Stage 3 courses

Stage III offers you a wide range of specialist courses. Most have limited-entry based on the grade point average (GPA), calculated from results attained in previous semesters. At least four Stage III courses are required to major in Biological Sciences.

(15 points) (City) Semester One

An overview of the methods and applications of bioinformatics with specifi c reference to: Internetaccessible database technology, database mining, applications for gene and protein sequence analysis, phylogenetic analyses, threedimensional protein prediction methods, and genome sequence analysis.

Prerequisite: 30 points from Stage II in Biological Sciences.
Restriction: BIOSCI 359.
Course coordinator: Dr Howard Ross.
Assessment: Incourse 60% (Theory Test 10%, Practical 50%) Examination 40%.
Recommended textbook: Introduction to Bioinformatics (2008, 3rd edition) by Arthur M.Lesk. Oxford University.

(15 points) Tamaki (Labs in City) Semester One

An introduction to the systematics and evolution of insects describing the major lineages and discussing the role insects play in different ecological systems and their behaviour. This course also examines the role of insects as pests (including as vectors of disease) and describes various control measures and how these methods are integrated. Practicals include a 2-night field trip, and insect collection.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 103 and 15 points from Stage II Biological Science courses.
Coordinator: Dr Greg Holwell.
Assessment: Incourse 70% (Test 30%, Assignments 20%, Insect Collection 20%). Examination 30%.
Field trip: Compulsory two-night field trip on 10-11 March.
Recommended textbooks: Gullan, P.J. & Cranston, P.S., The Insects: An Outline of Entomology. 3rd edition, Chapman and Hall

If you are interested in crop protection we suggest you take BIOSCI 320 and 321 together.

(15 points) (City) Semester One

Microorganisms are of major importance to horticulture and agriculture. This course examines the biology of plant pathogens, plantmicrobial interactions at the cellular and molecular level and the epidemiology and control of plant diseases. Practicals will focus on techniques for isolation, culture, identification and study of plant pathogens.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 204 or BIOSCI 205.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Mike Pearson.
Assessment: Incourse 60% (theory 30%, practical 30%), examination: 40%.
Textbook: Agrios, G.N., Plant Pathology, 5th edition, AP.

If you are interested in crop protection we suggest you take BIOSCI 320 and 321 together.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

A thorough understanding of evolutionary principles and applications is critical for study in a wide variety of fi elds, including ecology, physiology, microbiology, development, molecular biology, biomedicine and bioinformatics. This course progresses from the basic Stage 2 material to explore the most recent theoretical advances in evolutionary thought, and how they can be applied at the DNA, population and species levels. SBS staff present their current research in fi elds including:

• Conservation genetics and biogeography
• Phylogenetics and speciation
• Experimental molecular evolution and the mechanisms of selection
• Sexual selection
• Genome evolution

Practical work includes phylogenetic analyses, computer simulations, and hands-on lab research into the conservation genetics of endangered species using PCR techniques.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI  210.
Course coordinator: Dr Shane Lavery.
Assessment: Incourse 50%(test 20%, practical 30%), examination: 50%.
Prescribed Textbook: D.J. Futuyma, Evolutionary Biology, 3rd edition or D.J. Futuyma, Evolution, 2nd edition (2009), Sinauer.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

An introduction to the diversity, systematics and evolution of plants, with a focus on New Zealand species. In lectures, labs and fieldtrips, we explore key steps in the evolution of modern plants, and how evolution and human use of plants influences plant diversity. We focus on professional skills in researching and writing about contemporary topics in botany and plant taxonomy, and collecting, identifying, and archiving botanic specimens.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 102 or 104, and 30 points at Stage II in Biological Sciences, Environmental Science or Geography.
Course coordinator: Dr Anne Gaskett.
Assessment: Incourse 65% (Incourse Test 15%, two assignments 15%, 25%, lab activities 10%) Examination: 35%.
Field Trip: Day trips will be announced in class, but are typically on one weekend and during the Semester Two mid-Semester break (3-5 September).

(15 points) (City) Semester One

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

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 207 or 208.
Course coordinator: Dr Neill Herbert (Leigh Marine Laboratory).
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Field Course Assignment 30%, Test 20%) Examination 50%.
Recommended textbook: Jennings, S, Kaiser, MJ, Reynolds, JD, Marine Fisheries Ecology, Blackwell Science, Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
Field trip: A residential field course at the Leigh Marine Laboratory during the Semester One mid-Semester break is compulsory and fulfills the practical requirements of the course. The dates are 10-11 April 2010 or 12-13 April inclusive.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

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

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 207 or 208.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Kendall Clements.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Essay 10%, Practical 40%), Examination 50%.
Field trip:  compulsory three day field trip will be held in the second half of the mid-Semester break, either 3-5 or 6-8 September.
Recommended textbook: Helfman, Colette, Facey, Bowen, The Diversity of Fishes, 2nd edition (2009), Wiley-Blackwell.

(15 points) (City) Semester One

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

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 206 or BIOSCI 104, and 15 points from BIOSCI 205, 207, 208, and STATS 101 or 108.
Course coordinator: Dr Richard Taylor (Leigh Marine Laboratory).
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Field Report 20%, Essay 20%, Lab Report 10%) Examination 50%.
Laboratory: Saturday 31 March.
Field trip: Sunday 22 April.
 

(15 points) (City) Semester One

Marine ecology includes patterns and processes in the ecology of benthic and pelagic plants and animals, including how environmental factors and physiology infl uence species distribution and abundance. Lectures cover: measuring biodiversity at population (including molecular), species and ecosystem levels; ecology of phytoplankton and seaweeds including factors that infl uence their growth and productivity; plant-herbivore interactions and chemical ecology; and interesting case studies related to research at the university. Practical work includes collecting and analysing ecological data with regard to landscape (habitat and community) biodiversity, and a laboratory study of nutrient uptake in seaweeds.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 206, or 104 and 15 points from BIOSCI 205, 207, 208 and STATS 101 or STATS 108.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Mark Costello (Leigh Marine Laboratory).
Assessment: Assessment: In course 45% (15% theory examination, 30% practical), Examination 55%.
Field trip: Residential at Leigh Marine Laboratory either 10-11 March or 24-25 March.
Recommended textbook: Kaiser M., et al., Marine Ecology: Processes, Systems and Impacts, 2005, Oxford University Press, Oxford.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

Ecological (environmental) Physiology focuses on physiological diversity in relation to the environments in which organisms live. This course is about how animals cope with the physiological challenges of the environment. We consider animals at the interface between physiological, biological, biochemical or molecular approaches on the one hand, and ecology on the other. The effects of environmental factors on bio-energetics, nutrition and structural composition are emphasised. The adaptive and evolutionary strategies employed by a range of species in response to factors such as temperature, oxygen, water, pH, pressure and food availability, are considered. There is an emphasis on aquatic species reflecting the research interests of participating staff. The course aims to meet the needs of people with ecological interests wishing to apply an experimental approach to solving problems in environmental biology. We attempt to achieve the course aim through the use of research-based teaching. Because of the extensive literature in Ecological Physiology, the information presented is highly selective and cannot cover every field. We offer insights into specialised research fields that form the basis of an active postgraduate group in Biological Sciences.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 207 or 208.
Course coordinator: Dr Tony Hickey.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Practical 40%, Theory Test 10%) Examination 50%.
Recommended textbook: Animal Physiology, Second Edition. Richard W. Hill, Gordon A. Wyse, and Margaret Anderson. April 4, 2008, Sinauer Associates.
 

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

This course will provide you with an introduction to all major facets of the study of animal behavior, with special attention to its evolution and ecological significance. In addition to identifying major patterns and processes of animal behavior, we will discuss observational and experimental techniques used to study behavior. We will explore major theoretical models directing past and current research in this field. Topics include methods for the observation and quantification of behaviour, natural selection and evolution of behaviour, orientation, circadian rhythms, neural and physiological mechanisms of behavior, communication, aggression, sexual reproduction, parental investment, mating systems and social behaviour. Knowledge of BIOSCI 206 is recommended.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 207 and (STATS 101 or 108 or BIOSCI 209).
Course coordinator: Professor Michael Walker.
Assessment: Incourse 65% ( Practical 30%, Theory Test 35%), Examination 35%.
Field trip: One compulsory field trip will be held in mid semester break. Chronobiology 27-29 August Behavioural Ecology 30 August - 1 September Bird Behaviour 6-8 September.
Recommended reading: Krebs, J., Davies, N. (1993). An Introduction to Behavioural Ecology. Third Edition. Blackwell.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

This course focuses on selected topics in Plant Biotechnology and Plant Molecular Science. The lectures are presented by staff who are actively researching these areas from the University and from the nearby Crown Research Institute - Plant and Food Research. The information presented comes from application of a range of approaches - plant molecular biology, genetics, genomics, phylogenetics, cell biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and physiology. Topics include plant hormones and signalling, structure and biosynthesis of plant cell walls, regulation of flowering time, control of fruit ripening and post harvest quality and engineering of plant colour, health components and resistance to stress.

