Evolutionary Processes (342-CN-62)

Instructors

Garth A Fowler
847/491-5521
Hogan Hall, Room 2-160
Dr. Fowler is the Assistant Chair of the Department of Neurobiology. He receivd his PhD from the University of Washington Medical school in Behavioral Neurosceince. He joined the NU faculty in 2007 and teaches numerous classes, including a seminar on Obesity, Advanced Neurobiololgy, and Human Physiology. He enjoys movies, going to concerts (especially the CSO), and training for marathons and triathlons.

Meeting Info

Technological Institute A110: Mon 6:15PM - 9:15PM

Overview of class

"Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution" - Theodosius Dobzhansky

Evolution is a central unifying biological discipline since it is within an evolutionary framework that the rest of biology is understood. An understanding of evolution is key to understanding the origin and maintenance of the diversity of life on Earth. This course reviews the dynamics of genetic variation in populations through evidence from natural history, experimentation, and theory. Topics include: natural selection, genetic drift, inbreeding, mutation, and geographic structure of populations, and will be reinforced through examination and discussion of primary literature.

Registration Requirements

BIOL SCI 215 (Genetics & Molecular Biology), 219 (Cell Biology)

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the course students will be able to:

Explain the scope and applications of modern evolutionary biology;
Understand methods used by biologists to reconstruct the evolutionary history of life on earth;
Identify research problems that must apply known evolutionary processes;
Understand why evolutionary patterns and processes are important to many disciplines of biology;
Distinguish between different processes that lead to evolutionary change in organisms;
Gain practice reading primary scientific literature.

Teaching Method

Class participation
Discussion
Group work
In-Class Assignments
Lecture
Readings
Reading Responses

Evaluation Method

Quizzes
Final exam
Midterm exam
Class participation

Class Materials (Required)

Materials may include the following. Confirm course texts and materials by viewing course Canvas site or University bookstore website, or contacting the instructor.

Evolution: Making Sense of Life, 2nd edition. Carl Zimmer & Douglas Emlen (2015).
W.H. Freeman and Company, ISBN-10: 1936221551