Curriculum

An Introduction To Molecular Genetics And Microbiology

This course provides an introduction to the core concepts of genetics and microbiology, with a strong emphasis on research strengths within the Department of Molecular Genetics. Students will explore foundational principles alongside topical molecular biology challenges and cutting-edge approaches, illustrated through examples drawn from world-class genetics and microbiology labs from across Toronto's vibrant scientific community. Historical case studies are used throughout to ground modern discoveries in their broader scientific context. Topics include fundamental genetic mechanisms; cancer and stem cell biology; the genetic regulation of aging; essential microbiological principles; emerging and recurring microbial threats; and key tools and strategies in genetic engineering.

Course Coordinator: Jessica Hill

SYLLABUS

Explore how breakthroughs in genomics are transforming modern medicine, guided by researchers and clinicians at the forefront of the field. Students will begin by gaining a solid understanding of genome function, then delve into the mechanisms of genetic diseases and how these insights are translated into clinical practice. Ethical considerations in medical genetics are woven throughout the course, providing essential context for understanding the complexities of genetic testing and treatment. Lectures are delivered asynchronously online. The final exam will be held in person on the St. George campus.

SYLLABUS

Explore how microbes shape human health and disease, from emerging pandemics to antimicrobial resistance—featuring insights from researchers and public health experts. Students will gain a solid understanding of bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic pathogens, then examine how these microorganisms cause disease and how the immune system responds. The course addresses critical contemporary challenges including antimicrobial resistance, emerging infectious diseases, and the human microbiome's role in health. Contributions from experts at Public Health Ontario provide essential context on diagnostics, infection control, and vaccine development.

The final exam will require student attendance on the St. George campus.

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Course Coordinator: Jessica Hill

This course is for second-year specialists to engage in a one-semester research project in a laboratory within the Department of Molecular Genetics.

Students must be in their second year and registered as a specialist in molecular genetics and microbiology.

The department arranges laboratory assignments in consultation with both the student and the supervisor. Specialists accepted to the program will be contacted in September of their second year to start the process of finding a suitable laboratory for research beginning in January. The course will involve a weekly seminar/group meeting, and students will present their research project at the end of the year as part of their final mark.

Course Coordinator: Dr. William Navarre

Credit course for supervised participation in a faculty research project.

Detailed information is provided by the Faculty of Arts & Science at the link below.

Research Opportunity Program

This course examines the design and interpretation of experiments that have led to our current understanding of the biological roles of DNA, RNA and proteins. Intended for students considering graduate or professional work in molecular biology or a related field or wanting a deeper understanding of these topics.

Course Coordinator: Dr. Rick Collins

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Laboratory experiments in bacterial and eukaryotic genetics, with the focus on the fundamental tools of genetic analysis: mutation, suppression, complementation, recombination and genetic regulation (both epistasis and genetic interactions). Topics and experiments include mutagenesis and genetic selection, linkage and recombination, genetic crosses, gene regulation, suppressor analysis, cell fate determination, genetic interaction profiling, ordering genes in a genetic pathway, and genome engineering.

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Department-based Ancillary Fees: (subject to change)  $26.25 - Laboratory equipment and materials

Textbook: none required, but keep hold of your genetics notes from HMB265H and MGY340H.  An online lab manual will be made available to students through Quercus.

Course Coordinator: Dr. Bri Lavoie 

Laboratory experiments in animal (invertebrate) genetics, using two of the most powerful small animal (invertebrate) model systems, the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans and fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Students are expected to develop competencies in handling the invertebrates with small tools, setting up crosses, analyzing phenotype using microscopes, and carrying out a forward genetic screen. The course follows MGY314H1; topics include analysis of genetic networks and pathways, recombination mapping, genetic crosses, and phenotypic analyses.

Department-based Ancillary Fees: (subject to change): $27.32 - Laboratory equipment and materials

Instructors: Thomas Hurd and Peter Roy

Course Coordinator: Thomas Hurd

This course gives students an in-depth understanding of how eukaryotic genetics is used to probe and understand a variety of biological phenomena ranging from metabolism, to development, to cancer and to neurodegenerative diseases. This is a problem solving course that focuses on the study of mutations, their resulting phenotypes and genetic analyses to determine gene function, build genetic pathways and understand various biological processes.

Course Coordinator: Dr. Brigitte Lavoie 

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This course explores core concepts of genetics in the context of human development, disease and evolution, studied through the lens of diverse model systems. Topics include genetic interactions and complex traits, variation in disease phenotype, signalling and development, and epigenetic regulation.

Course Coordinator: Dr. Yun Li

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