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Major Computer Science and Biology (74 credits)

Offered by: Computer Science     Degree: Bachelor of Science

Program Requirements

This program will focus on the fundamentals of biology and will give them computational and mathematical skills needed to manage, analyze, and model large biological datasets. Integrative features of the program include interdisciplinary introductory and seminar courses in bio-physical sciences, and a joint independent studies project.

Students may complete this program with a minimum of 63 credits and maximum of 74 credits depending upon whether they take COMP 202/204, CHEM 212, MATH 222, and COMP 462 versus COMP 561.

Program prerequisites: U0 (freshman) students should take: BIOL 111-112, CHEM 110-120, MATH 133, MATH 140-141 or MATH 150-151, PHYS 101-102 or PHYS 131-142. Note that MATH 150-151 provides equivalence for required course MATH 222.

Students who do not have a background in computer programming at the level of COMP 202 or COMP 204 must take one of these courses. COMP 204 is considered equivalent to COMP 202 as a prerequisite for COMP 206 and COMP 250.

Required Courses (46 credits)

36-46 credits:

Bio-Physical Sciences Core

  • BIOL 219 Introduction to Physical Molecular and Cell Biology (4 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : An introduction to molecular and cell biology from a physical perspective. Techniques and methodologies, both experimental and computational, are included in the presentation of each thematic module.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Hendricks, Adam; Watt, Alanna; Reyes Lamothe, Rodrigo; Weber, Stephanie (Fall)

    • Prerequisite(s): BIOL 112; CHEM 110 and CHEM 120; MATH 140, MATH 141 and MATH 133; PHYS 131 and PHYS 142; or the equivalents of these courses.

    • Corequisite(s): MATH 222 or equivalent

    • Restriction(s): Not open to students who have taken or are taking ANAT 212, BIOC 212, BIOL 200, and BIOL 201, or BIEN 219. Only open to students in Bioengineering, Computer Science-Biology, Biology-Mathematics, Biology-Quantitative Biology, Chemistry-Biophysical Chemistry, and Physics-Biological Physics Options.

    • This course is meant to prepare students for related 300-level courses in Biology, Chemistry, Engineering and Physics.

  • BIOL 301 Cell and Molecular Laboratory (4 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : An introduction to biology research and communication with a focus on cell and molecular biology. Through conducting a series of project-based experiments and writing a final report, molecular and synthetic biology techniques such as gene cloning, manipulation, protein isolation and characterization and how research is conducted, analyzed and communicated will be addressed. In addition, an introduction to bioinformatics methods and their role in analysis will be provided.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Reyes Lamothe, Rodrigo; Harrison, Paul; Leroux, Maxime (Fall) Hayer, Arnold; Harrison, Paul; Leroux, Maxime (Winter)

    • Fall or Winter

    • 1 hour lecture and one 6-hour laboratory

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 200, BIOL 201 (or ANAT 212/BIOC 212); or BIOL 219

    • Restrictions: Not open to students who have taken or are taking BIOC 300, or BIOC 220 and BIOC 320. Requires departmental approval.

    • For approval email hugo.zheng [at] mcgill.ca. Specify your ID number as well as the term and two lab day preferences.

  • BIOL 395 Quantitative Biology Seminar (1 credit)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Overview of concepts and current research in quantitative biology; theoretical ecology and evolution, computational biology, and physical biology.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Hayer, Arnold; Francois, Paul; Kleinman, Claudia; Oeffinger, Marlene; Ehrlicher, Allen; Hendricks, Michael; Bui, Khanh Huy; Weber, Stephanie; Reznikov, Natalie; Gerhold, Abigail (Fall)

    • Fall

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 219; or BIOL 200 plus BIOL 201 or ANAT 212 or BIOC 212; CHEM 212; COMP 202 or COMP 204 or COMP 250; MATH 222; or permission of instructor.

