Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Murray Thomson. Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1 hr lectures/week, 1x4 hr practical/week. Prerequisites: 12cp of Junior BIOL, OR 6cp of Junior BIOL and 6cp of Junior MBLG1001/1901, OR 6cp of Junior BIOL and 6cp of Junior CHEM Prohibitions: BIOL2916 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1001 Assessment: 1x3 hr theory exam, 1 project assignment, 1 practical report (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

This unit of study focuses on contemporary principles in cell biology and development in plant and animals, with emphasis on cellular functions and favouring the molecular perspective. 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 and is therefore of immense benefit to students contemplating honours study or a career in molecular and cellular research.

Textbooks

Alberts B, Johnson A, Lewis J, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P. 2007. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 5th Edition. Garland Science.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Murray Thomson. Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2x1 hr lectures/week, 1x4 hr practical/week. Prerequisites: Distinction average in 12cp of Junior BIOL, OR distinction average in 6cp of Junior BIOL and 6cp of Junior MBLG1001/1901, OR distinction average in 6cp of Junior BIOL and 6cp of Junior CHEM Prohibitions: BIOL2016 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1001 Assessment: 1x3 hr exam, 1 practical report, 1 project assignment (100%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

Qualified students will participate in alternative components of BIOL2016 Cell Biology.

Textbooks

As for BIOL2016

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rosanne Quinnell, A/Prof. Murray Henwood Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 lect, 1 tut, 2-3 h prac/week Prerequisites: 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp Junior Sciences Prohibitions: BIOL2923, PLNT2003, PLNT2903, PLNT2002, PLNT2902, BIOL2003, BIOL2903, BIOL2004,BIOL2904 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1001 OR BIOL1002 Assessment: 1x 2-hr exam (40%), anatomy project (20%), quizzes (10%), 1 X 2 h prac exam (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

Note: Students planning to major in biology or plant sciences are recommended to complete MBLG1001/1901 before enrolling in this unit.

This unit focuses on the remarkable world of plants and recent advances in botanical research. A phylogenetic approach provides the systematic foundation to this unit. Students are introduced to large-scale patterns in plant morphology and distribution (biogeography). At a smaller 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 research, which are critical in enhancing our understanding of the botanical world. Students will develop skills in phylogenetic inference and plant identification. The information on plant structure will be provided in self-instructional audio-visual sessions augmented by small group discussions. The practical sessions and interactions with staff encourage students to develop their own learning style and enhance a strong sense of self-reliance. Critical thinking, effective communication and other vocational and generic skills are emphasized. The content is well suited to students with interests in botany, ecology, bioinformatics, environmental science, molecular and cell biology, genetics and biotechnology; agriculture (e.g. horticulture, land and water science, and natural resources); and broader disciplines (e.g. education, arts, and environmental law).

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 purchase from the Copy Centre during the first week of semester, a .pdf copy of which will be available for download from the LMS.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Rosanne Quinnell, A/Prof. Murray Henwood Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2 lec, 1 tut, 2-3 h prac/week Prerequisites: Distinction average in minimum 6 credit points of Junior Biology units of study + 6CP junior sciences Prohibitions: BIOL2023 PLNT2003, PLNT2903, PLNT2002, PLNT2902, BIOL2003, BIOL2903, BIOL2004,BIOL2904 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1001 OR BIOL1002 Assessment: 1x 2-hr exam (40%), 1 X 2 h prac exam (30%), research project (30%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

Note: Students planning to major in biology or plant sciences are recommended to complete MBLG1001/1901 before enrolling in this unit.

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 purchase from the Copy Centre during the first week of semester, a .pdf copy of which will be available for download from the LMS.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Frank Seebacher Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2hr lectures; 3hr prac/wk Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901 Prohibitions: BIOL2011/2911, BIOL2012/2912, BIOL2921 Assumed knowledge: BIOL (1002 or 1902). Assessment: 1x 2hr theory exam (50%), Lab book (20%), Practical report (20%), Oral presentation (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

This unit of study provides an overview of the functional and phylogenetic diversity of invertebrate and vertebrate animals. The material is presented within the conceptual framework of evolution. Lectures explore the diversity of major functional systems and behaviour in the context of environmental challenges and the ecological roles of different animal groups. Laboratory classes include dissections and demonstrations of the functional anatomy of invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as experiments. Students will have the opportunity to develop oral and written communication skills.

