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Biological Sciences

Foundation Courses

Foundation Biology 1

An introduction to unity in biological sciences. The structures and processes common to all living things at the cellular and molecular levels are introduced in the first half of the course. Genetic principles and processes and an overview of evolutionary concepts are explored in the second half. Laboratory classes complement and reinforce lecture material and several are computer-based utilising multi-media learning tools.

Restriction: BIOSCI 91W

Foundation Biology 2

Concepts introduced in BIOSCI 91F are further developed with an emphasis on the diversity of living things (including bacteria, plants, fungi and animals). Fundamentals of classification and ecology are introduced and the study of a current topic in biology is used to develop research and critical thinking skills. Practical classes are both laboratory and field-based.

Restriction: BIOSCI 92W

Preparatory Courses

Preparatory Biology 1

A preparatory introduction to unity in biological sciences. The structures and processes common to all living things at the cellular and molecular levels are introduced in the first half of the course. Genetic principles and processes and an overview of evolutionary concepts are explored in the second half. Laboratory classes complement and reinforce lecture material and several are computer-based utilising multi-media learning tools.

Restriction: BIOSCI 91F, 91W

Preparatory Biology 2

Concepts explored in BIOSCI 91P are further developed with an emphasis on the diversity of living things (including bacteria, plants, fungi and animals). Fundamentals of classification and ecology are introduced and the study of a current topic in biology is used to develop research and critical thinking skills. Practical classes are both laboratory and field-based.

Restriction: BIOSCI 92F, 92W

Stage I

Antarctica: The Frozen Continent

A general introduction to Antarctica and its environs including the Southern Ocean and the sub-Antarctic islands. Emphasis will be placed on the evolution of Antarctica and how resident plants, animals and micro-organisms have adapted to cope with the extreme environment. Specific topics to be addressed include: the history of Antarctic exploration and its impact on the development of Antarctic science, Antarctic ecosystems, Antarctica as a wilderness region, and the impact of humans including the exploitation of resources and the effects of pollution. This course is suitable for students with both science and non-science backgrounds.

Essential Biology: From Genomes to Organisms

An introduction to the structures and processes which are common to micro-organisms, animals and plants at the cellular, molecular and biochemical levels. Genetic principles and processes and an overview of evolution and evolutionary concepts are included.

This course assumes a knowledge of NCEA Level 3 Biology and at least NCEA Level 2 Chemistry.

Plants, Microbes and Society

A multidisciplinary approach is taken to studying the relationships between plants, microbes and humans. The course begins with an introduction to the key characteristics of plants and microbes and then goes on to show how they are used for food and pharmaceuticals. The impact of plants and microbes on human health, as well as their role in a variety of industrial and biotechnological processes, will be highlighted.

Comparative Animal Biology

A comparative approach to the study of animals, focusing on the processes which underlie and unite all animal life. Emphasis will be placed on evolutionary relationships and history, and on the relationship between form and function and the predictability of animal design. Reference will be made to the New Zealand fauna and to other animals of economic or evolutionary importance, where appropriate.

New Zealand Ecology and Conservation

An introduction to the diversity of animals and plants in New Zealand including endemic, native and introduced species, biogeographical and evolutionary relationships, community structure and interrelationships, behaviour and ecology, Māori perspectives in biology, and current conservation, environmental, social, animal welfare and economic issues relevant to New Zealand biology.

Foundations of Biochemistry

Biochemical reactions as essential elements of life processes with reference to the genes that control them. Material covered includes: the molecular structure and action of proteins, the synthesis and metabolism of carbohydrates and fats in the fed and starved states, and elements of enzymology, energetics, metabolism, nutrition and hormonal control in health, physical performance and disease. Reference will be made to specific biomedical examples, where appropriate.

Biology for Biomedical Science: Cellular Processes and Development

The cellular basis of mammalian form and function including embryology and development. Particular emphasis will be placed on the cellular components of the blood, neural, muscular, reproductive, immune and supporting systems, and how they contribute to the structure and function of the body as a whole.

