Typically, one wouldn’t think to ask a geologist about the most pressing issues in evolutionary biology. Yet, for some biologists, rock formations and fossil records—which have only gained the attention of natural scientists in the last 50 years—provide a plentiful source of untapped information about the history of life on[Read More…]
Tag: Biology
44th SQEBC covers cognitive ecology and animal behaviour
The 44th Société Québécoise pour l’Étude Biologique du Comportement (SQEBC) took place in the McIntyre Medical Building from Nov. 1–3, drawing speakers and attendees from around the world. This year, the theme of the conference was cognitive ecology, the study of cognitive phenomena in social and natural contexts. Organizers Simon[Read More…]
Restored museum unlocks McGill’s medical history
A newly-opened exhibition in the Strathcona Anatomy and Dentistry Building offers researchers, students, and members of the public the opportunity to explore a fascinating array of anatomical specimens, dating back almost 200 years. The Maude Abbott Medical Museum provides visitors with insight into the rich history of medical studies at[Read More…]
The mitochondria: More than just the “powerhouse of the cell”
The cells in our bodies perform functions that have yet to be fully understood. These structures which have existed for two billion years continue to baffle the scientific community. The mitochondria, an organelle with many unique features and functions, has been a topic of widespread research ever since its discovery[Read More…]
Three documentaries on Netflix to get you thinking about oceans
In an age where human interplanetary travel is nearing feasibility and our species occupies all corners of the earth, our fragile oceans still remain a mystery. According to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), less than five per cent of the oceans have been explored. Documentary filmmakers everywhere have[Read More…]
McGill researchers identify possible treatment for autism-like disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), commonly known simply as Autism, comprises a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, with varying degrees of symptoms such as repetitive behaviors, impaired communications, and poor social engagement. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every 68 children across the globe, or 70 million people,[Read More…]
Everything you wanted to know about the blobfish but were afraid to ask
Ever pictured a cross between Squidward from Spongebob and a grumpy English Bulldog? If not, look at a picture of the infamous “blobfish” and wonder at the mysteries of life. According to the New York Daily News, the blobfish, or Psychrolutes marcidus, was voted “World’s Ugliest Fish” by the Ugly Animals[Read More…]
Anatomy and Cell Biology launches Mental Health Support Program
On Nov. 18, the McGill Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology launched the Mental Health Support Program. The department-based project offers students a chance to meet with individuals who were selected to be supporters. These volunteers include graduate and undergraduate students, administrative personnel, and professors trained by McGill Counselling and[Read More…]
This month in student research: Kieran Steer
Kieran Steer’s lab supervisor, Dr. Gulzhakan Sadvakassova, had left him in the lab with a row of cell cultures.