    • Restriction: Only open to U2 students in the following programs: B.Sc.; Major and Honours in Biology; Quantitative Biology, B.Sc.; Major and Honours Computer Science and Biology, B.Sc.; Major Biology and Mathematics, B.Sc.; Major Physiology and Mathematics, B.Sc.; Major Physiology and Physics, B.Sc.; Major and Honours Chemistry; Biophysical Chemistry, and B.Sc.; Major and Honours Physics; Biological Physics.

  • CHEM 212 Introductory Organic Chemistry 1 (4 credits) *

    Offered by: Chemistry (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Chemistry : A survey of reactions of aliphatic and aromatic compounds including modern concepts of bonding, mechanisms, conformational analysis, and stereochemistry.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023, Summer 2023

    Instructors: Pavelka, Laura; Sirjoosingh, Pallavi; Vlaho, Danielle; Gauthier, Jean-Marc (Fall) Vlaho, Danielle; Gauthier, Jean-Marc; Pavelka, Laura; Luedtke, Nathan (Winter) Pavelka, Laura; Vlaho, Danielle; Huot, Mitchell (Summer)

    • Fall, Winter, Summer

    • Prerequisite: CHEM 110 or equivalent.

    • Corequisite: CHEM 120 or equivalent.

    • Restriction: Not open to students who are taking or have taken CHEM 211 or equivalent

    • Each lab section is limited enrolment

    • Note: Some CEGEP programs provide equivalency for this course. For more information, please see the Department of Chemistry's Web page ().

    • **Due to the intensive nature of this course, the standard add/drop and withdrawal deadlines do not apply. Add/drop is the second lecture day and withdrawal is the fourth lecture day.

  • COMP 202 Foundations of Programming (3 credits) **

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Introduction to computer programming in a high level language: variables, expressions, primitive types, methods, conditionals, loops. Introduction to algorithms, data structures (arrays, strings), modular software design, libraries, file input/output, debugging, exception handling. Selected topics.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023, Summer 2023

    Instructors: Campbell, Jonathan (Fall) M'hiri, Faten (Winter) M'hiri, Faten (Summer)

    • 3 hours

    • Prerequisite: a CEGEP level mathematics course

    • Restrictions: Not open to students who have taken or are taking COMP 204, COMP 208, or GEOG 333; not open to students who have taken or are taking COMP 206 or COMP 250.

    • COMP 202 is intended as a general introductory course, while COMP 204 is intended for students in life sciences, and COMP 208 is intended for students in physical sciences and engineering.

  • MATH 222 Calculus 3 (3 credits) *

    Offered by: Mathematics and Statistics (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : Taylor series, Taylor's theorem in one and several variables. Review of vector geometry. Partial differentiation, directional derivative. Extreme of functions of 2 or 3 variables. Parametric curves and arc length. Polar and spherical coordinates. Multiple integrals.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023, Summer 2023

    Instructors: Paquette, Elliot; Wrobel, Konrad (Fall) Trudeau, Sidney (Winter) Barill, Gavin (Summer)

  • MATH 223 Linear Algebra (3 credits)

    Offered by: Mathematics and Statistics (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : Review of matrix algebra, determinants and systems of linear equations. Vector spaces, linear operators and their matrix representations, orthogonality. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors, diagonalization of Hermitian matrices. Applications.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Macdonald, Jeremy; Pichot, Mikael (Fall) Macdonald, Jeremy (Winter)

    • Fall and Winter

    • Prerequisite: MATH 133 or equivalent

    • Restriction: Not open to students in Mathematics programs nor to students who have taken or are taking MATH 236, MATH 247 or MATH 251. It is open to students in Faculty Programs

  • MATH 323 Probability (3 credits)

    Offered by: Mathematics and Statistics (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : Sample space, events, conditional probability, independence of events, Bayes' Theorem. Basic combinatorial probability, random variables, discrete and continuous univariate and multivariate distributions. Independence of random variables. Inequalities, weak law of large numbers, central limit theorem.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023, Summer 2023

    Instructors: Nadarajah, Tharshanna; Sajjad, Alia (Fall) Asgharian, Masoud; Sajjad, Alia (Winter) Kelome, Djivede (Summer)

    • Prerequisites: MATH 141 or equivalent.

