Summer 2026 - BISC 305 D100
Animal Physiology (3)
Class Number: 1214
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
BurnabyMay 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Inigo Novales Flamarique
inigo@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
(BISC 205 or BPK 205) and MBB 231, both with a minimum grade of C-.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
A study of the major physiological systems, with an emphasis on understanding the biophysical properties underpinning physiological mechanisms.
COURSE DETAILS:
This course introduces the major physiological systems with an emphasis on understanding mechanisms. The course emphasizes the Physics behind the Physiology and the exams involve substantial Physics concepts. The exams are based on deductive thinking (like math or physics exams) and memorization of facts plays almost no role in this class. Though all concepts and several examples to illustrate the application of concepts are presented in class and as part of the assignments, students are expected to search for additional material (e.g. exercise problems) on their own. The instructor and TA(s) are available for help but the emphasis of this course on Physics concepts in Physiology should not be underestimated.
COURSE OUTLINE
- Basic principles of neuroscience
- Sensory systems
- Muscle physiology
- Basic endocrinology
- Cardiovascular physiology
- Respiratory physiology
- Water balance
Grading
- Midterm 1 30%
- Midterm 2 25%
- Midterm 3 25%
- Assignments 20%
Materials
MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:
The course emphasizes Physics-based concepts in the study of Animal Physiology. The student is expected to look for any additional study material on his/her own.
REQUIRED READING:
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.
RECOMMENDED READING:
Powerpoint slides will be made available on Canvas for students to download. A book is not required for this class though reading Animal Physiology (e.g. Eckert’s Animal Physiology) and Neuroscience books (all available in the SFU library) is highly recommended.
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:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
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.