Stage II

Cellular and Molecular Biology

The basic structures of biomolecules, the evolution and structure of cells and their organisation into tissues and organs are examined first. This is followed by a study of the nucleus, the regulation of gene expression, and DNA, RNA and protein synthesis. Further sections deal with cell behaviour, development, cancer and the basis of immunity.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101, and 30 points from BIOSCI 102-107, MEDSCI 142, and 15 points from CHEM 110, 120, 150

Genetics

The basic principles of mutation, recombination and genetic mapping are established in this course. These principles are developed in a variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Laboratory work uses molecular, microbial and eukaryotic material to explore the key features of heredity.

Prerequisite: 30 points from Stage I Biological Sciences including BIOSCI 101

Biochemistry

Presents core areas of modern biochemistry. Emphasis is on macromolecular structure and function. Areas covered include protein structure, oxygen and carbon dioxide transport in humans and other species, metabolism in mammals, proteases and human disease, cholesterol metabolism and transport and signal transduction.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101, 106 and 15 points from CHEM 110, 120

Principles of Microbiology

An introduction to the diversity, physiology and functions of microorganisms (prokaryotes, eukaryotes, viruses) as individuals and as communities. The fundamental roles of microorganisms in ecosystems, health and disease are considered alongside methods for their isolation and study. Microbial applications in biotechnology, food production, agriculture and industry are also discussed.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101 and at least 15 points from BIOSCI 102, 106, 107

Plant, Cell and Environment

Unlike animals, plants cannot move to respond to changes in their environment. Plants have evolved diverse signaling systems and the ability to grow towards their essential resources. Explores the intricate ways plants function, how they are able to respond to developmental and environmental signals at the whole plant and cellular level.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101 and 15 points from BIOSCI 102, 104, 106, 107

Principles of Ecology

An examination of ecosystem processes, factors that affect distribution and interactions of organisms, population ecology, and applications of ecology such as restoration and conservation. The key principles of ecology are taught in a New Zealand context emphasising an experimental approach.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101, 104 and 15 points from either STATS 101 or 108

Adaptive Design

The principles of evolutionary adaptation to different habitats and their application to behaviour, morphology, physiology and life histories. Comparative examples are drawn from diverse life forms and contexts, including the biology of dinosaurs, how animals navigate, the evolution of ageing, costs and benefits of sex and an evolutionary account of human nutritional biology.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101 and 15 points from BIOSCI 102-104, 106, 107

Invertebrate Diversity

Invertebrates make up over 95 percent of animal species. This course explores the biology of invertebrates with an emphasis on structure, function, life histories, behaviour and ecology. Invertebrate diversity is examined in a variety of environments, using New Zealand examples where possible, and provides the basis for advanced courses in conservation and marine ecology.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101, 103

Biometry

An introduction to statistical methods for biological and environmental scientists. Students will learn how to carry out various statistical analyses using computer packages, as well as how to interpret and communicate the results. The topics covered include: experimental design and sampling, regression and analysis of variance models, analysing frequencies and counts, and basic multivariate techniques commonly used in biology.

Prerequisite: 15 points in either STATS 101 or 108 and 30 points from Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences or Geography
Restriction: STATS 201, 207, 208

Evolution and the Origins of Life

Covers basic concepts in evolutionary biology including Darwin and the theory of evolution by natural selection, phylogenetics, population genetics, molecular evolution, speciation and extinction. The extent to which Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection can explain the origins of biological complexity is explored.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 101 and 15 points from BIOSCI 102, 103, 104, 106, 107

Stage III

Pure and Applied Entomology

An introduction to the systematics of insects describing the characters that define the major lineages, discussion of the role insects play in different ecological systems, and insect anatomy, physiology, and genetics. Their impact on agriculture and as disease vectors is discussed with descriptions of various control methods for insect pests and how these methods are integrated. Students wishing to complete a course in plant protection should take both BIOSCI 320 and 321.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 103 and 15 points from Stage II Biological Sciences courses

Plant Pathology

Micro-organisms are of major importance to agriculture. This course will examine the biology of plant pathogens, plant-microbial interactions at the cellular and sub-cellular level, and the epidemiology and control of plant diseases. Practicals will focus on techniques for isolation, culture, identification and study of plant pathogens.

Prerequisite: 15 points from BIOSCI 204, 205

Evolution of Genes, Populations and Species

Advanced concepts in evolutionary biology and their application to current research in molecular evolution, population genetics, phylogenetics and organismal evolution. Examples from animals, plants and microbes, as well as topical issues, including speciation, adaptation, co-evolution, sexual selection, conservation, biogeography, genomics, biotechnology and human disease.

