2020/2021 during COVID course outline). Spaces are limited, and students wishing to pursue a research project must do two important things:

Choose a supervisor. A list of faculty able to support research projects for any given academic year is posted within the Department early in the Winter term. A list is given HERE but students are encouraged to visit faculty profiles on the Department of Biology website and view the research interests of Biology faculty to find one or more who's research interests them. They should then make an appointment with potential supervisors to discuss possible projects. Students should also take an unofficial transcript with them to these meetings.
Submit an application form to the Department. The application form should be downloaded and completed with appropriate signatures.
Email completed application form to the Biology 4971G/Z Course Coordinator, Undergraduate Chair at biougcha@uwo.ca

Instructor(s)

various

Hours

8 laboratory/tutorial hours, 0.5 course.

Prerequisites &
Notes

This course allows students to take two semesters of independent research: one in the Fall Biology 4970F, and then Biology 4971G/Z in the Winter, OR Winter 4970G and then 4971G/Z in the following Fall. Therefore, it requires Biology 4970F OR 4970G as a prerequisite.

Registration in year 4 of an Honours Specialization module offered by the Department of Biology. Students must have arranged a project with a supervisor before completing registration. A current listing of projects is available from the Biology Department Office. See research notice boards for areas of specialization of the faculty and fields available.

Course Outline

N/A

4971G/Z REQUIRES APPLICATION TO BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT please see course outline for details. Submit forms to the Undergrad Chair Before June 30 : biougcha@uwo.ca

4998E: Synthetic Biology: Application of Principles and Practice

Description	In this course students will develop project proposals in Synthetic Biology through group and peer workshops. The final project will be presented and subsequently executed in an open laboratory using the reagents provided.
Instructor(s)	M. Pyne
Hours	Minimum of 15 hours per week, including a weekly 2-hour tutorial. 1.5 course.
Prerequisites & Notes	Biology 359A/B, Biochemistry 3392F/G. Pre-or Corequisite(s): Science 3377A/B
Course Outline	Outline

4999E: Honors Research Thesis

Description	Biology 4999E Information Session slides from Jan 29, 2024 HERE NOTE: The course outline provided is still for the 2023/2024 year. Course information will be updated later in 2024. As for the last two years: Biology 4999E projects can ONLY be supervised by a regular Biology faculty member, a Cross-Appointed or Adjunct Faculty in Biology. The link to the 2024/2025 application form can be found HERE. For comparison please also check the description for Biology 4970F/G. A link to the Biology 4970 application is HERE. The deadline for submitting Biol4999 application forms is being extended to June 30 2024. This extension to the deadline ONLY applies to projects which do NOT require a summer field component. Biology 4999E allows to conduct a major laboratory or field project in Biology that emphasizes experimental design, instrumentation, collection and analysis of data and communication of experimental results by oral and written presentations. Biology 4999E provides an opportunity for students to conduct an independent research project in the lab of a Biology Faculty member or Adjunct Faculty member. The Regulations for Biology Research Projects are listed in the course outline. Spaces are limited, and students wishing to pursue a research project must do two important things: Choose a supervisor. A list of faculty able to support research projects for any given academic year is posted within the Department early in the Winter term. A list is given HERE - but students are encouraged to visit faculty profiles on the Department of Biology website and view the research interests of Biology faculty to find one or more who's research interests them. They should then make an appointment with potential supervisors to discuss possible projects. Students should also take an unofficial transcript with them to these meetings. Submit an application form to the Department. The application form should be downloaded and completed with appropriate signatures. Email completed application form to the Biology 4999E Course Coordinator Susanne Kohalmi: skohalmi@uwo.ca.
Coordinator(s)	S. Kohalmi
Hours	Minimum 15 laboratory hours per week and during the first term an additional 2 seminar hours per week; 1.5 course.
Antirequisite(s)	Biology 4970F/G, Biology 4971G, B4998E.
Prerequisites & Notes	Registration in year 4 of an Honors Specialization module offered through the Department of Biology. Students must have arranged a project with a supervisor before completing registration. In the Spring see Biology notice boards for research areas of specialization of the faculty and fields available.
Course Outline	Outline

Distance Courses

Distance courses are courses where students are physically separated from the instructor and classmates for the entirety of the course.

Distance courses are organized and run through the office of Distance Studies in and all instruction is on-line allowing you to pursue university studies without having to be on campus. This form of instruction allows you both time and place flexibility to meet your educational objectives.

Mid-term tests and final examinations, if applicable, for Distance courses must be written in-person at one of seven test centres: London, Ottawa, Toronto, Barrie, Sudbury, Calgary, or Vancouver.

For the 2019-2020 academic year the Department of Biology is offering the following Distance courses:

1225: An Introduction to the Biology of Organisms - NOT OFFERED

Description

A study of the whole organism with emphasis on organization, growth, development, integration, reproduction and heredity.