    • Restriction: Intended for students in Science, Engineering and related disciplines, who have had differential and integral calculus

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken or are taking MATH 356

Computer Science and Mathematics

  • COMP 204 Computer Programming for Life Sciences (3 credits) **

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Computer Science (Sci): Computer programming in a high level language: variables, expressions, types, functions, conditionals, loops, objects and classes. Introduction to algorithms, modular software design, libraries, file input/output, debugging. Emphasis on applications in the life sciences.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Becerra, David (Fall) Becerra, David (Winter)

    • Prerequisite(s): CEGEP level mathematics course.

    • Co-requisite: BIOL 112

    • Restrictions: Not open to students who have taken or are taking COMP 202, COMP 208, or GEOG 333; not open to students who have taken or are taking COMP 206 or COMP 250.

  • COMP 206 Introduction to Software Systems (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Comprehensive overview of programming in C, use of system calls and libraries, debugging and testing of code; use of developmental tools like make, version control systems.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: D'silva, Joseph (Fall) Errington, Jacob; Vybihal, Joseph P (Winter)

  • COMP 250 Introduction to Computer Science (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Mathematical tools (binary numbers, induction, recurrence relations, asymptotic complexity, establishing correctness of programs), Data structures (arrays, stacks, queues, linked lists, trees, binary trees, binary search trees, heaps, hash tables), Recursive and non-recursive algorithms (searching and sorting, tree and graph traversal). Abstract data types, inheritance. Selected topics.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Alberini, Giulia (Fall) Alberini, Giulia (Winter)

    • 3 hours

    • Prerequisites: Familiarity with a high level programming language and CEGEP level Math.

    • Students with limited programming experience should take COMP 202 or equivalent before COMP 250. See COMP 202 Course Description for a list of topics.

  • COMP 251 Algorithms and Data Structures (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Introduction to algorithm design and analysis. Graph algorithms, greedy algorithms, data structures, dynamic programming, maximum flows.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Waldispuhl, Jérôme; Alberini, Giulia (Fall) Becerra, David (Winter)

    • 3 hours

    • Prerequisites: COMP 250; MATH 235 or MATH 240

    • COMP 251 uses mathematical proof techniques that are taught in the corequisite course(s). If possible, students should take the corequisite course prior to COMP 251.

    • COMP 251 uses basic counting techniques (permutations and combinations) that are covered in MATH 240 but not in MATH 235. These techniques will be reviewed for the benefit of MATH 235 students.

    • Restrictions: Not open to students who have taken or are taking COMP 252.

  • MATH 240 Discrete Structures (3 credits)

    Offered by: Mathematics and Statistics (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : Introduction to discrete mathematics and applications. Logical reasoning and methods of proof. Elementary number theory and cryptography: prime numbers, modular equations, RSA encryption. Combinatorics: basic enumeration, combinatorial methods, recurrence equations. Graph theory: trees, cycles, planar graphs.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Vetta, Adrian Roshan; Fortier, Jérôme (Fall) Fortier, Jérôme; Macdonald, Jeremy (Winter)

    • Fall and Winter

    • Corequisite: MATH 133.

    • Restriction: For students in any Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Software Engineering programs. Others only with the instructor's permission. Not open to students who have taken or are taking MATH 235.

Biology

  • BIOL 202 Basic Genetics (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Introduction to basic principles, and to modern advances, problems and applications in the genetics of higher and lower organisms with examples representative of the biological sciences.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Moon, Nam Sung; Nilson, Laura; Schoen, Daniel J; Hipfner, David; Champetier, Serge (Winter)

    • Winter

    • 3 hours lecture, 1 hour optional tutorial per week

    • Prerequisite: BIOL 200 or BIOL 219

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken or are taking LSCI 204 or BIOL 302.

