Biomedical Toxicology Co-op Student Information
About The Program
Biomedical Toxicology concentrates on the effects and mechanisms of action of toxic substances from a variety of perspectives. At Guelph, you will experience a multi-disciplinary approach to toxicology; drawing on the physical, biological, and social sciences. You will study issues such as the risk of cancer from exposure to environmental agents, including both natural and synthetic chemicals, as well as the metabolism of carcinogenic and other toxic substances, and the effects of these substances on DNA. The effects of both natural and synthetic chemicals and their movement, distribution and breakdown in the environment will also be studied.
Why Co-op?
As a co-op student, you will gain relevant work experience, build professional networks, and develop essential interpersonal skills needed to succeed in the workplace, all while getting paid and earning your university degree. Guelph’s co-op program is unique due to the exceptional level of support provided throughout the co-op experience. Students will complete a comprehensive course preparing them for the co-op employment process, and will receive guidance from a knowledgeable team of staff dedicated to their development and success.
Course Sequencing
| YEAR | FALL | WINTER | SUMMER |
|---|---|---|---|
| ONE | Academic | Academic | Off |
| TWO | Academic | Work | Work |
| THREE | Academic | Academic | Work |
| FOUR | Work | Academic | Off |
| FIVE | Academic | Academic |
Acquired Knowledge & Skills
Knowledge
A sound grounding in organic, analytical, and biochemistry. Exposure to the theories of toxic action: uptake and metabolism, risk assessment, and pesticides in the environment.
Application
Practical laboratory experience in chemical and biological wet-bench techniques, instrumentation and sampling. Functional aptitude in trace analysis, statistical analysis, contaminant dose response and comparative.
Sample Jobs
Research Technician
This exciting opportunity will allow you to participate in a collaborative academic research project directed towards the combined use of oncolytic viruses and immunotherapeutics to treat cancer. You will be involved in experiments designed to better understand and ultimately improve these complementary therapeutic approaches.
Data Chemical Analyst
This federal government co-op position will focus on atmospheric chemistry data analysis. Duties may include compilation and statistical analysis, in an office setting, of atmospheric concentration data and/or data quality indicators from networks and/or special studies that monitor atmospheric concentrations of toxic substances. You may also prepare figures, tables, and summaries for inclusion in reports and/or papers.
Regulatory & Scientific Affairs Intern
In this scientific office position, you will compile important regulatory submissions for new drugs, natural health products, and cosmetics to Health Canada for approval of new products. You will also perform ingredient reviews, research scientific articles and conduct presentations on new science and regulations to the team.
Additional Sample Jobs: Chemical Laboratory Technician, Government Policy Analyst, Regulatory Program Evaluator, Biohazard Researcher, Private Sector Consulting Assistant, and more
Sample Employers*
- University of Guelph - Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Focal Point Research
- Dainty Foods
- Health Canada - Pest Management Regulatory Agency
*This shows a sample of recent co-op employers and will vary depending on employer recruitment needs. During a job search, students are encouraged to be actively engaged and are supported in establishing and maintaining their own personal contacts.
Salary Information
Students receive compensation from their employer for co-op work terms. The rate of pay will vary depending on a number of factors including the industry, the student’s program of study, and work term level. For your reference, a Co-operative Education Salary Guide is available on our website, which provides hourly rates (averages and ranges) for each degree program.
About Us
The Experiential Learning Hub is home to experiential learning opportunities on and off-campus, co-op, career education and community engaged learning.