Through the analysis of patterns of genetic variation in DNA, the field of Molecular Evolution seeks to gain insight into the fundamental evolutionary forces that generate, maintain, and remove genetic diversity. These forces shape the abundance of deleterious and beneficial mutations and reflect physical and behavioral differences between populations. In this course, we will dive into theoretical population genetics as a framework to develop an intuitive understanding of these evolutionary processes. We will apply this understanding to diversity among humans and all other life on earth. Prerequisite: BIOL3010, BIOL3020 required; STAT 2020 and calculus (MATH 1210, 1220, 1310, or 1320) suggested.

Independent research for qualified undergraduates under the direction of a faculty member within the Biology Department. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission

This course is the final semester of Independent Research for participants of the Biology Distinguished Majors Program. During this semester, students will complete their laboratory investigations, ultimately presenting the sum of their work in a written thesis. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission

A weekly conference arranged around a current topic. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

This course introduces grad students to a breadth and depth of concepts and theories in modern ecology and evolutionary biology. The couse is co-taught by two BIOL faculty each fall, with different faculty rotating into the course in alternate years, providing expertise in molecular population genetics, genomics, phylogenetics, integrative biology, speciation, microevolution, life-history evolution, and mating systems.

Introduces professional skills to first-year graduate students in the life sciences. This includes personal skills such as research management, ethics training and career awareness. Skills for communicating in science include small grant writing, poster creation and presentation. Emphasis will be placed on developing a scientific community that recognizes and values diversity.

For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director.

For doctoral research, taken before a dissertation director has been selected.

For doctoral dissertation, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director.