Admission and Unit Information – Bachelor of Science (Biological Science)

How many species walk, fly, swim or slither, crawl, hop, wriggle or just float, hitchhike or move so slowly that they appear not to move at all? No one knows and new species appear almost every day. This unit focuses on this spectacular diversity of living things and the process of evolution. Students explore and classify biodiversity and how organisms function, acquire and assimilate resources and co-ordinate growth and reproduction. Organisms interact with one another and their environment forming a complex set of interactions in ecosystems. It is these interactions that have driven evolution. Ultimately human survival depends on the sustainable use of this biodiversity and ecosystems.

This unit is designed to provide students with scientific literacy and generic skills required to successfully undertake science-related undergraduate studies. Students learn, develop and utilise academic and interpersonal methodologies within the context of applied scientific principles in society and take responsibility for their own learning. Students are introduced to the contestable and uncertain nature of science and the scientific method. Activities encourage development of self-confidence, self-efficacy, creative thinking through problem solving, group process, communication and peer support. Academic skills include scientific reading and report writing, researching scientific information and library skills, oral presentation, taking tests and exams, effective personal and group based learning strategies, peer assessment, and online learning.

This unit provides an introduction to some of the essential knowledge, concepts and skills of chemistry, to serve the needs of students majoring in chemistry and those requiring a working knowledge of chemistry. Observable chemical facts and phenomena including structure, dynamics, and energetics, are explained in terms of current mathematical and visual models and further developed in Essential Chemistry 2. Evidence for chemical understanding is provided using IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and computer molecular modelling. Laboratory skills relate theory to practice through the development of practical skills required to determine the concentration of an analyte using volumetric and spectrophotometric analysis.

This unit is an introduction to the fundamental chemistry principles and skills required for students studying courses in food, nutrition, and the environment. The emphasis is on the structure and reactivity of substances and mixtures in different chemical environments, and exposed to different forms of electromagnetic radiation. The focus is on chemistry in aqueous environments and the atmosphere, and studied using a systems approach.

This level 1 unit develops the quantitative skills that underpin many fields of study in the sciences. The content covered includes basic algebra, functions, graphs, equations, linear and quadratic, introductory probability and descriptive statistics. These mathematical/statistical concepts will be revised and developed using scientific concepts such as molarity and dilution, optical density, population growth, and predator-prey models. In all aspects of this unit, students will be developing and using critical thinking skills to solve mathematical/statistical problems set in a scientific context.

Biometry introduces students to various statistical techniques necessary in scientific endeavours. Presentation of the content will emphasize the correct principles and procedures for collecting and analysing scientific data, using a hands-on approach. Topics include effective methods of gathering data, statistical principles of designing experiments, error analysis, describing different sets of data, probability distributions, statistical inference, non-parametric methods, simple linear regression and analysis of categorical data.

Cells are the most basic form of all life, and underlying normal cell function are the molecules used to build complex cellular structures, generate energy, and propagate dynamic life. The unit will study the fundamental processes through which key biomolecules, including lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleic acids, are manipulated to generate and store energy, and build a broad array of important biological macromolecules including DNA, membranes and proteins. To sustain life, cells respire for energy and replicate for growth and sexual reproduction. Accordingly the unit will examine cellular respiration, transcription, translation, mitosis, meiosis, transmission and how the genetic code is inherited and modified providing students insights into the phenomena of life. The role of DNA technology in the fields of medicine, biomolecular plant and animal science, food, forensic and environmental science will provide students with real world applications.

This unit introduces an investigation of the reactivity of covalent molecules, in particular, of carbon-based compounds. Focussing on introductory chemical dynamics and thermodynamics, students will develop an in-depth understanding of the structure, nomenclature and reactivity of the principal organic functional groups, extending their basic principles of chemistry. They will also understand how molecules are synthesised and the ways they react being important in the function and role of chemistry in biological systems in our domestic and industrial worlds.

