Biological Sciences

This course provides students with a broad overview of vertebrate life and evolution from a variety of perspectives, including: the fossil record, modern evolutionary and functional anatomy, morphological and molecular evidence. Students become familiar with the diversity of modern vertebrates, their adaptations, and classification. Methods of study are emphasized, including the building of phylogenetic trees, use of molecular and morphological data, and the influence of biogeography on current distributions. The relationship between fossil and living forms are also discussed.

Cognitive Neuroscience I is an introduction to this field, studying the physiology and anatomy of the brain, the functional anatomy of cognitive functions, and the experimental toolkit of cognitive neuroscience (ranging from reaction-time tests to functional MRI). The results of recent research into perception, attention, learning and memory, and language, and their neurological underpinnings are also looked at. Throughout the course, special attention is given to dysfunctions of cognitive functioning resulting from brain damage. This course covers the following topics: the basic functions of the brain and neurophysiological processes underlying various mental faculties; how neurocognitive research is conducted, particularly how behavioral and neurocognitive research methods are used as complementary means to the same end; and current issues in neurocognitive research. Prerequisites for the course: this course puts considerable weight on anatomy and physiology of the brain and on molecular processes underlying the function of the nervous system; knowledge of biology at the high school level is recommended.

This undergraduate research course provides opportunities to conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Participants are expected to devote approximately 20 hours per week to their research project, with the exact time commitment determined in consultation with the faculty supervisor. The course requires the completion of an original research paper. It develops research methods, analytical thinking, academic writing, and the ability to communicate research findings effectively through scholarly papers and reports. As an independent research program, the course emphasizes initiative, self-directed learning, and regular consultation with the faculty supervisor throughout the research process.

This course discusses mechanisms of innate and adaptive immune responses. Topics include: hematopoiesis; development of T and B lymphocytes; leukocyte migration; antigen processing/presentation and the major histocompatibility complex; immune responses against pathogens; diseases associated with aberrant immune responses.

This course provides an overview of features, molecules, and processes common to all living organisms. It how cells use macromolecules (Nucleic acids, Proteins, Carbohydrates, and Lipids) to carry out the process required for life, like cell division and growth.