This course will provide students with an immersion into the world of molecular biology research. Students will investigate unique research questions within a team based laboratory setting. Throughout the course, students will gain experience with project and experimental design, various laboratory techniques, data analysis and interpretation, as well as the honing of oral and written communication skills.
This course is particularly intended for students interested in graduate studies, or careers in the research field. Includes a weekly three-hour lab. Materials fee applies.
Prerequisites:
Genetics (BIO‑261);
Microbiology (BIO‑351);
Biochemistry I: Structures and Functions of Biomolecules (BIO‑361)
Inquiry of Issues in Health (HSC‑342)
Genetics
BIO‑261
Discussion of the organization, replication, transmission, expression, and evolution of genetic materials. The course is organized around the levels of genes, chromosomes, organisms and populations. Topics include the expression, control and mutation of genes; the molecular organization and information coding; replication, repair, transmission and mutation of chromosomes; the relation between genes, genotype, phenotype and environment; and the genetic structure and variability of populations, including selection and speciation. Throughout the course methods of investigation will be explained. The structure and operation of genetics as a science will also receive attention. Includes a weekly three-hour lab. Materials fee applies.
Microbiology
BIO‑351
An introductory course which provides an understanding of microbial structure and biochemistry and includes practical experience in the handling and maintenance of microbial cultures. Topics include the classification and identification of microorganisms, the role of micro-organisms in health and disease, and the application of microbial processes in industry. Includes a weekly three-hour lab. Materials fee applies.
Biochemistry I: Structures and Functions of Biomolecules
BIO‑361
An introduction to the structure, function and analysis of the major classes of biomolecules found in living organisms: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. Includes an introduction to the structure and function of enzymes. Includes a weekly three-hour lab. Materials fee applies.
Inquiry of Issues in Health
HSC‑342
This course will explore the cutting-edge research that informs on current issues in the health field. By examining primary biomedical literature, students will develop the skills necessary to perform effectively as a health researcher. This course is problem-based; it is skill-driven rather than content-driven and focuses on the development of skills that are widely sought in university graduates–the ability to research and analyze detailed problems and to communicate clearly and persuasively. This course will involve interdependent and independent small group learning. Collectively, the class will ask questions that will explore the topics from multiple perspectives, while also learning to assess the quality of the information being examined.