This unit introduces the concept of homeostasis and critically examines examples of how the body systems are regulated and homeostatically controlled. The unit uses a body-systems approach to examine the physiology of tissues, organs and systems in order to develop an integrated view of the regulated functioning of the human body.

Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry of life. By understanding the structure and roles of biological macromolecules found in cells students will develop the concept of self assembly of these molecules to form life. Topics include the structure of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids and how they function in the lipid and aqueous environments of the cell. Basic metabolism is introduced with an overview of the major pathways in cells, mechanisms of regulation, and an introduction into important cofactors and intermediatory molecules. These concepts will be reinforced through practical classes that teach critical skills in experimental design, analysis and interpretation.

In this unit students will use an inquiry-based approach to explore the origin and diversity of microorganisms and their significance in the environment, in foods and industry as well as in health and disease. Students will be introduced to the structure, reproduction, classification, cultivation and enumeration of bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. The conditions required for growth and survival of microorganisms will be studied as well as physical and chemical methods of control. In laboratory classes students will develop skills in culturing and observing microorganisms and in designing experiments to test microbiological concepts. This unit is a pre-requisite for Microbiology 2 and Level 3 Microbiology units.

Genetics has a lot to do with sex and how genes are passed from one generation to the next. This unit introduces the student to the important conceptual issues in genetics from Mendel to DNA, from chromosomes to population genetics and from peas and fruit flies to genomics. While there is an emphasis on Mendelian and population genetics the unit also covers important concepts in molecular genetics demonstrating the link between genotype and phenotype. As the semester proceeds students are encouraged to makes links between concepts and problem solving through a series of exercises that enhance an analytical view of genetics.

We live in a society where environmental problems dominate public debate. Ecology is one of the sciences required to find solutions to such problems; terms and ideas that came originally from ecology are used in public discussions, and in legislation. This unit will introduce students to ecology: what is studied, how it is studied, what are the strengths and limitations of ecology. Current ecological thinking will be covered, from the scale of individual organisms, through populations, and up to communities and ecosystems. Methods of study will be highlighted using evidence from molecular ecology through to field investigations.

Molecular biology is central to many fields of the biomedical and natural sciences, and includes genetics, immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, and forensics. Through comparative studies of different organisms, this unit will describe fundamental concepts and methods in the study of DNA and RNA and the application of molecular biology in advanced fields such as genomics. Subjects will include DNA replication; transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of gene expression; microarrays, and an introduction to bioinformatics. Practical work will provide opportunities to become familiar with the methods of molecular biology, with an emphasis on the development of problem solving and analytical skills

Organisms degrade food molecules to generate energy and converts excess food molecules into internal fuel stores. This unit will cover topics including: bioenergetics; the structures of key molecules; glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis and breakdown; fatty acid oxidation and synthesis; amino acid catabolism; urea synthesis; citric acid cycle; electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation. Emphasis will be on the regulation and integration of these pathways, including their responses to hormonal regulation. The effects of altered dietary and hormonal status on metabolic pathways and their consequences for the organism will be discussed.

The unit focuses on the origins of genetic variation and the process of gene regulation in prokaryotes and explores the metabolic diversity of microorganisms from a variety of habitats and their application in industry. Using published scientific literature, students will learn how scientists research functional microbial physiology in the postgenomic era. The principles and applications of recombinant DNA techniques are discussed. Classification and identification of bacteria and yeasts is presented, including an introduction to molecular systematics. Laboratory classes introduce students to techniques used to study microbial physiology and genetics.

Building on the underlying physical and chemical principals/laws that define physiology, this unit from both a systems (e.g. Respiratory) and environmental (e.g. Marine) perspective, seeks to compare the functional physiology of organisms at all levels of organisation. Particular attention will be paid to respiration, temperature tolerance & regulation, living in water, sensory and neurophysiology. Students will have the opportunity to carry out a defined research project.