  • BIOL 215 Introduction to Ecology and Evolution (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : An introduction to the fundamental processes of ecology and evolution that bear on the nature and diversity of organisms and the processes that govern their assembly into ecological communities and their roles in ecosystem function.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Price, Neil; Abouheif, Ehab; Sunday, Jennifer (Fall)

    • Fall

    • 3 hours lecture

    • Prerequisite: BIOL 111

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken ENVR 202

Required Joint Courses

  • COMP 401 Project in Biology and Computer Science (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : A research project applying computational approaches to a biological problem. The project is (co)-supervised by a professor in Computer Science and/or Biology. A program advisor from each department has to approve the project.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023, Summer 2023

    Instructors: Waldispuhl, Jérôme (Fall) Blanchette, Mathieu (Winter) Blanchette, Mathieu (Summer)

    • 3 hours

    • Prerequisites: COMP 251 and 9 credits of BIOL courses, BIOL 301 recommended.

    • Restriction: Registration in the Biology and Computer Science joint major.

    • Note: having taken BIOL 301 before COMP 401 is beneficial for finding a project within a Biology lab.

* Students with CEGEP-level credit for the equivalents of MATH 222 and/or CHEM 212 (see for accepted equivalents) may not take these courses at McGill and should replace them with elective courses to satisfy the total credit requirement for their degree.
** Students may take either COMP 202 or COMP 204, but not both. Students who have sufficient knowledge in a programming language are not required to take these courses.

Complementary Courses

27-28 credits

3-4 credits from the following:

  • COMP 462 Computational Biology Methods (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Application of computer science techniques to problems arising in biology and medicine, techniques for modeling evolution, aligning molecular sequences, predicting structure of a molecule and other problems from computational biology.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Blanchette, Mathieu (Fall)

  • COMP 561 Computational Biology Methods and Research (4 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Application of computer science techniques to problems arising in biology and medicine, techniques for modeling evolution, aligning molecular sequences, predicting structure of a molecule and other problems from computational biology. An in-depth exploration of key research areas.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Blanchette, Mathieu (Fall)

    • 4 hours

    • Prerequisites: COMP 251, and MATH 323 or MATH 203 or BIOL 309

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken or are taking COMP 462.

    • Note: Additional work will consist of assignments and of a substantial final project that will require to put in practice the concepts covered in the course.

3-6 from the following:

  • MATH 315 Ordinary Differential Equations (3 credits)

    Offered by: Mathematics and Statistics (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : First order ordinary differential equations including elementary numerical methods. Linear differential equations. Laplace transforms. Series solutions.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023, Summer 2023

    Instructors: Berk, Aaron (Fall) Bélanger-Rioux, Rosalie (Winter) Roth, Charles (Summer)

    • Prerequisite: MATH 222.

    • Corequisite: MATH 133.

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken or are taking MATH 325.

  • MATH 324 Statistics (3 credits)

    Offered by: Mathematics and Statistics (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : Sampling distributions, point and interval estimation, hypothesis testing, analysis of variance, contingency tables, nonparametric inference, regression, Bayesian inference.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Nadarajah, Tharshanna (Fall) Nadarajah, Tharshanna (Winter)

    • Fall and Winter

    • Prerequisite: MATH 323 or equivalent

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken or are taking MATH 357

    • You may not be able to receive credit for this course and other statistic courses. Be sure to check the Course Overlap section under Faculty Degree Requirements in the Arts or Science section of the Calendar.

The remaining 18-21 credits is to be chosen from the following, with at least 9 credits at the 400 level or above.

Computer Science Block

9-12 credits from the following, with 3-6 credits at the 400 level or above.

Note: All COMP courses at the 400 level or above (except COMP 400, 401, 402, 499, 462, and 561).

