MSc Thesis
The preparation and public defence of a thesis which will demonstrate the candidate's capacity for independent study.
Current Topics in Conservation Ecology and Biodiversity
An exploration and discussion of current trends in conservation ecology and biodiversity. Topics include conservation strategies; impacts of conservation efforts on ecosystems, communities, species or populations; biodiversity assessment; invasive species; and interdisciplinary issues related to conservation and biodiversity such as policy, mangement, economic and social concerns.
Topics in Photobiology
(also offered as CHEM 5P03)
A graduate seminar/lecture course covering topics in photobiology. A series of lectures designed to introduce some of the major research areas in photobiology will be followed by student seminars on selected topics (usually two or three papers on one subject).
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P03.
Advanced Topics in Bioinformatics
This course will investigate advanced topics of bioinformatics including, but not limited to, analysis of high throughput genomic sequencing and functional genomics data (e.g. gene expression, DNA methylation, chip-seq) and related databases and tools. The format will be a combination of lectures, seminars, readings, and data analysis projects.
Note: An appropriate background in molecular biology, bioinformatics and computer programming is recommended. Course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P06.
Mechanisms in Plant Biochemistry
(also offered as BTEC 5P10)
Molecular and chemical control of plant disease processes and development. Focus on the detailed signaling mechanisms and outcomes of signal transduction to a plant phenotype. Emphasis on case studies that highlight the different phases of this process, including the identification of signals, signal perception, signal transduction and reaction to the signal transduction cascade to produce a phenotype.
Bioenergetics
Current topics in the molecular and biochemical basis of animal cell bioenergetics, including oxidative phosphorylation, production of reactive oxygen species, apoptosis, and mitochondrial function in health and disease.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P13.
Advanced Sensory Evaluation of Wines
This course will focus on the measurement techniques used in the sensory evaluation of wine and food. Other topics covered include the physiology of taste and olfaction, chemistry of aroma and flavour, origins of off-odors in wines, and advanced readings in current topics in sensory evaluation and sensory science.
Note: course taught in conjunction with OEVI 4P20.
Developmental Neurobiology
A seminar course on the principles of neural development. Topics include cell lineage and early determinative events, trophic functions, growth and plasticity, synaptogenesis and gene expression in the establishment of the nervous system.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P28.
Current Topics in Animal Physiology
Topical subjects in animal physiology, covering recent and/or controversial research in respiratory, thermoregulatory, and cardiovascular physiology and their neural control. Topics may vary from year to year depending on student interests.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P29.
Systems Neurophysiology
Neuronal networks and integrative mechanisms in the nervous system. Selected topics include the visual system, rhythm generators and motor function, and learning and memory.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P34.
Genes and Behaviour
Genetic, developmental and environmental influences on the behaviour of invertebrates and vertebrates. Single versus multilocus effects and the inheritance of quantitative behavioural traits. Analyses of gene expression and genetic pathways influencing behaviour in model animals.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P56.
Bacterial Genetics
(also offered as BTEC 5P57)
Molecular and transmission genetics of bacteria. Bacterial genetics from early description of transformation and transduction to current developments in molecular genetics.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL/BTEC 4P57.
Fungal Genetics
An examination of transmission and molecular genetics of fungi. Recent advances in gene manipulation and the contribution of studies on these organisms to general genetics principles.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL/BTEC 4P58.
Insect Behaviour
Exploration of selected topics in the field of insect behaviour. Topics include programming and integration of behaviour, orientation and dispersal, feeding behaviour, chemical, visual and acoustical communication, defensive behaviour, reproductive behaviour and the eusocial insects.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL 4P64.
Insect Biology
Current topics in the field of insect biology. Possible course themes include: behavioural ecology of insects, insect systematics, coevolution of plants and insects, speciation processes, evolution of insect mating systems, insect metamorphosis.
Biophysical Techniques
(also offered as BTEC 5P67 and CHEM 5P67)
An advanced seminar/lecture course on experimental techniques in biophysics. The focus is on understanding the theory, applications and limitations of a variety of techniques students will encounter during their graduate studies. Techniques will range from advanced spectroscopy (absorption, fluorescence, NMR, X-ray diffraction) to molecular biochemistry.
Note: course taught in conjunction with BIOL/CHEM/BCHM 4P67.
Sociobiology
How natural selection shapes social behaviour, with emphasis on kin selection, reciprocity, and exploitation in the evolution of co-operation and altruism. Particular attention will be paid to insect societies.
Advanced Wine Flavour
Flavour compounds. Critical analysis and discussion of current literature, and how it informs our understanding of the specific roles of viticultural and oenological practices in the formation of wine flavour. Recent advances in the analytical and sensoric measurement of aroma, taste and tactile stimuli.
Note: an appropriate background in wine chemistry and sensory evaluation is recommended.
Current Topics in Ecology and Evolution
This course will cover three or four current topics in ecology and evolution and involve critical analysis and discussion of current literature. Topics include concepts in behavioural ecology, community ecology, population ecology, sexual selection, adaptation, and phylogenetic analysis.
Current Topics in Basic and Applied Plant Biology
(also offered as BTEC 5P86)
An investigation into a number of topics in plant biology. Topics will vary and may include plant disease, signal transduction, secondary metabolism, physiology and photosynthesis, biotechnological applications and oenology and viticulture.
Current Topics in Neurobiology or Physiology
Topics in contemporary Neurobiology and or Physiology at cellular, molecular or systemic levels. Approval of the departmental graduate studies committee is required prior to registration.
Current Topics in Cell and Molecular Biology
Recent advances in cellular and molecular biology, including topics such as aging, adaptation, pathological dysfunction, cancer biology, and flow of genetic information.
MSc Research Seminar
Designed to familiarize students with areas of research in all fields of biological science, with emphasis on preparation, presentation, critique, and group assessment of NSERC-style research proposals. Attendance at the Biological Sciences Departmental Seminar Series is mandatory.
Note: Course taught in conjunction with BIOL 7P95.
Selected Topics in Biological Sciences
An investigation of a specific area or group of related topics in biology. Approval of the departmental Graduate Studies committee is required prior to registration.
PhD Thesis
Preparation, public defence, and examination of a thesis that demonstrates the candidate's capacity for independent thought and study at the appropriate level.
PhD Research Seminar
Designed to familiarize students with areas of research in all fields of biological science, with emphasis on preparation, presentation, critique, and group assessment of NSERC-style research proposals. Attendance at the Biological Sciences Departmental Seminar Series is mandatory.
Note: Course taught in conjunction with BIOL 5P95.