Instructor(s)

Hours

3 lecture hours, 1.0 course

Antirequisite(s)

Biology 1001A, 1002B, 1201A, 1202B

Prerequisites &amp Notes

Note: Biology 1225 is not intended to serve as a prerequisite for other Biology courses and will not fulfill the requirements for entry into the Biology modules.

N/A

Summer Offerings

Distance Studies: May 6 - June 14, 2024

2382A Cell Biology

Description

Instructor(s)

P. McDonald

Hours

Distance. (May 6 to June 14, 2024)

Antirequisite(s)

Prerequisites &amp Notes

A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or 1202B; Chemistry 1301A/B and 1302A/B or the former Chemistry 1100A/B and 1200B

Course Outline

2483B: Ecology

Description

An introduction to ecology, the scientific study of the interactions that determine the distribution and abundance of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Ecological concepts at the organism, population and ecosystem levels will be considered, including tolerance limits, life history evolution, competition, predation, population growth and control, and ecosystem dynamics.

Instructor(s)

A. Butnari

Hours

(June 17 to July 26, 2024)

Antirequisite(s)

Prerequisites &amp Notes

A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1002B or 1202B.

Course Outline

2581B: Genetics

Description

The structure, transmission and expression of genetic elements in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms and populations.

Instructor(s)

J. Daniel

Hours

Distance. (June 17 to July 26, 2024)

Antirequisite(s)

Prerequisites & Notes

A minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1001A or Biology 1201A and a minimum mark of 60% in either Biology 1002B or Biology 1202B or Integrated Science 1001X; Biochemistry 2280A.

Note: Mandatory course in most modules offered by the Department of Biology

Course Outline

Summer Distance Learning: June 17 - July 26, 2024

2244B: Analysis & Interpretation of Biological Data

Description

Measurement, sampling, estimation, and statistical hypothesis testing are considered: theory, intuitive background, and practical relevance will be stressed.

Instructor(s)

J. Peters

Hours

2 lecture hours, 3 lab hours. It may NOT be used in any degree as 2000-level half course in Biology with a laboratory component. Biology 2244A/B and Statistics 2244A/B are the same, cross-listed courses.

Antirequisite(s)

Prerequisites &amp Notes

Economics 2122A/B, 2222A/B, Geography 2210A/B, Health Sciences 3801A/B, MOS 2242A/B, Psychology 2810, 2820E, 2830A/B, 2850A/B, 2851A/B, Social Work 2207A/B, Sociology 2205A/B, Statistical Sciences 2035, 2141A/B, 2143A/B, 2244A/B, 2858A/B, 2037A/B if taken prior to Fall 2010, the former Psychology 2885 (Brescia), the former Statistical Sciences 2122A/B, the former Social Work 2205. Note: Statistical Sciences 1024A/B is not an antirequisite.

1.0 Mathematics course or equivalent numbered 1000 or above.

Course Outline

Summer Day: July 8 - August 16, 2024

1001A: Biology for Science I

Description

The principles of biology taught using an integrative, question-based approach. Topics include inheritance, evolution and ecology. This course is intended for students registered in the Faculty of Science.

Instructor(s)

S. Ruffell

Hours

3 weeks (July 8-26, 2024). Blended Course. All lectures/skills development will be online.

Blended

Antirequisite(s)

Prerequisites &amp Notes

Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology or Grade 11U (SB13UA) Biology and permission of the Department. A minimum mark of 80% in Grade 12 U Biology (SB14U) is recommended for students registered in a faculty other than the Faculty of Science.

NOTE: The combination of Biology 1001A and 1002B (with appropriate marks) are the prerequisites for senior Biology courses and admission to modules offered by th Department of Biology and the Basic Medical Science Departments.

Course Outline

1002B: Biology for Science II

Description

The principles of biology taught using an integrative, question-based approach. This course is primarily intended for students enrolled in the Faculty of Science. Topics include enzyme structure/function, membrane structure/function, bioenergetics, photosynthesis, respiration, molecular genetics.

Instructor(s)

P. McDonald

Hours

3 weeks (July 29 -August 16, 2024). Blended Course. All lectures/skills development will be online.

Blended

Antirequisite(s)

Prerequisites &amp Notes

Grade 12U (SB14U) Biology or Grade 11U (SB13UA) Biology and permission of the Department. A minimum mark of 80% in Grade 12U Biology (SB14U) is recommended for students registered in a faculty other than the Faculty of Science.

Note: The combination of Biology 1001A and 1002B (with appropriate marks) are the prerequisites for senior Biology courses and admission to modules offered by th Department of Biology and the Basic Medical Science Departments.

Outline N/A

J. Fran

Department of Biology
1151 Richmond Street
London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3K7
Tel: 519-850-2542
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