  • COMP 273 Introduction to Computer Systems (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Number representations, combinational and sequential digital circuits, MIPS instructions and architecture datapath and control, caches, virtual memory, interrupts and exceptions, pipelining.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Vybihal, Joseph P (Fall) Kry, Paul; Elsaadawy, Mona (Winter)

  • COMP 302 Programming Languages and Paradigms (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Programming language design issues and programming paradigms. Binding and scoping, parameter passing, lambda abstraction, data abstraction, type checking. Functional and logic programming.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Errington, Jacob (Fall) Errington, Jacob (Winter)

  • COMP 303 Software Design (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Principles, mechanisms, techniques, and tools for object-oriented software design and its implementation, including encapsulation, design patterns, and unit testing.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Robillard, Martin (Fall) Guo, Jin (Winter)

  • COMP 307 Principles of Web Development (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : The course discusses the major principles, algorithms, languages and technologies that underlie web development. Students receive practical hands-on experience through a project.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Vybihal, Joseph P (Fall)

  • COMP 310 Operating Systems (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Control and scheduling of large information processing systems. Operating system software - resource allocation, dispatching, processors, access methods, job control languages, main storage management. Batch processing, multiprogramming, multiprocessing, time sharing.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Maheswaran, Muthucumaru (Fall) Balmau, Oana (Winter)

  • COMP 322 Introduction to C++ (1 credit)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Basics and advanced features of the C++ language. Syntax, memory management, class structure, method and operator overloading, multiple inheritance, access control, stream I/O, templates, exception handling.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Zammar, Chad (Winter)

  • COMP 330 Theory of Computation (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Finite automata, regular languages, context-free languages, push-down automata, models of computation, computability theory, undecidability, reduction techniques.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Panangaden, Prakash (Fall) Crépeau, Claude (Winter)

  • COMP 350 Numerical Computing (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Computer representation of numbers, IEEE Standard for Floating Point Representation, computer arithmetic and rounding errors. Numerical stability. Matrix computations and software systems. Polynomial interpolation. Least-squares approximation. Iterative methods for solving a nonlinear equation. Discretization methods for integration and differential equations.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Chang, Xiao-Wen (Fall)

  • COMP 360 Algorithm Design (3 credits)

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Advanced algorithm design and analysis. Linear programming, complexity and NP-completeness, advanced algorithmic techniques.

    Terms: Fall 2022, Winter 2023

    Instructors: Robere, Robert (Fall) Hatami, Hamed (Winter)

  • COMP 361D1 Software Engineering Project (3 credits) *

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : Software development process in practice: requirement elicitation and analysis, software design, implementation, integration, test planning, and maintenance. Application of the core concepts and techniques through the realization of a large software system.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Schiedermeier, Maximilian (Fall)

  • COMP 361D2 Software Engineering Project (3 credits) *

    Offered by: Computer Science (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Computer Science (Sci) : See COMP 361D1 for course description.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Schiedermeier, Maximilian (Winter)

    • Prerequisite: COMP 361D1

    • No credit will be given for this course unless both COMP 361D1 and COMP 361D2 are successfully completed in consecutive terms

* Students must take both COMP 361D1 and COMP 361D2.

Biology Block

9-12 credits from the following, with 3-6 credits at the 400 level or above:

  • BIOL 300 Molecular Biology of the Gene (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : A survey of current knowledge and approaches in the area of regulation of gene expression, post-transcriptional control of gene expression, and signal transduction.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Schöck, Frieder; Moon, Nam Sung (Fall)

  • BIOL 303 Developmental Biology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : A consideration of the fundamental processes and principles operating during embryogenesis. Experimental analyses at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels will be presented and discussed to provide an overall appreciation of developmental phenomena.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Gerhold, Abigail; Rao, Yong; Dufort, Daniel (Winter)

  • BIOL 304 Evolution (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : A comprehensive introduction to evolutionary biology. It covers both short-term and long-term evolutionary processes. Topics include the history of life, the origin of species, adaptation, natural selection and sexual selection.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Bell, Graham; Turney, Shaun (Fall)

  • BIOL 306 Neural Basis of Behaviour (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Neural mechanisms of animal behaviour; neuroethology; cellular neurophysiology, integrative networks within nervous systems; neural control of movement; processing of sensory information.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Sakata, Jon; Dent, Joseph Alan (Fall)

  • BIOL 308 Ecological Dynamics (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Principles of population, community, and ecosystem dynamics: population growth and regulation, species interactions, dynamics of competitive interactions and of predator/prey systems; evolutionary dynamics.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

