Mission
The objectives of the University are :
(a ) to advance learning and knowledge through particularly
-
(i) in science, technology,engineering, ma business studies; and
(ii) at the postgraduate level; and
(b) to assist in the economic and social development of Hang Kong.
from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Qrdnance, 1987
1
Postal Address The Hong Kong Unlversrty of Sclence & Technology Clear Water Bay
Kowloon, Hong Kong
1
Telephone 3586000Facsrmrle 358 0545 (General Enqulnes) 358 0769 (Adm~ssron Enqulrres)
Principal Officers
Chancellor
His Excellency Sir David WILSON. GCMG Chairman of the Council Sir Sze-Yuen CHUNG. GBE. F ENG. JP
Vice-Chairman of the Council The Honourable CHENG Hon.Kwan.OBE. JP
Treasurer of the Council The Honourable LAU Wah.Sum. OBE. JP
Vicechancellor and President Professor Chia-Wei WOO. BS. MA. PhD Pro-Vice-chancellor for Academic Affairs
Professor Chih-Yung CHIEN. BS. MS. PhD Pro-Vice-chancellor for Administration and Business
Mr Ian F
.
C.
MACPHERSON. OBE. MA Pro-Vice-chancellor for Research and DevelopmentProfessor Thomas E
.
STELSON. BS. MS.
DScCONTENTS
The University Introduction ... 1...
The Campus 1...
Academic Faculty 2...
Students 2...
The Academic Year 3
...
Undergraduate Programmes 3
...
Postgraduate Programmes 4
Admission of Students
General Undergraduate Entrance Requirements
...
6...
Entrance Requirement Equivalents 6
...
Mature Applicants 7
Future Entrance Requirements ... 7 Departmental Entrance Requirements
...
8 Application for Admission in 1992 through JUPAS ... 8...
Application for Direct Admission 10
...
Students from Overseas 10
...
Admission Enquiries 11
Registration. Fees and Financial Assistance
...
Registration 13...
Fees 13 Financial Assistance...
14 Academic Regulations...
General 17...
Courses 17 Programme Registration...
19...
Undergraduate Programmes 19...
Postgraduate Programmes 20...
Course Grading 21...
Grade Review 23...
Grade Averages 23...
Academic Standing 23...
Continuation of Study 24...
Undergraduate Degree Requirements 24
...
School of Science 25 Department of Biochemistry
...
25 Department of Biology...
36 Department of Chemistry ... 53 Department of Mathematics...
70 Department of Physics ... 95 School of Engineering 114 Department of Chemical Engineering...
115Department of Civil and Structural Engineering ... 1 16 Department of Computer Science ... 1 19
...
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering 141...
Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering 158 Department of Mechanical Engineering...
159School of Business and Management 167 Department of Accounting ... 171
Department of Economics ... 172
Department of Finance
...
173Department of Business Information Systems ... 175
Department of Management ... 175
Department of Marketing
...
175School of Humanities and Social Science 198 Division of Humanities
...
198Division of Social Science ... 202
Language Centre ... 206
Academic Services University Library ... 21 1 Centre of Computing Services and Telecommunications ... 21 2 Educational Technology Centre ... 21 2 Industrial Training Centre
...
21 3 Research Centre. Institutes and Central Research Facilities Research Centre ... 215Biotechnology Research Institute
...
217Hong Kong Telecom Institute of Information Technology ... 217
...
Materials Characterisation and Preparation Centre 218 Microelectronics Fabrication Centre ... 218Student Services Counselling Service ... 219
Physical Education and Sports ... 219
Health Service ... 219
Residential Halls ... 220
Student Amenities ... 220
Student Activities
...
220The University Ordinance 222 Statutes of the University Senate 237 University Council 242 University Senate 244 Advisory Committees 247 Staff List University Administration
...
255Schools and Academic Departments
...
256Administrative and Service Units
...
265Important Dates in the 1991 -92 and 1992-93 Academic Years
Staff Index
THE UNIVERSITY
Introduction
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) was incor- porated in April 1988 as a publicly funded university. It was established to be a world- class technological research university dedicated to the advancement and dissemi- nation of learning and to research scholarship. Its graduates will be men and women of mature judgement and generous spiritwho will contribute to Hong Kong'seconomic and social well-being and promote research, development, and entrepreneurship in the Asia-Pacific region.
To accomplish these goals, HKUST places emphasis on teaching - the dissemination of knowledge, on research -the creation of knowledge, and on service -the application of knowledge.
The University comprises the School of Science, the School of Engineering, the School of Business and Management, and the School of Humanities and Social Science. The first three Schools offer undergraduate programmes and postgraduate programmes through to the doctorate, while the School of Humanities and Social Science offers only advanced studies leading to postgraduate degrees up to the doctorate. At the undergraduate level, the School of Humanities and Social Science provides general education in the humanities and social sciences and in English communication skills to students in the other three Schools.
Several Research Institutes have been established to promote interdiscipli- nary research and collaboration among the different Schools and Departments. The Research Centre is building strong connections with the private and public sectors through contractual and applied research. Extensive interaction with industry at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels is also being developed.
The medium of instruction is English. The Campus
The campus occupies a 60-hectare site of sweeping beauty on the northern end of Clear Water Bay Peninsula at Tai Po Tsai. Situated on the slopes along the shore, the campus grounds are terraced to afford buildings on all levels with unobstructed panoramic views of the sea, looking east and northeast toward Port Shelter and the Sai Kung area. The main academiccomplex is situated on the highest level of the slope, while student residential halls, outdoor sports facilities, and other student amenities are close to the water and the natural marina.
The Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club has generously donated a total of $1.926 billion toward the capital construction costs, and is also responsible for managing the overall construction project.
The campus is being built in three phases. Phase I was completed in July 1991 and has a capacity of 2,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) undergraduate and postgraduate students. Phase II, to bring capacity to about 7,000 FTE students, will be completed by 1993. With the planned completion of Phase Ill in 1996 (contingent upon the Government's approval of construction funds), the University will be able to accommodate a student body of 10,000 FTE students.
The Academic Year
The academic year of the University begins on 1 July and ends on 30 June the following year. It normally includes a Fall Semester commencing in early September and running for 15 weeks, a Winter Session over the Christmas-New Year to Chinese New Year period, and a 15-week Spring Semester beginning after Chinese New Year. There is a one-week Spring break in the Spring Semester around Easter. The last week of each semester is devoted to examinations. For 1991 -92 only, the Fall Semester begins on 2 October, 1991, there is adelayed Winter Session, and there is no Spring break.