Organic molecules are at the heart of the chemistry of life and industry. This unit builds on the fundamental chemical principles, exploring reaction mechanisms and the concept of reactivity and stereo- and regio-selectivity of many of the central reactions that form the basis of living processes, modern research, and contemporary industrial transformations. The unit contains a problem-based module on the application of spectroscopic methods to organic structure elucidation, focusing on spectroscopic data and a practical section on organic synthesis. The unit will focus on complex organic molecules including biologically relevant molecules, and examples from chemical industries, medicinal and pharmaceutical industries.

This unit provides insight into both classical methods of analytical analysis and an introduction to modern instrumental methods of analysis. Specifically, the classical methods of analysis include volumetric and gravimetric methods, while the modern instrumental methods include separation techniques and spectroscopy. The role of spreadsheets in data analysis and presentation is discussed and applied in the laboratory program.

Differential equations arise naturally, both in abstract mathematics and in the study of many phenomena. This unit provides the theory of ordinary differential equations and an introduction to partial differential equations, together with methods of solution. Examples are drawn from a wide range of biological, chemical, physical and economic applications.

The unit builds on the basic statistical concepts introduced in first year, and also prepares students for broader application of statistics for those majoring in science or business. Topics include some common probability distributions; revision of hypothesis testing; analysis of categorical data; analysis of variance; simple and multiple linear regression analysis and correlation; some nonparametric methods; and fundamentals of time-series analysis.

This unit aims to provide students with an understanding of structure and function of immune system and particularly highlights common and unique systems that exist across kingdoms and phyla. There is a focus on the organs and cells of the human immune system and peculiarities associated with the immune systems of marsupials due to their early developmental stage at birth will be examined. The students will also develop laboratory skills that involve some immunological principles, investigative skills leading to understanding the knowledge base, and self learning at a sophisticated level and enhance their science communication skills.

Genomics is the application of our knowledge of the structure and expression of genomes to understanding gene function and the genetic basis of human disease. The Unit will begin with an introduction to the human genome and its relationship to the genomes of other organisms. It will also teach how genome-wide analysis of genetic variation in individuals and populations is improving our understanding of diseases such as asthma, heart disease, obesity, dementia and cancer. Practical application of genomics in the areas of pharmacogenomics, gene therapy/genetic medicine, genetic discrimination and ethics will also be covered.

Cells of the body are studied in the context of health and disease, including mechanisms by which cells respond to the environment and integrate in and around tissue. Fundamental cellular processes are discussed that are important in embryonic development, stem cells, haematology and cancer. This unit investigates the action of hormones, growth factors and morphogens; their receptors and signalling pathways and the cellular responses they trigger. This unit covers modern techniques in cell culture, tissue engineering, advanced microscopy and other modern experimental approaches that enable dynamic understanding of live cell function.

A critical part of societies response to climate change is to measure the movement of greenhouse gases. Once this is done, steps taken to reduce these gases can be correctly targeted and the impact of such steps monitored. This unit will introduce students to the scientific measurement of greenhouse gas uptake and emissions, including assessment of uncertainties and verifiability of measurement. Ecosystem-level models will be used to estimate and quantify movement of greenhouse gases, allowing quantification of the net greenhouse gas emissions over the life cycle of a product. These approaches are vital steps in moving our society to a sustainable future.

The unit aims to provide students with an essential working understanding of occupational health and safety legislation, risk assessment and risk management currently required for graduate employment across a broad range of industries and workplaces. The unit explores current occupational health, safety and welfare issues in the workplace with specific reference to the enforcement of OHS legislation, workers compensation, and principles of hazard identification and risk management as required by Australian legislation. The unit also equips students with the capacity to recommend OHS policies to ensure compliance with this legislation and relevant research risk assessment strategies.