  • BIOL 309 Mathematical Models in Biology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Application of finite difference and differential equations to problems in cell and developmental biology, ecology and physiology. Qualitative, quantitative and graphical techniques are used to analyze mathematical models and to compare theoretical predictions with experimental data.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Bub, Gil (Fall)

  • BIOL 310 Biodiversity and Ecosystems (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Ecological bases of the natural causes and consequences of current global environmental changes, including how biodiversity and ecosystem processes are defined and measured, how they vary in space and time, how they are affected by physical and biological factors, and how they affect each other and human societies.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Pollock, Laura; Iversen, Lars Lonsmann (Winter)

    • Winter

    • 3 hours lecture

    • one-day field trip to Mont St-Hilaire

    • Prerequisite: BIOL 215; or ENVR 200 and ENVR 202; MATH 112 or equivalent; or permission of the instructor

  • BIOL 313 Eukaryotic Cell Biology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : In-depth examination of the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, with an emphasis on experimental design and interpretation. Examination of the molecular mechanisms of various cellular processes, including protein homeostasis, intracellular transport, cytoskeletal dynamics, multicellular organization and cell proliferation.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Weber, Stephanie; Zetka, Monique (Winter)

  • BIOL 314 Molecular Biology of Cancer (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : The molecular basis of human cancers, including analyzing the events that promote the formation of oncogenes and inhibit tumour suppressor genes, the biochemical properties of the proteins encoded by these genes, and their functions. Current molecular targets for cancer therapy and the concepts and consequences of inheriting mutations in genes that predispose to cancer.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Dankort, David (Winter)

  • BIOL 316 Biomembranes and Organelles (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : The course focuses on biomembranes and subcellular organelles and their implications for disease. The topics include: protein and lipid biochemistry, membrane structure and transport; intracellular compartmentalization, protein sorting and modification, intracellular membrane trafficking; energy transfer, organization and dynamics of chloroplasts and mitochondria; extracellular matrix and cell walls.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

  • BIOL 319 Introduction to Biophysics (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Emerging physical approaches and quantitative measurement techniques are providing new insights into longstanding biological questions. This course will present underlying physical theory, quantitative measurement techniques, and significant findings in molecular and cellular biophysics. Principles covered include Brownian motion, low Reynolds-number environments, forces relevant to cells and molecules, chemical potentials, and free energies. These principles are applied to enzymes as molecular machines, membranes, DNA, and Ï㽶ÊÓƵ.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Reisner, Walter (Winter)

    • Winter. Students with training in physics and biology will be well-suited to the course. .

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 200 or BIOL 219; MATH 222; PHYS 230 and (PHYS 232 or PHYS 253), or permission of the instructor.

    • Restriction: Not open to students who have taken or are taking PHYS 319

  • BIOL 320 Evolution of Brain and Behaviour (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Functional and comparative approach to neuroanatomy, examining how species changes in brain organization contribute to evolutionary changes in behaviour.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Sakata, Jon; Woolley, Sarah (Winter)

    • Winter

    • 2 hours of lecture and 1 hour of conference (mandatory)

    • Prerequisite: NSCI 201 or BIOL 306

  • BIOL 370 Human Genetics Applied (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : A contemporary view of genetic research as applied to human health and well-being.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Palmour, Roberta M; Richards, John Brent; Trakadis, Yannis; Ernst, Carl; Ao, Asangla; Fitzpatrick, Jennifer; Engert, Jamie; Bailey, Swneke; Majewska, Loydie; Kitzler, Thomas (Fall)

  • BIOL 389 Laboratory in Neurobiology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Methods of neurobiological research, including extracellular and intracellular recordings, electrical stimulation, and the study of neuro-behavioural problems.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Dent, Joseph Alan; Watt, Alanna; Hendricks, Michael (Winter)

  • BIOL 395 Quantitative Biology Seminar (1 credit)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Overview of concepts and current research in quantitative biology; theoretical ecology and evolution, computational biology, and physical biology.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Hayer, Arnold; Francois, Paul; Kleinman, Claudia; Oeffinger, Marlene; Ehrlicher, Allen; Hendricks, Michael; Bui, Khanh Huy; Weber, Stephanie; Reznikov, Natalie; Gerhold, Abigail (Fall)

    • Fall

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 219; or BIOL 200 plus BIOL 201 or ANAT 212 or BIOC 212; CHEM 212; COMP 202 or COMP 204 or COMP 250; MATH 222; or permission of instructor.

