Graduate
The primary objective of the Applied Bioscience (APBS) program is to train students to become high-quality researchers in both chemistry and biology. The program will equip students with a wide array of both theoretical and practical skills that will prepare them for careers in life sciences. Students will complete the APBS program through a combination of independent research and rigorous interdisciplinary coursework.
The program brings together students and faculty from a variety of scientific backgrounds, which will further enrich the learning experience of the students. In keeping with the university's strategic plan, our research aims to create innovations that will improve the lives of Canadians.
More information about Graduate Studies in Applied Bioscience.
Fields
The program capitalizes on the faculty's current research expertise which is reflected in four fields:
- Biomolecular Science
- Ecosystem Health
- Forensic Bioscience
- Human Health Biology
These fields are interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary in nature and require students to rely on both chemistry and biology research methods in order to answer specific research questions.
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Biomolecular Science
Biomolecular science focuses on the use of molecular and cellular tools to investigate mechanisms of cell function; new approaches for combating infectious organisms and disease; biomaterials and bio-based products; drug discovery, drug formulation and site-specific drug delivery; the mechanisms of action of pharmaceuticals at the cellular and molecular level; and the molecular and cellular aspects of the immune system in response to pathogenic and non-pathogenic micro-organisms. Research in this field occurs at the interface of biology and chemistry.
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Ecosystem Health
The field of ecosystem health focuses on determining the implications of external toxicants on the health of ecosystems, discovering indicators for environmental problems and developing methods to lessen human exposure to toxicants. In addition, researchers in the program investigate related areas such as environmental microbiology, the pathophysiology of environmental disorders and the micro and macro environmental factors causing cancer. Finally, research in the field focuses on specific environmental problems and the development of solutions that benefit Canadians.
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Forensic Bioscience
Forensic bioscience is a distinct field that combines special content areas of biological and chemical sciences with training in legal and forensic investigations. National security, bioterrorism and global pandemics are just three examples of areas in which skilled forensic bioscience workers will be in high demand in the future. For many scientists, the field of forensic bioscience crystallizes an area of research at the interface between biology, chemistry, forensic science and legal science.
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Human Health Biology
Human health biology is a field that addresses the basic understanding of human health with a particular emphasis on common human diseases, human movement science, applied physiology and respiratory illnesses. Efforts in this field concentrate on laboratory-based research that will translate into disease prevention and management, health promotion and novel therapeutic interventions. The four main areas of investigation are cancer, neuro-musculoskeletal function, exercise physiology and respiratory health. This field is further characterized by interdisciplinary research at the interface of several complementary core disciplines.