Infectious diseases worldwide are the most common cause of illness. Medical microbiology is subdivided into four areas: virology, bacteriology, mycology (the study of fungi) and parasitology. The rapid evolution of microbes means that this is an area that does not remain static. This unit has a modern approach to the study of the balance between the host, humans, and the very large army of potential invaders. Students will embark on a journey into the world of pathogenic micro-organisms exploring the molecular mechanisms by which these override host defences leading to disease. Infectious diseases of the human body systems as well those of the immunocompromised and infections contracted in the healthcare setting (nosocomial) are discussed. The theory will be supported with laboratory experience representing diagnostic procedures for the identification of infectious agents.

The unit provides a theoretical and practical introduction to wide range of microbiological techniques that are commonly used in medical science, industrial and food microbiology, environmental science, and research. Building on a basic understanding of microbiology the unit shows how microorganisms can be isolated, identified, and enumerated using traditional microbiological methods, modern variations on traditional methods, and more recent immunological and molecular methods. The laboratory component is an integral component of the unit as the students use a variety of techniques, methods and commercial systems that are applied in microbiological laboratories, and incorporates problem solving and inquiry based exercises.

Physiology is the study of the way in which a living organism and its bodily parts functions. Fundamental to this are ion channels. With ion channels as a central and unifying core, this unit will examine aspects of neurophysiology, sensory physiology, nutritional physiology, channelopathies, the skeleto-muscular system, the cardiovascular system, environmental adaptation and homeostasis. Students will have the opportunity to independently research, in depth, an area of physiology pertinent to their degree/interest.

Temperate freshwater, estuarine and marine aquatic ecosystems play vital roles in providing food, water, recreation and other ecosystem services to human society and habitats for important species that make up global biodiversity. Yet aquatic habitats are the most threatened ecosystems on earth, under threat from global climate change and urbanisation. Through inquiry and problem solving this unit will equip students with the necessary techniques in experimental design and analysis needed to investigate aquatic ecosystems and knowledge of the main animal and plants in aquatic and marine ecosystems. The logic and philosophy of science, scientific studies and experimental analyses will be used to understand temperate aquatic ecosystems throughout this unit. On completion students will have the background knowledge and skills communicate to a range of audiences, so that they can contribute beneficially to management and/or conservation of waterways and oceans and the biodiversity within.

Genomics is the application of our knowledge of the structure and expression of genomes to understanding gene function and the genetic basis of human disease. The Unit will begin with an introduction to the human genome and its relationship to the genomes of other organisms. It will also teach how genome-wide analysis of genetic variation in individuals and populations is improving our understanding of diseases such as asthma, heart disease, obesity, dementia and cancer. Practical application of genomics in the areas of pharmacogenomics, gene therapy/genetic medicine, genetic discrimination and ethics will also be covered.

Cells of the body are studied in the context of health and disease, including mechanisms by which cells respond to the environment and integrate in and around tissue. Fundamental cellular processes are discussed that are important in embryonic development, stem cells, haematology and cancer. This unit investigates the action of hormones, growth factors and morphogens; their receptors and signalling pathways and the cellular responses they trigger. This unit covers modern techniques in cell culture, tissue engineering, advanced microscopy and other modern experimental approaches that enable dynamic understanding of live cell function.

Genomics is the application of our knowledge of the structure and expression of genomes to understanding gene function and the genetic basis of human disease. The Unit will begin with an introduction to the human genome and its relationship to the genomes of other organisms. It will also teach how genome-wide analysis of genetic variation in individuals and populations is improving our understanding of diseases such as asthma, heart disease, obesity, dementia and cancer. Practical application of genomics in the areas of pharmacogenomics, gene therapy/genetic medicine, genetic discrimination and ethics will also be covered.

Cells of the body are studied in the context of health and disease, including mechanisms by which cells respond to the environment and integrate in and around tissue. Fundamental cellular processes are discussed that are important in embryonic development, stem cells, haematology and cancer. This unit investigates the action of hormones, growth factors and morphogens; their receptors and signalling pathways and the cellular responses they trigger. This unit covers modern techniques in cell culture, tissue engineering, advanced microscopy and other modern experimental approaches that enable dynamic understanding of live cell function.