Prerequisites: 15 points from BIOSCI 201, 202 or 205.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Andrew Allan.
Assessment: Incourse 55% (2 Tests 15% each, Practical 25%), Examination 45%.
Recommended textbook: Taiz, L. and Zeiger, E. Plant Physiology. 4th Edn. Sinauer.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

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

Prerequisites: 15 points from BIOSCI 204, MOLMED 201, MEDSCI 202.
Course coordinator: Dr Mike Taylor.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Essay 10%, Practicals 25%, Terms Test 15%), Examination 50%.
Recommended textbook: Prescott, L.M., Harley, J.P., and Klein, D.A., Microbiology, 6th (international) edition (2005), McGraw Hill.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

The use and scientific fundamentals of microorganisms in the production of foods and food additives, nutriceuticals and probiotics. Fermentation-derived food additives and their industrial processes including principles of metabolic engineering. Molecular and applied aspects of the fermentation processes for production of beer and wine including aroma generation and analysis. Microbial food spoilage, pathogens involved, food safety and quality control.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 106 and 15 points from BIOSCI 204, MOLMED 201, MEDSCI 202.
Course coordinator: Dr Silas Villas-Boas.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Lab Report 15%, Practical Test 10%, Terms Test 20%, Lab Book 5%), Examination 50%.
Prescribed reading: Bibek R., Bhunia A., Fundamental Food Microbiology, 4th edition, CRC Press (McMillan).
 

(15 points) (City) Semester One

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

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 201 and either BIOSCI 204 or MEDSCI 202.
Course coordinator: Dr John Taylor.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Theory 30%, Practical 20%) Examination 50%.
Reference material will be recommended.
 

(15 points) (City) Semester One

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

This course provides an excellent background for students who wish to take BIOSCI 353, “Cellular Regulation, Hormones and Growth” in Semester two. For reasons of health and safety, students must enrol in this course in time for the first lab in Week 1 of the semester.
 

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 201 and 203.
Course coordinator: Dr Chris Squire.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Practical 20% from laboratory reports and Theory, 30% from two tests) Examination 50%.
Recommended textbooks:

1. C. Branden, Tooze J., Introduction to Protein Structure, 2nd edition, Garland.
2. Berg, J.M., Tymoczko, J.L., Stryer, L., Biochemistry, 6th edition (2007).
3. Lehninger, Principles of Biochemistry, 2nd edition, Worth.
   OR
4. Matthews, Van Holde, Ahern, Biochemistry, 3rd edition.

 Please note that no one textbook adequately covers the course content.

(15 points( )City) Semester One

The analysis of genetic material in prokaryotes, viruses and eukaryotes is addressed in this course. The means by which genetic information is transferred and the mechanisms underlying genome diversity will be examined, together with the study of eukaryote genomes at the level of chromosome structure and organization. The molecular mechanisms underpinning mutation and sequence diversity in the human genome will be discussed, with a focus on heritable human disorders and disease modelling.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 201 and 202.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Brian Murray.
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Theory 30% [two tests @ 15% each], Practical 20%), Examination 50%.
Recommended textbooks:

1. Griffiths, Miller et al., Introduction to Genetic Analysis, 8th or 9th edition, Freeman & Co.
2. Strachan T. & Reid, A.P., Human Molecular Genetics, 2nd or 3rd edition
3. Watson et al., Recombinant DNA, 2nd edition

Please note that no one textbook adequately covers the entire course content.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

The molecular mechanisms which mediate intracellular sorting, targeting and posttranslational modifi cation of biologically active molecules and the networks of intracellular and extracellular signals which regulate cell function form the focus of this course. The roles of growth factors, oncogenes, plasma membrane receptors, nuclear receptors, ion channels and membrane transporters are emphasised. For reasons of health and safety, students enrolling in this course must enrol in time to attend the fi rst lab in Week 1 of Semester. Students who plan to take this course should consider enrolling in BIOSCI 350 (“Protein Structure and Function”) which provides an excellent background.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 201 and 203.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Nigel Birch.
Assessment: Laboratory 20%, Essay 10% Incourse Test and Examination 70%.
Recommended textbook: Lodish et al, Molecular Cell Biology, 6th edition (2008) available on short loan.
 

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

This course focuses on the molecular biology of plant and animal cells. It stresses genomes and genomics, gene expression and genetic engineering. Topics include: regulation of eukaryotic gene expression and eukaryotic diversity and complexity (including the transcriptome, enhancers, transcription factors and RNAi silencing); whole genome sequencing and microarray analysis of expression of the genes in a genome; methods of gene transfer in plants, insects and animals with genetic engineering for crop improvement and viral vectors for gene therapy in humans.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 202 and either 201, 203 or 205.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Jo Putterill.
Assessment: Incourse 55% (Theory 30%, Practical 25%) Examination 45%.
Recommended textbooks:

1. Watson et al., Molecular Biology of the Gene, 6th edition, Pearson, Benjamin Cummings
2. Lodish et al., Molecular Cell Biology, 6th edition (2004)
    

Please note that no one textbook adequately covers the entire course content.

