Global Change Biology: The Ecology of Our Planet Under Stress

Description

An introduction to the ecophysiological responses of plants and animals to environmental and anthropogenic stress, with an emphasis on the effects of changes in global climate and land use. The course focuses on biological functions as they are affected by interactions with their physical, chemical and biotic environments. This course will provide students with an introduction to the responses of plants and animals to environmental and anthropogenic stress, with an emphasis on the effects of global environmental changes and changes in land use. The course focuses on ecophysiology, the study of the relationships between the physiological function of an organism and its physical, chemical and biological environment. This course will introduce students to the physiological mechanisms underlying ecological observations. We will ask ecological questions about the controls over the growth, reproduction, survival, abundance, and geographical distribution of plants and animals as they are affected by interactions with their environment. It will provide an appreciation of ecological questions and biophysical, biochemical, and molecular methods and processes. A major component of the course will be involve applying this knowledge in an extended lab or literature based research paper. Instruction will be given in scientific writing and presentation of scientific concepts.