Recommended preparation: Prior or concurrent enrolment in BIOSCI 202
Prerequisite: BIOSCI 210

Plant Diversity

An introduction to plant systematics, plant reproductive strategies, and the evolution of plants with a comprehensive survey of the characteristics and distributions of the major plant groups. Coverage will also include classical and phylogenetic approaches to plant identification, and applications of systematics. Practical work will focus on tools for identifying plants, introduction to plant diversity in the lab and field, and development of a herbarium collection.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 102 or 104 and 30 points at Stage II in Biological Sciences, Environmental Science or Geography

Fisheries and Aquaculture

Harvest and capture of aquatic organisms and inter-relationships with aquaculture. Fisheries and aquaculture are treated not as distinct disciplines but in the context of integrating exploitation and sustainable environmental integrity. Case studies include deep sea and coastal fisheries, and shellfish culture.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 207 or 208

Biology of Fish

A comprehensive coverage of the biology of fish including their evolution, diversity and organism biology. Coverage includes habitats of particular interest to New Zealand such as Antarctica, the deep sea, coral and temperate reefs, and New Zealand's lakes and rivers.

Prerequisite: 15 points from BIOSCI 207, 208

Freshwater and Estuarine Ecology

The structure, biodiversity and ecology of lakes, streams, wetlands and estuaries and linkages with near-shore marine habitats. Emphasis is placed on the role of science in monitoring and managing these ecosystems. Case studies include the impact of Auckland's urban sprawl on stream, estuarine and near-shore marine habitats, and local estuaries as nurseries for fish.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 206, or 104 and 15 points from BIOSCI 205, or 207 or 208 and STATS 101 or 108

Marine Ecology

Patterns and processes in marine ecology and biodiversity are described; including animal and plant interactions, benthic and pelagic habitats, biogeography, productivity and physiology. Applied aspects include resources such as fisheries and aquaculture, survey methods, and pollution. Other lectures cover nutritional and chemical ecology and invertebrate reproduction.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 206, or 104 and 15 points from BIOSCI 205, or 207 or 208 and STATS 101 or 108

Ecological Physiology

Focuses on the strategies used by animals to cope with physical and biological challenges in the environment. Accordingly, we work at the level of the individual and the interface between physiological, biochemical or molecular approaches on the one hand, and ecology on the other. The adaptive strategies employed by a range of species, with an emphasis on aquatic organisms, in response to physical factors such as temperature, oxygen and food availability, are considered. Energetics and nutrition are emphasised. The course aims to meet the needs of students with ecological interests wishing to recognise the experimental approach to solving problems in environmental biology. The practical work is project oriented rather than laboratory based.

Prerequisite: 15 points from BIOSCI 207, 208

Animal Behaviour

Proximate and ultimate causes of behaviour are investigated experimentally in the field and the laboratory. Responses by animals to variations in the physical environment and to other organisms are studied. The development and organisation of behaviour and the theoretical background to topics of current interest are covered, using both New Zealand and overseas examples. A knowledge of BIOSCI 206 is recommended.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 207 and STATS 101 or 108 or BIOSCI 209

Plant Cell Biology and Biotechnology

Explores the cellular basis of how plants develop, function and respond to the environment and how this knowledge is applied to biotechnology. Topics include: methods in plant cell biology, control of gene expression, control of cell shape, intracellular transport and targeting, plant growth hormones and signaling, controlled flowering, structures and biosynthesis of plant cell walls and horticultural biotechnology.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 201 or 202 or 205

Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology

The ecology and physiology of micro-organisms in natural and engineered environments. Key themes include marine microbiology, the importance of microbial symbioses to life on Earth, and contemporary research methods in microbiology. Processes such as wastewater treatment and the production of bioactives are used to emphasise exploitation of microbial metabolism for environmental biotechnology purposes.