Important dates forthe 1991 -92 and 1992-93 academic years are found at the end of the Calendar.
Academic Faculty
The University recruits worldwide for faculty who have achieved excellence in their respective fields and are highly respected as both teachers and researchers. They include both established academics and promising younger scholars who have demonstrated a high degree of professional competence. They have broad intellec- tual interests, and wish to work collaboratively with colleagues in other fields and interact with professionals in industry, commerce and the public services.
These men and women care about Hong Kong, its people and its future. Most importantly, they care about their students.
The University begins instruction in 1991 with over 100 faculty, a large percentage of whom are in senior positions. In 1992 over 200 academics will have been appointed and the academic staff will grow to more than 900 before the turn of the century.
Students
The University seeks highly qualified and motivated young men and women who have wide interests and have received a well-rounded broad-based secondary education. They should be active participants rather than spectators in diverse activities, and possess great potential in addition to having achieved good grades.
The University's goal is to engage its students in a continuous dialogue, to challenge them intellectually, and to encourage them to thinkon their own and to learn how to learn. Thus the University's graduates will become competent professionals, innovative leaders in their fields, adaptable and versatile generalists, and sensitive, caring citizens.
2
Undergraduate Programmes
The undergraduate programmes offered by the University involve students attending full time for three academic years. The University curriculum is founded on a credit-based system, and all undergraduate degrees are honours degrees. In keeping with the University's policy of providing specialist training with a generalist outlook, undergraduates will take about two-thirds of their credits in their chosen Schools. In addition, students are required to take at least 12% of their subjects in the School of Humanities and Social Science. The remaining credits are spread over subjects offered by Departments in other Schools. For graduation purposes students need to accumulate a total of 100-105 course credits.
As the University is being constructed in phases, the Schools are introducing degree programmes in their respective Departments over a period of three years. The School of Humanities and Social Science offers general education for all undergradu- ates in the other three Schools and accepts no first-degree students of its own.
First-degree programmes begin in the years indicated: SCHOOL OF SCIENCE Bachelor of Science (BSc) Biochemistry Biology Chemistry Mathematics Physics
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
Chemical Engineering (1 993)
Civil and Structural Engineering (1 992)
Computer Science (1 991)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (1 991)
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (1 993)
Mechanical Engineering (1 992)
Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Chemical Engineering (1 993)
Civil and Structural Engineering (1991)
Computer Science (1991)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (1 991)
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering (1 993)
Mechanical Engineering (1 991 )
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Accounting
Business lnformation Systems Economics Finance Management Marketing Bachelor of Science (BSc) ~conomics
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Accounting (1 991)
Business Information Systems (1 992)
Economics (1991)
Finance (1 991)
Management (1 992)
Marketing (1 992)
Master of Science (MSc), Master of Philosophy (MPhil),
and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (1 992)
SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE Postgraduate Programmes
The University offers postgraduate studies leading to master's and doctoral degrees in all four Schools, with the following postgraduate programmes beginning in the years indicated:
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Biochemistry (1 991) Biology (1 991) Chemistry (1991) Mathematics (1991) Physics (1991)
Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Humanities Social Science
JOINT DEGREE PROGRAMMES
Interdisciplinary study and research will be encouraged and collaborating Departments will offer programmes leading to joint interdisciplinary degrees. One joint degree programme is offered at present :
ADMISSION OF STUDENTS
General Undergraduate Entrance Requirements To qualify for admission to the University, applicants must :
a) normally be at least 17 years of age by the first day of the academic year to which they are seeking admission;
b) meet the general entrance requirements of the University and the requirements of the particular programme for which they are applying; and
c) apply on the prescribed form before the application deadline.
Entry to an undergraduate programme of study at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology requires prospective students to satisfy both general University and specific departmental entrance requirements.
To satisfy the general requirements an applicant is to have obtained: (a) passes in at least seven subjects in the Hong Kong Certificate of
Education Examination at the first and second attempts, with passes in at least five of these subjects at a single sitting, and
i) three of these subjects must be Mathematics, English Language, and a second language, either Chinese or an alternative language, ii) for English Language (Syllabus B), the grade obtained must be D or
above, or equivalent, and
iii) in at least two subjects the grade obtained must be C or above; (b) passes in at least three subjects in the Hong Kong Advanced Level (A-
level) Examination; and
(c) a pass at Grade D or above in the Use of English Examination.
Entrance Requirement Equivalents
Alternatively the general entrance requirements may be satisfied by obtaining one of the following qualifications:
(a) the General Certificate of Secondary Education, or the General Certifi- cate of Education, with passes in at least seven subjects at the Ordinary Level including Mathematics, English Language, and a language other than English, and at least three subjects at the Advanced Level or equivalent (with two Advanced Supplementary passes being regarded as the equivalent of one Advanced Level pass);
(b) a degree awarded after examination by a university or other institutions recognised by this University;
(c) a professional diploma, higher diploma, higher certificate, or diploma from a polytechnic or recognised tertiary college in Hong Kong; (d) an International Baccalaureate;
(e) an equivalent or higher level qualification approved by the University Senate for this purpose.
As an alternative to grade D or above in English Language (Syllabus B) of the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination, a satisfactory grade in one of the following examinations is acceptable:
(a) English Language (Syllabus A) of the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination -Grade B or above;
(b) English Language of the Hong Kong Higher Level Examination - Grade D or above;
(c) English Language of the General Certificate of Education Examination (Ordinary Level) -Grade C or above;
(d) English Language of the General Certificate of Secondary Education - Grade C or above.
Mature Applicants
Applicants who do not satisfy the general or departmental entrance require- ments of the University but are aged 25 or over by the first day of the academic year in which admission is sought may begranted exemption from the University Entrance Requirements provided they can demonstrate aptitude and suitability for admission to a particular programme of study.
Future Entrance Requirements
Beginning with 1994 Admission, the requirement for passes in at least three A-level subjects will be replaced with :
either (1) Grade E or above in the same sitting in one A-level subject plus (2) either Chinese Language and Culture, or Liberal Studies plus (3) two AS subjects,
or (1) Grade E or above in the same sitting in two A-level subjects plus (2) either Chinese Language and Culture, or Liberal Studies. It should be noted that a Grade D or above in the Use of English will still be required.
Departmental Entrance Requirements January to May 1991 Interviews and tests. In addition to the general requirements, students must also satisfy entrance
requirements for their desired programmes of study. These are specified in the departmental sections of this Calendar.