This unit builds on the physiological concepts of "Introduction to Physiology". It provides a greater depth and breadth of understanding of aspects of whole-body physiology which are explored in group work. Topics may include, but are not limited to, locomotion, physiology of reproductive technology, physiology of interaction between humans, physiology under extreme conditions (including pathophysiology), physiology of learning and memory, sleep physiology, animal physiology, nutritional physiology and others.

The human immune system is a milieu of cells, cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and cell adhesion molecules which form an elaborate molecular communication network through a number of signalling networks and molecules. The relevance of this knowledge for understanding the pathology and specific diseases of the human immune system are emphasised through the unit. This unit also provides an in depth analysis of the molecular mechanisms of cell to cell communication, cell activation, the immunological synapse, transplant rejection (including adoptive transfer experimentation), antigen presentation, B and T cell recruitment and MHC restriction. Medical and diagnostic applications of hybridoma technology, antibody engineering and advances in vaccine development are discussed. The laboratory course will develop technical and interpretative skills in relevant techniques, in particular the ImmunoCAP technology for asthma and allergy diagnosis.

Vertebrates are the most recognisable and likeable of all the animals. The unit will provide students with a theoretical and practical working knowledge of vertebrate species and their biodiversity, and the adaptation of their many biological functions. Identification of major groups of animals from several different environments will also be incorporated into the learning outcomes. Students will learn to conduct field surveys and assess the techniques used to survey vertebrates, as well as learn basic handling and husbandry techniques required for different vertebrate species.

This unit is an introduction to the exiting biology of invertebrate animals and their extensive interactions with the environment. Invertebrates are the most diverse and specious organisms within aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems as well as agricultural and urban environments. Many invertebrates are useful to humans, and some are harmful. The unit highlights their diversity, characteristics, relationships and research exploring their key ecological and economic importance. It also includes hands-on laboratory and field studies. This unit is designed for students with future career pathways in science (e.g. animal science, forensic science, environmental science, medical science), agriculture, horticulture, environmental management and education.

Molecular Medicine is an inquiry based capstone unit that integrates core concepts in molecular and cell biology with a focus on cancer as a framework to discuss autoimmune, infectious and genetic diseases. This unit aims to enhance critical thinking for the professional environment and prepares students for future innovations in prevention, management and cure of catastrophic diseases. Current research, diagnosis, treatment and policy issues, related to health and disease states, are placed in the context of real world experiences and changing imperatives.

Science Research Project is a final-year capstone unit that gives students an introduction to scientific research, while extending their knowledge and practical skills. Each student undertakes a research project supervised by an academic staff member. With the assistance of their supervisor, students will research the literature and define the problem to be studied, carry out a risk assessment, develop the appropriate experimental methods, carry out research on their project, and present a final written report and a poster or oral presentation. This unit offers a challenge to final-year students, and allows innovation by the student with respect to both method and research direction.

Most species disappearances have occurred in major extinction events spread over geological time. Are we in the midst of and the cause of another mass extinction event? This unit will explore this idea by examining the processes that have led to, and are leading to species extinction and the current biodiversity crisis. Many of the methods and issues used in and associated with conservation will be covered in a variety of case studies, field and laboratory activities.

This unit investigates how populations and ecosystems respond to climate change. Climate change will provide the umbrella by which anthropogenic impacts are examined in the context of adaptation and evolution of animals and plants. This unit examines the responses of organisms at the population level, communities and the physiological mechanisms which underlie these responses. GIS and modelling skills are developed for integrative and adaptive management of ecosystem and populations.

This capstone unit is directed towards the accreditation of a laboratory for chemical, microbiological or forensic testing, using the standards that are applicable in industry. The unit focuses upon the importance and coordination of good laboratory management, teamwork, calibration, record keeping and laboratory manuals. Groups of students are required to develop, establish and operate a comprehensive Laboratory Quality Management system designed for a specific class of chemical, microbiological or forensic test. The students' technical competence and quality system are then assessed using the guidelines laid down by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA).