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Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Faculty List
Professors Emeriti
P.A. Abrams, B Sc, Ph D, FRSC
S.C.H. Barrett, B Sc, Ph D, FRSC, FRS
D.R. Brooks, MS, Ph D, FRSC
D.G. Butler, M Sc, Ph D, D Sc, FRSA
T.J. Carleton, B Sc, Ph D
C.S. Churcher, M Sc, Ph D
N.G. Dengler, MS, Ph D
S.S. Desser, M Sc, Ph D
T.A. Dickinson, B Sc, Ph D
D.W. Dunham, BS, Ph D
J.E. Eckenwalder, M Sc, Ph D
J.B. Falls, BA, Ph D CM
C.A. Goldman, M Sc
R.I.C. Hansell, B Sc, Ph D
H.H. Harvey, M Sc, Ph D
D.A. McLennan, M Sc, Ph D
R.C. Plowright, MA, Ph D
H.A. Regier, MS, Ph D CM
G.M. Telford, B Sc, Ph D
J.D. Thomson, MS, Ph D, FRSC
A. P. Zimmerman, BA, Ph D
University Professors
M.B. Sokolowski, B Sc, Ph D, FRSC
Distinguished Professor and Associate Chair, Graduate Studies
A. Agrawal, B Sc, Ph D
Distinguished Professors
L. Rowe, B Sc, Ph D, FRSC
J.R. Stinchcombe, BA, Ph D
Professor and Chair of the Department
S.I. Wright, M Sc, Ph D
Professors
B. Chang, AB, Ph D
A.D. Cutter, B Sc, Ph D
M.-J. Fortin, M Sc, Ph D, FRSC
M.R. Gross, B Sc, Ph D
D.A. Jackson, M Sc, Ph D
R. Murphy, MA, Ph D
F.H. Rodd, M Sc, Ph D
R.F. Sage, MS, Ph D
A.E. Weis, BA, Ph D
Associate Professor and Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies
B. Gilbert, M Sc, Ph D
Associate Professors
J-B. Caron, M Sc, PhD
D.C. Currie, B Sc, Ph D
H. Cyr, M Sc, Ph D
C. Darling, M Sc, Ph D
M.E. Engstrom, M Sc, Ph D
D. Evans, B Sc, Ph D
M.E. Frederickson, AB, Ph D
M. Krkosek, B Sc, Ph D
N. Mideo, B Sc, Ph D
J.M. Moncalvo, M Sc, Ph D
T.L. Sage, MS, Ph D
Assistant Professors
S. Claramunt, B Sc, Ph D
S.B. Kvist, MS, Ph D
D.L. Mahler, BA, Ph D
M.M. Osmond, B Sc, M Sc, Ph D
C.M. Rochman, B Sc, Ph D
N. Rollinson, M Sc, Ph D
J. Sztepanacz, M Sc, Ph D
Assistant Professors, Teaching Stream
A. Bravo, B Sc, Ph D
S. Riskin, BA, Ph D
Introduction
Ecology and evolutionary biology (EEB) seeks to understand the origins, diversity, and distribution of organisms. All life evolves. All life sciences, along with evidence-based stewardship of life on planet Earth, depend on understanding the factors that influence the origin and maintenance of biological diversity − from genomes to ecosystems. Understanding EEB helps society to make informed decisions about sustainable development, global climate change, invasive species, harvested natural resources, preservation of biodiversity, genetic diversity and ecosystem integrity, control of herbicide and pesticide resistance, antibiotic and drug resistance, and emerging infectious diseases.
Students exposed to these subjects come to realize that the ecological and evolutionary underpinnings of life pose a constellation of engaging scientific problems that are both intellectually challenging and critical to humanity’s future. EEB graduates go on to successful careers in data science, research, medicine and healthcare, government ministries like MNR and DFO, environmental and conservation NGO’s and consulting firms, and many other industries. As members of one of the highest ranked EEB departments in the world and the largest EEB department in Canada, EEB students are uniquely positioned to enhance their scientific literacy as the future decision-makers and knowledge-creators in society.
The EEB Department offers a diverse collection of over 50 courses that explore biological diversity, conservation biology, molecular evolution, population and quantitative genetics, computational and statistical data analysis, genomics, animal behaviour, the ecology of populations, communities, and ecosystems, mathematical theory in biology, environmental biology, and systematics. EEB faculty include Curators from the Royal Ontario Museum. Students participate in diverse learning environments within EEB courses: hands-on bench and computer lab practicals, field trips, off-campus field courses in Ontario and internationally, small-class discussion seminars, and independent research projects with world-leading faculty researchers. Students enrolled in EEB courses and programs become part of a welcoming and supportive community of scholars.
The EEB Department offers five core Programs of Study (POSt): Ecology & Evolutionary Biology (Specialist and Major); Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (Major), Environmental Biology (Major and Minor). Students enrolled in EEB programs are invited to participate in the EEB:PMP peer-mentorship program for Co-Curricular Record credit as a mentee in 2nd year or as a mentor in upper years, and to attend the EEB Info Session Series for advising about career options, applying for scholarships and grad school, and seeking out research opportunities.
Students with questions and advising needs about EEB-sponsored programs are encouraged to visit the departmental website http://www.eeb.utoronto.ca/undergrad.htm or to contact the EEB Undergraduate Office, Earth Sciences Centre (25 Willcocks St.), Room 3055B, undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca, 416-978-2084.
The EEB Department also jointly offers multi-department programs: Specialist, Major, and Minor programs in general Biology (with Cell & Systems Biology), a Major program in Genome Biology (with Cell & Systems Biology and Molecular Genetics & Microbiology), and a Specialist program in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (with Cell & Systems Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Genetics & Microbiology, and Computer Science). Students requiring more information about these programs and their course requirements should consult the Biology Calendar page.
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Program Goals
Ecologists and evolutionary biologists recognize that all life has evolved and that an understanding of the factors influencing the origin and maintenance of biological diversity − from genomes to ecosystems − underlies all life sciences and is critical to our stewardship of life on this planet. EEB aims to produce citizens who are literate in the ecological and evolutionary principles that form the foundation for understanding life on Earth, how human and natural factors influence nature, and how changes to nature influence public health, the economy, and other societal priorities. The EEB-sponsored programs of study prepare students in these foundations of life science for future careers in data science, research, medicine and healthcare, government agencies like MNR and DFO, environmental and conservation NGO’s, and many other industries.
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Programs
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Specialist (Science Program) - ASSPE1006
The Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Specialist program (12 FCEs) provides an in-depth understanding of ecological and evolutionary patterns and processes, as well as the diversity of life forms (microbes, fungi, plants, animals). Concepts are taught using a broad array of approaches, including molecular studies, laboratory experiments, computer and mathematical modeling, and field studies. An integral part of the experience is to conduct independent research projects in the laboratory and/or field. There is a strong emphasis within the program on hands-on laboratory and fieldwork that complement the conceptual framework developed in lectures. Students in this program have the opportunity to concentrate in ecology, evolutionary biology, or behaviour.
This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.