Textbooks

Recommended reading: Hickman CP, Roberts LS, Larson A, l'Anson H 2004. Integrated Principles of Zoology, 12th ed. McGraw Hill, NY. Withers, P. 1992 Comparative Animal Physiology. Saunders, New York

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Frank Seebacher Session: Semester 1 Classes: 2hr lec; 3hr prac/wk Prerequisites: Distinction average in either 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901. These requirements may be varied and students with lower averages should consult the Unit Coordinator. Prohibitions: BIOL2011/2911, BIOL2012/2912, BIOL2021 Assumed knowledge: BIOL (1002 or 1902). Assessment: 1x 2h theory exam (50%), Lab book (20%), Practical report (20%), Oral presentation (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2021 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. This unit of study provides an overview of the functional and phylogenetic diversity of invertebrate and vertebrate animals. The material is presented within the conceptual framework of evolution. Lectures explore the diversity of major functional systems and behaviour in the context of environmental challenges and the ecological roles of different animal groups. Laboratory classes include dissections and demonstrations of the functional anatomy of invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as experiments. Students will have the opportunity to develop oral and written communication skills.

Textbooks

Recommended reading: Hickman CP, Roberts LS, Larson A, l'Anson H 2004. Integrated Principles of Zoology, 12th ed. McGraw Hill, NY. Withers, P. 1992 Comparative Animal Physiology. Saunders, New York

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Peter Banks Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lec/wk, 3h prac/wk Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901 Prohibitions: BIOL2924 Assumed knowledge: BIOL (1002 or 1902). Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (50%), 1x 2hr exam (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

This unit 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.

Textbooks

Recommended: Essentials of Ecology 3rd edition (2008). Townsend, CR, Begon, M, Harper, JL. John Wiley & Sons
Recommended: The Ecological World View (2010) Krebs, CJ; CSIRO Publishing

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Peter Banks Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lec/wk, 3h prac/wk Prerequisites: Distinction average in either 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901. These requirements may be varied and students with lower averages should consult the Unit Coordinator. Prohibitions: BIOL2024 Assumed knowledge: BIOL (1002 or 1902). Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (50%), 1x 2hr exam (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2024 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. This unit 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.

Textbooks

Recommended: Essentials of Ecology 3rd edition (2008). Townsend, CR, Begon, M, Harper, JL. John Wiley & Sons
Recommended: The Ecological World View (2010) Krebs, CJ; CSIRO Publishing

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Clare McArthur Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lec/wk, 3h prac/wk Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901 Prohibitions: BIOL3006, BIOL3906, BIOL2922 Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (60%), 1x 2hr exam (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

This unit will consider biology as a quantitative, experimental and theoretical science. It is concerned with the underlying principles and practical skills required to explore questions and test hypotheses in research disciplines where background variation (error) is inherently high. Application of theory and methods to practical problems will be integrated throughout the unit of study. Lectures will focus on sound experimental and statistical principles, drawing on real examples to demonstrate concepts. The unit will provide an understanding of how research is designed, analysed and interpreted using statistics. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience in designing and performing research in topics relevant to each student's particular sub-discipline, using appropriate statistical tools. Computer simulations and statistical packages for analyses will be used where needed. The unit provides foundational skills essential for doing research and for critically judging the research of others.

Textbooks

Required: Ruxton, G. and Colegrave, N. 2010. Experimental design for the life sciences. 3rd Ed. Oxford University Press
Recommended: Quinn, G. P. and M. J. Keough. 2002. Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists. 1st Ed. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
Recommended: Field, A. 2009. Discovering statistics using SPSS. 3rd Ed. SAGE Publications, London.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Clare McArthur Session: Semester 2 Classes: 2 lec/wk, 3h prac/wk Prerequisites: Distinction average in either 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901. These requirements may be varied and students with lower averages should consult the Unit Coordinator. Prohibitions: BIOL3006, BIOL3906, BIOL2022 Assessment: Practical reports/presentations (60%), 1X 2hr exam (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2022 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. This unit will consider biology as a quantitative, experimental and theoretical science. It is concerned with the underlying principles and practical skills required to explore questions and test hypotheses in research disciplines where background variation (error) is inherently high. Application of theory and methods to practical problems will be integrated throughout the unit of study. Lectures will focus on sound experimental and statistical principles, drawing on real examples to demonstrate concepts. The unit will provide an understanding of how research is designed, analysed and interpreted using statistics. Practical sessions will provide hands-on experience in designing and performing research in topics relevant to each student's particular sub-discipline, using appropriate statistical tools. Computer simulations and statistical packages for analyses will be used where needed. The unit provides foundational skills essential for doing research and for critically judging the research of others.

