Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - HSCI 336 D100

Health and Life Sciences Laboratory (4)

Class Number: 2098

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, Fri, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Gratien Prefontaine
    ggp1@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-8645

  • Prerequisites:

    MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to selected wet bench laboratory techniques common to biomedical health research. The skills learned will focus on observation, communication, problem solving and critical thinking. These fundamental laboratory skills are designed to prepare students to perform future laboratory studies in many areas of health science research. Students who have taken HSCI 373 under this topic in Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course will cover basic laboratory techniques in cell biology with a focus on animal cell culture techniques.  Methods of data acquisition, analysis, and written and oral reporting skills will also be covered.  Collaboration and teamwork are also key features of this course.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The skills learned will focus on observation, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

By the end of the course, students should be able to:
• Review experimental protocols and execute laboratory experiments
• Accurately record protocols and the outcomes of experiments
• Utilize appropriate methods to analyze data
• Clearly communicate research findings and interpretations in written and oral form
• Exhibit confidence in the execution of basic cell culture and molecular techniques
• Contextualize experimental findings to relevant research literature

Grading

  • Lab notebook 20%
  • Lab meeting presentations 20%
  • Final exam 20%
  • Lab reports 20%
  • Attendance and active participation 15%
  • Quizzes 5%

NOTES:

HSCI 336-4 is a relatively new version of a new 300-level lab course designed to serve as preparation and pre-requisite for the 400-level lab courses in Health Sciences (HSCI 440, HSCI 441, HSCI 442).

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students must bring a laboratory notebook, laboratory coat, safety goggles, and portable USB drive to each lab session.

RECOMMENDED READING:

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, by Rebecca Skloot
ISBN: 978-1400052189

Natural Obsessions by Natalie Angier
ISBN: 978-0395924723

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.