    • Restriction: Only open to U2 students in the following programs: B.Sc.; Major and Honours in Biology; Quantitative Biology, B.Sc.; Major and Honours Computer Science and Biology, B.Sc.; Major Biology and Mathematics, B.Sc.; Major Physiology and Mathematics, B.Sc.; Major Physiology and Physics, B.Sc.; Major and Honours Chemistry; Biophysical Chemistry, and B.Sc.; Major and Honours Physics; Biological Physics.

  • BIOL 416 Genetics of Mammalian Development (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : This course aims to examine problems, theories, and experimental evidence on several concepts of mammalian developmental processes at molecular to organogenesis levels. Most topics are in the mouse model system, where various techniques for genetic manipulation are available.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Dufort, Daniel; Gupta, Indra; Yamanaka, Yojiro; Crist, Colin (Winter)

  • BIOL 434 Theoretical Ecology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Study of theoretical ecology and of mathematical tools available to explore the dynamical behaviour of model populations, communities and ecosystems. Models addressing major ecological theories including population stability, community dynamics and ecosystem functioning, epidemic and disturbance dynamics, spatial models, game theory.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    • Winter

    • 3 hours lecture

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 308 or BIOL 309 or permission of instructor.

  • BIOL 435 Natural Selection (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Explains how the selection of undirected variation accounts for some of the leading features of the natural world. Its main focus is evolutionary change and adaptation, but it will also include material from ecological, economic, biochemical and computer systems. It emphasizes experimental studies of evolution.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    • Fall

    • 3 hours of lecture

    • Prerequisite: BIOL 304 or permission of instructor.

  • BIOL 509 Methods in Molecular Ecology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : An overview of the molecular genetic tools used to investigate ecological and evolutionary processes in natural populations. The use of molecular tools in studies of population structure, parentage, kinship, species boundaries, phylogenetics. Special topics include conservation genetics, population genetics, and ecological genomics.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    • Restriction (s): BIOL 301, BIOL 304 and BIOL 308 or permission of instructor.

    • Intended for both upper level undergraduates with knowledge of ecology, evolution, and genetics.

    • Intended for graduate students interested in applying molecular tools in ecology, evolution, and environmental sciences.

  • BIOL 518 Advanced Topics in Cell Biology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Concepts and mechanisms in advanced cell biology, based on genetic, cell biological, biophysical, and computational studies. Emphasis is placed on processes that are evolutionarily conserved, with examples from model organisms and cell-free (in vitro) approaches.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Harrison, Paul; Lasko, Paul; Zetka, Monique (Winter)

    • Winter

    • 3 hours seminar

    • Prerequisite: BIOL 313 or permission

  • BIOL 520 Gene Activity in Development (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : An analysis of the role and regulation of gene expression in several models of eukaryotic development. The emphasis will be on critical evaluation of recent literature concerned with molecular or genetic approaches to the problems of cellular differentiation and determination. Recent research reports will be discussed in conferences and analyzed in written critiques.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    • Winter

    • 3 hours lecture and discussion

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 300 and BIOL 303 or permission

  • BIOL 524 Topics in Molecular Biology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Molecular genetics and molecular, cellular and developmental biology, including signal transduction, cell differentiation and function, genetic diseases in eukaryotes.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Clarke, Hugh; Dankort, David (Fall)

  • BIOL 530 Advances in Neuroethology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Neural mechanisms underlying behaviour in vertebrate and invertebrate organisms.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Woolley, Sarah; Oyama, Tomoko (Winter)

