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Biology

  • BLG 101 - Anatomy and Physiology I
    Course DescriptionA comprehensive investigation into the cells and tissues of the human body. Specific content will include homeostasis and how it is maintained in the healthy human body. An exploration of cellular physiology and the nucleus as the control center of the cell will set the stage for the semester. Following this, an investigation into the four primary tissues of the body (epithelium tissue, connective tissue; muscle tissue, and nervous tissue), and the basics of the nervous system. This course is not available for credit in the Bachelor of Science programs in Biology, Biomedical Science or Chemistry.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Corequisites:NSE 101, NSE 111, PPN 101 (for Nursing Collaborative program students only)
    Custom Requisites:Not available to students in Bachelor of Science programs in Biology, Biomedical Science or Chemistry
  • BLG 111 - Anatomy and Physiology II
    Course DescriptionA comprehensive investigation into the major organ systems of the body. Specific content will include:cardiovascular (blood, heart and blood vessels), respiratory, gastrointestinal including nutrition, urinaryincluding fluid/electrolyte and acid/base balance, reproduction and pregnancy including heredity. This course is not available for credit in the Bachelor of Science programs in Biology, Biomedical Science or Chemistry.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 101, NSE 101, NSE 111, PPN 101 (NSE and PPN courses for Nursing students only)
    Custom Requisites:Not available to students in Bachelor of Science programs in Biology, Biomedical Science or Chemistry
  • BLG 131 - Microbiology for Nursing
    Course DescriptionThis course will introduce the students to the fundamentals of microbiology. They will study bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoans and their role in the acquisition and dissemination of infectious diseases. The students will also learn how microbial infections are controlled by hygiene, antimicrobial therapies and the immune system. Infections of each of the body systems will be surveyed. The lecture material will be supplemented with case histories in order to simulate real world situations.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:PPN 201, NSE 203, NSE 211, PAT 201, NSE 212
    Corequisites:PPN 202, PAT 202, NSE 222, NSE 221
  • BLG 133 - Fundamentals of Biological Anthropology I
    Course DescriptionThis course will introduce students to fundamentals of biological anthropology. It will begin with defining and using the scientific method and a discussion on the origin of evolutionary thought. This will be followed by a discussion of the gene and mutation and the relationship between genotype and phenotype. Mechanisms of evolution will be covered (gene flow, genetic drift and natural selection) and survey the field of human adaption and the ways in which evolutionary forces mold populations will be covered.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Custom Requisites:Available only to students in the Arts and Contemporary Studies program.
  • BLG 143 - Biology I
    Course DescriptionThis course is an introduction to the cellular and molecular mechanisms in the cell. Topics include macromolecule structure and function, enzymes, cell membrane structure and function, cell cycle control, cell division, metabolism, and photosynthesis. Also included is an introduction to genetics and patterns of inheritance, gene expression and developmental biology. Laboratory exercises complement lectures.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
  • BLG 144 - Biology II
    Course DescriptionThis course is an introduction to evolution, diversity, and ecology. Topics include natural selection and the patterns of evolutionary change in allele frequencies and speciation. The course will introduce the diversity of living organisms resulting from evolutionary processes. The course will explore how these organisms interact with each other and their physical environment, and the feedback of these interactions on evolution. Laboratory exercises complement lectures.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143
  • BLG 151 - Microbiology I
    Course DescriptionThis course introduces the student to the principles of microbiology. Topics include the history of microbiology, a survey of the different types of microorganisms, prokaryotic cell structure and function, microbial nutrition and growth, microbial metabolism and its applications, and bacterial genetics and gene expression. An introduction to bacterial gene expression will also be covered. The laboratory exercises complement the lectures and introduce the student to basic microbiological techniques and applications.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144
  • BLG 181 - Biology of a Living City
    Course DescriptionThis course will examine current selected topics in biology including cloning, today's epidemics, genetically modified foods and environmental issues. Students will be introduced to many fundamental principles of modern biology as well as the history and ethics pertaining to the topics. This course is open to all arts students and has no secondary school biology requirement. (Formerly SCI 181). BLG 181 is not available for credit to students who choose BLG 143 or BLG 144.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Liberal Studies:LL
    Antirequisites:BLG 143, BLG 144
    Custom Requisites:Not available to Faculty of Engineering, Biology (all options), Biomedical Sciences (all options), Chemistry (all options), nor Medical Physics (all options)
  • BLG 230 - Botany
    Course DescriptionTopics include plant systematics at morphological and genetic levels, plant development and life cycles, and nutrient requirements for growth. Photosynthesis and primary metabolism of C3, C4 and organic acid plants will be compared. Basic physiology including hormonal regulation, ion transport, and water relations will be presented. Secondary metabolites including phytochemicals, drugs, toxins and pigments will be introduced. Laboratory exercises include germination, growth requirements, flower dissections, measurements of tissue nutrients, creation of cuttings and controlled crosses.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144
