Molecular Ecology and Evolution is a 15 credit university-level course that examines the principles and methodologies of genetics and evolutionary biology, with a focus on their relationship to ecology. The course includes study of major themes in molecular ecology and evolution, forces influencing genetic structure, molecular data analysis for ecological and evolutionary inference, conservation applications, and integrating ideas across biological organization levels. It involves both theoretical knowledge and practical skills including data analysis, scientific communication, and field study planning.

Course Content

• Principles and methodologies of genetics and evolutionary biology

• Historical themes in molecular ecology and evolution

• Forces influencing genetic structure of natural populations

• Causes and consequences of genetic diversity and evolutionary change

• Use of molecular data to infer ecology and evolution

• Application to conservation and wildlife management

• Scientific terminology and communication skills (oral and poster)

• Extraction and interpretation of primary research literature

• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of molecular/genetic data

• Visualization and statistical techniques in molecular ecology

• Phylogenetic tree construction using software

• Design population management strategies

• Integration across biological organisation levels

• Linking course content to other degree courses and public issues

• Planning ecological field studies and study proposals

• Articulating the importance of evolution in biology

• Defending scientific literacy and empirical evidence use

• Recognition of ethical behaviour in research and conservation application