Application for Admission in 1992 Through JUPAS
In the Autumn of 1990 the new "Joint University and Polytechnic Admissions System" (JUPAS) was introduced. This system enables Secondary 6 students in Hong Kong schools to apply at one or more of the following six institutions for admission to first-degree programmes starting in September 1992 :
City Polytechnic of Hong Kong Hong Kong Baptist College Hong Kong Polytechnic
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and The University of Hong Kong
The JUPAS Office provides the secondary schools of Hong Kong with the appropriate application forms, copies of the JUPAS Guide and the prospectuses of the six participating institutions. The JUPAS Guide contains detailed information on application and selection procedures and a list of courses offered by individual institutions. It is essential that applicants study the JUPAS Guide and the prospec- tuses of the various institutions carefully before completing the application form. An application fee of $200 is payable to the JUPAS Office by all applicants.
For reference, the following are important dates for 1992 admission. JUPAS may make adjustments to the timetable.
1 November 1990 Closing date for applications for admission.
Early December 1990 Applicants receive checklists of their personal data through schools.
15 December 1990 Last day for applicants to report errors in checklists to JUPAS Office through schools.
28 February 1991 Last day for schools to return principal's reports.
6 June 1991 JUPAS Office sends letters to applicants selected in
Level 1 Round 1 exercise.
13 June 1991 Last day for applicants to send replies to Level 1 Round
1 offers to JUPAS Office.
16 July 1991 JUPAS Office sends letters to applicants selected in
Level 1 Round 2 exercise.
23 July 1991 Last day for applicants to send replies to Level 1 Round
2 offers to JUPAS Office.
August to September 1991 Subsequent rounds of selection for firm offers from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). Selected applicants receive letters from CUHK.
Early March, 1992 Applicants receive, through schools, checklists of their personal data.
31 March, 1992 Last day for applicants to report errors in checklists to JUPAS Office. Also last day for applicants to send requestsfor change of priority of study programmes and/ or conditional offers accepted to JUPAS Office.
18 July, 1992 JUPAS Office sends letters to applicants confirming
conditional offers.
25 July, 1992 Last day for applicants to send replies to confirmed offers to JUPAS Office.
10 August, 1992 JUPAS Office sends letters to applicants selected in
Level 2 Round 1 exercise.
15 August, 1992 Last day for applicants to submit replies to offers made in Level 2 Round 1 exercise in person to JUPAS Office.
28 August, 1992 JUPAS Office sends letters to applicants selected in
Level 2 Round 2 exercise.
2 September, 1992 Last day for applicants to send replies to offers made in Level 2 Round 2 exercise in person to JUPAS Office. 7 September, 1992 and onwards
Subsequent rounds of selection by individual institu- tions. Selected applicants receive letters direct from the institutions concerned.
Application for Direct Admission
Applicants who are not eligible to apply for admission through JUPAS are welcome to apply directly to the University.
Copies of the Undergraduate Prospectus and application forms are available from:
University Admissions Office
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay
Kowloon Hong Kong
from 1 October, 1991 for entry in September 1992.
The completed application form should be returned to the University at the above address by 31 December, 1991 together with a copy of a bank pay-in slip provided by the University confirming that the application fee of $1 00 has been paid into the bank account of T h e Hong Kong University of Science and Technology" through a branch of one of the following banks : Bank of China - Hong Kong Branch, Hang Seng Bank Ltd., or Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd.
The application form allows the applicant to select up to three degree programmes of study at the University. The selected programmes should be listed in order of preference on the application form. Subsequent changes are not normally permitted. Requestsfor change must be made by writing to the University Admissions Office.
Students from Overseas
The University welcomes applications from overseas students who are seeking admission to full-time studies at the undergraduate or postgraduate level. Applicants should be aware, however, that competition for admission is such that only very well-qualified candidates will gain admission.
Details of the application procedure have been given previously. However, because of differences between the educational system in Hong Kong and those in other countries, students eligible to enter undergraduate programmes in their own countries may not be able to enter the first year at HKUST. Prospective overseas undergraduate students should first write to the University Admissions Office, providing full details of their educational qualifications so that an initial assessment may be made as to their entry qualifications.
If that assessment indicates that the requirements may be met, the appropri- ate application form will be sent to the prospective student. This should be returned to the University Admissions Office together with a bank draft to cover the application fee of $100. At that point the formal selection process will begin. Certified true copies of alldegrees, diplomas, certificates and other qualifications held should be submitted with the application form. Applicants accepted for admission will be required to produce the original documents on arrival at the University.
Overseas students should carefully consider the financial aspects of their studies in Hong Kong before applying for admission. In 1992-93 fees will amount to $1 1,600 and accommodation in on-campus undergraduate and postgraduate halls will involve approximately $5,000 and $7,500 respectively per residential year (271 days). In addition monies will be needed for subsistence, textbooks, local travel, sports equipment, clothing, and other personal needs. A total of at least $35,000 per academic year (9 months) is likely to be required for undergraduate study and $43,000 for postgraduate study.
Students from overseas must obtain a visa in order to study in Hong Kong. Applications should be made well in advance at a British Consulate or High Commission or Visa Office, or by writing directly to The Hong Kong Immigration Department, 2/F, Tower 11,7 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong. Applicants will be required to show sufficient financial resources to cover expenses for their period of study. Applicants must also nominate a sponsor who is resident in Hong Kong, aged over 21, to whom they are known personally. Postgraduate applicants who have difficulty in nominating a sponsor in Hong Kong may apply to the Office of Student Affairs for the University to act in this capacity.
Admission Enquiries
Students requiring advice or assistance on application procedures, choice of programmes, entrance requirements or other related matters are welcome to visit, telephone or write to the University Admissions Office which is open Mondays to Fridays during the following hours :
All enquiries should be addressed to:
REGISTRATION, FEES
AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
The Director of Admissions, Registration and RecordsThe Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay
Kowloon Hong Kong
Telephone No. : (852) 358 6622 Facsimile No. : (852) 358 0769
This section deals with the registration process, tuition and other fees, and financial assistance available for students.
Registration
Registration is in two parts : student registration scheduled in early August (at least in 1991) and course registration just before classes begin. Student registration confirms students' enrolment at the University and payment of tuition fees. It also allows for application for hall residence and financial aid, as well as the acquisition of information about the University and student life.
Fees
There are a variety of fees as described below :
1. An application fee of $1 00 is chargedfor each direct application for admission tothe University. This fee, payable at thetimeof submission of the application form, is not refundable.
2. Afee of $200 is charged for an application made through the Joint University and Polytechnic Admissions System. The non-refundable fee will be col- lected by the JUPAS Office on behalf of the participating institutions. 3. The tuition fee for undergraduate students admitted for the academic year
1991-92 is $1 0,000 per annum. The fee may be paid at the beginning of the academic year at student registration or in equal instalments for each Semester.
4. The tuition fee for postgraduate students (except for those in the MBA programme) admitted for the academic year 1991 -92 is $10,000 per annum for full-time students and $2,500 per semester for part-time students. The fee may be paid at the beginning of the academic year at student registration or in equal instalments for each semester.
5.
The fee structure for full-time and part-time MBA students is described in the School of Business and Management section of the Calendar.6. In addition, each new student is required to pay a deposit of $300 as caution money on first registration. Charges will be made against this deposit if there are any unpaid claims against the student, such as outstanding library dues. The balance will be transferred to the graduation fee, or refunded if the student leaves the University before graduation.
7. Students are likely to join the Students' Union and pay entry and annual fees. These fees will be set by the Students' Union and collected by the University on behalf of thestudents' Union. Sincethe Students' Union will not be formed until after the beginning of the 1991 -92 academic year, the fees for 1991 -92 may be assessed retroactively.
8. Students may be required to pay late charges for failure to complete certain University procedures by stipulated deadlines. These will include delays in paying tuition fees and completing registration procedures, overdue library books, etc. Late charges will be levied in accordance with the rules and regulations set by the respective offices.
9. Residential halls are expected to operate on a self-supporting basis and charges are based on operating expenses. The hall charges for 1991 -92 are expected to be $4,500 per person in double rooms in the undergraduate hall for a residential year of 271 days from 27 September 1991 to 23 June 1992 and about $7,000 per person in single rooms in the postgraduate hall which is air-conditioned. Hall charges are to be paid in two instalments and do not include the cost of meals.
10. Other small fees and charges : Transcript fee (first copy free)
Replacement of Student IID Card (free if worn out) Caution money
Application fee for retention of place (deferred entry) Graduation fee
Late registration (waived at the University's discretion) Testimonial fee
Government Grant and Loan Scheme
Full-time students at publicly funded tertiary institutions who have resided or have had their home in Hong Kong continuously for three completed years immedi- ately prior to the commencement of their programme of study are eligible to applyfor financial aid under a Government student finance scheme. The scheme is adminis- tered by the Government Student Financial Assistance Agency.
Financial assistance is offered in the form of grants and/or loans. Grants are given for tuition fee and academic expenses; loans are approved for living expenses. Awards are means-tested so that the amount awarded is related to family disposable income. Students are expected to repay their loans at an interest rate of 2.5% per annum within a specified period after graduation or upon leaving the University.
Application forms are available either from the Government Student Financial Assistance Agency at the Queensway Government Offices, Ground Floor, Low Block, 66 Queensway, Hong Kong, or from the Student Affairs Office of the University.
Students with financial difficulties are urged to apply for assistance under this scheme at the beginning of the academic year. Further details are available at the Student Affairs Office.
University Loans and Bursaries
Students with additional financial needs may apply for loans and bursaries administered by the University. In general, these funds are used to supplement, but not substitute for, Government financial assistance. Details of loans and bursaries are available at the Student Affairs Office.
Scholarships and Prizes
The University administers a number of scholarships and prizes on behalf of individual and corporate donors. Most are awarded to students, without application, on the strength of academic merit and the recommendations of a School or Depart- ment. Other scholarships may have conditions specified by the donor. Further details are available at the Student Affairs Office.
Postgraduate Assistantships Financial Assistance
The sources of financial support for students of the University include the following:
The University awards Postgraduate Assistantships to full-time postgraduate students in return for assisting in teaching and research. In 1991-92, these are at the rates of $8,000 or $4,000 per month, depending on the workload assigned.
ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
General
The academic regulations define the structure of the programmes of study at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the rules which govern each student's academic progress. All students are responsible for their individual conduct and for their adherence to the rules.
Exceptions from some specific requirements are possible, but only in well justified circumstances. Written permission must be sought from the Head of the
Department or Division in which the student is enrolled.
Courses
The basic unit of instruction atthe University is acourse. Courses usually take place in either the Fall or Spring Semester, and each course has a specified credit value 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc. All courses are designated in the format of the following example :
BlCH 121 Introduction to Biochemistry [3-0-0:3]
in which BlCH denotes the Department of Biochemistry, 121 isthecourse numberwith the first digit denoting the programme year in which the course is given :
0 = introductory 1 =year 1 2 = year 2 3 = year 3
5 = postgraduate course
6 = special topics, Master's research
7 = doctoral seminars and research
and the second and third digits follow a departmental code. The course vector [3-0- 0:3] gives the number of instructional hours required and the course credits using the code
1st digit = lecture hours per week
2nd digit = tutorial, seminar or recitation hours per week 3rd digit = laboratory hours per week
The credit value of a course depends on both the required scheduled hours of instruction and the additional non-scheduled hours of work expected of students. Normally one lecture hour perweek equals one credit, one seminar hour per week one credit, and three laboratory hours per weekone credit. Some sessions may be given less credit per hour if the scheduled hours reduce or eliminate non-scheduled work by students.
Courses are given in the following Departments (with the year of their first offering in brackets) : SCHOOL OF SCIENCE Biochemistry Biology Chemistry Mathematics Physics Undergraduate Postgraduate BlCH (1991) (1991) BlOL (1 991) (1 991) CHEM (1991) (1 991) MATH (1991) (1991) PHYS (1 991 ) (1 991) SCHOOL ENGINEERING
Chemical Engineering CENG (1993) (1 993)
Civil and Structural Engineering ClVL (1 992) (1 991 )
Computer Science COMP (1991) (1991)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering ELEC (1 991) (1991)
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering INMA (1 993) (1 993)
Mechanical Engineering MECH (1991) (1991)
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT
Accounting ACCT (1 991) (1991)
Business Information Systems BlNF (1 992) (1 992)
Economics ECON (1991) (1 991)
Finance FlNA (1991) (1991)
Management MGMT (1992) (1 991)
Marketing MARK (1992) (1991)
SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE
Division of Humanities HUMA (1991) (1 991)
Division of Social Science SOSC (1991) (1 991)
Courses are designated in the departmental entries in the Calendar as : Core (C) - must be taken in the designated semester of the programme; Required (R) - must be taken in the programme but options exist as to when;
or
Elective (E) - options exist in selecting the specific course.