  • BLG 233 - Biological Anthropology II
    Course DescriptionThis course will introduce the students to the primates. The formation of behavioural traits and their association with activity and sociality will be discussed. The details of primate behaviour will also include the evolution of primate social behaviour and reproductive asymmetry. The human fossil record will be examined to understand the relationship between brain size and the evolution of language and intelligence. Modern day approaches to biomedical anthropology will also be introduced.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 133
  • BLG 251 - Microbiology II
    Course DescriptionThis course introduces the student to more in depth information about the microbial world. Students will be introduced to the fascinating diversity of prokaryotes and viruses as well as to techniques used for determining microbial identity. The impact of microorganisms on the world around us will then be discussed including microbial interactions with the environment and humans, control of microorganisms, and applications of microorganisms. Laboratory exercises complement the lectures and familiarize the student with principles of microbial ecology and diversity.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 151
  • BLG 307 - Molecular Biology
    Course DescriptionThis course emphasizes the fundamentals of molecular biology including gene structure and function, regulation of transcription and translation, gene expression in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and recombinant DNA technology including DNA mutagenesis, protein engineering and monoclonal antibody technology.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 151 and (CHY 261 or BCH 261) and BLG 400
  • BLG 311 - Cell Biology
    Course DescriptionThis course will examine key concepts of cell structure and function. This includes membrane structure and function, membrane transport mechanisms of small molecules and ions, cytoplasmic organization, intracellular targeting and sorting of proteins, membrane trafficking, the cytoskeleton and nuclear organization. We will also examine various methods used to visualize and study cell structure and function.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144
  • BLG 312 - Invertebrate Zoology
    Course DescriptionThis course is an introduction to the vast world of invertebrate organisms. Three major aspects will be presented for each group of invertebrates: 1) ontogeny and phylogeny will look into evolutionary history, diversity, and relationships among groups, with a strong emphasis on genetics of these organisms: 2) functional morphology will provide an understanding of the role of the myriads of morphological adaptations found among invertebrates: and 3) ecological roles of invertebrates in specific habitats.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 316
  • BLG 315 - Evolution
    Course DescriptionThe mechanisms of evolutionary change, from genes to societies, will be examined in this course and will draw on data and examples from plants and invertebrate and vertebrate animals. How natural selection interacts with genetic and population processes to make organisms adapted to their environment and to create biological diversity is an important component. An exploration of higher-level processes in evolution including considerations of mechanisms of speciation, extinction, adaptive radiation, and phylogenetics will be conducted.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 400
  • BLG 316 - Zoology
    Course DescriptionThe branch of biology that deals with animals and animal life, including the study of the structure, physiology, development, and classification of animals will be introduced in this course. Unicellular organisms including the protozoa will be examined, followed by the aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, and culminating in an overview of the vertebrate group will emphasize the diversity of this enormous Kingdom.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144
  • BLG 340 - Environmental Biology
    Course DescriptionThis course covers the relationships of organisms, particularly microorganisms, with their environment. Topics covered include population interactions, environmental determinants, biogeochemical cycling and microbial contribution to pollution. Applications to waste management and pollution control will be discussed. Laboratory exercises complement lectures.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 151 and BLG 567 and (CHY 261 or BCH 261)
  • BLG 351 - Applied Microbiology
    Course DescriptionThis course covers the fundamentals and applied aspects of industrial processes employing microbial, plant and animal systems. Topics include strain development, bacterial and yeast fermentations, and the production of chemicals, antibiotics, vitamins and enzymes. Applications to the food and pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and the environment will be examined.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 151
  • BLG 400 - Genetics
    Course DescriptionStructure, function and transmission of genes; chromosomal basis of inheritance; mono- and dihybrid crosses; sequential steps in gene function; linkage maps; sex chromosome inheritance, cytogenetics, genetic traits and inheritance as they relate to health care issues. Topics include normal and pathological cytology; the human genome project; gene mapping; linkage and therapy.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Tutorial 1 hr.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144
  • BLG 401 - Ecotoxicology
    Course DescriptionEcotoxicology is the study of the fate of chemicals in the environment and their effects on the ecological systems. The course will examine the origin, fate, and the potential impact of some of these chemicals derived from the human activities on natural ecosystems, including the aquatic and terrestrial environments. Organisms of interest will include the microbial community, primary producers, aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates and vertebrates and lastly terrestrial mammals. Enrolment limit: 20 students.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 567
