Fall 2026 BME 200: Molecular and Cellular Physiology for Engineers (Units: 1.5)
Territory Acknowledgement
We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory the university stands, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.
Withdrawal without reduction of tuition fees: 2026-09-22
Withdrawal with 50% reduction of tuition fees: 2026-10-13
Last day for withdrawal (no fees returned): 2026-10-31
Additional important academic dates: https://www.uvic.ca/calendar/dates.
Accessible Learning
The University of Victoria is committed to creating a learning experience that is as accessible as possible. If you are registered with the Centre for Accessible Learning and anticipate or experience any barriers to learning in this course, please feel welcome to discuss your concerns with me. If you are a student with a disability or chronic health condition, you can meet with a CAL advisor to discuss access and accommodations.
How to contact CAL: https://www.uvic.ca/accessible-learning/students/how-to-register/index.php.
Prerequisites & Co-requisites
Prerequisites: one of CHEM 101 or CHEM 150, and one of PHYS 111 or PHYS 112 or PHYS 125 or PHYS 130.
Textbooks
| Required Text |
|---|
| Title: Quantitative Human Physiology, 2nd edition |
| Author: Joseph Feher |
| Publisher / Year: Academic Press, 2016 |
| Reference materials: Laboratory manuals are posted on Brightspace. |
Generative Artificial Intelligence
GenAI use in this course
The University of Victoria's Academic Integrity Policy applies to all work completed in this course. Students are expected to complete their work honestly and follow the instructor's expectations regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Claude, Gemini). Responsible use of AI means using it in ways that align with the learning goals and the expectations outlined in this course. See UVic Policy on Academic Integrity.
The permitted level of AI use is listed for each assessment below. When in doubt, ask the instructor before using AI.
1. Assignments: Level B
| AI assisted idea generation and structuring
- AI can be used in the course activity for brainstorming, initiating analysis or design, and generating ideas for improving work. (e.g. brainstorming design ideas). No AI generated writing, material creation or problem solving is allowed in the final submission.
2. Labs: Level C | AI assisted editing
- AI can be used, but your original work with no AI content must be provided in an appendix. AI can be used to make improvements to the clarity or quality of student-created work to improve the final output, but no new content can be created using AI. (e.g. language editing for lab reports)
3. Midterm: Level A | No AI use
4. Final Exam: Level A | No AI use
| Level | Category | Description |
| A | NO AI | AI must not be used at any point during the course activity.
The course activity is completed entirely without AI assistance. This level ensures that students rely solely on their knowledge, understanding, and skills (e.g. closed-book exams or foundational calculations) |
| B | AI ASSISTED IDEA GENERATION AND STRUCTURING | No AI generated writing, material creation or problem solving is allowed in the final submission.
AI can be used in the course activity for brainstorming, initiating analysis or design, and generating ideas for improving work. (e.g. brainstorming design ideas) |
| C | AI-ASSISTED EDITING | AI can be used, but your original work with no AI content must be provided in an appendix.
AI can be used to make improvements to the clarity or quality of student-created work to improve the final output, but no new content can be created using AI. (e.g. language editing for lab reports) |
| D | AI TASK COMPLETION, HUMAN EVALUATION | AI can be used to complete specific tasks within the course activity.
Any AI created content must be cited. AI can be used to complete certain elements of the task, with students providing discussion or commentary on the AI-generated content. This level requires critical engagement with AI-generated content and evaluating its output (e.g. critique or evaluation of AI-generated analysis). |
| E | FULL AI | You may use AI throughout the course activity to support your work.
Any AI created content must be cited. AI can be used as a co-pilot in order to meet the requirements of the course activity, allowing for a collaborative approach with AI (e.g. AI-assisted design iteration). |
Course Objectives
This course will examine the basic structures and processes that make up cells and tissues, including protein synthesis, cellular tissues, and control of cellular processes, using the principles from engineering such as physical relationships and transport processes.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify the basic chemical structures and biomolecules that make up cells and discuss the chemical properties that enable their biological properties
- Explain different mechanisms of passive and active transport using the appropriate equations
- Discuss osmosis driven fluid flow to effects on cell behavior
- Analyze the kinetics of chemical reactions relevant to biological systems
- Define the membrane potential and relate the associated signaling to muscle mechanics using appropriate equations
Assessment
| Assessment | Weight | Date (tentative) |
| Assignments | 20 % | Sep 18, Oct 2, Oct 9, Oct 16, Oct 30, Nov 6, Nov 27 |
| Labs | 20 % | Two weeks after each lab (see below) |
| Midterm | 20 % | Oct 29, 6 pm to 8 pm |
| Final Exam * | 40 % | Scheduled by the Registrar (TBA) |
* Failure to pass the final exam will result in a failing grade for the course.