  • BIOL 532 Developmental Neurobiology Seminar (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Discussions of all aspects of nervous system development including pattern formation, cell lineage, pathfinding and targeting by growing axons, and neural regeneration. The basis for these discussions will be recent research papers and other assigned readings.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Van Meyel, Donald; Kania, Artur; Fournier, Alyson Elise; Cloutier, Jean-Francois; Ruthazer, Edward (Winter)

    • Winter

    • 1 hour lecture, 2 hours seminar

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 303 or BIOL 306 or permission of instructor

  • BIOL 546 Genetics of Model Systems (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Topics in the genetics and molecular genetics of unicellular, plant, invertebrate and vertebrate models systems.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

  • BIOL 551 Principles of Cellular Control (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Fundamental principles of cellular control, with cell cycle control as a major theme. Biological and physical concepts are brought to bear on control in healthy cells..

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Vogel, Jacalyn; Francois, Paul (Winter)

  • BIOL 568 Topics on the Human Genome (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Cellular and molecular approaches to characterization of the human genome.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Engert, Jamie; Slim, Rima; Montpetit, Alexandre; Thanassoulis, George; Zawati, Ma'n Hilmi; Bailey, Swneke; Najafabadi, Hamed; Yamanaka, Yojiro; Langlais, David; Riviere, Jean-Baptiste (Winter)

  • BIOL 569 Developmental Evolution (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : The influence of developmental mechanisms on evolution. This course draws on recent examples from plants and invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Topics include homology, modularity, dissociation, co-option, evolutionary novelty, evolution of cis-regulation and gene regulatory networks, developmental constraint and evolvability, heterochrony, phenotypic plasticity, and canalization.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    • Winter

    • 3 hours lecture

    • Prerequisites: BIOL 303 and BIOL 304; or permission of instructor.

  • BIOL 575 Human Biochemical Genetics (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Topics on the study of human systems that have led to advances in basic biology.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Braverman, Nancy; Mitchell, John James; Genest, Jacques Jean; Paliouras, Miltiadis; Christensen, Karen Elizabeth; Watkins, David; Shoubridge, Eric Alan; Moffatt, Pierre; Kitzler, Thomas (Fall)

  • BIOL 580 Genetic Approaches to Neural Systems (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : This course will focus on recent research employing genetic-based methods to examine the functional and structural properties of the nervous system. The focus will be on approaches for studying neural circuits and behavior in a range of model organisms. Topics will include recent technological advances, such as optogenetics for modifying and controlling neuronal activity, and animal models of neurological diseases. Students will critically analyze the application of these methods to current research through in-class discussion of primary literature, student presentations, and written assignments.

    Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2022-2023 academic year.

    • Prerequisite(s): BIOL 306 or permission of the instructors.

  • BIOL 588 Advances in Molecular/Cellular Neurobiology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Biology (Sci) : Discussion of fundamental molecular mechanisms underlying the general features of cellular neurobiology. An advanced course based on lectures and on a critical review of primary research papers.

    Terms: Fall 2022

    Instructors: Hastings, Kenneth E M; Krishnaswamy, Arjun; McPherson, Peter Scott; Poulin, Jean-Francois; Zhou, Yang (Fall)

    • Fall

    • 1.5 hours lecture, 1.5 hours seminar

    • Prerequisite: BIOL 300 and BIOL 306 or permission

  • NEUR 310 Cellular Neurobiology (3 credits)

    Offered by: Neurology and Neurosurgery (Faculty of Science)

    Overview

    Neurology and Neurosurgery : A survey of the functional organization of nerve cells, signalling in the nervous system, and principles of neural development. Topics include cell polarity, neurotransmitters, neurotrophins, receptors and second messengers, cell lineage, guidance of axon outgrowth, and nerve regeneration. Emphasis will be placed on analysis of neurons at the molecular level.

    Terms: Winter 2023

    Instructors: Cloutier, Jean-Francois; Ragsdale, David S; Kennedy, Timothy E; Fournier, Alyson Elise; Sossin, Wayne Steven; Ruthazer, Edward; Huang, Wei-Hsiang (Winter)

Faculty of Science—2022-2023 (last updated Aug. 24, 2022) (disclaimer)
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