BIO 539 – Laboratory Techniques in Molecular Biology: This course is designed around the lab. The lectures in the course will involve the how and why of various techniques, while the lab will concentrate on the actual details of the procedures. We learn RNA and DNA isolation, cloning and sequencing of genes; use of expression vectors; protein electrophoresis. This course is intended for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students, and meets twice per week for 4 hours each.
BIO 480 – Ecological Genetics: This course investigates the origin and maintenance of genetic variation within and among populations. Using theoretical models and empirical examples, students will explore the ways in which genetic processes (mutation, migration, selection, and drift) influence the stability of a population over space and time. Application of population genetics toward real world issues in ecology, evolution, conservation biology, and wildlife management will be discussed. The format of the course involves a combination of lecture and discussion of primary literature. This course is intended for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students, and meets twice per week.
BIO 150 – Foundations of Biological Sciences I: This course addresses the fundamental principles of biology, including ecology, evolution, genetics, molecular and cell biology integrated through an evolutionary framework. It is the first of a two-course sequence for undergraduates working toward the Bio Sci major and other natural science majors. It includes 3 hours of lecture and a 3 hour lab per week (4 credits).
BIO 931 – Conservation Genetics: In this seminar course, students will discuss primary literature in conservation genetics and molecular ecology. We will focus on the genetic markers and analytical approaches used to apply genetic data to the conservation and management of wild species. This course is intended for graduate students and includes one 2-hour discussion per week.
BIO 599 – Molecular Ecology Data Analysis: This course will prepare students to understand and utilize current population genetic analytical methods and how these apply to molecular ecology research. We will examine problems from several approaches, learn how the methods differ, and understand the strengths of each. On completion of this course, students will be able to analyze a dataset comprised of individual genetic and geographic information in order to address ecological questions including population structure, population size, genetic diversity, gene flow. This 3-credit course meets for three hours of mixed lecture and computer lab hands-on time each week during the semester, and is intended for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students.
BIO 931b – Research Presentations in Ecology and Evolution: In this seminar course, we consider what makes a truly great research presentation, including both content and delivery (including both visual and audio components). Students then work to implement these techniques in a variety of exercises, including giving a presentation on their graduate research. This course is intended for graduate students and includes one 2-hour meeting time per week.