Prerequisite: 15 points from BIOSCI 204, MOLMED 201, MEDSCI 202

Restriction: BIOSCI 352

Food and Industrial Microbiology

The use and scientific fundamentals of micro-organisms in the production of foods and food additives, nutriceuticals and probiotics. Molecular and applied aspects of the fermentation processes for beer and wine including aroma generation and analysis. Microbial food spoilage, pathogens involved, food safety and quality control.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 106 and 15 points from BIOSCI 204, MOLMED 201, MEDSCI 202

Restriction: BIOSCI 352

Biomedical Microbiology

The major biochemical, physiological and genetic systems involved in the biology of micro-organisms affecting human health. Properties of micro-organisms important in pathogenesis and virulence, and examples of infectious diseases. The molecular response of the host cells during infection; the molecular basis for antimicrobial therapy, acquisition of resistance, and vaccination; use of micro-organisms in medical biotechnology.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 201 and either BIOSCI 204 or MEDSCI 202

Protein Structure and Function

The relationship of molecular structure to protein function will be emphasised. Techniques for the purification, characterisation, production of native and recombinant proteins and three-dimensional structure determination will be combined with a description of protein structure. Specific groups of proteins will be selected to illustrate structure/function relationships and protein evolution.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 201, 203

Molecular Genetics

The analysis of genetic material in prokaryotes, viruses, yeast, plants and humans is addressed. The means by which genetic information is transferred and the mechanisms underlying genome diversity will be examined, together with the study of eukaryote genomes at the level of chromosome structure and organisation. The molecular mechanisms underpinning selected inherited human disorders will be discussed as well as the role of model species in understanding normal and perturbed biological pathways.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 201, 202

Molecular and Cellular Regulation

The molecular mechanisms which mediate intracellular sorting and targeting of biologically active molecules and the networks of intracellular and extracellular signals which regulate cell function form the focus of this course. The roles of growth factors, oncogenes, plasma membrane receptors, nuclear receptors, ion channels and membrane transporters are emphasised.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 201, 203

Gene Expression and Gene Transfer

Molecular biology of plant and animal cells is stressed in topics covering gene expression and genetic engineering. These include: methods of gene isolation, transcription factors and the control of gene expression, animal viruses as gene vectors, gene therapy in humans and genetic engineering of livestock, methods of gene transfer in plants, and examples of genetic engineering for crop improvement.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 202 and either 201 or 203 or 205

Developmental Biology and Cancer

Molecular, cellular and genetic aspects of normal and abnormal development focusing on a variety of model systems including drosophila, the zebrafish and the mouse. Molecular events underlying the development of body form, the differentiation of specific tissues such as the blood, and abnormalities of development which contribute to diseases of the body such as cancer. Implications of transgenic techniques on development.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 201, 202

Nutritional Science

The scientific basis of nutrition focusing on its biochemistry and physiology in health and disease. Nutritional aspects of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and trace nutrients are covered in an integrated manner. The methodologies which underpin nutritional science and its applications are included. Reference will be made to a broad range of examples, and a number of specific nutritional topics of current interest will also be included.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 203

Conservation Ecology

Conservation of species and ecosystems. Population ecology, population growth, harvesting and pest control, marine and terrestrial conservation practice, forest and fisheries management. Impacts and control of invasive species. Population viability analysis and case studies in the conservation of threatened species. International conservation.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 104 and 30 points at Stage II in either Biological Sciences or Geography

Pacific Biogeography and Biodiversity

Island biogeography and insular biodiversity across the Pacific. A multi-disciplinary approach involving the study of both plant and animal systematics and biogeography.

Prerequisite: 30 points at Stage II in either Biological Sciences or Geography

Terrestrial Ecology

Experimental and theoretical population and community ecology focusing on the interactions and environmental forces controlling the distribution and abundance of terrestrial populations of plants and animals. Both New Zealand and international examples will be used to explain the fundamental processes shaping ecological systems throughout the world.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 206, or 104 and 15 points from BIOSCI 205, or 207 or 208 and STATS 101 or 108

Postgraduate 700 Level Courses

Marine Ecology

Current topics in marine ecology at the population, community, and ecosystem level. Seminars focus on ecology and evolution in a life-history context, including topics on fertilisation, larval development, and recruitment.

Ecological Physiology

Physiological and biochemical processes enable animals to occupy diverse habitats. Highly variable and extreme environments provide an opportunity to study the functional attributes of animals, particularly ectotherms, with respect to their metabolic, respiratory, and nutritional adaptations. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 335 or equivalent is assumed.

Aquaculture

Current assessment of the national and global status of aquaculture and fisheries, including consideration of future prospects. Examples of algal, invertebrate, and fish aquaculture in New Zealand, and a review of general environmental and biological problems and the role of scientific knowledge in aquaculture management. Coverage of factors contributing to wild fisheries management, including spawning, larval survival, recruitment, principles of stock assessment and fisheries modelling. A sound knowledge of BIOSCI 328 or equivalent is assumed.