Textbooks

Required: Ruxton, G. and Colegrave, N. 2010. Experimental design for the life sciences. 3rd Ed. Oxford University Press
Recommended: Quinn, G. P. and Keough, 2002. Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists.1st Ed. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
Recommended: Field, A. 2009. Discovering statistics using SPSS. 3rd Ed. SAGE Publications, London

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Penny Smith Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week; one 2-3 hour practical per week. One tutorial every second week. Prerequisites: 6cp of Junior BIOL and 6cp of MBLG1001/1901 and 6cp of Junior CHEM Prohibitions: MBLG2972 Assumed knowledge: 12cp of Junior CHEM Assessment: One 2 hour exam (50%), laboratory reports and quizzes (50%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

Note: For students planning a Molecular Biology and Genetics major, 12cp of Junior Chemistry is required.

This unit of study builds on the concepts introduced in MBLG2071 and shows how modern molecular biology is being applied to the study of the 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 more 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 and gene function in humans and model organisms, as well as to an understanding of molecular evolution, will be described.

Practical: In laboratory exercises you 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. Generic skills are developed in report writing, oral presentation, problem solving and data analysis. Successful completion of this unit of study is required in order to progress to the Bachelor of Science major in Molecular Biology and Genetics.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Penny Smith Session: Semester 2 Classes: Two 1-hour lectures per week; one 2-3 hour practical per week. One tutorial every second week. Prerequisites: Distinction average across 6cp of Junior BIOL and 6cp of MBLG1001/1901 and 6cp of Junior CHEM Prohibitions: MBLG2072 Assumed knowledge: 12cp of Junior CHEM Assessment: One 2-hour exam (50%), laboratory reports and quizzes (50%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day

Note: For students planning for a molecular biology and genetics major, 12cp of Junior Chemistry is required.

Qualified students will participate in alternative components of MBLG2072, Molecular Biology and Genetics B. The content and nature of these components may vary from year to year.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr M Greenlees, Prof. R Shine Session: Int February Classes: One week intensive field trip plus one week intensive lecture and prac session. Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901 Prohibitions: BIOL2910, BIOL3010, BIOL3910 Assumed knowledge: BIOL1002 Assessment: Practical exam (15%), Presentation (15%), Reports (30%), Theory exam (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: 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, based on placement availability and merit. The unit is only available in ODD years (2013, 2015..) but students may apply for entry into an alternative Intermediate field unit in EVEN years.

Australia has a unique terrestrial vertebrate fauna. Because of Australia's unusual climate, landforms, and the rarity of many species, the management of our native wildlife presents special challenges for biologists, conservationists and land managers. This unit of study addresses the biogeography, ecology and management of Australia's terrestrial fauna, with a focus on the wet-dry tropical savannah woodlands. It comprises a one-week field trip at Mary River Park in the Northern Territory plus one week intensive lecture and prac session. The unit of study will provide students with an exciting, hands-on first experience of terrestrial field ecology. During the trip, students will learn how to carry out fauna surveys, how to identify animals, and how to track wildlife. Biologists working on a range of environmental issues in wet-dry tropical woodlands will present guest lectures to students during the field trip. Students will travel to other locations including Litchfield National Park on the last day to introduce them to the various habitats occurring in the Top End.

More information

Please download the info booklet (pdf) for more information.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr M Greenlees Session: Int February Classes: One week intensive field trip plus one week intensive lecture and prac session. Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901; with Distinction average. These requirements may be varied and students with lower averages should consult the Unit Coordinator. Prohibitions: BIOL2010, BIOL3010, BIOL3910. Assumed knowledge: BIOL1002 Assessment: Practical exam (15%), Presentation (15%), Reports (30%), Theory exam (40%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: 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, based on placement availability and merit. The unit is only available in ODD years (2013, 2015..) but students may apply for entry into an alternative Intermediate field unit in EVEN years.