  • BLG 402 - Limnology
    Course DescriptionClean fresh water is of central importance to the welfare of the Canadian natural environment, human health and economy. Limnology is the study of biological, physical and geochemical properties of fresh water bodies, e.g., lakes, rivers, and wetlands. This introductory course will provide an array of topics that will, by the multidisciplinary nature of limnology, call upon students' knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics and place them within the context of aquatic science.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 567 and (MTH 130 or MTH 131)
  • BLG 408 - Viruses
    Course DescriptionThis course will begin with a short history of virology, then move to an overview of virus replication strategies, with sample viruses from each of the Baltimore classification categories. Prions as well as other unusual infectious elements will also be introduced. The course will emphasize viruses for which Public Health Canada recommends immunization, and end with viruses for which there is no cure.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and (CHY 261 or BCH 261)
  • BLG 409 - Biometry
    Course DescriptionThis course will cover commonly used statistical analyses of biological data, working with data structures familiar and relevant to Biology majors. The course will focus on experimental design, training students to set up experiments with a priori consideration of statistical analysis. Specific topics will include probability, distribution analysis, measures of central tendency, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, regression and correlation analyses, multiple regression models, chi-square tests, t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA) models, power analyses.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and MTH 380
  • BLG 40A/B - Project-Thesis
    Course Description

    A research project supervised by a faculty member. An oral presentation of results and a thesis are required. Registration in this course may be restricted by the number of available projects.

    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:2.00
    Billing Units:1/1
    Count:2.00
    Consent:Departmental consent required
  • BLG 411 - Cell Biology II
    Course DescriptionThis course will focus on cell function and behaviour. The course will cover mechanisms of cell-cell adhesion and cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix, mechanisms of cellular communication and signal transduction, cell motility and morphology, regulation of the cell cycle, apoptosis and an introduction to cell differentiation. The laboratory component will complement basic cell structure concepts.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 311
  • BLG 481 - Biology and Chemistry Project Laboratory
    Course DescriptionThis course will offer students the opportunity to undertake two laboratory projects (12-12 laboratory hours). The student will also be expected to research the theory required to understand the experimental work and the methodology being used; to suggest or to adapt appropriate experimental procedures; to make an oral presentation of the work and to write a report(s) in a format appropriate to the subject matter investigated. This course will not be available to students registered in CHY 40A/B.
    Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Consent:Departmental consent required
  • BLG 508 - Conservation Biology
    Course DescriptionThe conservation of biodiversity and relationships with human society will be discussed. Lectures would emphasize issues germane to Canada's ecosystems or geographic regions. Students will develop understanding of conversation genetic theory, will review the ecology of small populations, and consider various aspects related to extinctions and biodiversity. Basic tools of conservation biology such as computer modeling, conservation genetics, and metapopulation processes will be introduced in the context of particular ecosystem, species, or situations.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 230 and BLG 316 and BLG 567
  • BLG 567 - Ecology
    Course DescriptionAn introduction to fundamental ecological principles and illustration of how these are applied to current environmental problems at the level of organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems. Topics to include the nature of ecological experiments; population dynamics; population harvesting; ecological processes structuring biological communities in space and time; energy and nutrient flows in ecosystems, the relationship between ecological goods and services.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and CHY 113
  • BLG 578 - Pharmacology
    Course DescriptionThe pharmacological and biochemical basis of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, biotransformation, toxicity and susceptibility. Topics include physiological effects, modes of delivery, chemical carcinogenesis and mechanism of action and cellular resistance to antibacterial and anticancer drugs.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 311 and (CHY 361 or BCH 361)
  • BLG 599 - Biology Facts in Pop Media Sci-Fiction
    Course DescriptionThis course is an exploration of the real science and technology behind the science fiction portrayed in popular media (movies, television, internet and print). Topics may include: cloning of cells and organisms; DNA sequencing and genomics; forensics techniques used in real labs; how to analyze and understand statistics in health related news articles; the chemistry and physiology behind health foods and fads; the pros and cons of genetically modified organisms (GMOs); etc. Students will be able to choose and direct their studies of specific movies, episodes and articles.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Liberal Studies:UL
    Custom Requisites:Not available to Engineering students, nor Faculty of Science students (with the exception of Computer Science, Financial Mathematics and Mathematics and its Applications).