(12 FCEs including at least 4.0 FCEs at the 300+ series level, 1.0 of which must be at the 400 series level)
First Year (3.0 FCEs): BIO120H1; BIO130H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1; ( MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/ MAT137Y1/ MAT157Y1
1. 2.0 FCEs: BIO220H1 (ecology and evolutionary biology); BIO230H1/ BIO255H1 (molecular and cell biology); BIO260H1/ HMB265H1 (genetics); BIO251H1/ BIO270H1/ PSL300H1/ ENV234H1 (plant or animal form and function/environmental biology); Please note: ENV234H1 environmental biology cannot be substituted with EEB375H1.
2. 0.5 FCE in statistics from: EEB225H1 (recommended)/ STA220H1/ STA257H1/ STA288H1/ GGR270H1/ PSY201H1
3. 0.5 FCE in core evolution from: EEB318H1, EEB323H1, EEB362H1
4. 0.5 FCE in core ecology from: EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB328H1
5. 0.5 FCE in organismal biology from: EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1, EEB331H1, EEB340H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1
6. 1.0 FCE at 300+ series, from: EEB313H1, EEB318H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB325H1, EEB328H1, EEB331H1, EEB340H1, EEB356H1, EEB362H1, EEB365H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1, EEB390H1, EEB398H0, EEB399Y0, EEB428H1, EEB430H1, EEB433H1, EEB440H1, EEB441H1, EEB455H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB465H1, EEB466H1, EEB491H1, EEB495H1; EHJ352H1; ENV334H1, ENV432H1; ENV395Y1; NUS301H0, NUS302H0, NUS303H0, NUS304H0, NUS401H0*
*More information about NUS courses and programs can be found on the Biology Calendar section
Sub-total = 8.0 FCEs
7. 1.0 to 1.5 FCEs in at least two of the three following categories: (1) one field course (0.5 FCE) from EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB406H0, EEB406H1, EEB407H0, EEB407H1, EEB410H0, EEB410H1; (2) one seminar (0.5 FCE) from EEB491H1, EEB495H1; and/or (3) one independent research course (0.5 FCE) from EEB497H1/(1.0 FCE) from EEB498Y1
Sub-total = 9.0 or 9.5 FCEs (depending on options chosen in #7)
8. Select the remaining FCEs for a total of 12.0 FCEs (at least 1.0 must be 300+ series if 1.0 FCE is completed in #7 above) from: BIO251H1, BIO270H1/ PSL300H1, BIO271H1/ PSL301H1; all EEB courses (excluding EEB197H1, EEB198H1, EEB199H1, EEB202H1, EEB208H1, EEB214H1, EEB215H1); EHJ352H1; ENV234H1, ENV334H1, ENV432H1; JHE353H1, JHE355H1; and no more than 1.0 FCE from the following (note that some courses may require prerequisites that are not listed within this program): ANT336H1, ANT333Y1, ANT335Y1, ANT338H1, ANT430H1, ANT436H1; CSB328H1, CSB340H1, CSB349H1, CSB350H1, CSB352H1, CSB353H1, CSB430H1, CSB431H1, CSB452H1, CSB458H1, CSB472H1, CSB474H1; ENV346H1; FOR200H1, FOR201H1, FOR301H1, FOR306H1, FOR307H1, FOR413H1, FOR416H1, FOR417H1, FOR418H1; GGR201H1, GGR203H1, GGR205H1, GGR206H1, GGR272H1, GGR273H1, GGR305H1, GGR307H1, GGR308H1; MAT221H1; MGY340H1; NUS201H0, NUS301H0, NUS302H0, NUS303H0, NUS304H0, NUS401H0*; PSY100H1, PSY260H1, PSY270H1, PSY280H1, PSY290H1, PSY305H1, PSY390H1, PSY397H1, PSY474H1, PSY492H1, PSY497H1 (note that many PSY courses have limited enrolment)
*More information about NUS courses and programs can be found on the Biology Calendar section
Total = 12 FCEs
NOTE: Students may wish to concentrate in ecology, evolutionary biology, or behaviour. Recommended EEB, EHJ and JHE courses for these concentrations are as follows:
Ecology: EEB255H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB328H1, EEB365H1, EEB428H1, EEB433H1, EEB440H1, EEB465H1, EEB495H1; ENV432H1
Evolutionary Biology: EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB325H1, EEB362H1, EEB390H1, EEB440H1, EEB441H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1; EHJ352H1; JHE353H1, JHE355H1
Behaviour: EEB322H1, EEB455H1
Biodiversity and Conservation Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ0110
In today’s era of unprecedented global change, natural ecosystems are under attack and thousands of species are threatened with extinction and many more have experienced unprecedented declines. Students in the Biodiversity & Conservation Biology Major program (8 FCEs) will be equipped to aid in the response to what is perhaps humanity’s most pressing challenge, the conservation of biological diversity. Students in this program take courses in their first and second years that provide foundations in ecology, evolutionary biology, biodiversity and conservation biology, environmental biology, mathematics, and statistics. In their upper years students will obtain in-depth knowledge about the diversity of living organisms and take advanced courses in ecology, evolution, and biodiversity and conservation biology, including a capstone course at the 400-level.
This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.
(8 FCEs including at least 2.0 FCEs at 300+ series with at least 0.5 FCE at the 400 level series)
First Year (1.0 FCE): BIO120H1; MAT135H1/ MAT137Y1/ MAT221H1/ MAT223H1
Higher Years:
1. 2.0 FCEs: BIO220H1 (ecology and evolutionary biology); EEB225H1(recommended)/ STA220H1/ STA257H1/ STA288H1/ GGR270H1/ PSY201H1 (statistics); EEB255H1 (conservation biology); ENV234H1 (environmental biology; cannot be substituted with EEB375H1)
2. 1.5 FCEs in organismal biology (with at least 0.5 FCE from Group 1 and 0.5 FCE from Group 2) from:
Group 1 (plant or microbial): BIO251H1; EEB268H1, EEB331H1, EEB340H1; FOR305H1
Group 2 (animal): EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1
3. 0.5 FCE in core evolution: EEB318H1, EEB323H1, EEB362H1
4. 0.5 FCE in core ecology from: EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB328H1
5. 0.5 FCE: EEB365H1 (applied conservation biology)
6. 1.5 FCEs from: BIO130H1, BIO251H1; EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1, EEB313H1, EEB318H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB325H1, EEB328H1, EEB331H1, EEB340H1, EEB362H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1, EEB390H1, EEB397Y1, EEB398H0, EEB399Y0, EEB428H1, EEB430H1, EEB433H1, EEB440H1, EEB441H1, EEB455H1, EEB459H1, EEB491H1, EEB495H1, EEB497H1, EEB498Y1, EEB499Y1; EHJ352H1; ENV334H1, ENV432H1; FOR200H1, FOR201H1, FOR307H1, FOR413H1; GGR272H1, JHE353H1, JHE355H1; NUS
7. 0.5 FCE at 400 series from: EEB465H1, EEB466H1; field course: EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB406H0, EEB406H1, EEB407H0, EEB407H1, EEB410H0, EEB410H1; seminar: EEB491H1, EEB495H1; EEB497H1; research project: EEB498Y1 (recommended research subject in biodiversity and/or conservation biology) and concurrent research issues course EEB488H1 (0.5 FCE)
NOTE: BIO260H1/ HMB265H1 (genetics) is recommended. Note that both BIO260H1 and HMB265H1 require BIO130H1 and BIO230H1/ BIO255H1; BIO230H1/ BIO255H1 require both CHM135H1 and CHM136H1
Students interested in law, economics, policy, or environmental studies may choose to pair their Biodiversity and Conservation Biology Major with another Major such as Economics, Environmental Ethics, or Environmental Studies (all three are Arts programs), or Science programs (e.g., School of the Environment programs).
Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ1006
The Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Major program (8 FCEs) provides a comprehensive understanding of ecological and evolutionary patterns and processes, as well as the diversity of life forms (microbes, fungi, plants, animals). Concepts are taught using a broad array of approaches, including molecular studies, laboratory experiments, computer and mathematical modeling, and field studies. An integral part of the experience is to conduct independent research projects in the laboratory and/or field. There is a strong emphasis within the program on hands-on laboratory and fieldwork that complement the conceptual framework developed in lectures.
This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.
(8 FCEs including at least 2.0 FCEs at 300+ series with at least 0.5 FCE at the 400 series level)
First Year (2.0 FCEs): BIO120H1; BIO130H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1
Higher Years:
1. 2.0 FCEs: BIO220H1; BIO230H1/ BIO255H1; BIO260H1/ HMB265H1; EEB225H1/ STA220H1/ STA257H1/ STA288H1/ GGR270H1/ PSY201H1
2. 1.0 FCE from: BIO251H1, BIO270H1/ PSL300H1, BIO271H1/ PSL301H1, EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1, ENV234H1
3. 0.5 FCE in core ecology and evolution from: EEB318H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB328H1, EEB362H1
4. 1.5 FCEs from: EEB313H1, EEB318H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB325H1, EEB328H1, EEB331H1, EEB362H1, EEB365H1, EEB375H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1, EEB390H1, EEB397Y1, EEB398H0, EEB398Y0, EEB399Y1, EEB428H1, EEB430H1, EEB433H1, EEB440H1, EEB441H1, EEB455H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB465H1, EEB466H1 ; EHJ352H1; ENV432H1; NUS201H0, NUS301H0, NUS302H0, NUS303H0, NUS304H0, NUS401H0*; PSY305H1
*More information about NUS courses and programs can be found on the Biology Calendar section
5. 0.5 FCE from: BIO251H1; BIO270H1/ PSL300H1; BIO271H1/ PSL301H1; EEB (excluding EEB197H1, EEB198H1, EEB199H1, EEB202H1, EEB208H1, EEB214H1, EEB215H1); ENV234H1, ENV334H1, ENV432H1; EHJ352H1; JHE353H1, JHE355H1; MAT135H1/ MAT136H1/ MAT137Y1/ MAT221H1/ MAT223H1; MGY340H1; NUS201H0, NUS301H0, NUS302H0, NUS303H0, NUS304H0, NUS401H0*
*More information about NUS courses and programs can be found on the Biology Calendar section
6. 0.5 FCE at the 400-series from: field course, EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB406H0, EEB406H1, EEB407H0, EEB407H1, EEB410H0, EEB410H1; seminar EEB491H1, EEB495H1; independent research project course, EEB497H1, EEB498Y1/ EEB499Y1 (concurrent with research issues course EEB488H1); advanced lecture/discussion course, EEB428H1, EEB430H1, EEB433H1, EEB440H1, EEB455H1, EEB459H1, EEB460H1, EEB465H1, EEB466H1; ENV432H1
Environmental Biology Major (Science Program) - ASMAJ1390
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates biological, chemical, and physical sciences to study human interactions with their environment. The Environmental Biology Major program (8 FCEs) provides a broad background in biology that is essential to understand the impact of humans on other organisms and their environments. It provides students with an understanding of ecology, the diversity and function of living organisms, the physical and chemical environment, and the ways organisms interact with, and affect, ecosystem processes. Students are exposed to ecosystem management, issues related to environmental change, and the consequences of interactions between humans and the environment.
This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.
(8 FCEs including at least 2.0 FCEs at 300+ series with at least 0.5 FCE at the 400 level series)
First Year (2.0 FCEs): BIO120H1; ( CHM135H1, CHM136H1)/ CHM151Y1; MAT135H1/ MAT136H1/ MAT137Y1/ MAT221H1/ MAT223H1 or PHY131H1/ PHY151H1 or BIO130H1
1. 2.0 FCEs: BIO220H1 (ecology and evolutionary biology); ENV234H1 (cannot be substituted with EEB375H1 for this requirement), ENV334H1 (environmental biology); EEB225H1 (recommended)/ STA220H1/ STA257H1/ STA288H1/ GGR270H1/ PSY201H1 (statistics)
2. 0.5 FCE in biological diversity and function from: BIO251H1, BIO270H1; EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1, EEB340H1; BIO260H1/ HMB265H1 (note that both require BIO130H1 and BIO230H1/ BIO255H1)
3. 0.5 FCE in physical environment from: CHM210H1; ENV237H1, ENV238H1; ESS223H1, ESS261H1, ESS262H1; GGR201H1, GGR203H1, GGR205H1, GGR206H1; PHY131H1, PHY132H1, PHY151H1, PHY152H1
4. 1.0 FCE in core ecology from: EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB324H1, EEB328H1
5. 1.5 FCEs from: EEB313H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB323H1, EEB324H1, EEB325H1, EEB328H1, EEB365H1, EEB375H1, EEB386H1, EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB406H0, EEB406H1, EEB407H0, EEB407H1, EEB410H0, EEB410H1, EEB428H1, EEB430H1, EEB433H1, EEB441H1, EEB497H1, EEB498Y1, EEB499Y1; ENV316H1, ENV337H1, ENV432H1, ENV452H1; ESS311H1, ESS361H1, ESS362H1, ESS462H1, ESS463H1, ESS464H1; FOR305H1, FOR307H1, FOR418H1; GGR305H1, GGR307H1, GGR308H1; JFG470H1
6. 0.5 FCE at the 400-series from: field course EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB406H0, EEB406H1, EEB407H0, EEB407H1, EEB410H0, EEB410H1/ FOR418H1; seminar/lecture course EEB428H1, EEB430H1, EEB433H1, EEB491H1, EEB495H1, ENV432H1, ENV452H1; ESS462H1, ESS463H1, ESS464H1; JFG470H1; EEB497H1, independent research project course EEB498Y1 (concurrent with research issues course EEB488H1), EEB499Y1
This program can be combined with other Environmental programs (see School of the Environment), as well as Science (e.g., Chemistry, Earth Sciences) and Social Science (e.g., Economics) programs.
Environmental Biology Minor (Science Program) - ASMIN1390
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates biological, chemical, and physical sciences to study human interactions with their environment. The Environmental Biology Minor program (4 FCEs) provides students an introduction to biology that is essential to understand the impact of humans on other organisms and their environments. It provides students with an understanding of ecology, the diversity and function of living organisms, the physical and chemical environment, and the ways organisms interact with, and affect, ecosystem processes. Students are exposed to ecosystem management, issues related to environmental change, and the consequences of interactions between humans and the environment.
This is an open enrolment program. A student who has completed 4.0 credits may enrol in the program.
