University of Sydney

This course examines how complex multicellular systems are constructed using both animal and plant systems in a comparative way that reveals common strategies and striking contrasts. It covers the multidisciplinary nature of approaches used, including classical embryology, biochemistry, genetics, transcriptomics, live-imaging, cell biology, physiology and computer simulation. Topics include fundamental concepts, morphogens, establishing body axes, cell polarity, differentiation and commitment, evolution in the context of development, mechanics and morphogenesis with examples from model systems, stem cells and cancer. Practical work includes experiments addressing gene expression, organ identity and homeotic conversions, and uses CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to demonstrate approaches to the study of developmental biology. 

This course examines Australian history from the convict period to the present, examining frontier violence, the making of a nation state, and the manifold transformations of the twentieth century. Taking advantage of the university's location, the course uses Sydney-area museums and site visits to bring Australia's past to life.

This course examines architectural history and theory. It includes a concise chronological survey of key periods of architectural history from antiquity to the mid-nineteenth century, as well as closer investigation of some particular architectural themes and ideas across history. Students will interrogate these themes through intense study of significant buildings, which they will research, document, and analyze. They will be introduced to fundamental principles and skills of scholarly research in the discipline, including locating and evaluating sources, and constructing arguments.

This course look at a historical understanding of Australian society including gender, class, politics, foreign relations, or Indigenous and settler experiences of colonialism and environment. 

This course provide students with the skills required to examine, describe and interpret sediments and sedimentary rocks for a variety of different purposes. This course examines the recent or ancient environment in which sedimentary materials were deposited, and the processes that control the production, movement and storage of sediment bodies. The various controls on the sedimentary record such as climate and sea-level change, as well as diagenesis and geochemical cycles, will be discussed. 

This course examines how the basic physical and cognitive principles (ergonomics, heuristics, human-centredness) are incorporated in successful designs across a wide variety of different sectors.

This course examines Sydney’s fascinating people and places, from the city’s Indigenous people and cultures, to its iconic natural landscapes and buildings, its diverse and dynamic neighborhoods, its hidden surprises, and its contested futures. As well as attending seminars, students will participate in field trips to different locations in Sydney conducted by leading experts from a range of disciplines and communities.