  • BLG 600 - Physiology
    Course DescriptionA systematic approach to the function of the main physiological systems and their integration and interaction in the human body. Functions of the integumentary, immune, circulatory, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, nervous, endocrine, gastrointestinal, urinary and reproductive systems. The physiological consequences of disease, aging, exercise, and pregnancy are also considered.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 311
    Antirequisites:BLG 601
  • BLG 601 - Physiology
    Course DescriptionA course for engineers on the systematic approach to the function of the main physiological systems and their integration and interaction in the human body. Functions of the integumentary, immune, circulatory, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, nervous, endocrine, gastrointestinal, urinary and reproductive systems. The physiological consequences of disease, aging, exercise, and pregnancy are also considered.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and (CEN 100 or PCS 229)
    Antirequisites:BLG 600
  • BLG 605 - Science and Government Policy Development
    Course DescriptionAll levels of government in Canada rely on a number of sources of scientific information in order to create, modify or update public policy. This course will examine the processes by which government seeks, collects and/or commissions scientific information and how government policy is influenced by scientific information. This course will examine case studies of specific government policies that shape and/or are shaped by scientific information and data collection.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:CHY 142
  • BLG 606 - Intro to Clinical Research and Trials
    Course DescriptionClinical trials are critical to demonstrate drug safety and efficacy. This course will examine the process of conducting clinical trials, including considerations for recruitment of patients, drafting of research protocols and informed consent forms, regulatory considerations, financial disclosure, and investigator recruitment. This course will also examine stakeholder roles and responsibilities including that of institutional review boards, investigators and regulatory bodies, including a discussion of specific case studies and examination of primary scientific data.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:CHY 142
  • BLG 607 - Intellectual Property in Science
    Course DescriptionScientific research and development in academia and industry depends on intellectual property laws to protect discoveries and to allow commercialization of innovative products and services. This course will examine Canadian and international intellectual property legislation related to variety of scientific research and development industries. This course will also make use of case studies to explore how scientific innovation is impacted by intellectual property legislation.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:CHY 142
  • BLG 610 - Data Science for Biology
    Course DescriptionData science has been described as the fourth scientific paradigm because it integrates the methods of experimentation, theory, and simulation to arrive at deeper insights. In this course, youâ ll learn how to apply the tools of data science to biological data (from cells to individuals, populations, communities, and ecosystems). The course will focus on learning data science through examples using biological data.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 409
  • BLG 630 - Population Biology
    Course DescriptionThis course will provide in-depth understanding of applied population biology. Topics include population growth and regulation, demography, interspecific interactions, evolution of life histories, management of threatened species and control of pest organisms using ecological and evolutionary perspectives. Active learning exercises emphasize applied field skills, experimental design, and computer simulation needed by environmental scientists. In-class lectures and activities will be supplemented by field trips.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 230 and (BLG 567 or BLG 315)
  • BLG 667 - Disease Ecology
    Course DescriptionThis course will examine the adaptations of many organisms (e.g. viruses, bacteria, fungi, protists, helminths, and parasitic arthropods) to a parasitic way of life, parasite population dynamics, and host-parasite interactions in an ecological and evolutionary context. Topics discussed include strategies for establishment, persistence, reproduction, and transmission, parasite origins and life histories, epidemiology and disease modeling, ecological implications of diseases, host-parasite co-evolution, and emerging infectious diseases.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 567 and BLG 316
  • BLG 678 - Current Topics in Biology