Programme Registration
Each student must enrol in an approved programme of study in each semester. Approvals are obtained from the Department offering the programme to which the student has been admitted. The schedule for these approvals includes an "add-drop" period. However, the student's programme cannot be changed after the end of the second week of the semester.
Students admitted to a full-time programme of study will be expected to study full-time for their degrees. Unless prior permission from the Director of Admissions is obtained, they will not be permitted to register for another programme at this University or at another post-secondary institution. Students should note that student enrolment lists will be compared with those of other post-secondary institutions from time to time. If students are found to be registered elsewhere, they will normally be required to discontinue their studies at this University.
Undergraduate Programmes
Undergraduate programmes are composed of a structured set of courses which must be satisfactorily completed in order to satisfy the degree requirements. Each programme contains core (C), required (R) and elective (E) courses in the field of major study and related areas, and in addition includes courses from all Schools, at least four of which are from the School of Humanities and Social Science. A minimum number of credits is required in each programme in the range from 100 to 105. Individual student programmes may exceed these minima owing to the choice of electives with higher than required credit value or enrolment in additional courses not required in the student's programme.
Details of the various undergraduate programmes are found in the depart- mental entries in this Calendar. The programme requirements are presented in the semester-by-semester format which students are expected to follow. However, students who complete a particular course in a semester earlier than shown may substitute another course or take a reduced course load. Students must complete all of the requirements of all semesters in order to complete the degree requirements. Special requirements for language skill courses are explained below.
Under exceptional circumstances, the Head of Department may consider a student's request to approve deviations from the specified curriculum. Students wishing to deviate from the specified semester programme, and in choosing elective courses, should pay close attention to the course descriptions found in the depart-
mental entries in order to ensure that they have completed any prerequisite courses and are enrolled in any corequisite courses. Core (C) courses must be taken in the designated semester. It should be noted that special permission is required from the Dean of the student's School to extend a programme beyond six semesters, but registration is normally not possible beyond an eighth semester.
All undergraduate students entering the Universitywill be assessed as to their English language proficiency. Thoseforwhomfurther English language support is not essential will be given the option of elective language classes. For the remainder, LANG 001 is a programme requirement and will provide an integrated course in language skills improvement during the Fall Semester. LANG 002 is a Winter Session and Spring Semester follow-up course for students who do not gain exemption at the end of LANG 001. LANG 003 is an intensive summer course which offers the opportunity for students not exempted after LANG 002 to complete their English language requirements. Students will not be able to continue into the second year unless an exemption has been gained.
Postgraduate Programmes
Postgraduate programmes are specified in the departmental sections of the Calendar. The Master of Science (MSc), Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees are basically course work degrees, although project work and a report may also be required. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees are basically research degrees, although course work is usually also required.
The programmes leading to the MSc, the MA and the MBA degrees are the most suitable for students interested in part-time study. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are research degrees, and students in many disciplines are required to participate in research on a full-time basis.
Master's degree programmes take from one and one-half to two years of full- time study to complete. Programmes leading to the PhD degree require a minimum of three years of full-time study, or equivalent, beyond the first degree. The actual duration will depend upon the degree of prior preparation of the student and the nature of the research undertaken. Upper limits on the time taken to complete postgraduate degrees will be established.
Doctoral students proceed from admission to the programme, to candidacy forthedegree, and then todefenceof the thesis; and each has athesis supe~isorwho
oversees thestudent's research. Candidacy is obtained by the successful completion of qualifying examinations. The thesis examination is conducted by a committee of five members : the thesis supervisor, two academic staff members from the Department, one academic staff member from outside the Department or discipline, and one additional member from outside the Department. The Thesis Examination Committee is chaired by an individual appointed by the Committee on Postgraduate Studies who is not one of the five members.
Course Grading
Grades given in each course are based on student performance in the final examination, tests, essays and reports, presentations and other forms of classroom participation, assignments, and laboratory exercises, although not all these elements may be present in each course. A failing grade in the laboratory component, if any, of a course may result in a failure in the whole course. The lecturer in each course will discuss the course grading scheme with the class in the first week of lectures.
Final examinations are scheduled in a one-week period immediately follow- ing the end of lectures. Failure to take the examination as scheduled without prior permission for exemption from the Head of Department results in automatic course failure although the student may appeal for special consideration, within two weeks, with well-enunciated reasons, to the Head of the Department offering the course. The Head may decide that the student (1) repeat the course, (2) take a special make-up examination for which a grade is assigned, (3) take a graded supplementary examination, or (4) be granted pass standing in the examination. In this last case the course grade is based on the grades obtained in the other course components. Medical reasons, authenticated by a physician's certification that the student was unable to take the examination, will result in the Head's selection of option (2), (3) or (4) above.
Grade reports will be sent to students within two working weeks of the end of the semester, and their grades will be posted in Departments as they become available. On posted grade lists, students are identified only by student numbers.
A failed course cannot be credited towards a degree, and a failed core or required course must be repeated. The maximum number of repeats of a given course is one. Unless an exemption is granted by the Head of Department in which the course is given, all prerequisite courses must have been passed (grade D or better) before a student may register in a course.
Grades Grade Review
Students receive a letter grade in each course in which they are enrolled. Grades range in equal increments from A+ to WF, with WF carrying zero credit. The grades D- and D+ are not used and are omitted from the following table.
Letter Grade Definition
A+ A Excellent Performance A- B+ B Good Performance B- Satisfactory Performance D Marginal Pass Conditional Failure Unconditional Failure P Pass, ungraded I Incomplete W Withdrawal PP Permitted to Proceed
A student receiving the Conditional Failure (E) grade has an opportunity to take a supplementary examination scheduled approximately one month after the release of grades. The supplementary examination grade will normally be D or F and, if the supplementary examination is not taken, the E grade is converted to F.
An Incomplete (I) grade must be converted to a regular grade at the beginning of the next semester, otherwise it is converted to F. This grade is used when work is necessarily delayed through no fault of the student.
The withdrawal (W) grade is given on the direction of the Head of Department and only under unusual circumstances beyond the student's control.
When progress on thesis or project work is satisfactory but not scheduled for completion at the end of a semester, the Permitted to Proceed (PP) grade is utilized.
