An introduction to bioinformatic analysis in life sciecne. Students will learn about the principles and approaches used in working with genetic, genomic and proteomic data. Applications to basic science and translational research will also be introduced. No experience in computer programing is required.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Last offering term of this course – Fall 2020-2021.
[Alternative code: BIEN 3020] Biological physics involves the application of physics to achieve an understanding of life processes. This is the second of a two-course series that will prepare advanced undergraduates for research and technical work in Biological physics. It covers advanced biological physics such as molecular and cellular biological physics, photophysics, single-molecule biophysics, medical biophysics, membrane biological physics, neurobiophysics, biostatistics, biomathematics, bioinformatics, computational biology and protein engineering. At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to critically assess primary research literature written for a general scientific audience. They will also be prepared for mentored practical research investigations or professional job related to biological physics.
Credit(s): 3
Prerequisite(s):
BIPH 2010 AND (LIFS 2010 OR LIFS 2040) AND (PHYS 1114 OR PHYS 1314)
Chromosome biology and epigenetics is an important field highly relevant to human health. This course will cover recent advances in the fields of epigenetics and chromosome biology.
The biochemistry of major food ingredients including proteins, oil, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals; functional and nutritional properties will be emphasized.
Determination of protein sequences and three-dimensional structures; relationship between structure and function; principles of protein design and engineering; molecular, biochemical and genetic approaches to study protein function and regulation.
[LIFS 4380 is offered in every other year.]
Fundamental concepts of drug action and toxicity; clinically useful agents in central and peripheral disorders; toxicology of drugs and agents that are hazardous to living organisms.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This course will not be offered in Spring 2021
Overview of aquaculture in relation to food production and biotechnology, including problems and prospects. Examples of aquacultured aquatic species and aquaculture biotechnology enterprises. Aquaculture biology and practices: larval rearing, nutritional practices and feeds, reproductive control, application of genetics and genetic manipulations.
Fundamentals in the epidemiology, etiology and treatment of cancers; basic mechanisms of carcinogenesis. For LIFS and BIBU students in their third year (for 3Y degree) or fourth year (for 4Y degree) of study.
The aim of the course is for students to acquire hands-on laboratory experience in conducting a short research project and producing a formal written report. Each student will conduct the bench work for the proposal developed in the prerequisite course LIFS 3510 and hence under the same faculty supervisor as LIFS 3510. Due to the short duration, emphasis is on appreciation of the research process rather than results obtained. Approval of a faculty supervisor is required for students to enroll in the course. Graded P or F.
[Previous course code: LIFS 3002A]
This course will impart essential skills for communicating science to a lay audience in the laboratory setting. Students will work in groups to devise a mini‐laboratory course for detecting human genetic variants. They will then serve as instructors of the course in outreach workshops for high school students. Approval of the course instructor is needed for students to enroll in this course. For LIFS students only.