Neuroethology

The experimental study of the neural basis of behaviour, including current topics in sensory systems (eg, vision, olfaction, audition, lateral line, electro- and magneto-reception) together with neural mechanisms underlying biological rhythms. The application of neuroethology to biomimetic systems will also be discussed. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 337 or equivalent is assumed.

Evolutionary Biology

A contemporary approach to central issues in evolutionary biology including mechanisms that produce macroevolutionary patterns. Current research using phylogenetic methods for testing evolutionary hypotheses will be discussed, encompassing the role of selection, the origin of mutations, and concepts of heredity. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 322 or equivalent is assumed.

Entomology and Biosecurity

More than half of all described species are insects, and even more species await discovery and description. Insects at every trophic level above plants dominate terrestrial and freshwater food chains. Examines the evolution of insects, the importance of their role in terrestrial ecosystems, and the problems posed by insects as biosecurity invaders in non-native environments. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 320 or equivalent is assumed.

Biogeography

Examines the patterns of animal and plant distribution, and the processes that influence these patterns. Topics covered include equilibrium theory, island succession, vicariance and dispersal, insular speciation, and human migration and colonisation. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 395 or equivalent is assumed.

Molecular Ecology and Evolution

Interpreting the molecular archive by reconstructing the branching history of inheritance and its relationship to genetic diversity within and between species. Topics may include the neutral theory of molecular evolution, rates of molecular evolution, molecular systematics, genome change and speciation, molecular identification of species, gene flow and population structure, selection at the molecular level, inbreeding depression and mutational load, and the use of molecular markers for estimation of kinship and the description of mating systems. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 322 or equivalent is assumed.

Terrestrial Plant Ecology

Plants form the autotrophic basis of terrestrial food chains and their distribution, diversity and abundance is a critical determinant of ecosystem functioning. Topics covered include both plant population ecology - including population growth and structure, seed and seedling dynamics, and life history strategies - and community ecology - including vegetation structure, dynamics, and species interactions. Methods to survey, analyse, and model plant populations and communities will also be discussed. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 396 or equivalent is assumed.

Advanced Behavioural Ecology

Focuses on organisms interacting in natural environments. Both the mechanistic underpinnings of behaviour and the fitness consequences of such behavioural traits will be examined. Behavioural ecology is not limited to questions of behaviour, but draws in issues of energetics and physiology as these factors are often used as proxies for fitness traits such as differences in survival and reproduction. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 337 or equivalent is assumed.

Microbial Genomics and Metabolism

Cross-disciplinary issues involved in the understanding of microbial genome structure, gene regulation and metabolism. Includes: the genetic basis of microbial interactions and horizontal gene transfer, the effect of stress and mutation on microbial and viral evolution and modern approaches used to link gene sequence to biological function and phenotypes.

High Resolution Imaging of Biological Molecules

X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy are two of the principal techniques used by biologists to determine molecular structure. The theory and practice of X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy, including a laboratory component where 3D structure are determined from experimental data, are addressed. Accessible to students with a variety of backgrounds, including Biology, Bioengineering, Chemistry and Physics. This course complements CHEM 738 and BIOSCI 757.

Advanced Biological Data Analysis

Design and analysis of experiments for both field and bench scientists. Methods for the analysis of designed experiments, including analysis of variance with fixed, random and mixed effects; also, regression analysis and analysis of covariance. Methods for the analysis of multivariate datasets such as cluster analysis, principal components analysis, multidimensional scaling, and randomisation methods. There will be a practical component to this course involving the use of appropriate statistical software.

Prerequisite: 15 points from BIOSCI 209, STATS 201, 207, 208 or equivalent

Dialogues in Biology

Cross-disciplinary issues in biology will be debated and explored including ethical and commercial issues underpinning science as a vocation; genetic engineering; development, and evolution versus genetic reductionism; environmentalism, conservation and biodiversity, the role of taxonomy, the history and philosophy of biological science.

Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

Historical overview of the development of industrial microbiology. Diversity and complexity of applications. Biodiversity of fermentations. Microbial metabolism and the assimilation of carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur. Interconnections between catabolic and biosynthetic pathways. Metabolic considerations in continuous culture. Selection, isolation and construction of useful organisms. Manipulation of growth conditions to optimise process yield. Contemporary examples of industrial processes using microbes. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 348 or equivalent is assumed.

Biosecurity and Invasion Biology

The science of invasion biology, including stages of the invasion process and ecological interactions between species. The impacts of invasive alien species in different ecosystems. Population and community ecology, in relation to biosecurity.

Weed and Pest Management

Techniques for the management of invasive plants and animals (vertebrates and invertebrates) in different ecosystem types, including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Approaches to the prevention, control and eradication of invasive species in different situations.

Ecology of Microbial Interactions

The associations of micro-organisms with their immediate environment are considered. Topics to be discussed include microbial communities and their survival strategies in natural and artificial systems. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 347 or equivalent is assumed.

Advanced Plant Pathology

Addresses selected topics in plant pathology. Modern research on issues relating to biosecurity, plant disease spread (epidemiology) and plant pathogen interactions (disease resistance and susceptibility) will be investigated and discussed. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 321 or equivalent is assumed.

Plant Genomics and Biotechnology

How genomics and gene transfer technologies could be used to achieve improved plant growth and to develop food with new traits. Includes: plant genomics methods, engineering fruit colour, control of fruit ripening and texture, biotechnology project design. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 354 or BIOSCI 340 or equivalent is assumed.

Synthesis of Plant Products and Foods

Includes the biosynthesis of: selected plant cell-wall components important in dietary fibre or biomass for the production of biofuels, including lignins, cellulose or non-cellulosic polysaccharides; antioxidant pigments in food plants and their possible impacts on human health. The manipulation of nitrogen assimilation in plants to increase the yield and quality of agricultural and horticultural plant products. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 340 or equivalent is assumed.

Plant Genomes and Gene Expression

The analysis of plant genomes and regulation of gene expression in plant biology. Includes: inferences from whole plant genome sequences, transcription factors, transcriptional control of flowering time and post-translational control of hormone receptors by ubiquitination and degradation. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 354 or 340 or equivalent is assumed.

Genomics and Gene Expression

The analysis of genomes and gene expression as a means of understanding biological processes. Aspects of functional and chemical genomics will be presented, as well as gene expression profiling using microarray technology. In terms of the latter, features of experimental design and data analysis will be discussed in the context of disease and developmental processes. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 351 or equivalent is assumed.

Proteomics and Protein Interactions

Proteomics describes a field of research concerned with the large-scale study of protein expression and function. Highlights biochemical approaches used to link protein sequence and function. The application of proteomics to drug action, discovery and toxicology will be included. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 350 or equivalent is assumed.

Structural Biology

A selection of contemporary topics in the field of structure and function of important biomolecules and cellular activities. Topics may include: protein folding in the cell; motor proteins; influenza and HIV; protein structure determination; protein structure and function from genomic data. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 350 or equivalent is assumed.

Development, Differentiation and Disease

A critical analysis of normal and perturbed gene expression in selected model organisms as a means of understanding biological pathways and disease processes. Includes the development and use of transgenic organisms as models for human disease. A sound understanding of BIOSCI 356 or equivalent is assumed.

Molecular Cell Biology and Biomedicine

Explores recent advances in cell biology that have led to a greater understanding of a variety of cellular processes at the molecular level. Emphasis will be placed on biochemical and genetic approaches to understand disease mechanisms at the cellular level. A sound understanding of either BIOSCI 349 or 353 or MEDSCI 314 or equivalent is assumed.

MSc Thesis Proposal

An extensive review of background material associated with the thesis topic, and a detailed outline of the proposed research and its significance. Students will also be required to present an overview of the proposal in a seminar.

BSc(Hons) Dissertation Proposal

A review of the literature associated with the dissertation topic and an outline of the proposed research and its significance. Students will also be required to present an overview of the proposal in a seminar.

BSc(Hons) Dissertation in Biological Sciences

Restriction: BIOSCI 789
To complete this course students must enrol in BIOSCI 788 A and B, or BIOSCI 788

MSc Thesis in Biological Sciences

To complete this course students must enrol in BIOSCI 796 A and B

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Source: The University of Auckland 2013 Online Calendar
Last updated on: Thursday 1 November 2012
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