Biological Sciences

The extensive independent study field research paper produced by the student is both the centerpiece of the intern's professional engagement and the culmination of the academic achievements of the semester. During the preparatory session, IFE teaches the methodological guidelines and principles to which students are expected to adhere in the development of their written research. Students work individually with a research advisor from their field. The first task is to identify a topic, following guidelines established by IFE for research topic choice. The subject must be tied in a useful and complementary way to the student-intern's responsibilities, as well as to the core concerns of the host organization. The research question should be designed to draw as much as possible on resources available to the intern via the internship (data, documents, interviews, observations, seminars and the like). Students begin to focus on this project after the first 2-3 weeks on the internship. Each internship agreement signed with an organization makes explicit mention of this program requirement, and this is the culminating element of their semester. Once the topic is identified, students meet individually, as regularly as they wish, with their IFE research advisor to generate a research question from the topic, develop an outline, identify sources and research methods, and discuss drafts submitted by the student. The research advisor also helps students prepare for the oral defense of their work which takes place a month before the end of the program and the due date of the paper. The purpose of this exercise is to help students evaluate their progress and diagnose the weak points in their outline and arguments. Rather than an extraneous burden added to the intern's other duties, the field research project grows out of the internship through a useful and rewarding synergy of internship and research. The Field Study and Internship model results in well-trained student-interns fully engaged in mission-driven internships in their field, while exploring a critical problem guided by an experienced research advisor.

This lecture and laboratory-based course aims to give students a solid foundation in basic physiological processes in animals, with a focus on the different ways in which animals are adapted to their environments. Particular emphasis will be placed on marine and desert animals, and the integrative mechanisms involved in the regulation of important organ systems. Topics include endocrine feedback, neural integration, water, food and salt balance, cardiorespiratory systems, thermoregulation, metabolism and reproduction.

This course offers an understanding of life-history adaptations, their ecological context, genetic variation, and evolution. It provides a detailed perception of biological adaptation through natural and sexual selection, the different levels of selection (genes, individuals, and social groups) and the strength of these forces in shaping life-history adaptations. The course integrates ecological and evolutionary approaches. Topics include mating systems and sexual selection; decision making and the evolution of communication; life histories in animals and microbes; life history traits: genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity; mutualistic interactions and their evolutionary stability; social evolution: cooperation and conflict; and parasite-host interactions.

This course provides an overview of human anatomy. It covers human topographic and developmental anatomy; the principles relating to each type of anatomical structure (skin, fascia and skeletal muscle, bones and joints, vessels and nerves, visceral structures); the essential factual information regarding the specific anatomical structures forming the body's major organ systems (musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiorespiratory, digestive, genitourinary); the boundaries and contents of clinically important regions; and the appearance of normal anatomical structures via modern imaging techniques.

This course introduces molecular mechanisms of cellular functions and applications. It covers biological membranes, protein structures, DNA, RNA, basic molecular-cellular biology techniques, genes, and intra cellular communication. Students will gain a deep comprehension of the molecular mechanisms that underpin vital life processes, enabling them to pursue further education in fields such as genetics, biotechnology, or scientific research.

This course examines the applications of ecological concepts for the conservation and management of natural and human-altered ecosystems. In particular, it identifies the implications of global and local changes for ecosystems, communities and individual species, especially within the Australian environment. It examines approaches to management and conservation of terrestrial resources and ecosystems, the control of pest species, and restoration of modified habitats.

This course, intended for students who are not majoring in medicine, covers the scientific understanding of death, and analyzes the historical/philosophical implications that form the basis of this knowledge, thereby enhancing student abilities to analyze various social phenomena caused by death in modern society.  

The course presents scientific data related to death, fostering a rational way of thinking through ethical/philosophical considerations of this phenomenon that are necessary in modern society. Topics include mankind’s historical awareness of death; social consensus and philosophical implications related to death; scientific analyses in the fields of pathophysiology, toxicology, and socio-medical science; and scientific approaches to complex social phenomena related to death in modern society. 

This course illustrates the diversity and complexity of living organisms, from viruses to humans. Topics include evolution as a means of interpreting change with time; modern theories on the mechanisms of evolution; the origin of species, including humans; structure and functioning of the simplest microbial life forms; structure and life cycles of fungi; the evolution of aquatic and terrestrial plants; the diversity and adaptations of invertebrate animals; the development and adaptations of chordate groups; primate diversity and evolution; conservation and biodiversity issues in relation to South African biomes and global change. The course includes a strong practical component which further examines biodiversity and related concepts. DP requirements: Completion of at least 80% of deliverables (tests, practicals, tutorials, field trip report), including at least one class test, the practical test, and the field trip report; attendance of practicals and field trip; minimum average of 50% for practicals; minimum of 40% for the class record. Assessment: Coursework 40%. Theory test 1 (7%), theory test 2 (7%), practical test (10%), practicals (10%), field trip report (group mark, 6%). Examinations 60%. One 2-hour theory examination written in November counts 40% (subminimum of 40% applies); one 1.5-hour practical examination written in November counts 20%.

This course explores the intricate dynamics of ecosystems and the application of resource management strategies. Students engage in practical exercises and fieldwork, gaining hands-on experience with environmental measurement tools and real-world resource management scenarios. This course examines human dimensions behind managing forests, ranges, water, and fish/wildlife along with the ecological processes that enable these resources or cause difficulties in managing them. Participants are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of ecological systems, the skills required for responsible natural resource management, and a newfound understanding of the natural world.  Recommended pre-reqs include Introductory Biology, Geology, and Sustainable Development.