    Course DescriptionRecent developments and topics of current interest in biology and their applications will be included. A variety of instructional modes will be used e.g. lecture, seminar, guest speakers, student presentations, demonstration and practice.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 307 and BCH 361
  • BLG 699 - Social Factors in Drug Development
    Course DescriptionOnce a drug has been discovered, there are many factors that influence whether it is marketed. This course will explore the societal issues that affect pharmaceutical and biotech companies as they develop new compounds. After an introduction to the Canadian regulatory process, students will discuss topics such as laboratory animal welfare, ethics in clinical research, drug reimbursement and other pressures drug companies face to provide a drug or take it off the market.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Liberal Studies:UL
    Antirequisites:BLG 143, BLG 144
    Custom Requisites:Not available to Engineering students, nor Faculty of Science students (with the exception of Computer Science, Financial Mathematics and Mathematics and its Applications)
  • BLG 700 - Anatomy
    Course DescriptionThis course takes a systematic approach to the structure of the human body at the gross and microscopic levels. Areas of focus include tissues, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems, and embryology.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144
    Antirequisites:BLG 701
  • BLG 701 - Anatomy
    Course DescriptionA course for engineers that takes a systematic approach to the structure of the human body at the gross and microscopic levels. Areas of focus include tissues, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems, and embryology.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and (CEN 100 or PCS 229)
    Antirequisites:BLG 700
  • BLG 702 - Genomics and its Applications
    Course DescriptionThe relationship between the structure and function of a gene in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes; contents of various genomes, identification and implications; review of the Human Genome project; tools used in discovering and identifying sequences in a particular genome; analysis of gene expression.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 400 and BLG 307
  • BLG 707 - Entomology
    Course DescriptionA lecture course designed to introduce insect structure, physiology, biochemistry, development, systematics, evolution and ecology. The course stresses interrelationships amongst diverse ecological communities and integrated pest control including life-histories and insect-plant relations. Interactions with the agricultural, forestry, and soil biomes will be examined.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 143 and BLG 144 and BLG 316
  • BLG 720 - Urban Field Biology - Water Ecosystems
    Course DescriptionA two-week field course (late August - early September) at selected field locations in Toronto area accessible by transit. Students will: learn about urban water ecosystems; develop field biology skills (sampling methods and identification); improve ability to accurately and reflectively characterize field observations; collect data for their own scientific experiment (individually or in small groups); and present their findings during in-class workshops or seminars. Additional fees may apply. Details to be provided by Department.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Consent:Departmental consent required
  • BLG 721 - Inter-University Field Course
    Course DescriptionA two-week field course offered between May and August by an Ontario university (to various locations) as part of the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). The selection of field course modules are announced in January. For registration information and additional fees information consult the Chemistry and Biology Departmental website; fees from $350-5000 will be applied for field trip costs.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Consent:Departmental consent required
  • BLG 785 - Developmental Biology
    Course DescriptionAn introduction to the study of development of plants and animals both at the organism and molecular level. Topics include sequential morphological changes and gene expression during development, sexual maturation and the aging process.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 307 and BLG 311 and BLG 400 and BLG 411 and (CHY 261 or BCH 261)
  • BLG 788 - Current Topics in Biotechnology
    Course DescriptionThis course emphasizes the biological synthesis of commercial products, the genetic engineering of plants and animals. Topics will also include DNA fingerprinting analysis in forensics and diagnostics and production of recombinant vaccines. (BLG 407 is equivalent to BLG 788 plus BLG 888).
