Parasitology - Biology 406/506

General Course Description:

This course will provide an introduction to both parasitological and epidemiological concepts using theoretical and empirical examples. 

 Objectives of the Course:

This course will introduce you to both parasitic organisms and important concepts in parasitology including (but not limited to):

·        Symbioses

·        Parasite diversity

·        Parasite form and function

·        Parasite taxonomy                                                                                  

·        Parasite life histories

·        Host-parasite specificity

·        Parasite distributions

·        Competition

·        Parasite induced mortality

·        Parasite influences on host behaviors

·        Anthropogenic impacts on host-parasite interactions

Expectations for the course: 

By the end of the course you should:

1)      Be familiar with all of the major parasite groups and the diseases that they cause.

2)      Understand the biotic and abiotic factors responsible for parasite establishment and proliferation in natural systems.

3)      Appreciate the role that parasites play in natural systems.

4)      Appreciate the diverse strategies that parasites employ to ensure development and survival across time and space.

In addition to weekly lab exercises, students will also be expected to develop and complete an independent project.  This project will be based around local host-parasite interactions and will entail a scientific write-up and oral presentation.

We will also be traveling to the Pigeon Lake Field Station to investigate parasites from very different host communities.  The station is comprised of a number of cabins (see below) and is within a short distance of numerous aquatic habitats.

Research                            Teaching                                CV                              Background                                   Oh Canada

Back to Homepage