Global Climate change is altering the life histories of species across biomes. This course will explore the broad ecological topic, climate change and life history, through three primary components: synthesis of scientific literature, experimental design, and quantitative data analysis using the statistical software R. Emphasis will be placed on ecological concepts and sound experimental design used to test ecological questions.

Special Topics in Organismal Biology and Ecology - Evolutionary Medicine: Building on prior understanding of evolutionary theory, the course will explore the intersection of major medical issues and evolutionary biology. The ability of evolutionary theory to explain disease processes and patient responses as well as practical applications to improve patient healthcare will be examined. Specific topics covered may include pathogens, cancer, reproduction, and mental health. Prerequisite: consent of instructor & Junior or Senior standing, MB131 AND one of MB201, BE280, BE208, AN202, AN207, AN230. 1 unit – Jabaily, Fish.

Health- of the individual, populations, and our entire species- is on everyone’s mind. We will take an evolutionary lens to explore ultimate questions about why various conditions initially evolved and persist in Homo sapiens. The course will predominantly be seminar-style, with students responsible for leading discussions on chapters of the textbook and primary literature. This course is appropriate for OBE students with broad interests as well as those specifically heading into the medical field.

Animal Ecology