Biological Sciences

The course introduces students to the structure and function of molecules, including DNA and RNA, which allow genes to be expressed and be maintained from one generation to the next. Students also learn about genetic engineering, its application, and the ethical issues associated with its use.

Students learn about the organization of the human genome, and how it affects the expression, preservation, and transmission of genetic traits. Students discover how modern genetic approaches, including whole genome sequencing, underpin advances in our understanding of gene function and human disease. Students also explore how current techniques drive genetic research and allow the characterization of genes, as well as their potential role in determining health outcomes. This includes an overview of basic bioinformatic methods, to navigate the public data resources that harbor genomic and functional data, an essential tool in the molecular and health sciences.

This course explores the drivers of global change, both natural (e.g. Milankovitch cycles, tectonic drift) and anthropogenic (e.g. greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, land-use change) and then examines how these drivers influence (and are influenced by) terrestrial and marine biological systems. A variety of topics, ranging from organismal and physiological responses to global change, biodiversity, global biogeochemical cycles, ecological function and ecosystem services are covered. While the majority of the class is focused on contemporary global change, this is contextualized relative to palaeohistorical environmental change. The course provides an integrated knowledge of contemporary environmental issues related to global change (e.g. carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, land-use change) and its implications for biodiversity, ecosystem services and human wellbeing).  DP requirements: Completion of at least 70% of deliverables (tests, practicals, project report), including at least one class test and the project report; attendance of practicals; minimum of 40% for the class record. Assessment: A 3-hour examination written in June, with a sub-minimum of 40%, will count for 50% of the course. Coursework marks will be allocated as follows: Practical classes (assessed weekly) count 15%; research project counts 20%; class tests count 15%. Course entry requirements: BIO1000F/H, BIO1004F/S; approved 2000-level semester Science course. 

The course introduces the concepts underpinning physiology and the major tissue types that form the structures of the body. Students examine the relationship between the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, learning how diseases of these systems can be interpreted in terms of altered physiology and anatomy.

This course begins with an overview of the evolution, characteristics, diversity, morphology, and life histories of the different craniate classes, paying particular attention to adaptations underlying the success of the vertebrates. Distinctive or advanced biological features of each group are highlighted, and their ecological/economic importance briefly considered. The rest of the course comprises integrative, cross-taxonomic modules on the functional biology of vertebrates, notably locomotion, sensory systems, metabolism, homeostasis and behavior. The course includes a strong practical component to demonstrate the links between form and function; as well as a 4-day compulsory field camp during which students are trained in methods for studying the diversity, ecology and behavior of selected vertebrate groups. Attendance is compulsory for all lectures and practicals. DP requirements: Completion of at least 70% of deliverables (tests, practicals, project report), including at least one class test and the project report; attendance of practicals; minimum of 40% for the class record Assessment: A 3-hour theory examination written in June, with subminimum of 40%, will count 50% of the course mark. Coursework marks will be allocated as follows: practical tests (three deliverables) count 15%, project report based on projects counts 15%, two class tests together count 20%. Course entry requirements: BIO1000F/H, BIO1004S.

This course examines the multidisciplinary nature of the study of food and nutrition. The course covers a basic understanding of food production, processing and storage from the farmer's field to the dinner table. Topics include food safety, food selection behavior as well as balanced nutrition as part of life style instrumental to good health. Basic macro- and micronutrients from these food and its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion allow students to understand the function of these nutrients in the human body. The course also includes food composition and functional properties of major nutrients, food additives, food hygiene, safety and regulation, food security, healthy eating-concepts and practice, essential nutrients, diet and disease relationship.

This unit introduces students to the topics of evolution, genetics and development. Students discover how natural selection, also known as "survival of the fittest," drives evolution. Students learn how the interaction of organisms with each other and with their environment influences the outcome of the evolutionary process. Students discover how the analysis of genomes can be used to understand evolution. Students learn how genes are transmitted from one generation to the next and appreciate the importance of genes in human disease. Students discover how animals and plants develop, and the relationship between development and evolution.

This course discusses the biological principles that have led to a new understanding of the causes of aging and how these basic principles help one to understand the human experience of biological aging, longevity, and age-related disease. 
The class studies how the rate of biological aging is measured; explores the mechanisms underlying cellular aging; discusses the genetic pathways that affect longevity in various organisms; outlines the normal age-related changes and the functional decline that occurs in physiological systems over one's lifespan, and considers the implications of modulating the rate of aging and longevity.

This course explores the fundamental cellular and developmental processes that drive the formation and organization of animal organisms. It combines cell biology and developmental biology, providing both theoretical foundations and practical laboratory experience. The cell biology section covers mitosis, the cell cycle, apoptosis, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and the cytoskeleton, as well as main cell biology techniques. The developmental biology section explores gametogenesis, fertilization, early embryonic stages, and examples of organogenesis.

This course explores neuronal signaling in vertebrates and invertebrates. Students gain an in-depth understanding of chemical synaptic transmission. Students look at the processes involved in synaptic plasticity and its role in learning, memory and the regulation of behaviors. Students also explore sensory transduction and how the nervous system acquires and integrates information from the environment. There is a particular focus on vision, hearing, and pain. Throughout the course, students learn about the experimental approaches that have contributed to our understanding. Students develop analytical, presentation, and teamwork skills through formative group presentations of published research.