Assignments
| Assignment # | Modules | Due (in class) |
| 1 | Introduction to chemistry and variables | September 17 |
| 2 | Chemical bonds and reactions | October 1 |
| 3 | Enzyme kinetics | October 8 |
| 4 | Energy storage | October 15 |
| 5 | Cell biology | October 29 |
| 6 | Protein | November 5 |
| 7 | Neurons and action potentials | November 26 |
Labs
LABORATORY GROUPS AND CONDUCT
On each lab day the class runs in two half sessions of about 21 students. Students work in groups of three, formed by the instructor and the lab TA at the start of the lab term.
Experiment 3 runs over two weeks and is offered in two rotations so every group completes it; Week 10 (November 3) is reserved. You will be assigned to a rotation, and your specific dates will be confirmed by the lab coordinator.
Failure to complete all laboratory requirements will result in a grade of N being awarded for the course. The final grade obtained from the above marking scheme for the purpose of GPA calculation will be based on the percentage to grade point conversion table as listed in the current Undergraduate Calendar.
Conduct: Students are expected to contribute to and support a positive and inclusive learning environment within their groups. All group members must engage respectfully, communicate effectively, and ensure equitable participation in the lab work and the report. This expectation aligns with the Faculty of Engineering Standards for Professional Behaviour. If challenges arise that compromise a constructive group experience, contact the instructor promptly so that appropriate support can be provided.
| Lab # | Experiment | Session Date | Room | Report Due (5:00 pm) |
| 1 | Osmosis and Homeostasis | Tuesday Sep 22, Week 4 | ELW A127 | October 6 |
| 2 | Enzyme Kinetics | Tuesday Oct 6, Week 6 | ELW A127 | October 20 |
| 3 | Cell Culture and ATP Bioenergetics | Rotation A: Oct 20 and Oct 27. Rotation B: Nov 17 and Nov 24 | ELW A127 | Two weeks after your session (by December 7) |
Notes
WORK COMPLETION
Failure to complete all laboratory requirements will result in a grade of N being awarded for the course.
GRADING SCHEME
The final grade obtained from the above marking scheme for the purpose of GPA calculation will be based on the percentage-to-grade point conversion table as listed in the current Undergraduate Calendar.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXAM
There will be no supplemental examination for this course.
COURSE LECTURE NOTES (SHARING MATERIAL)
Unless otherwise noted, all course materials supplied to students in this course have been prepared by the instructor and are intended for use in this course only. These materials are NOT to be re-circulated digitally, whether by email or by uploading or copying to websites, or to others not enrolled in this course. Violation of this policy may in some cases constitute a breach of academic integrity as defined in the UVic Calendar.
General Information
Note to Students: Students who have issues with the conduct of the course should discuss them with the instructor first. If these discussions do not resolve the issue, then students should feel free to contact the Chair of the Department by email or the Assistant to the Chair to set up an appointment.
Sexualized Violence Prevention and Response at UVic:
UVic takes sexualized violence seriously, and has raised the bar for what is considered acceptable behaviour. We encourage students to learn more about how the university defines sexualized violence and its overall approach by visiting https://www.uvic.ca/sexualizedviolence/. If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexualized violence and needs information, advice, and/or support please contact the sexualized violence resource office in Equity and Human Rights (EQHR). Whether or not you have been directly impacted, if you want to take part in the important prevention work taking place on campus, you can also reach out:
Where: Sexualized violence resource office in EQHR; Sedgewick C119
Phone: 250.721.8021
Email: svpcoordinator@uvic.ca
Web: https://www.uvic.ca/sexualizedviolence/
Office of the Ombudsperson:
The Office of the Ombudsperson is an independent and impartial resource to assist with the fair resolution of student issues. A confidential consultation can help you understand your rights and responsibilities. The Ombudsperson can also clarify information, help navigate procedures, assist with problem-solving, facilitate communication, provide feedback on an appeal, investigate and make recommendations.
Phone: 250-721-8357
Email: ombuddy@uvic.ca
Web: https://uvicombudsperson.ca/
Electronic devices in labs and lectures: No unauthorized audio or video recording of lectures is permitted.
Electronic devices in midterms and exams: Calculators are only permitted for examinations and tests if explicitly authorized and the type of calculator permitted may be restricted. No other electronic devices (e.g. cell phones, pagers, PDA, etc.) may be used during examinations or tests unless explicitly authorized.
Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, University of Victoria Standards for Professional Behavior
It is the responsibility of all members of the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, students, staff, and faculty, to adhere to and promote standards of professional behavior that support an effective learning environment that prepares graduates for careers as professionals...
You are advised to read the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science document Standards for Professional Behavior which contains important information regarding conduct in courses, labs, and in the general use of facilities.
Engineering and Computer Science Students' Society The Engineering and Computer Science Students' Society (ECSS) serves all students registered in an Engineering and Computer Science degree program. For information on ECSS activities, events and services navigate to https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/ess/.