(4 FCEs; must include at least one full-course equivalent at the 300+ series)
1. 1.5 FCEs: BIO120H1; BIO220H1; ENV234H1 (cannot be substituted with EEB375H1)
2. 0.5 FCE in organismal biology: EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1
3. 2.0 FCEs (at least 1.0 FCEs at 300+ series)
A. core ecology and evolution (no more than 1.0 FCEs): EEB318H1, EEB319H1, EEB320H1, EEB321H1, EEB322H1, EEB324H1, EEB328H1
B. biological diversity (no more than 0.5 FCE): EEB263H1, EEB266H1, EEB267H1, EEB268H1, EEB331H1, EEB340H1, EEB380H1, EEB382H1, EEB384H1, EEB386H1, EEB388H1
C. field courses (no more than 0.5 FCE): EEB403H0, EEB403H1, EEB405H0, EEB405H1, EEB406H0, EEB406H1, EEB407H0, EEB407H1, EEB410H0, EEB410H1
D. no more than 1.0 FCEs from: BIO251H1, EEB255H1, EEB362H1, EEB365H1, EEB428H1, EEB433H1; ENV334H1 (recommended), ENV432H1; NUS201H0, NUS301H0, NUS302H0, NUS303H0, NUS304H0, NUS401H0*
*More information about NUS courses and programs can be found on the Biology Calendar section
General Biology Programs: see Biology
The University of Toronto has an enormous depth of faculty members on the St. George campus who conduct leading-edge research and teach courses in the biological sciences. Within the Faculty of Arts and Science, St. George campus, there is no single biology department; members of the Departments of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology (EEB) and Cell & Systems Biology (CSB) teach biology courses across the broad spectrum of introductory to advanced topics. These departments jointly offer the Biology Programs of Study to provide broad-based training in biological sciences. Students requiring more information about these programs and their course requirements should consult the Biology Calendar page.
The Biology Specialist, Major and Minor programs are administered by the Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology. Students with questions and advising needs about these programs are encouraged to visit the departmental website http://www.eeb.utoronto.ca/undergrad.htm or to contact the EEB Undergraduate Office, Earth Sciences Centre (25 Willcocks St.), Room 3055B, undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca, 416-978-2084.
Co-sponsored Programs in Genomics and Informatics: see Biology
The Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology also co-sponsors the Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (Specialist) and Genome Biology (Major) programs. These programs are administered by the Department of Cell & Systems Biology. Students requiring more information about these programs and their course requirements should consult the Biology Calendar page.
Enrolment requirements, 1st year courses, advising and mentorship
All EEB programs have unlimited enrolment and no specific admission requirements. All students who have completed at least 4.0 FCE of courses are eligible to enroll in a Program of Study (FCE=full-course equivalents, most single-semester courses are 0.5 FCE). Program completion requires 12.0-12.5 FCE of courses for a Specialist, 8.0 FCE for a Major, or 4.0 FCE for a Minor. To fulfill graduation degree requirements, students must complete either one Specialist, two Majors, or one Major with two Minors. Students may choose a Specialist to focus in-depth on a single subject area or may pair complementing Majors (or Minors) to customize their education and training to encompass the breadth of their interests.
Students entering their first year in the life sciences take BIO120H1 (“Adaptation and Biodiversity” offered by EEB) and BIO130H1 (“Molecular and Cell Biology” offered by CSB). These courses are taken by students who have successfully completed Grade 12 Biology (SBI4U or an equivalent course). BIO130H1 also requires Grade 12 Chemistry (SCH4U or an equivalent course). One or both of these courses are a prerequisite for almost all further courses in the life sciences. Students requiring more information about BIO120H1 please contact the BIO120 Office, Ramsay Wright Zoological Laboratories (25 Harbord St.), Room 105E, bio120@utoronto.ca
Students requiring more information about EEB programs and courses please visit the departmental website or contact the Undergraduate Office, Earth Sciences Centre (25 Willcocks St.), Room 3055B, undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca, 416-978-2084.
EEB website: http://www.eeb.utoronto.ca/undergrad.htm
Students enrolled in EEB programs are encouraged to participate in the EEB:PMP peer-mentorship program for Co-Curricular Record credit as a mentee in 2nd year or as a mentor in upper years, and to attend the EEB Info Session Series for advising about career options, applying for scholarships and grad school, and seeking out research opportunities. EEB students are automatically considered for >$25,000 in merit and need-based endowed scholarships annually from our department. Students in EEB courses and programs also are encouraged to seek advice from the EEB undergraduate office (undergrad.eeb@utoronto.ca).
Lab Materials Fee
Some courses in this department have a mandatory Lab Materials Fee to cover non-reusable materials. The fee for each such course is given in its course description, and will be included on the student’s invoice on ACORN.
First Year Seminars
EEB’s “first-year foundations” seminar courses (EEB197H1, EEB198H1, EEB199H1) are designed to provide students the opportunity to work closely with an instructor in a class of no more than 30 students. These interactive seminars are intended to stimulate the students’ curiosity and provide an opportunity to get to know a member of the professorial staff in a seminar environment during the first year of study.
Ecology & Evolutionary Biology Course Goals
The EEB Department offers a diverse collection of over 50 courses that explore biological diversity, conservation biology, molecular evolution, population and quantitative genetics, computational and statistical data analysis, genomics, animal behaviour, the ecology of populations, communities, and ecosystems, mathematical theory in biology, environmental biology, and systematics. We encourage students enrolled in non-life sciences programs to take one of our many breadth courses to fulfill their distribution requirements for graduation. Students enrolled in EEB courses and programs become part of a welcoming and supportive community of scholars.
Students participate in diverse learning environments within EEB courses: hands-on bench and computer lab practicals, field trips, off-campus field courses in Ontario and internationally, small-class discussion seminars, and independent research projects with world-leading faculty researchers. EEB faculty even include Curators from the Royal Ontario Museum. In EEB courses, students make use of leading resources at UofT, including EEB’s greenhouse Growth Facility and the Koffler Scientific Reserve. Students build skills in writing, oral presentation, teamwork, critical thinking, and technical ability in addition to expanding their factual knowledge and conceptual understanding in the biological sciences.