A student may appeal for a grade review in a course in which the student was enrolled in the semester just completed. This appeal is made to the Head of Department offering the course. The Head will have the grading reviewed by the course lecturer or another member of the departmental faculty. Appeals must be made within two weeks from the day on which grades have been sent to the student. All other appeals or requests for a variance to the academic regulations will be made in the first instance to the student's Head of Department. Any appeals against the Head's decision must be well documented and addressed to the Dean of the School in which the student is enrolled. The Dean's decision is final although the Dean may wish to consult the School Board or a committee thereof.
Grade Averages
A grade average (GA) is the average weighted grades obtained in a group of courses where each course is given a weight equal to its credit value. Courses graded " P , "I", "W" and " P P are omitted from this calculation. All GA's are recorded using the closest letter grade.
The semester grade average (SGA) is based on the courses in which a student is registered in a semester, while the cumulative grade average (CGA) is calculated from the student's total programme record.
Academic Standing
For the attainment of good academic standing at the end of each semester, a student must have obtained an SGA of C- or better, have a grade of F in no core course, and have a CGA of C- or better. Students who fail to maintain good academic standing in two consecutive semesters will have their records reviewed and may be required to take academic leave and suspend their study.
Students required to take academic leave may apply to the Head of Depart- ment during their second semester of absence to end their leave and return to full-time study in the next semester. If required leave is ended, students' academic records continue as they were and conditions will be required for the attainment of good academic standing. If these conditions are not met, the student will be required to withdraw from the programme of study and shall not be eligible for re-admission. If leave is not suspended at this time, the leave is converted to a required withdrawal from the programme.
Continuation of Study
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
Students are admitted to a specific programme to commence study in aspecific semester. Failure to enrol in the first or any subsequent semester results in automatic withdrawal from their programme of study and suspends registration at the University unless a formal Leave from Study has been obtained. Leave from study is possible only on application to and with the approval of the Head of the student's Department.
Students who withdraw or are withdrawn from their programme may formally apply for direct admission following the procedures described earlier in the Calendar. Students may change from one programme of study to another only with the permission of the Heads of the Departments offering the two programmes. Applica- tion should be made to the Department which the student wishes to enter. If a transfer is approved, the Head of the entered Department will determine which credits from the student's former programme will apply to the new programme.
Undergraduate Degree Requirements
The specific requirements for each degree are given in the departmental entries. All follow a general pattern in that they are based on a minimum ranging from 100 to 105 credits with degree completion intended to take six academic semesters (three academic years). A grade of D or better (or P where appropriate) must be obtained in all courses used to satisfy degree requirements. All undergraduate degrees are honours degrees, classified according to the student's level of academic performance:
First Class Honours
Second Class Honours, Division I Second Class Honours, Division II Third Class Honours
Pass
Postgraduate Degree Requirements
The basic degree requirement is that the postgraduate student complete, to the satisfaction of the Department, the programme of courses, examinations and research which it has specified for the student. In the case of a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, this will include the preparation and successful presentation to a Thesis Examination Committee of a thesis based on original research by the student.
Dean : Shain-Dow KUNG, BSc Chung-Hsing; MSc Guelph; PHD Toronto (Professor of Biology)
The School of Science comprises five departments : Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics. The School will enrol when fully established about one-quarter of the University's undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Each department offers the BSc degree. In keeping with the University's general philosophy of providing specialised training with a generalist outlook, under- graduates take about two-thirds of their programme in their major School. In addition, students are required to take at least 12 credits in the School of Humanities and Social Science. The remaining credits will be spread over courses offered in other Schools. All departments also offer postgraduate programmes leading to the research- based degrees of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). In addition, there are course-based Master of Science (MSc) programmes in Biotechnology, Mathematics and Physics.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY
Biochemistry is the study of biological molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids etc. which form the morphological structures represented by the cell and cellular organelles, provide machinery for the inheritance and expression of genetic information, and energise catalytic transformations essential to cellular growth and reproduction. The study of the nature of these molecules and their reactions has brought about rapid advances in the biological and medical sciences, and has furthermore enabled the development of biotechnological industries that are playing an increasingly important role in the global economy.
The Department of Biochemistry offers a comprehensive teaching and research programme in both basic and applied aspects of biochemistry. At the same time it maintains a close relationship with the Department of Biology, as biochemical techniques and approaches have become pervasive in all fields of biology, and with the Biotechnology Research Institute, because of the fundamental significance of Biochemistry in that field.
Both teaching and research laboratories in the Department of Biochemistry are equipped with advanced instrumentation. This equipment, serving both bio- chemical and biotechnological studies, includes a protein sequencer, oligonucleotide
synthesizer, centrifugal partition chromatograph, and plant growth, animal care, and cell culture facilities. In addition to Departmental laboratories, faculty and students may utilise the extensive central facilities and computer network of the University.
Faculty
Professor & Head of Department :
J. Tze-Fei WONG, BA, PhD Toronto
(Director of the Biotechnology Research Institute) Senior Lecturer :
Raymond S. C. WONG, Dip Hong Kong Baptist Coll ; MSc, PhD South Dakota State
Lecturers :
Peter H. Y. LAM, BSc Chinese Univof Hong Kong ; PhD Univof Wisconsin, Madison
Robert K. M. KO, BSc, MSc Chinese Univ of Hong Kong; PhD British Columbia
Wan-Keung R. WONG, Dip Hong Kong Baptist Colt MSc Regina; PhD British Columbia
Undergraduate Programme
The objective of the BSc programme in Biochemistry is to instruct students in the understanding of biochemical molecules and processes, and to provide training in the methodologies used in laboratory investigation. Accordingly, the programme emphasises both theory and experimentation.
Acceptable grades in at least three of the following Hong Kong A-level subjects are required for entrance into the programme : Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Pure Mathematics.
The following semester-by-semester description of the undergraduate pro- gramme defines which courses are required and when they should be taken. Courses designated C in the first-year curriculum are core courses which must be taken in the semester indicated. In certain circumstances, and with the permission of the Head of the Department, those courses designated as R (required) and E (elective) may be taken at othertimes. When aspecific course is not identified, the coursevector shown defines the minimum credit required. Second- and third-year programmes are provisional.
First Year
Fall Semester
BlCH 121 C Introduction to Biochemistry [3-0-0131
CHEM 11 1 C Organic Chemistry I [3-0-0:3]
COMP 181 R Computing Fundamentals [3-0-1131
(1) LANG 001 Language Skills Enhancement I [0-3-2101
(2) MATH 001 R Beginning Calculus [3-1-0141
PHYS 101 R General Physics I [3-0-3141
17 credits (1) Students excused from this course by the Language Centre will replace itwith
a Humanities and Social Science course.