(15 points) (City) Semester One

Molecular, cellular and genetic aspects of normal and perturbed development focusing on a variety of model systems including Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, the zebrafi sh and the mouse. Molecular events underlying the development of body form, the contribution of stem cells to the different tissues of the body, and abnormalities of development that contribute to cancer.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 201 and 202.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Clive Evans.
Assessment: Incourse 40% (2 Lab Reports 10%, General Performance 5%, 1 test 25%) Examination 60%.
Recommended textbooks:

• Gilbert, S.F., Developmental Biology, 8th edition, Sinauer.
• G. Davis and C. Tickle. Principles of Development. 4th Edn. OUP.
• Tannock, I.F., Hill, R.P., The Basic Science of Oncology, 3rd edition, MacGraw-Hill.
• R.A. Weinberg, The Biology of Cancer, 1st edition, Garland.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

The scientifi c basis of nutrition focusing on its biochemistry and physiology linking diet to health and disease. Nutritional aspects of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and trace nutrients are covered in an integrated manner as are the clinical aspects of nutritionally related diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, Type II diabetes mellitus and cancer. Reference will be made to a broad range of examples, and a number of specific nutritional topics of current interest will also be included.

Prerequisites: BIOSCI 203.
Course coordinator: Associate Professor Sally Poppitt (Human Nutrition Unit).
Assessment: Incourse 50% (Lab Test 10%, Theory Test 20%, Lab Reports 10%, Research Essay 10%) Examination 50%.
Recommended textbook:
Zieglier, E.E., Filer, L.J. (eds), Present Knowledge in Nutrition, 7th edition, ILSI Press Washington DC.

Further information on journal articles of relevance will be provided during the course.
 

(15 points) (Tamaki) Semester One

Conservation of species and ecosystems. Population ecology, population growth, harvesting, and control, conservation practice, species and ecosystem management. Impacts and control of invasive species. Case studies in the conservation of threatened species. Population viability analysis, international conservation. This course assumes competence in statistics - students are strongly advised to enrol concurrently in BIOSCI 209 if they have not previously passed a fi rst or second year statistics course. BIOSCI 104 is an ideal precursor to this course and ecological knowledge equivalent to its content is assumed.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 104 and 30 points at Stage ll in either Biological Sciences or Geography.
Course coordinator: Dr Jacqueline Beggs.
Assessment: Incourse 75% (Terms test 25%, two Assignments 45%, one Assignment 20%) Examination 25%.
Field trips/labs: 14 March, 2 May , 4 April, 16 May.

(15 points) (City) Semester Two

The Pacific Ocean with its many remote archipelagoes represents the grand stage for the study of Island Biogeography and Insular Biodiversity. This course will examine those processes across the Pacific. A multidisciplinary approach, involving the study of both plant and animal systematics and biogeography, will be a feature of the course.

Prerequisite: 30 points at Stage 2 in either Biological Sciences or Geography.
Course coordinator: Dr Shane Wright.
Assessment: Incourse 65% (one Practical Assignment 30%, Theory Test 35%) Examination 35%.
Recommended textbook: Keast, A., Miller, S.E. (eds), The Origin and Evolution of Pacific Island Biotas, S.E. Academic Publishing.
 

(15 points) (Tamaki) Semester One

This course surveys the front lines of experimental population and community ecology, focusing on biotic and abiotic factors controlling the distribution and abundance of terrestrial populations of plants and animals. The fundamental ecological processes explored in this course underpin the conservation and management of species and ecosystems. Content: Population dynamics, community composition, exploitation (predation, herbivory, parasitism), competition and facilitation, mutualisms, food web dynamics and contentious issues, such as biological invasions and ecosystem functioning.

Prerequisite: BIOSCI 206 or 104, and (15 points from either BIOSCI 205, 207 or 208 and STATS 101 or 108).
Course coordinator: Dr Bruce Burns (Tamaki).
Assessment: Incourse 70% (Test 20%, Research Proposal 15%, Research Project 20%, Group exercise 5%. Presentation 10%) Examination 30%.
Field trips: Residential Fieldtrip 1: 3-4 March (Motutapu Island) (Friday evening to Sunday evening) Residential Fieldtrip 2: 5-6 May (Motutapu Island) (Friday evening to Sunday evening).
Laboratories: Lab 1: 9:30am-12:30pm, Wed 7 March, Tämaki Innovation Campus (room to be advised) Lab 2: evening Wed 16 May, Tämaki Innovation Campus (room to be advised).
Recommended textbook: Townsend, C.R., Begon, M., Harper J.L., Essentials of Ecology, 3rd edition (2008), Blackwell Publishers.