Breadth courses for students in programs outside of the life sciences:
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Courses
BIO120H1 - Adaptation and Biodiversity
Principles and concepts of evolution and ecology related to origins of adaptation and biodiversity. Mechanisms and processes driving biological diversification illustrated from various perspectives using empirical and theoretical approaches. Topics include: genetic diversity, natural selection, speciation, physiological, population, and community ecology, maintenance of species diversity, conservation, species extinction, global environmental change, and invasion biology. A lab coat is required and the cost is approximately $16 if students wish to purchase it through the Department. (Lab Materials Fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB197H1 - Biodiversity and the City
Most of us are urban creatures, but we as people are not the only urban creatures. In this seminar we will explore the diversity of animal and plant species comprising the ecological community that we call “Toronto”. We will learn their names, whether they are endemic (from here originally) or newcomers, general aspects of their biology that suit them to living in an urban environment, how natural selection shapes the traits similarly and differently for species in urban versus wilderness settings, and what happens when the wild and the domesticated members of the community meet one another. For non-science students in all years and disciplines. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB198H1 - Genes and Behaviour
In this course you will experience the new paradigm in behaviour genetic research. You will learn why the concept of a nature-nurture dichotomy is passé and that it has been replaced by a new understanding gained from animal and human research in the areas of gene by environment interaction and epigenetics. We will discuss how our genome listens to our environment and the effect this has on our health and behaviour. We will learn why our early experiences are critical for the development of our brains and our bodies. Together this new body of knowledge will help us understand how individual differences in behaviour and health arise. For non-science students in all years and disciplines. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB199H1 - Humans, Evolution and Ecology
Learn about the evolution and ecology of humans and other species. Through discussion, scientific literature research, seminal readings, written reports and presentations you will discover scientific answers to questions such as (topics vary among years): How did life originate? Why are there so many species? Where did humans come from? Will humans become extinct? How can we explain human DNA and human brain size? Need we worry about climate change? What is causing the sixth extinction crisis? Are there ecological limits to human population size? What will life be like in the Anthropocene? Are humans still evolving? For non-science students in all years and disciplines. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB202H1 - Plants and Society
The importance of plants to society. Topics include: plant biology, domestication of crop plants, plant breeding and genetic engineering, biological invasions, conservation, biodiversity and genetic resources, ecological implications of advances in modern plant science, macroevolution of plants, forest utilization. For non-science students in all years and disciplines.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB208H1 - Ecosystems and the Human Footprint
An introduction to the diversity of Earth’s aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (e.g., coral reefs, lakes, tropical rainforests); the history of industrialization and human population growth; how the human footprint impacts ecosystems (e.g., ecosystem function, biological diversity); and strategies to maintain, recover and restore ecosystems. This is a course for non-science students in all years and disciplines. For non-science students in all years and disciplines.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB214H1 - Evolution and Adaptation
Evolution and adaptation of life on Earth. Introduction to the theory of evolution by natural selection. Topics may include: evidence supporting the fact of evolution, and how evolutionary theory can help explain the world around us, such as how species are formed, and the evolution of sex, infanticide, and disease. For non-science students in all years and disciplines. For non-science students in all years and disciplines.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB215H1 - Conservation Biology
Introduction to the scientific discipline that deals with threatened species and habitats. Topics include: biodiversity, extinction, threats, demography, genetic diversity, protecting, managing and restoring ecosystems (e.g., nature reserves, captive breeding, conservation corridors), sustainable development, and global warming. Ties between the study of conservation biology and environmental law, economics, and policy will also be covered. For non-science students in all years and disciplines. For non-science students in all years and disciplines.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
BIO220H1 - From Genomes to Ecosystems in a Changing World
Dynamics of genetic and ecological change in biological systems, from genomes to ecosystems. Evolutionary genetic and ecological perspectives on wide-ranging topics including disease, aging, sexual conflict, genetics of human differences, conservation, and global climate change. Applications of evolutionary, ecological, and molecular-genetic principles and processes. Responsibilities of human societies in a changing world. (Lab Materials Fee: $25).
Recommended Preparation: BIO130H1, BIO230H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB225H1 - Biostatistics for Biological Sciences
A statistics course designed especially for life science students, using examples from ecology and evolution where appropriate. Students learn to choose and use statistics that are appropriate to address relevant biological questions and hypotheses. Lectures and computer labs will be used to cover the following methods: sampling and experimental design, data exploration, correlation, regression, ANOVA, Chi-square, and non-parametric tests.
Exclusion: BIO225H1/ ECO220Y1/ ECO227Y1/ GGR270H1/ HMB325H1/ PCL376H1/ PSY201H1/ SOC300Y1/ STA220H1/ STA250H1/ STA288H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
ENV234H1 - Environmental Biology: Structure and Function of Ecosystems
This multidisciplinary course draws on elements from geology, soil science, and ecology to understand past and present environments and human impacts on landscapes and ecosystems. Emphasis on the structure, functioning and connectivity of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Field trips and labs. Mandatory day-long field trip on a Friday or Saturday in late September or early October (students choose which day; a small fee may be charged for transportation.) (Lab Materials Fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
BIO251H1 - Form, Function and Development in Plants
Hours: 24L/18P
Introduction to structure, function, and ecology of vegetative and reproductive processes in plants with a focus on flowering plants and gymnosperms. Lectures and labs emphasize photosynthesis, respiration, mineral nutrition, transport processes, patterns of plant growth and development, the role of hormones in development, photomorphogenesis, and plant reproduction. (Lab Materials Fee: $25).
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB255H1 - Essentials of Biodiversity Science and Conservation Biology
“Classical” and “new” concepts in biodiversity and conservation. Topics may include: evolution and ecology in the past (Holocene) and future (Anthropocene); levels and kinds of biodiversity; valuing biodiversity through ecological economics; causes of endangerment; predicting extinction; genetic and demographic theory; habitat protection and captive breeding; conservation policies and endangered species acts; designing future biodiversity.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB263H1 - Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
The ontogeny and phylogeny of vertebrate structure are considered within the context of evolutionary theory. Functional aspects of the various organ systems are examined. Representative vertebrates are analyzed (with brief dissection of some forms) in laboratory to illustrate selected anatomical features and to provide practical exposure to vertebrate construction. (Lab Materials Fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB266H1 - Animal Diversity: Invertebrates
The diversity of invertebrates (e.g. sponges, jellyfish, flatworms, molluscs, segmented worms, round worms, arthropods, echinoderms and several smaller phyla) is explored, focusing on taxonomic characters that define each group and their placement in the evolutionary tree of life, ecological function, biological requirements, and geographical distribution. Labs emphasize identification and recognition of major groups, including dissection when appropriate. (Lab Materials Fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB267H1 - Animal Diversity: Vertebrates
Introduction to the diversity of chordate animals (vertebrates, tunicates, and lancelets), focusing on morphological, physiological, ecological and behavioural traits that make each group special and how those traits increase vulnerability to human-based exploitation. Labs involve living organisms whenever possible, but only for display purposes.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB268H1 - Plant and Microbial Diversity
Introduction to the biology of algae, fungi, and land plants. Lectures and labs emphasize the diversity of organisms with a focus on life cycles, ecology, and evolution. (Lab Materials Fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB299Y1 - Research Opportunity Program
Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities/research-opportunities-program. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
EEB313H1 - Quantitative Methods in R for Biology
The quantitative analysis and management of biological data is crucial in modern life sciences disciplines. Students will develop skills with R as applied to problems in ecology and evolutionary biology to learn reproducible approaches for data management, data manipulation, visualization, modelling, statistical analysis, and simulation for solving biological problems.
Exclusion: STA130H1, PSY305H1
Recommended Preparation: CSC108H1/CSC120H1/CSC121H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: The Physical and Mathematical Universes (5)
EEB318H1 - Principles of Evolution
Principles and practice of evolutionary biology since Darwin. Topics may include: phylogeny, speciation, mutation and neutral evolution, population genetic variation, quantitative genetics, molecular evolution, natural selection and adaptation, evolutionary conflict and cooperation, and levels of selection.
Exclusion: Students who have taken EEB323H1/EEB324H1 cannot take (or concurrently take) EEB318H1. Students who have completed EEB318H1 may take EEB323H1/EEB324H1/EEB362H1.
Recommended Preparation: BIO260H1/HMB265H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB319H1 - Population Ecology
Abundance and distribution of populations; population growth and regulation; fluctuations, stochasticity and chaos; meta-population persistence and extinction; age and stage-structured populations; interactions within and between species; optimal harvesting; spread of infectious diseases. Labs include experiments and computer simulations. (Lab materials fee: $25)
Recommended Preparation: ENV234H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB320H1 - Dynamics of Ecosystem Processes
This course explores the relationships and feedback between biological communities and the abiotic factors of ecosystems. The course will cover the biogeochemical dynamics of energy and nutrients through ecosystem development and the effects of global change on these processes. The lab component of the course will apply lecture concepts and tools to specific case studies.