(2) Students admitted with an acceptable grade in A-level Pure Mathematics will replace this course with an approved course in the School of Science.
Spring Semester
BlCH 122 C Intermediary Metabolism [3-1-0:4]
BlCH 172 C Introductory Biochemical Laboratory [O-0-4:2]
BlOL 108 R Introduction to Genetics [3-0-0:3]
CHEM 112 C Organic Chemistry II [3-0-0:3]
CHEM 114 C Organic Chemistry Laboratory I [O-0-6121
H&SS E Humanities and Social Science [3-0-0:3]
17 credits
Second Year
Fall Semester
(1) BlCH 211 Biochemistry of Nucleic Acids [3-0-5151
CHEM 215 Organic Chemistry Laboratory II [0-0-6121
ENGG Engineering Elective [3-0-0131
H&SS Humanities and Social Science [3-0-0131
SB&M Business and Management [3-0-0:3]
(1) Part of the laboratory instruction will be given in the Winter Session.
Spring Semester Spring Semester (1) BlOL 202 or BlOL 206 (2) CHEM242 or MATH 002 or MATH 244 ENGG H&SS PHYS 102 Animal Physiology Microbiology
Analytical Separation and Instrumental Analysis Intermediate Calculus Applied Statistics Engineering Elective
Humanities and Social Science General Physics II
(1) Either BlOL 202 or BlOL 206 will be taken.
(2) Either CHEM 242 or MATH 002 or MATH 244 will be taken.
Fall Semester (1) BlCH 363 or BlCH 387 BlOL 201 (2) BlOL 305 or BlOL 315 ENGG H&SS SB&M Third Year Principles of Biotechnology Biochemical Research I Cell Biology Plant Physiology
Neurobiology and Behaviour Engineering Elective
Humanities and Social Science Business and Management
18 credits
19-21 credits (1) Either BlCH 363 or BlCH 387 will be taken.
(2) Either BlOL 305 or BlOL 31 5 will be taken.
BlCH 314 Structure and Function of Proteins [3-1-0:4]
BlCH 318 Cell Membranes and Metabolic Regulation [3-0-0:3]
(1) BlCH 366 Biotechnology Seminar [0-1-3:4]
or BlCH 388 Biochemical Research II [0-0-15:5]
H&SS Humanities and Social Science [3-0-0131
14-1 5 credits (1) Either BlCH 366 or BlCH 388 will be taken.
A minimum of 101 credits is required for the BSc programme in Biochemistry. A student's choice of electives may result in this minimum being exceeded.
Postgraduate Programmes and Research
The Department of Biochemistry conducts a comprehensive research pro- gramme providing an excellent postgraduate education in both basic and applied aspects of biochemistry. Departmental staff with different specialties and expertise perform research and development work in the interaction between proteins and nucleic acids, genetic engineering of proteins and enzymes, biochemistry of the cell membrane, immunochemistry and monoclonal antibodies, controlled drug delivery and distribution, microspore-based plant biotechnology, and environmental biochem- istry and toxicology.
Faculty working in these areas form a coordinated research team. Such coordination will take full advantage of the faculty's expertise in generating innovative development and productive research. At the same time it will create a stimulating atmosphere in which students will both receive training in the latest techniques and experience the challenge of modern research through direct participation.
The Department offers postgraduate programmes leading to the degrees of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry. The Department also participates in a campus-wide Master of Science (MSc) programme in Biotechnology.
Admission to the MPhil programme in Biochemistry or the MSc programme in Biotechnology requires a BSc degree in biochemistry, chemistry, a biological science, or engineering. Admission to the PhD programme requires a BSc, an MPhil or an MSc degree in biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, a biological science, or engineering. Conversion into the PhD programme after completion of at least one year of the MPhil or MSc programme may be considered on the basis of a progress review.
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Biochemistry Research Interests
The MPhil programme in Biochemistry enables students to acquire the experience and judgement required for research on biochemical projects. While original contribution to biochemical knowledge is not prerequisite to the completion of the MPhil degree, the attainment of scientific competence is important. Normally students are expected to complete the programme in one and one-half to two years. Degree requirements include both a course programme and research.
Master of Science (MSc) in Biotechnology
The MSc programme is administered by a joint committee formed by faculty members from various HKUST departments involved in biotechnology research, in particular, the Departments of Biology, Biochemistry and Chemistry. The purpose of this programme is to train research and technical personnel for the biotechnology industry. Students with a background in eitherscience or engineering are encouraged to apply. The programme offers courses in biotechnology-related topics and extensive laboratory training in biotechnological techniques. Normally, the pro- gramme takes 18 months to two years of full-time study to complete.
Students may enter the programme from any one of the participating departments. Each student is required to take a set of subjects determined individually by the joint committee and to pelform research in one of the biotechnology- related laboratories. Research projects will be interdisciplinary in nature and applied in orientation. While original contribution to biotechnological knowledge is not prerequisite to the completion of the MSc degree, the attainment of scientific competence is essential. Submission and successful defence of a written report on a well-defined research project is required for the degree.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry
The purpose of the PhD programme in Biochemistry is to prepare students, through completion of a research project, to become independent scientists capable of the design, initiation and execution of original research. Normally students are expected to complete the programme in two to three years starting with a master's degree, orthree to four years starting with afirstdegree. Degree requirements include satisfactory completion of a programme of study, the presentation of two research seminars, and the presentation and defence of a PhD thesis.
Professor J. Tze Fei WONG Head of Depadrnent
Coevolution of the genetic code, and pathways of amino acid biosynthesis; origin of geneticcoding; evolution of codon usages. Identity elements of transfer RNA; mechanisms of substrate recognition by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases; biochemistry of missense tRNAs. Dextran-haemoglobin as an oxygen-delivering blood substitute; pharmacological actions and physical properties of covalent dextran-protein and dextran-drug conjugates.
Dr Raymond S. C. WONG Senior Lecturer
Improvement of edible oil through genetic manipulation of plant storage lipids; plant bioengineering with special emphasis on the nutritional aspects of Chinese vegetable crops (Brassica spp.). Use of microspores plant strain isolation, tissue culture manipulation, mutagenesis, biochemical characterization and transgenic plant development. Biosynthesis of plant storage lipids, proteins and secondary metabolites with respect to product development.
