University of Sydney Handbooks - 2017 Archive

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Plant Science

Plant Science

BIOL2009 Intro to Terrestrial Field Ecology

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Glenda Wardle Session: Intensive July Classes: Note: One 6-day field trip held in the pre-semester break (July 20 - July 25 inclusive) and four 4-hour practical classes during weeks 1-4 of semester 2. Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL or (6cp Junior BIOL and (MBLG1001 or MBLG1901)) Prohibitions: BIOL2909 or BIOL3009 or BIOL3909 Assumed knowledge: (BIOL1002 or BIOL1902) and 12 credit points of Intermediate Biology Assessment: Two in-class quizzes (20%), Major research report (40%), Sampling project report (20%), Research proposal and presentation (10%), Data collection and analysis in teams (10%). Mode of delivery: Field experience
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit of study. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in EVEN years (2014, 2016), but students may apply for entry into an alternative intermediate field unit in ODD years.
This field course provides a practical introduction in the experimental analysis of terrestrial populations and assemblages. The experience is best suited to students who will continue into senior units of study in ecology. Students learn a broad range of ecological sampling techniques and develop a detailed understanding of the logical requirements necessary for manipulative ecological field experiments. The field work incorporates survey techniques for plants, small mammals and other fauna and thus provides a good background for ecological consulting work. Students attend a week-long field course and participate in a large-scale research project as part of a large team, as well as conducting a research project that they design with a small group of students. Invited experts contribute to the lectures and discussions on issues relating to the ecology, conservation and management of Australia's terrestrial flora and fauna. This unit will be available in EVEN years (2014, 2016...) only. You may take an alternative field unit of study when this unit is unavailable. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit, based on placement availability and merit. Contact the School of Biological Sciences Office for the Special Permission form to request enrolment.
BIOL2909 Intro to Terrestrial Field Ecology (Adv)

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Glenda Wardle Session: Intensive July Classes: Note: One 6-day field trip held in the pre-semester break (July 20 - July 25 inclusive) and four 4-hour practical classes during weeks 1-4 of semester 2. Prerequisites: Distinction average in either- 12cp Junior BIOL, or (6cp Junior BIOL and (MBLG1001 or MBLG1901)) Prohibitions: BIOL2009 or BIOL3009 or BIOL3909 Assumed knowledge: (BIOL1002 or BIOL1902) and 12 credit points of Intermediate Biology Assessment: Discussions and quiz (10%), research project proposal and brief presentation (10%), sampling project report (20%), specimen collection (10%), research project report (50%). Mode of delivery: Field experience
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit of study. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered. The unit is only available in EVEN years (2014, 2016), but students may apply for entry into an alternative intermediate field unit in ODD years.
This unit has the same objectives as BIOL2009 Terrestrial Field Ecology, and is suitable for qualified students who wish to pursue certain aspects at a more advanced level. Entry is restricted, and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their previous performance. Students taking this unit of study will participate in alternatives to some elements of the standard course and will be required to pursue the objectives by more independent means. Specific details of this unit of study and assessment will be announced in meetings with students at the beginning of the unit.
This field course provides a practical introduction in the experimental analysis of terrestrial populations and assemblages. The experience is best suited to students who will continue into senior units of study in ecology. Students learn a broad range of ecological sampling techniques and develop a detailed understanding of the logical requirements necessary for manipulative ecological field experiments. The field work incorporates survey techniques for plants, small mammals and other fauna and thus provides a good background for ecological consulting work. Students attend a week-long field course and participate in a large-scale research project as part of a large team as well as conducting a research project that they design with a small group of students. Invited experts contribute to the lectures and discussions on issues relating to the ecology, conservation and management of Australia's terrestrial flora and fauna.
This unit will be available in EVEN years (2014, 2016...) only. You may take an alternative field unit of study when this unit is unavailable. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit, based on placement availability and merit. Contact the School of Biological Sciences Office for the Special Permission form to request enrolment.
BIOL2016 Cell Biology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Murray Thomson. Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week and one 4-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: [12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX)], or [6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX)] Prohibitions: BIOL2916 Assessment: One 3-hour theory exam, 1 project assignment, 1 practical report (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: This unit is not available to students in BMedSc.
This unit of study focuses on contemporary principles in cell biology and development in plants and animals, with emphasis on cellular functions and a focus on the molecular perspective, fundamental to understanding biological organisms. Topics include cancer and control of cell division and migration, pre-programmed cell death, molecular signalling and transport systems, cellular endocrinology and embryonic development. The practical component provides students with hands-on training in key research techniques using modern equipment. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Alberts B, Johnson A, Lewis J, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P. 2007. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 5th Edition. Garland Science.
BIOL2916 Cell Biology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Murray Thomson. Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, one 4-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: [An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX)], or [An average of 75 or above in 6cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp of CHEM1XXX] Prohibitions: BIOL2016 Assessment: One 3-hour exam, 1 practical report, 1 project assignment (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: This unit is not available to students in BMedSc.
The content of BIOL2916 will be based on BIOL2016 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
As for BIOL2016
BIOL2022 Biology Experimental Design and Analysis

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Clare McArthur Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2922 or BIOL3006 or BIOL3906 Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (60%), one 2-hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit considers how biology is practiced as a quantitative, experimental and theoretical science. It focuses on the underlying principles and practical skills required to explore questions and test hypotheses, particularly where background variation (error) is inherently high. In so doing, it provides an understanding of how biological research is designed, analysed and interpreted using statistics. Lectures focus on sound experimental and statistical principles, using examples in biology to demonstrate concepts. In the practical sessions, students design and perform, analyse (using appropriate statistical tools) and interpret their own experiments to answer research questions in topics relevant to each student's particular interest. The unit provides foundational skills essential for doing research in biology and for critically judging the research of others. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Required: Ruxton, G. and Colegrave, N. 2010. Experimental design for the life sciences. 3rd Ed. Oxford
BIOL2922 Biol Experimental Design and Analysis Adv

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Clare McArthur Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2022 or BIOL3006 or BIOL3906 Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (60%), one 2-hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The content of BIOL2922 will be based on BIOL2022 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Required: Ruxton, G. and Colegrave, N. 2010. Experimental design for the life sciences. 3rd Ed. Oxford
BIOL2023 Botany

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rosanne Quinnell Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures per week Prerequisites: 6cp from BIOL1XXX Prohibitions: BIOL2923 or PLNT2003 or PLNT2903 or PLNT2002 or PLNT2902 or BIOL2003 or BIOL2903 or BIOL2004 or BIOL2904 Assessment: One 2-hour exam (40%), anatomy project (20%), quizzes (10%), one 2-hour practical exam (30%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study focuses on the remarkable world of plants and recent advances in botanical research. A phylogenetic approach provides the systematic foundation to this unit and is fundamental to biology. Students are introduced to large-scale patterns in plant morphology and distribution (biogeography). At a different scale, this unit of study investigates the structure of cells, tissues and organs of flowering plants and addresses how plants are constructed and how they respond to environmental signals (incl. stress responses). There is a focus on recent advances in botanical research. Students will develop skills in phylogenetic inference, plant identification and plant anatomy. The content is well-suited to students with specific interests in botany, broad interests in biology (ecology, bioinformatics, environmental science, molecular and cell biology, genetics and biotechnology) and broader disciplines (e.g. education, arts, and environmental law).
This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Evert RF and Eichhorn SE. 2013. Raven: Biology of Plants. 8th Ed. Freeman & Co Publishers. New York. NY. A Study Guide for the unit will be available for download from the LMS.
BIOL2923 Botany (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rosanne Quinnell Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures per week Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 6cp from BIOL1XXX Prohibitions: BIOL2023 or PLNT2003 or PLNT2903 or PLNT2002 or PLNT2902 or BIOL2003 or BIOL2903 or BIOL2004 or BIOL2904 Assessment: One 2-hour exam (40%), one 2-hour practical exam (30%), research project (30%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The content of BIOL2923 will be based on BIOL2023 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Evert RF and Eichhorn SE. 2013. Raven: Biology of Plants. 8th Ed. Freeman & Co Publishers. New York. NY. A Study Guide for the unit will be available for download from the LMS.
BIOL2024 Ecology and Conservation

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Peter Banks Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2924 Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (50%), one 2-hour exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study examines the ecological principles driving the major ecosystems of the world and ecological processes behind the world's major conservation issues. It aims to develop in students the core foundations for an understanding of Ecology and its application in conservation. Lectures will focus on the ecology of the major terrestrial and marine biomes of the world. Application of ecological theory and methods to practical conservation problems will be integrated throughout the unit of study. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience in ecological sampling and data handling to understand the ecology of marine and terrestrial environments, as well as ecological simulations to understand processes. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study.
Textbooks
Recommended: Essentials of Ecology 3rd edition (2008). Townsend, CR, Begon, M, Harper, JL . John
BIOL2924 Ecology and Conservation (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Peter Banks Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL2024 Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (50%), one 2-hour exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The content of BIOL2924 will be based on BIOL2024 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.
Textbooks
Recommended: Essentials of Ecology 3rd edition (2008). Townsend, CR, Begon, M, Harper, JL . John
MBLG2072 Genetics and Genomics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Nathan Lo Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, one 2-3 hour practical per week, one tutorial every second week. Prerequisites: 12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX Prohibitions: MBLG2002 or MBLG2972 or MBLG2102 or MBLG2902 Assessment: One 2 hour exam (50%), laboratory reports and quizzes (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: For students planning a Molecular Biology and Genetics major, 12 credit points of CHEM1XXX is required.
This unit of study brings together traditional genetic analysis and modern molecular biology to study genetics of all life forms from humans and other complex multicellular organisms through to single celled organisms such as bacteria. Students will be introduced to complex modes of Mendelian inheritance, including those involved in human diseases. The molecular basis for different patterns of inheritance will be discussed. The interaction of genes and gene products will be illustrated by the examination of the molecular genetics of development. The application of genomics to the study of genetic variation, molecular evolution and gene function in humans and model organisms will also be described. In the practical sessions students will investigate the genetics of a variety of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms in order to illustrate concepts covered in the lecture material. Students will develop familiarity and competence with equipment used in molecular genetic analysis, bioinformatics, microscopy and statistical tests. This unit of study provides a suitable foundation for senior biology units of study, which can lead to a major in Biology, and successful completion of this unit of study is required in order to progress in the Molecular Biology and Genetics major.
MBLG2972 Genetics and Genomics (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Nathan Lo Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week, one 2-3 hour practical per week, one tutorial every second week. Prerequisites: An average of 75 or above in [12cp from (BIOL1XXX, MBLG1XXX) and 6cp from CHEM1XXX] Prohibitions: MBLG2002 or MBLG2072 or MBLG2102 or MBLG2902 Assessment: One 2-hour exam (50%), laboratory reports and quizzes (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Note: For students planning a Molecular Biology and Genetics major, 12 credit points of CHEM1XXX is required.
The content of MBLG2972 will be based on MBLG2072 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year but includes a practical project in the laboratory to improve molecular biology skills
BIOL3007 Ecology

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dieter Hochuli Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3907 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, group presentations, one essay, one project report (100%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit explores the dynamics of ecological systems, and considers the interactions between individual organisms and populations, organisms and the environment, and ecological processes. Lectures are grouped around four dominant themes: Interactions, Evolutionary Ecology, The Nature of Communities, and Conservation and Management. Emphasis is placed throughout on the importance of quantitative methods in ecology, including sound planning and experimental designs, and on the role of ecological science in the conservation, management, exploitation and control of populations. Relevant case studies and examples of ecological processes are drawn from marine, freshwater and terrestrial systems, with plants, animals, fungi and other life forms considered as required. Students will have some opportunity to undertake short term ecological projects, and to take part in discussions of important and emerging ideas in the ecological literature.
Textbooks
Begon M, Townsend CR, Harper JL (2005) Ecology, From individuals to ecosystems. Wiley-Blackwell.
BIOL3907 Ecology (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Dieter Hochuli Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures per week, weekly tutorial and 3 hr practical per week Prerequisites: Distinction average in either- 12cp Intermediate BIOL, or (6cp Intermediate BIOL and(MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3007 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, presentations, one essay, one project report (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit has the same objectives as BIOL3007 Ecology, and is suitable for students who wish to pursue certain aspects in greater depth. Entry is restricted, and selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their previous performance. Students taking this unit of study participate in alternatives to some elements of the standard course and will be encouraged to pursue the objectives by more independent means in a series of research tutorials. Specific details of this unit of study and assessment will be announced in meetings with students in week 1 of semester 2. This unit of study may be taken as part of the BSc (Advanced) program.
Textbooks
As for BIOL3007
BIOL3009 Terrestrial Field Ecology

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Glenda Wardle Session: Intensive July Classes: Note: One 6-day field trip held in the pre-semester break (July 20 - July 25 inclusive) and four 4-hour practical classes during weeks 1-4 of semester 2. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3909 or BIOL2009 or BIOL2909 Assessment: Discussions and quiz (10%), research project proposal and brief presentation (10%), sampling project report (20%), specimen collection (10%), research project report (50%). Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit of study. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any Senior BIOL units of study may also be considered. This unit is only available in EVEN numbered years (e.g. 2014, 2016...), but students are offered alternative Senior field units in ODD numbered years.
This field course provides practical experience in terrestrial ecology suited to a broad range of careers in ecology, environmental consulting and wildlife management. Students learn a broad range of ecological sampling techniques and develop a detailed understanding of the logical requirements necessary for manipulative ecological field experiments. The field work incorporates survey techniques for plants, small mammals and invertebrates and thus provides a good background for ecological consulting work. Students attend a week-long field course and participate in a large-scale research project as well as conducting their own research project. Invited experts contribute to the lectures and discussions on issues relating to the ecology, conservation and management of Australia's terrestrial flora and fauna.
BIOL3909 Terrestrial Field Ecology (Advanced)

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Glenda Wardle Session: Intensive August Classes: See BIOL3009. Prerequisites: Distinction average in either- 12cp Intermediate BIOL, or (6cp Intermediate BIOL and(MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3009 or BIOL2009 or BIOL2909 Assessment: Discussions and quiz (10%), research project proposal and brief presentation (10%), sampling project report (20%), sample and data processing (10%), research project report (50%). Mode of delivery: Block mode
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit cannot be combined with more than one other BIOL field unit during the degree. Departmental permission is required for entry into this unit of study. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study. Academic performance in any Senior BIOL units of study may also be considered. This unit is only available in EVEN numbered years (e.g. 2014, 2016...), but students are offered alternative Senior field units in ODD numbered years.
This unit has the same objectives as BIOL3009 Terrestrial Field Ecology, and is suitable for students who wish to pursue certain aspects in greater depth. Entry is restricted, and selection is made from applicants on the basis of previous performance. Students taking this unit of study will complete an individual research project on a topic negotiated with a member of staff. It is expected that much of the data collection will be completed during the field trip but some extra time may be needed during semester 2. Specific details of this unit of study and assessment will be announced in meetings with students at the beginning of the unit. This unit of study may be taken as part of the BSc (Advanced) program.
BIOL3026 Developmental Genetics

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Jenny Saleeba Session: Semester 2 Classes: Twenty-four 1 hour lectures/tutorials per semester and up to 3 hours laboratory per week. Prerequisites: (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972) and 6 credit points from (MBLG2071 or MBLG2971 or BIOL2XXX) Prohibitions: BIOL3926 or BIOL3929 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Developmental genetics discusses major concepts and our current understanding of developmental biology with an emphasis on molecular genetics. The developmental genetics of animal and plant systems will be investigated, along with approaches used to determine gene function in relation to development of complex multicellular organisms. Topics include the features and resources for model organisms; the generation of mutants for forward and reverse genetics; the application of mutants to the study gene function and gene networks; spatial and temporal gene expression in pattern formation; quantitative trait loci analysis; utility of genome wide association studies; epigenetics in relation to inheritance; genome information in the study of human genetics. Reference will be made to the use of modern techniques in developmental biology such as transgenics, recombinant DNA technology, tissue-specific expression analysis. Various methods of genetic mapping will be covered. Practical work complements the theoretical aspects of the course and develops important skills in genetics.
BIOL3926 Developmental Genetics (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Jenny Saleeba Session: Semester 2 Classes: Twenty-four 1 hour lectures/tutorials per semester and up to 3 hours laboratory per week. Prerequisites: An average mark of 75 in (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972) and (6 credit points from MBLG2071 or MBLG2971 or BIOL2XXX). Prohibitions: BIOL3929 or BIOL3026 Assessment: One 2-hour exam, assignments (100%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
Qualified students will participate in alternative components to BIOL3026 Developmental Genetics. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year. Some assessment will be in an alternative format to components of BIOL3026.
BIOL3043 Plant Science

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Charles Warren Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures and one 4-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3943 or PLNT3001 or PLNT3901 or PLNT3002 or PLNT3902 Assessment: Practical report (30%), lab notebook (10%), group presentation (10%), one 2-hour exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit explores major concepts, discoveries and controversies in the plant sciences. Lectures will examine the mechanisms plants employ to adapt and acclimate to the environment. Major topics include growth and development, acquisition of resources such as light and nutrients, perception and response to signals, and interactions of plants with other organisms. Emphasis will be placed on integration of plant responses from molecular through to whole plant scales. There is a focus on recent research that has been critical in enhancing our current understanding of plant biology. Lectures are augmented by experimental work. This unit of study complements other Senior units of study in the Plant Science Major and is essential for those seeking a career in plant biology.
BIOL3943 Plant Science (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Charles Warren Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two lectures and one 4-hour practical per week. Prerequisites: Distinction average in either- 12cp Intermediate BIOL, or (6cp Intermediate BIOL and(MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3043 or PLNT3001 or PLNT3901 or PLNT3002 or PLNT3902 Assessment: Manuscript (30%), lab notebook (10%), group presentation (10%), one 2-hour exam (50%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL3043 but qualified students will undertake an indivual project and prepare a manuscript. This unit explores major concepts, discoveries and controversies in the plant sciences. Lectures will examine the mechanisms plants employ to adapt and acclimate to the environment. Major topics include growth and development, acquisition of resources such as light and nutrients, perception and response to signals, and interactions of plants with other organisms. Emphasis will be placed on integration of plant responses from molecular through to whole plant scales. There is a focus on recent research that has been critical in enhancing our current understanding of plant biology. Lectures are augmented by experimental work. This unit of study complements other Senior units of study in the Plant Science Major and is essential for those seeking a career in plant biology.
BIOL3044 Evolution and Biodiversity

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof M. Henwood Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures and three practicals per week. Prerequisites: 12 credit points of Intermediate BIOL, or (6 credit points of Intermediate BIOL and (MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3944 or BIOL3025 or BIOL3925 or PLNT3003 or PLNT3903 Assessment: Practical reports and/or presentations (60%), one 1.5-hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
How did the diversity of life arise? Why are there so many species? Why do animals and plants seem so well designed for their environments? How do we explain patterns of distribution across continents? These are some of the key questions that we will examine in this Unit. The Unit begins with a survey of the history of evolutionary thought, and the so-called 'new synthesis'; the melding of Darwinian evolution, systematics and genetics. The Unit will provide training in the principles, methods, and applications of evolutionary biology including systems of classification, the genetics of speciation and hybrid zones, molecular evolution, reconstruction of phylogenies, population genetics, historical interpretation of geographic distributions, evolution of sex, adaptation, human evolution, and selfish gene theory. Examples from a broad range of organisms and data sources will be used throughout the Unit. This Unit is valuable for students who intend to seek employment in areas such as biodiversity research, bioinformatics, ecology, taxonomy, biological conservation and teaching.
Textbooks
Freeman and Herron (2011) Evolutionary Analysis, Pearson/Prentice Hall
BIOL3944 Evolution and Biodiversity (Advanced)

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Murray Henwood Session: Semester 1 Classes: Two lectures or three practicals per week. Prerequisites: Distinction average in either- 12cp Intermediate BIOL, or (6cp Intermediate BIOL and(MBLG2072 or MBLG2972)) Prohibitions: BIOL3044 or BIOL3025 or BIOL3925 or PLNT3003 or PLNT3903 Assessment: Practical reports and/or presentations (60%), one 1.5-hour exam (40%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL3044 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. How did the diversity of life arise? Why are there so many species? Why do animals and plants seem so well designed for their environments? How do we explain patterns of distribution across continents? These are some of the key questions that we will examine in this Unit. The Unit begins with a survey of the history of evolutionary thought, and the so-called 'new synthesis'; the melding of Darwinian evolution, systematics and genetics. The Unit will provide training in the principles, methods, and applications of evolutionary biology including systems of classification, the genetics of speciation and hybrid zones, molecular evolution, reconstruction of phylogenies, population genetics, historical interpretation of geographic distributions, evolution of sex, adaptation, human evolution, and selfish gene theory. Examples from a broad range of organisms and data sources will be used throughout the Unit. This Unit is valuable for students who intend to seek employment in areas such as biodiversity research, bioinformatics, ecology, taxonomy, biological conservation and teaching.
Textbooks
Freeman and Herron (2011) Evolutionary Analysis, Pearson/Prentice Hall
HORT3005 Production Horticulture

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Robyn McConchie Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1hr lec; 1x3hr prac/workshop/wk Prerequisites: (AGEN2001 and AGEN2005) or BIOL2023 or BIOL2923 or AGEN2002 Assessment: 1x 3 hr exam (55%), three assignments (45%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit of study covers topics on the production of high quality food from perennial fruit crops, wine grapes, vegetables. It also covers the key aspects of the postharvest handling and quality assurance of fresh produce. At the end of this unit students are expected to have a detailed understanding of these areas of horticultural food production and be able to discuss related literature and the physiological principles underlying the commercial success of these horticultural enterprises. Students will also gain research and enquiry skills through research based practical sessions and assignments.
Textbooks
Recommended reading:
PPAT3003 Plant Health and Disease

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof David Guest (coordinator), A/Prof Michael Kertesz, Dr Rosalind Deaker, Prof Robert Park Session: Semester 1 Classes: 26 one-hour lectures and 12 three-hour practical classes Prerequisites: 6 credit points of Microbiology units Assessment: Take-home quizzes (20%), Project report (10%), Practical exam (20%), end of semester exam (50%) Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit explores the impacts of microbes on plant productivity, food security and the management of natural environments. The lecture component discusses how microbes interact with plants at the ecosystem, whole plant, cellular and molecular levels, conditioning nutrient availability and acquisition, growth, yield, quality and environmental responses. The biology and epidemiology of plant-associated microbes, infection processes, colonisation strategies, plant responses and breeding for disease resistance will be discussed. The practical component introduces techniques used in handling, measuring and identifying plant-associated fungi and bacteria, diagnosis of plant disease and investigations of plant-microbe interactions, and develops skills in enquiry and problem solving through experimental design, execution and interpretation of data. Students learn to work in a research team, plan effective work schedules, work safely in a research laboratory with a range of scientific equipment, keep appropriate records, and use statistical analysis and simulations in research. The unit is core to the BScAgr degree and is available as an elective to BEnvSys and BSc students.
Textbooks
Schumann GL & Darcy CJ 2010. Essential Plant Pathology (2nd ed.). APS Press, St Paul, Minn., USA
PPAT4004 Advanced Mycology and Plant Pathology

This unit of study is not available in 2017

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Prof David Guest Session: Semester 1 Classes: (2 tut, 3 hrs prac)/wk Prerequisites: PPAT3003 Assessment: Two hour end of semester exam (70%), 1500-word review paper (30%). Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) day
This unit investigates evolution, systematics, taxonomy and biology of fungi and their role as plant pathogens; plant disease epidemiology and understanding fungal populations; infection processes and plant defence. The unit is an elective for BScAgr, BHortSc and BSc students. It builds on the material introduced in PPAT3003 and BIOL3017. Undertaking this unit will develop skills in isolating and identifying plant pathogenic fungi, diagnosing plant diseases, designing, conducting and analysing experiments. At the completion of this unit, students will be able to exercise problem-solving skills (developed through practical experiments, projects and tutorial discussions), think critically, and organise knowledge (from consideration of the lecture material and preparation of project reports), and expand from theoretical principles to practical explanations (through observing and reporting on project work). Students will consolidate their teamworking skills, develop self-directed study skills and plan effective work schedules, use statistical analysis in research, keep appropriate records of laboratory research, work safely in a research laboratory and operate a range of scientific equipment. Students will gain research and inquiry skills through individual and group research projects, information literacy and communication skills through assessment tasks and personal and intellectual autonomy through working in groups.
Textbooks
Agrios GN. 2005. Plant Pathology 5th ed. Academic Press