Recommended Preparation: ENV234H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB321H1 - Community Ecology
Nature and analysis of community structure; disturbance and community development; species interactions; community assembly processes. Computer exercises in weekly labs provide training in sampling, simulation, and data analysis.
Recommended Preparation: EEB319H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB322H1 - Behaviour and Behavioural Ecology
A broad introduction to animal behaviour emphasizing concepts from ethology and behavioural ecology, including foraging, predation, mating systems, parental care and behaviour genetics. Field and laboratory studies are undertaken. (Lab Materials Fee: $25; Lab Manual Fee: $10)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB323H1 - Evolutionary Genetics
Evolutionary biology rests on a foundation of evolutionary genetics. This course focuses on the core ideas in population genetics and extends to evolutionary genomics. Students are exposed to the mathematical theory underlying evolutionary genetics and will learn the mathematical foundations underlying these ideas. Topics include the population genetics of mutation, migration, drift, and selection, analysis of sequence variation, and the evolution of sexual reproduction.
Recommended Preparation: (MAT135H1, MAT136H1)/MAT137Y1/MAT157Y1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB324H1 - Evolutionary Ecology
Empirical and theoretical approaches to key areas of research including natural selection, sexual selection, and life histories. Other topics may include phenotypic plasticity, speciation, co-evolution, and quantitative genetics.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB325H1 - Evolutionary Medicine
How evolutionary principles can help us better understand health and disease. Concepts from evolutionary biology (e.g., life history theory, coevolution, genomic conflict, constraints and trade-offs) will be applied to key problems in medicine and public health, including antibiotic resistance, aging, cancer, autoimmune disease, and pathogen virulence.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB328H1 - Physiological Ecology
An advanced treatment of the physiological mechanisms controlling plant and animal distribution and ecological success. Topics of focus include photosynthesis and resource balance, water and nutrient relations, temperature effects, and adaptations to abiotic stress. A fee of approximately $15 may be charged for field trip transportation.
Recommended Preparation: BIO251H1/BIO270H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB331H1 - Introduction to the Fungi
Topics include fungal systematics, morphology, physiology, and ecology. The roles of fungi in the environment and their importance to man. A weekend field trip explores the natural occurrence of fungi. Labs introduce the techniques used for morphological and molecular identification, and for isolation in pure culture. Students use fungal cultures to conduct an independent experimental research project. (Lab Materials Fee: $25).
Recommended Preparation: EEB268H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
ENV334H1 - Environmental Biology: Applied Ecology
Applied issues in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, with an emphasis on land-use change and its impacts on watersheds. Topics include: ecology of agro-ecosystems and other human-managed ecosystems, bio-indicators of anthropogenic impacts, ecosystem restoration, and adaptive management. Group projects address local management/restoration issues.
Recommended Preparation: a course in statistics (EEB225H1 recommended)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB340H1 - Comparative Plant Morphology
The origin of land plants and the subsequent diversification of land plant vegetative and reproductive form and function. Discussions synthesize morphological and anatomical knowledge from living organisms and fossil records with cellular, physiological, and molecular information on the developmental "tool kit" of land plants and their ancestors throughout geological time. Topics address the evolution of vegetative and reproductive meristems; stem, leaf, and root architecture; vascular tissue; the ovule habit; fertilization processes; and pollination biology. (Lab Materials Fee: $25; Lab Manual Fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EHJ352H1 - Evolution of the Human Genome
Human genome diversity and evolution with a focus on current research. The course integrates applications of human evolutionary genomics to the understanding of human history and adaptation, the causes of disease, and genome structure and function. Topics include: comparative genomics, population genomics of adaptation, association mapping, repetitive/selfish DNA, and gene duplication.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
JHE353H1 - History of Evolutionary Biology
An examination of major ideas about biological evolution from the 18th century to the 1930s and of their impact on scientific and social thought. Topics include the diversity of life and its classification, the adaptation of organisms to their environment, Wallace’s and Darwin’s views on evolution by natural selection, sexual selection, inheritance from Mendel to T.H. Morgan, eugenics, and the implications of evolution for religion, gender roles, and the organization of society. Offered by the Institute for the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology.
Exclusion: EEB353H1/HPS323H1/HPS353H1
Distribution Requirements: Humanities; Science
Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)
JHE355H1 - History and Philosophy of Evolutionary Biology
An examination of the place of the organism in evolutionary theory from the early 1900s to the present. Biology is the science of living things, and yet, paradoxically, living things--organisms--have been comprehensively left out of the Modern Synthesis theory of evolution that developed in the twentieth century. This course surveys the reasons--historical, philosophical and empirical--for the marginalisation of organisms from evolutionary theory. It examines the ways in which evolutionary developmental biology attempts to restore the organisms to a central place in evolutionary biology. Offered by faculty in the Institute for the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology.
Exclusion: EEB355H1/HPS333H1/HPS355H1
Recommended Preparation: JHE353H1
Distribution Requirements: Humanities; Science
Breadth Requirements: Society and its Institutions (3)
EEB362H1 - Macroevolution
Explores patterns and processes of large-scale evolutionary change, played out over large geographic expanses and extended periods of time. Integrates information from paleontology, phylogenetics, field studies, functional biology, and experiments to link emergent evolutionary patterns to underlying evolutionary processes. Topics include: speciation, phylogenetic inference, adaptive vs. non-adaptive evolution, evolutionary constraints, diversification and extinction, evolutionary innovations, historical biogeography, and the relationship between evolutionary history and ecology. Tutorials will illustrate common analytical approaches to macroevolutionary investigation and provide in-depth exploration of landmark studies in macroevolution.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB365H1 - Topics in Applied Conservation Biology
Applied conservation biology including management (at the level of species/populations, environments/landscapes, and ecosystems) and how to conserve and maintain biodiversity and ecosystem function (including species and ecosystem distribution modelling).
Recommended Preparation: EEB255H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB375H1 - Organisms and Their Environment
Ecological interactions between organisms and their environment. Past and present changes in Earth’s environment and the human responses to those changes. Topics may include: Pleistocene glaciations, origins of agriculture, species extinctions, disease ecology, deforestation, water pollution, pesticides, and estrogenic compounds. (Note: EEB375H1 cannot substitute ENV234H1 to satisfy a program requirement.)
Exclusion: ENV234H1/ENV334H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB380H1 - Diversity of Insects
Hours: 24L/36P
Evolutionary history, morphology, physiology, development, behaviour, and ecological significance of insects. Labs focus on identification of major groups of insects found in Ontario and each student makes an insect collection. Insects are collected during field trips during class time and also on Saturday field trips early in the term. A fee of approximately $25 may be charged for field trip transportation.