Dr Robert K. M. KO Lecturer
Free radical-related mechanisms in tissue injuries, especially myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity; protec- tion against such injuries by antioxidants; transition metal ions and hydroperoxide- mediated peroxidation of biological membrane lipids; age-related alterations in tissue antioxidant defence; antioxidant properties of traditional Chinese medicinals in relation to their anti-aging activities; isolation of active principle(s) from Chinese Medicinals; fractionation of their pharmacologically active components; HPLC and centrifuged partition chromatography.
Dr Peter H. Y. LAM Lecturer
Biochemistry and pharmacology of signal transduction processes involving calcium binding proteins, and the action of steroid hormones; development of monoclonal antibodies, and use of monoclonal antibodies in studies of protein structureandfunctions; protein expression in eukaryoticsystems basedon baculovirus and vaccinia vectors; use of synthetic and recombinant peptides in the development of therapeutic and diagnostic agents.
BlCH 122 Intermediary Metabolism [3-1-0:4] Dr Wan Keung R. WONG
Lecturer
Bacterial genetics; cloning and expression of genes in Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae; excretion of proteins from E. colt development of E. coli systems for extracellular production of valuable proteins; production and reconstitu- tion of recombinant cellulases for use in energy generation and cellalosic waste management; investigation; and application of Pseudomonas as a recombinant host.
Undergraduate Courses
Permissionof the Head of Department is an alternative to the stated prereq- uisite, and this is a requirement for all courses for which prerequisites are not stated.
BlCH 103 Nature of Biochemistry and Biotechnology [3-0-0:3]
This course is designed to introduce the fundamental scope and principles of biochemistry to students without an in-depth knowledge of chemistry. Topics include majorclassesof biochemicalcompounds; enzymiccatalysis, metabolic pathways; replication, storage and transmission of genetic information; genetic coding of protein synthesis, genetic engineering; industrial, medical and agricultural applications of biochemistry.
Prerequisites : None.
Textbook : Plummer, Biochemistry - The Chemistry of Life.
BlCH 121 Introduction to Biochemistry [3-0-0:3]
This course is designed to introduce biochemical knowledge to students with some background in chemistry. Titration, buffering systems and the bio- chemistry of blood. Major classes of biochemical compounds - proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids. Primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary structures of macromolecules. Enzyme kinetics and mechanisms. Biosynthesis of DNA and RNA. Transfer
RNA
and protein synthesis. Prerequisites : A-level Chemistry or BiologyTextbook : Voet and Voet, Biochemistry.
The principles of bioenergetics and cellular structures, glycolysis, citric acid cycle, electron transport, oxidative phosphorylation and chemiosmosis, car- bohydrate, lipid, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism. Photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation.
Prerequisite : BlCH 121
Textbook : Voet and Voet, Biochemistry.
BlCH 172 Introductory Biochemical Laboratory [0-0-4:2]
The properties of enzymes, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids will be investigated by physicochemical methods and specific assays. Various techniques for the purification and quantitation of biochemical compounds, including column and thin-layer chromatography, spectroscopy, and electrophoresis will be illustrated.
Corequisite : BlCH 122 Textbook : Not required.
BlCH 21 1 Biochemistry of Nucleic Acids [3-0-5:5]
Lectures will be directed to the replication and roles of nucleic acids in cellular and viral systems. Topics will include genome organization, vector-host systems, catalytic RNA, genetic code evolution, RNA processing, and anti- sense systems. The laboratory sessions will focus on plasmid isolation, gene cloning, restriction mapping, DNA sequencing, and identification of genes and gene-products by blotting procedures. Part of the laboratory instruction will be given in the Winter Session.
Prerequisites : BlCH 121 and BlCH 122 Textbook : Voet and Voet, Biochemistry.
BlCH 314 Structure and Function of Proteins [3-1-0:4]
Determination of protein sequences and three-dimensional structures. Re- lationship between structure and function. Principles of protein design and engineering.
Prerequisites: BlCH 121 and BlCH 122
BICH 318 Cell Membranes and Metabolic Regulation [3-0-0 :3] Postgraduate Courses The structure of biological membranes, and the nature of membrane trans-
port. Receptor-signalling systems in intermediary metabolism : role of enzymic phosphorylation, second messengers, response to hormones and growth factors, action of oncogenes.
Prerequisites : BlCH 121 and BlCH 122
Textbook : To be determined.
BlCH 363 Principles of Biotechnology [3-0-0:3]
The principles of important methods in biotechnology, including bioreactors, immobilized enzymes, fermentation, filtration, chromatography, cryopreservation, drug formulation and delivery, food processing. The industrial impact of biolotechnology.
Prerequisite : BlCH 21 1 Textbook : To be determined.
BlCH 366 Biotechnology Seminar [O-1-3:4]
An in-depth reading and analysis by the student of selected facets of biotechnology leading to the submission of a written thesis, and its presen- tation in a seminar.
Prerequisite : BlCH 363 Textbook : Not required.
BlCH 387 Biochemical Research I [O-O-14:4]
The student will conducta research project underfacultysupervision, analyse the data, and proceed to the submission of a written thesis and its oral presentation. Enrolment is limited and BlCH 387 and BlCH 388 must be taken.
Prerequisite : BlCH 21 1 Textbook : Not required.
BICH 388 Biochemical Research I1
Continuation of BICH 387 in the Spring Semester. Prerequisite : BlCH 387
Textbook : Not required.
Permission of the Head of Department is an alternative to the stated prerequisite, and this is a requirement for all courses for which prerequisites are not stated.
BlCH 535 Agricultural and Food Chemistry [3-0-0:3]
Functional and nutritional properties of major food ingredients including protein, oil and starch from important agricultural crops. Aspects of food formulation and production.
BlCH 538 Medical Biochemistry [3-0-0:3]
Biochemical changes in diseases. Diagnostic applications of biochemical and immunological methods. Principles of drug action, and major classes of drugs.
BlCH 542 lmmunochemistry [3-0-0:3]
Nature of the immune response, structure and diversity of antibodies, the complement system and immunoassays.
BlCH 551 Biochemical Instrumentation [0-0-4:3]
The principles and application of modern instrumentation in fermentation, cell culture, and the preparation and characterisation of nucleic acids and proteins.
BlCH 561 Physical Biochemistry [3-0-0:3]
The principles and application of physicochemical techniques in biochemical investigations. Computer analysis of protein and nucleic acid sequences, and three-dimensional structures.
BlCH 571 Biochemistry Seminar I [O-0-1:1]
Presentation of research by students, faculty, and visiting scientists.
BICH 572 Biochemistry Seminar II [O-0-1:1]
