This course includes: microbiological fundamentals, examples of chemical and physical methods of control, applications to environmental, water and foods; viral structure, classification and replication; and analysis of selected metabolic reactions and methods used in identification of selected microorganisms. It also includes the practical and applied aspects of industrial microbiology in the production of foods, other commercial products of economic value, water treatment and microbiological analysis.
A survey of the microbial world, their organization, structure and factors that influence and control microbial activity and growth. Basic techniques used in the observation, cultivation, and identification of selected bacteria and fungi are included.
This course builds on principles of statistical data analysis previously taught in the program and covers a diverse range of topics concerning the analysis of scientific data. Topics include: the derivation and analysis of calibration curves, techniques of method validation and limits of detection. Standard means of presenting and tracking quality data, such as control charts, are discussed, as are the basics of experimental design and analysis using ANOVA.
Introductory Biochemistry introduces students to the fundamental concepts/compounds of biochemistry. Students will look at the structure and role of lipids/fatty acids, carbohydrates, and amino acids/proteins. The course also introduces students to anabolic/catabolic pathways and the fundamentals of bioenergetics and metabolism. Introductory Biochemistry helps students develop professional laboratory techniques including formulations, methods, and ISO-format record maintenance.
An overview of quality assurance principles to provide students with an awareness and understanding of quality assurance terminology and selected standards and regulatory approaches that they are likely to meet.
This course introduces students to some of the most pressing environmental concerns of the 21st century. Topics such as climate change, acid rain, ozone depletion and chemical pollution will be studied within a scientific context. Attempts at mitigation of environmental harm, such as “green chemistry,” will be included as will government regulatory measures. Students will also learn about ISO 14000, the series of international standards governing the environmental management of organizations.
A second year course designed to introduce the student to the core concepts, issues and techniques involved in stem cell research and medical therapeutics and nanotechnology applications. The course will examine both embryonic and adult stem cell lines, medical therapies and examine some of the controversy surrounding the science of stem cells. As well, the course will review developments in nanotechnology including: molecular manufacturing, nanomedicine, nanodiagnostics and molecular electronics.
The second component of biochemical studies, Advanced Biochemistry, focuses on two main subject areas: metabolic pathways and metabolism as well as information pathways in living systems. Students will look at both the structures and pathways of metabolites as well as an in-depth examination of nucleic acids and the transfer of genetic information into functional cellular products. Advanced Biochemistry also helps students develop professional laboratory technique including formulations, methods, and ISO/GLP-format laboratory record maintenance.