Exclusion: EEB356H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB382H1 - Diversity of Fishes
Systematics, morphology, ecology, behaviour, biogeography, and conservation of fishes. Identification of major groups of fish; what makes each group biologically special and how those unique traits might contribute to conservation concerns. Labs focus on exercises designed to highlight how ichthyologists actually do research. (Lab materials fee: $25)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB384H1 - Diversity of Amphibians and Reptiles
Lectures and laboratories examine the natural history, morphology, behaviour, ecology, evolutionary relationships, and biogeography of amphibians (frogs and toads, salamanders, caecilians) and non-avian reptiles (turtles, the tuatara, lizards, snakes, and crocodilians). Ancillary fee of $25 to cover cost of arranging a live animal lab featuring living Ontario reptiles and amphibians. Students are also required to purchase a $25 lab manual.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB386H1 - Diversity of Birds
Avian ecology, behaviour, conservation, and functional morphology and evolution of avian flight. Labs focus on avian anatomy and song analysis, and an outdoor activity introduces students to basic avian identification and compiling a field journal.
Exclusion: BIOD48H3/BIO326H5
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB388H1 - Diversity of Mammals
Lectures and laboratories examine the natural history, morphology, classification, evolutionary relationships, reproduction, biogeography, and conservation of mammals. Labs focus on the identification of mammals and their diverse morphological adaptations including mammals of Ontario. Lab manual fee: $25.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB390H1 - Vertebrate Paleontology: Major Transitions in Vertebrate History
The evolutionary history of vertebrates is recorded in their fossil record. Lectures highlight the origin and radiation of major vertebrate clades, and emphasize key events in vertebrate history, notably major ecological and evolutionary transitions, and mass extinctions. Practicals (at the Royal Ontario Museum) explore fossils that exemplify these themes.
Recommended Preparation: EEB263H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB397Y1 - Research Project in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
An intermediate research project requiring the prior consent of a member of the Department to supervise the project. The topic is to be one mutually agreed on by the student and supervisor. They must arrange the time, place, and provision of any materials and submit to the Undergraduate Office a signed form of agreement outlining details prior to being enrolled. This course is open to highly self-motivated students who are in their Third Year and have a strong interest in ecology and/or evolutionary biology. Students are required to write up the results of their research in a formal paper, often in the format of a research article, and may be required to present the results at a poster session and/or participate in an oral presentation. Students should contact their potential supervisors over the summer before classes begin in September. Information regarding how to register for the course is available on the EEB website. Not eligible for CR/NCR option. Note: cannot enrol if already taken the fourth year research project course EEB498Y1/EEB499Y1.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB398H0 - Research Excursions
An instructor-supervised project in an off-campus setting. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities/research-excursions-program. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
EEB398Y0 - Research Excursion
An instructor-supervised group project in an off-campus setting. Details at: https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities/research-excursions-program. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Breadth Requirements: The Physical and Mathematical Universes (5)
EEB399Y1 - Research Opportunity Program
Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. Details at https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/current/academics/research-opportunities/research-opportunities-program. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
EEB403H0 - Tropical Field Biology
A two-week field course introducing students to the diversity of biological communities in the tropics focusing on ecological and evolutionary interactions. Plant and animal communities of the New World tropics are compared and contrasted with temperate communities. Student research projects included. Fee for accommodations, food, within course travel, station fee, etc. will apply. See Departmental website for details. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Recommended Preparation: A second or third year ecology, evolution or environmental biology course; and a course in statistics.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB403H1 - Tropical Field Biology
A two-week field course introducing students to the diversity of biological communities in the tropics focusing on ecological and evolutionary interactions. Plant and animal communities of the New World tropics are compared and contrasted with temperate communities. Student research projects included. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Recommended Preparation: A second or third year ecology, evolution or environmental biology course; and a course in statistics.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB405H0 - Temperate Field Biology
A two-week field course offered (in May or August) at U of T’s Koffler Scientific Reserve, King City, Ontario. Students learn the natural history of the region and conduct a field-based research project in ecology or evolutionary biology. A fee of $720 for accommodations, food, within course travel, station fee, etc. will apply. See Departmental website for details. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Recommended Preparation: A second or third year ecology, evolution or environmental biology course
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB405H1 - Temperate Field Biology
A two-week field course offered (in May or August) at U of T’s Koffler Scientific Reserve, King City, Ontario. Students learn the natural history of the region and conduct a field-based research project in ecology or evolutionary biology. A fee of $720 for accommodations, food, within course travel, station fee, etc. will apply. See Departmental website for details. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Recommended Preparation: A second or third year ecology, evolution or environmental biology course
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB406H0 - Inter-University Field Course
A two-week field course offered between May and August by another Ontario university (to various locations) as part of the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). The selection of field course modules are announced in January. For registration information and additional fees information consult the EEB website; fees from $350-5000 will be applied for field trip costs. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB406H1 - Inter-University Field Course
A two-week field course offered between May and August by another Ontario university (to various locations) as part of the Ontario Universities Program in Field Biology (OUPFB). The selection of field course modules are announced in January. For registration information and additional fees information consult the EEB website; fees from $350-5000 will be applied for field trip costs. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB407H0 - Alpine Ecosystems
A two-week field course at a high mountain field station in the summer. Students learn the natural history of alpine and subalpine biomes and investigate major abiotic and biotic interactions. Required projects catalogue natural diversity, examine species interactions, or assess abiotic influences and stresses on high-altitude organisms and their environment. (Offered occasionally.) Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB407H1 - Alpine Ecosystems
A two-week field course at a high mountain field station in the summer. Students learn the natural history of alpine and subalpine biomes and investigate major abiotic and biotic interactions. Required projects catalogue natural diversity, examine species interactions, or assess abiotic influences and stresses on high-altitude organisms and their environment. (Offered occasionally.) Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB410H0 - Lake Ecosystem Dynamics
A two-week field course in August (offered in alternate years) at the Harkness Fisheries Research Laboratory in Algonquin Park, Ontario. Field and laboratory exercises demonstrate how interactions between physical, chemical, and biological parameters are crucial in understanding lake ecosystems. Fundamental and applied issues are discussed. Students collect, analyse, and interpret data, and complete a class project and an individual project. A fee of $900 for accommodations, food, within course travel, station fee, etc. will apply. See Departmental website for details. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Recommended Preparation: At least one 200+ series course in ecology, environmental biology, or physical geography; and a course in statistics
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB410H1 - Lake Ecosystem Dynamics
A two-week field course in August (offered in alternate years) at the Harkness Fisheries Research Laboratory in Algonquin Park, Ontario. Field and laboratory exercises demonstrate how interactions between physical, chemical, and biological parameters are crucial in understanding lake ecosystems. Fundamental and applied issues are discussed. Students collect, analyse, and interpret data, and complete a class project and an individual project. A fee of $900 for accommodations, food, within course travel, station fee, etc. will apply. See Departmental website for details. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Recommended Preparation: At least one 200+ series course in ecology, environmental biology, or physical geography; and a course in statistics
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB428H1 - Global Change Ecology
An examination of organism, population, and ecosystem responses to long-term environmental change occurring at the global scale, with emphasis on human caused perturbation to climate and the carbon, nitrogen, and hydrolic cycles and their ecological effects.
