Environmental Biology

This is an introductory course in human evolution. Building on a foundation of evolutionary theory, students explore primate behavioral morphology and then trace the last 65 million years of primate evolution from the earliest Paleocene forms to the fossil remains of earliest humans and human relatives. Along with Behavioral Biology of the Living Primates this serves as a core required class for the EBHS program.

Introductory biology course for majors in biology or environmental biology, emphasizing the ecological and evolutionary context of modern biology.

Intended for those WITHOUT prior knowledge of statistics.  Some background in ecology, evolutionary biology required.  This is an introduction to the theoretical principles and practical application of statistical methods in ecology and evolutionary biology. The course will cover the conceptual basis for a range of statistical techniques through a series of lectures using examples from the primary literature. The application of these techniques will be taught through the use of statistical software in computer-based laboratory sessions.

Required Lab for EEEB UN3005. An introduction to the theoretical principles and practical application of statistical methods in ecology and evolutionary biology. The course will cover the conceptual basis for a range of statistical techniques through a series of lectures using examples from the primary literature. The application of these techniques will be taught through the use of statistical software in computer-based laboratory sessions.

Required Lab for EEEB UN3005. An introduction to the theoretical principles and practical application of statistical methods in ecology and evolutionary biology. The course will cover the conceptual basis for a range of statistical techniques through a series of lectures using examples from the primary literature. The application of these techniques will be taught through the use of statistical software in computer-based laboratory sessions.

This course presents a survey of the foundational theories of biodiversity and an introduction to the mathematics of these theories. Though we partially understand the diversity of species on earth, we are unable to explain why there are so many species. There are numerous theories that try to explain the enigma of biodiversity. These theories have touched on exciting fields of mathematics: complex systems, chaos, and neutral theory. Students from applied math and ecology/biology backgrounds are especially encouraged in this course, the latter even if they do not have extensive mathematical background. For those familiar with mathematics, this class will teach how to leverage mathematics in interesting models that have both popular and scientific appeal. For those with more biological expertise, this class emphasizes building mathematical skills especially in the context of ecology. This class discusses the theories behind complex systems, chaos, and neutral theory, but focuses on reading the papers and monographs in which these theories are used. The papers selected for this class show how complex mathematical topics were explained elegantly and engagingly enough to enter the popular imagination and scientific debate.

Guided, independent, indepth research experience culminating in the senior essay. Weekly meetings are held to review work in progress, to share results through oral and written reports, and to consider career options for further work in this field.

Prerequisites: the instructor's permission and senior standing as a major or concentrator in The Evolutionary Biology of the Human Species (EBHS). Year-long seminar in which senior EBHS majors develop a research project and write a senior thesis. Regular meetings are held to discuss research and writing strategies,review work in progress, and share results through oral and written reports.

Students conduct research in environmental biology under supervision of a faculty mentor. The topic and scope of the research project must be approved before the student registers for the course.

Prerequisites: Students should have completed at least one course in ecology, evolution or conservation biology. The purpose of this course is to arm emerging scientists with an understanding of conservation policy at the city, state, federal and international levels. Our focus will be on understanding the science that informs conservation policy, evaluating the efficacy of conservation policies for achieving conservation goals, and learning about the role that scientists play in forming policy.

Study ecology, evolution, and conservation biology in one of the world’s most biologically spectacular settings, the wildlife-rich savannas of Kenya. Although we will meet have a few meetings during the fall semester, the majority of the coursework will be completed during a 16 day field trip to Kenya during winter break. Students will spend their time immersed in an intensive field experience gaining sophisticated training in fieldwork and biological research. Note that there is a lab fee to cover all in-country expenses, and students are also responsible for the cost of airfare to and from Kenya.

This course examines the role and function of the modern zoo in the context of the modern conservation movement. Students will learn about the evolution of the zoological park from an entertainment venue to a reservoir of rare or otherwise endangered species of animals, and as a catalyst for conservation of these species.

With approximately 40% of the global population residing in coastal regions, only about 15% of Earth’s coastlines remain intact.  Human interactions have affected these complex and biodiverse ecosystems for thousands of years, leaving coasts vulnerable to climate change and the demands of human population increase.  By understanding both the science and social behaviors behind ecosystem dynamics, policies can be put forth to mitigate current anthropogenic influences on coastal integrity.

This seminar will take a multi-disciplinary in examining current issues and policies that affect coastal ecosystems around the world.  To do so, the semester will be divided into three sections.  We will begin with the foundations: what defines a coastal ecosystem and how society and these environments have influenced one another.  The second part of class will provide a primer on policy development and implementation.  Finally, the remainder of the semester will be dedicated to the pertinent problems facing today’s coastal ecosystems and the policies put forth in response. 

 

Bulletin Description:

With approximately 40% of the global population residing in coastal regions, only about 15% of Earth’s coastlines remain intact.  This course provides an overview of pressing issues and key policies that impact these coastal ecosystems.  We will examine the roles that science, history, and social dynamics play in developing and implementing coastal policies and management, while enhancing skills in science communication.  Some background in ecology, such as EBII, is recommended but not required. Previous experience in policy is not required.

Prerequisites: Some background in ecology, evolutionary biology. Intended for those WITHOUT prior knowledge of statistics.  This is an introduction to the theoretical principles and practical application of statistical methods in ecology and evolutionary biology. The course will cover the conceptual basis for a range of statistical techniques through a series of lectures using examples from the primary literature. The application of these techniques will be taught through the use of statistical software in computer-based laboratory sessions.

Prerequisites: some background in ecology, evolutionary biology, and/or statistics is recommended. An introduction to the theoretical principles and practical application of statistical methods in ecology and evolutionary biology. The course will cover the conceptual basis for a range of statistical techniques through a series of lectures using examples from the primary literature. The application of these techniques will be taught through the use of statistical software in computer-based laboratory sessions.

Prerequisites: some background in ecology, evolutionary biology, and/or statistics is recommended. An introduction to the theoretical principles and practical application of statistical methods in ecology and evolutionary biology. The course will cover the conceptual basis for a range of statistical techniques through a series of lectures using examples from the primary literature. The application of these techniques will be taught through the use of statistical software in computer-based laboratory sessions.

Incoming M.A. students aiming for the thesis-based program are guided through the process of defining a research question, finding an advisor, and preparing a research proposal. By the end of the semester the students will have a written research proposal to submit to potential advisors for revision. Subject to a positive review of the research proposal, students are allowed to continue with the thesis-based program and will start working with their advisor. The course will also provide an opportunity to develop basic skills that will facilitate the reminder of the student's stay at E3B and will help in their future careers.

Lectures cover principal topics in evolutionary biology including genetics, genome organization, population and quantitative genetics, the history of evolutionary theory, systematics, speciation and species concepts, co-evolution, and biogeography.

Prerequisites: degree in biological sciences. Lectures by visiting scientists, faculty, and students; specific biological research projects; with emphasis on evolution, ecology, and conservation biology.

Prerequisites: the instructor's permission. This course will help guide E3B Ph.D. students towards candidacy by teaching them the skills necessary to be effective and independent scientists. Students will conduct an extensive literature review, write a preliminary dissertation proposal, and present their research ideas to the group on multiple occasions. Students will learn how to give and receive constructive written and oral feedback on their work.