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 307 and BLG 400
  • BLG 800 - Genomics and Proteomics
    Course DescriptionAn introduction to genomics and proteomics; relationship between structure and function of a gene; tools used in discovering and identifying sequences in a particular genome; an overview of protein structure and function, tools for structural determination, analysis of protein-protein interactions, introduction to the high throughput identification and quantification of protein expression; review of the Human Genome project; application of genomics and proteomics to drug design.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 311 and BLG 400 and (CHY 261 or BCH 261)
  • BLG 802 - Plant Diversity
    Course DescriptionEvolution has enabled plants to transform from aquatic organisms in to terrestrial life forms capable of performing the critical functions of nutrition, respiration, and reproduction in diverse environments. This course examines the different ways that plants become suited to their environments. These include adaptations in flowering and non-flowering plants, methods of obtaining food, pollination, seed dispersal, support, food and water storage, protection from herbivores, and adjustments to climatic changes.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 230 and BLG 567
  • BLG 803 - Ecosystem Processes
    Course DescriptionThis course will delve into some of the critical ecosystem-level functions involving elemental and materials (e.g. water) cycles in the context of a variety of ecosystem types. The course will cover energy flow through these ecosystems, including organic matter production by photo and chemo autotrophs, and heterotrophic processing. The course will link elemental cycles with energy flow to help students better understand the interactions among C, N, P, S, and Fe cycles in ecosystems, and how cycling of these elements in necessary for maintaining the integrity of ecosystems. The course will build on system-based modeling introduced in Ecology (BLG 567), enabling students to build predictive models that explore ecosystem-wide impacts of perturbations to elemental or hydrologic cycles.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 567
  • BLG 804 - Water Quality and Environmental Management
    Course DescriptionProtecting global water resources is one of the key problems facing the 21st century and this course will examine the management of this invaluable resource. From non-point source urban and agriculture runoff to industrial and municipal effluent to resource extraction from source to be sold elsewhere, the problems of maintaining a sustainable water supply will be examined and solutions for implementation will be assessed. Floods, droughts, water quality, water-ecosystem and soil-water-climate interactions, and the sustainability of water resources are important issues in water resources management and will be emphasized in this course.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 151 and BLG 567
  • BLG 805 - Behavioural Ecology
    Course DescriptionThis course will explore some of behaviours exhibited by organisms (including plants, but focusing on animals) in order to meet their basic needs, such as acquiring nutrition, avoiding danger, and reproducing. We will discuss how and why these behaviours occur, investigating ecological, evolutionary, and mechanistic aspects. Topics covered will include neurobiological pathways, behavioural genetics, chemical ecology, learning, game theory, co-evolution, and social behaviours.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 316 and BLG 567
  • BLG 806 - Tropical Field Ecology
    Course DescriptionThe course focuses on the extraordinary diversity of tropical ecosystems through multi-day excursions to places such as rivers, pristine tropical broad leaf rainforest, and the Caribbean Ocean. Students will have the opportunity to conduct research projects within a diversity of local ecological habitats.
    Weekly Contact:Lab 5 hrs. Tutorial 1 hr.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 567
  • BLG 810 - Advanced Techniques in Plant Biology
    Course DescriptionA comprehensive study of plant biology applications and techniques as they relate to applied botany. The topics covered in this course focus on methods associated with plant breeding and may include seed technology, genetic marker assisted breeding, tissue culture, chemo-prospecting, propagation techniques, and chemical extraction techniques.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs. Lab 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 230 and BLG 307 and BLG 400
  • BLG 850 - What is Cancer?
    Course DescriptionCancer is the most prevalent disease in contemporary world. The basic biology of cancer as well as relevant clinical and therapeutic aspects of the disease will be covered. This knowledge will be then integrated with current public health issues in cancer prevention and treatment. Students will learn how to critically evaluate cancer claims in the news and explore common myths about cancer. Students will also have an opportunity to effectively communicate information about cancer to general public through current forms of media. This course is designed for non-science majors and as such does not require any university level science courses as prerequisites.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Liberal Studies:UL
    Antirequisites:BMS 850
  • BLG 856 - Immunology
    Course DescriptionThe organization and structure of the immune system including an introduction to humoral cellular immunity and immunological techniques. The molecular and cellular basis of immunity, including histocompatibility antigens and the basis of autoimmune diseases will also be covered.
    Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 311 and BLG 411 and (CHY 261 or BCH 261)
  • BLG 888 - Molecular Biology Laboratory
    Course DescriptionThis lab course will cover experiments on recombinant DNA technology. The lab experience includes experiments for DNA isolation, cloning, and restriction endonuclease digestion. Genotypic characterization will also be investigated using PCR methodology. Protein characterization will include isolation, SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and detection using Western blot analysis with monoclonal antibodies.
    Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs. Tutorial 1 hr.
    GPA Weight:1.00
    Billing Units:1
    Count:1.00
    Prerequisites:BLG 307