Recommended Preparation: ENV234H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB430H1 - Modeling in Ecology and Evolution
Study of ecology and evolution uses models to explain biological phenomena including the maintenance of biodiversity, population growth, competition, eco-evolutionary dynamics, trait and molecular evolution, epidemiology, spatial ecology, phylogeny and extinction. Students will learn to develop, assess and apply analytical, simulation and statistical models for analysis and data interpretation.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
ENV432H1 - Urban Ecology
The ecology of urban areas through consideration of the biological and physical environments, in particular how the human-constructed environment alters pre-existing biophysical conditions and interactions. Encompasses a comparative perspective to study the development of these emerging ecosystems of increasing importance given global urbanization. One or two Saturday field trips (a fee of approximately $15 may be charged for field trip transportation.)
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB433H1 - Global Issues in Aquatic Ecosystems
Advanced study of ecological principles and applied issues in freshwater and marine systems. Lectures and student-led discussions will cover physical, chemical, and biological interactions, from microbes to marine mammals. Topics may include carbon and nutrient cycling, food webs & trophic downgrading, ocean acidification, hydrothermal vents & connectivity in the oceans, lake management.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB440H1 - Ecology and Evolution of Plant-Animal Interactions
Major concepts in ecology and evolution from the perspective of plant-animal interactions. The richness of interactions between plants and animals is explored including antagonistic interactions (e.g., herbivory, carnivorous plants), mutualistic interactions (e.g., pollination, seed dispersal, ant-plant associations), and interactions involving multiple species across trophic levels.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB441H1 - Reproductive Strategies
Behaviour, ecology, genetics and life history theory in the study of the evolution of sex, mate choice, sexual competition, sex ratio, hermaphroditism, age at maturity, fecundity, parental care and alternative strategies. Examples may be drawn from nonhuman animals, plants or fungi and highlight the research focus of the instructor.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB455H1 - Genes, Environment and Behaviour
An examination of the Gene-Environment Interplay perspective as sources of individual differences in behaviour, from both mechanistic and evolutionary viewpoints. Both historical and recent studies are used to illustrate important concepts in the field. Student-led discussions address the evidence base for these concepts.
Recommended Preparation: EEB322H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB459H1 - Population Genetics
A focus on theoretical population genetics, using mathematical models to understand how different evolutionary forces drive allele frequency change. Students learn how to mathematically derive classic results in population genetics. Topics include drift, coalescence, the relationship between population and quantitative genetics, selection in finite populations, and mutation load. Offered in alternate years; next offered in 2018-19.
Recommended Preparation: A solid understanding of basic algebra and calculus.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB460H1 - Molecular Evolution and Genomics
Processes of evolution at the molecular level, and the analysis of molecular data. Gene structure, neutrality, nucleotide sequence evolution, sequence evolution, sequence alignment, phylogeny construction, gene families, transposition.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB462H1 - Phylogenetic Systematics
The Tree of Life metaphor for evolutionary relationships among species, phylogenies, is now fundamental in biology. Phylogenetic trees are now used both in species classification and to investigate myriad biological hypotheses about the evolutionary process and applied problems like virus and cancer epidemiology. This course will train students in the concepts and core methods of phylogenetic tree inference, including parsimony, likelihood, and Bayesian techniques. Students will gain bioinformatics skills with application to DNA sequence analysis and phylogenetic tree inference. Through a combination of lectures, discussion, and computer labs, students will master theory and practice of phylogenetic tree construction and inference.
Exclusion: BIO443H5
Recommended Preparation: CSC108H1, EEB323H1, EEB362H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: The Physical and Mathematical Universes (5)
EEB465H1 - Advanced Topics in Biodiversity Science and Conservation Biology
Biodiversity in the Anthropocene. This course links the biological and social sciences to identify human goals for future biodiversity, methods to achieve this biodiversity, and to understand key issues such as the end of the wild, ecosystem services as a unit of conservation, animal welfare as a moral responsibility, and GMOs as biodiversity. Practical training may be provided in identifying species at risk, and in applying ecological-economics to trade-off decisions.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB466H1 - Approaches to the Study of Biodiversity
This course uses the collections, research, and public gallery areas of the Royal Ontario Museum to expose students to the ways in which biodiversity is discovered, analyzed, and interpreted in a museum setting. Topics include: morphological and molecular approaches, taxonomy, classification, bioinformatics and e-taxonomy, and the interpretation of biodiversity for the public. Labs include student projects and a one-day field trip on a weekend (cost about $15).
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB488H1 - Research Issues in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
This course is taken concurrently by students who are enrolled in EEB498Y1 Advanced Research Project in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and uses a combination of seminars, discussions, and presentations (including presentations by students) designed to cover issues commonly encountered when conducting research in ecology and evolutionary biology. Topics may include experimental design, effective use of statistics, scientific writing and publishing, public communication, ethics, and career development. Students will be required to attend weekly departmental seminars. This half-course runs from September to April and lectures meet in alternate weeks.
Corequisite: EEB498Y1
Exclusion: EEB499Y1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB491H1 - Seminar in Biodiversity and Conservation Biology
Seminar course in biodiversity and conservation biology, emphasizing critical thinking and the synthesis of ideas crossing disciplinary boundaries. Group discussions among peers, facilitated by faculty, and student presentations. Discussions include critical analysis of research and review articles in the primary literature, with a focus on recent developments in biodiversity science and conservation biology. Evaluation based on presentations, participation in class discussions, and written assignments. (Note students may take this course only once.)
Exclusion: EEB495H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB495H1 - Seminar in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Seminar course in ecology and evolutionary biology, emphasizing critical thinking and the synthesis of ideas crossing disciplinary boundaries. Group discussions among peers, facilitated by faculty, and student presentations. Discussions include critical analysis of research and review articles in the primary literature. Evaluation based on presentations, participation in class discussions, and written assignments. (Note students may take this course only once.)
Exclusion: EEB491H1
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB497H1 - Research Studies in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
An independent studies half-course allowing students to produce a literature review, which is supervised by a faculty member in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Highly motivated fourth-year students will work closely with a supervisor and be required to write up the results of their research in a final research paper. Students should contact a potential supervisor well before classes begin in the fall, winter, or summer session. Information on how to apply for the course is available on the EEB website. Students cannot take more than two independent research courses of EEB 497H1, 498Y1, and 499Y1, and the second project must be with a different supervisor. Students who apply to EEB497H1 in the fall session can also apply to enrol concurrently in EEB488H1Y. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB498Y1 - Advanced Research Project in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
An advanced research project (a literature review alone is not sufficient) requiring the prior consent of a member of the Department to supervise the project. The topic is to be one mutually agreed on by the student and supervisor. They must arrange the time, place, and provision of any materials and submit to the Undergraduate Office a signed form of agreement outlining details prior to being enrolled. This course is normally open only to highly self-motivated students who are in their Fourth-Year and have adequate background in ecology and/or evolutionary biology. Students are required to write up the results of their research in a formal paper, often in the format of a research article, and are also required to present the results at a poster session and/or oral presentation. The time commitment is approximately 8 hours per week. Students should contact their potential supervisors over the summer before classes begin in September. Information regarding how to register for the course is available on the EEB website. Students in this course are also concurrently enrolled in EEB488H1Y Research Issues in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Corequisite: EEB488H1Y
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)
EEB499Y1 - Advanced Research Project in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology II
Allows students to do another independent project, supervision of which must be different from EEB497H1/EEB498Y1. Operates in the same manner as EEB498Y1. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Distribution Requirements: Science
Breadth Requirements: Living Things and Their Environment (4)