The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2021 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. Australia has a unique terrestrial vertebrate fauna. Because of Australia's unusual climate, landforms, and the rarity of many species, the management of our native wildlife presents special challenges for biologists, conservationists and land managers. This unit of study addresses the biogeography, ecology and management of Australia's terrestrial fauna, with a focus on the wet-dry tropical savannah woodlands. It comprises a one-week field trip at Mary River Park in the Northern Territory plus one week intensive lecture and prac session. The unit of study will provide students with an exciting, hands-on first experience of terrestrial field ecology. During the trip, students will learn how to carry out fauna surveys, how to identify animals, and how to track wildlife. Biologists working on a range of environmental issues in wet-dry tropical woodlands will present guest lectures to students during the field trip. Students will travel to other locations including Litchfield National Park on the last day to introduce them to the various habitats occurring in the Top End.

More information

Please download the info booklet (pdf) for more information.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Ross Coleman Session: Int July Classes: 7 day intensive field course Prerequisites: 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901 Prohibitions: BIOL2928, BIOL3008, BIOL3908. Assumed knowledge: BIOL1002 and 12 cp of Intermediate Biology Assessment: In-class test on Biodiversity (30%), Descriptive reports of sampling methodologies appropriate to different organisms (20%), Practical reports/presentations (40%), Record keeping and participation (10%). Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: 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, based on placement availability and merit. The unit is only available in ODD years (2013, 2015..) but students may apply for entry into an alternative Intermediate field unit in EVEN years.

This field course provides a practical introduction to the experimental ecology of marine organisms. Students will take part in directed experimental projects focused on logical structures in the experimental study of marine organisms and problems of analysis of data. The ethos of the unit is to encourage students to develop their logical approach to the testing of hypotheses in marine ecology, by critically testing hypotheses on the distribution and behaviour or marine organisms. Emphasis will be given to enhancing practical skills in experimental field ecology and placing empirical observations in a logical structure. No particular mathematical or statistical skills are required. Critical thinking, logical structures, numeracy and effective communication and other generic skills are emphasised. The unit is well suited to students with interests in marine science and ecology and will be an excellent foundation for any further units aimed at understanding whole organisms in the natural settings.

Textbooks

Recommended: Kingsford M, Battershill C (1998) Studying Marine Temperate Environments: A Handbook for Ecologists. Christchurch: Canterbury University Press. 335 p.

Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Ross Coleman Session: Int July Classes: 7 day intensive field course Prerequisites: Distinction average in either 12cp Junior BIOL; OR 6cp Junior BIOL and 6cp MBLG1001/1901. These requirements may be varied and students with lower averages should consult the Unit Coordinator. Prohibitions: BIOL2028, BIOL3008, BIOL3908. Assumed knowledge: BIOL1002 and 12 cp of Intermediate Biology Assessment: In-class test on Biodiversity (30%), Review of a research paper (20%), Practical reports/presentations (40%), Record keeping and participation (10%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Delivery Mode: 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, based on placement availability and merit. The unit is only available in ODD years (2013, 2015..) but students may apply for entry into an alternative Intermediate field unit in EVEN years.

The content will be based on the standard unit BIOL2028 but qualified students will participate in alternative components at a more advanced level. This field course provides a practical introduction to the experimental ecology of marine organisms. Students will take part in directed experimental projects focused on logical structures in the experimental study of marine organisms and problems of analysis of data. The ethos of the unit is to encourage students to develop their logical approach to the testing of hypotheses in marine ecology, by critically testing hypotheses on the distribution and behaviour or marine organisms. Emphasis will be given to enhancing practical skills in experimental field ecology and placing empirical observations in a logical structure. No particular mathematical or statistical skills are required. Critical thinking, logical structures, numeracy and effective communication and other generic skills are emphasised. The unit is well suited to students with interests in marine science and ecology and will be an excellent foundation for any further units aimed at understanding whole organisms in the natural settings.

Textbooks

Recommended: Kingsford M, Battershill C (1998) Studying Marine Temperate Environments: A Handbook for Ecologists. Christchurch: Canterbury University Press. 335 p.

This unit will be running for the first time mid-2014. More information will be available soon.

This unit will be running for the first time mid-2014. More information will be available soon.

This unit will be running for the first time mid-2014. More information will be available soon.

This unit will be running for the first time mid-2014. More information will be available soon.