BIOL 453 - Advanced Evolution

This lecture/conference course will focus on exploring the central, unifying tenet of biology-evolution through readings and discussion. Despite its centrality, evolution is often misunderstood. Learning objectives include 1) provide an accurate and integrative understanding of evolutionary biology generally, 2) introduce patterns of micro- and macroevolution, as well as the use of phylogenetic analysis to understand relatedness, 3) connect biological phenomena (e.g., adaptation or horizontal transfer) to their evolutionary consequences, 4) review evolutionary theories and debates, 5) read papers from the primary literature on evolution, 6) explore human origins and evolution, 7) confront the problematic and racist roots of evolutionary biology as a field, 8) examine current-day issues related to the acceptance of evolution in society, 9) consider frontiers in evolutionary biology research (e.g., synthetic biology and de-extinction) and 10) discuss the relevance of evolution in applied contexts. Students who have taken BIOL 273 may not take this course.

Unit(s): 1
Group Distribution Requirement(s): Distribution Group III
Prerequisite(s): BIOL 101 or BIOL 102; and two additional units of biology at the 200 or 300 level.
Instructional Method: Lecture-conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Not offered: 2024-25
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Use and evaluate quantitative data or modeling, or use logical/mathematical reasoning to evaluate, test or prove statements.
Given a problem or question, formulate a hypothesis or conjecture, and design an experiment, collect data, or use mathematical reasoning to test or validate it.