Sally Leys, PhD

Research

My research interests concern the evolution of the first metazoan body plans, and in particular how mechanisms of coordination arose - including nervous and non-nervous coordination. In my lab we use a diverse set of approaches to study how the sponge body plan works, and to interpret how aspects of tissue organization, polarity, and sensory mechansims may be related to those known from other phyla.

Our lab tools include microscopy – Scanning electron, transmission electron, confocal, video and fluorescent light microscopy. We use pharmacological and molecular techniques, and we also study animals in the field – by diving, snorkeling, and use of a remote operated vehicle. Much of our field work occurs at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre.

Leys Lab Website

Teaching

Biology and Evolution of Invertebrates Zoology 350

Marine Science Biol 361

Structure and Function of Animals MASC 415 (held at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Center)

BIOL 361 - Marine Science

An introduction to marine science and marine biology including history of marine exploration, essential features of the physical marine environment, a survey of major marine communities and adaptations of the organisms that live in each, overviews of selected groups of marine organisms (e.g., marine mammals), and human impact on the oceans. Recommended as preparation for courses offered through the Bamfield Marine Station (see courses listed under MA SC). Prerequisite: ZOOL 250 or BIOL 208.

Browse more courses taught by Sally Leys