Attendance
Students are expected to attend all classes in which they are enrolled. An academic unit may require a student to withdraw from a course if the student is registered in another course that occurs at the same time.
An Instructor may refuse a student admission to a lecture, laboratory, online course discussion or learning activity, tutorial or other learning activity set out in the course outline because of lateness, misconduct, inattention or failure to meet the responsibilities of the course set out in the course outline. Students who neglect their academic work may be assigned a final grade of N or debarred from final examinations.
Students who do not attend classes must not assume that they have been dropped from the course by an academic unit or an instructor. Courses that are not formally dropped will be given a failing grade, students may be required to withdraw and will be required to pay the tuition fee for the course. Read the policy here
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is intellectual honesty and responsibility for academic work that you submit individual or group work. It involves commitment to the values of honesty, trust, and responsibility. It is expected that students will respect these ethical values in all activities related to learning, teaching, research, and service. Therefore, plagiarism and other acts against academic integrity are serious academic offences.
The responsibility of the institution Instructors and academic units have the responsibility to ensure that standards of academic honesty are met. By doing so, the institution recognizes students for their hard work and assures them that other students do not have an unfair advantage through cheating on essays, exams, and projects.
The responsibility of the student Plagiarism sometimes occurs due to a misunderstanding regarding the rules of academic integrity, but it is the responsibility of the student to know them. If you are unsure about the standards for citations or for referencing your sources, ask your instructor. Depending on the severity of the case, penalties include a warning, a failing grade, a record on the student's transcript, or a suspension.
It is your responsibility to understand the University's policy on Academic Integrity
Grading System
The University of Victoria follows a percentage grading system in which the instructor will submit grades in percentages. The University will use the following Senate approved standardized grading scale to assign letter grades. Both the percentage mark and the letter grade will be recorded on the academic record and transcripts.
| F | D | C | C+ | B- | B | B+ | A- | A | A+ |
|---|
| 0-49 | 50-59 | 60-64 | 65-69 | 70-72 | 73-76 | 77-79 | 80-84 | 85-89 | 90-100 |
| Grades | Description |
|---|
| A+, A, A- | Exceptional, outstanding or excellent performance. Normally achieved by a minority of students. These grades indicate a student who is self-initiating, exceeds expectation and has an insightful grasp of the subject matter. |
| B+, B, B- | Very good, good or solid performance. Normally achieved by the largest number of students. These grades indicate a good grasp of the subject matter or excellent grasp in one area balanced with satisfactory grasp in the other areas. |
| C+, C | Satisfactory, or minimally satisfactory. These grades indicate a satisfactory performance and knowledge of the subject matter. |
| D | Marginal Performance. A student receiving this grade demonstrated a superficial grasp of the subject matter. |
| F | Unsatisfactory performance. Wrote final examination and completed course requirements; no supplemental. |
Student Experience of Learning (SEL)
I value your feedback on this course. Towards the end of term you will have the opportunity to complete a confidential Student Experience of Learning (SEL) survey regarding your learning experience. The survey is vital to providing feedback to me regarding the course and my teaching, as well as to help the department improve the overall program for students in the future. When it is time for you to complete the survey, you will receive an email inviting you to do so. If you do not receive an email invitation, you can go directly to the SEL site
You will need to use your UVic NetLink ID to access the survey, which can be done on your laptop, tablet or mobile device. I will remind you closer to the time, but please be thinking about this important activity, especially the following three questions, during the course.
- What strengths did your instructor demonstrate that helped you learn in this course?
- Please provide specific suggestions as to how the instructor could have helped you learn more effectively.
- Please provide specific suggestions as to how this course could be improved.
Equality
This course aims to provide equal opportunities and access for all students to enjoy the benefits and privileges of the class and its curriculum and to meet the syllabus requirements. Reasonable and appropriate accommodation will be made available to students with documented disabilities (physical, mental, learning) in order to give them the opportunity to successfully meet the essential requirements of the course. The accommodation will not alter academic standards or learning outcomes, although the student may be allowed to demonstrate knowledge and skills in a different way. It is not necessary for you to reveal your disability and/or confidential medical information to the course instructor. If you believe that you may require accommodation, the course instructor can provide you with information about confidential resources on campus that can assist you in arranging for appropriate accommodation. Alternatively, you may want to contact the Centre for Accessible Learning located in the Campus Services Building.
The University of Victoria is committed to promoting, providing, and protecting a positive, and supportive and safe learning and working environment for all its members.
Copyright Statement
All course content and materials are made available by instructors for educational purposes and for the exclusive use of students registered in their class. The material is protected under copyright law, even if not marked with a ©. Any further use or distribution of materials to others requires the written permission of the instructor, except under fair dealing or another exception in the Copyright Act. Violations may result in disciplinary action under the Resolution of Non-Academic Misconduct Allegations policy (AC1300).