spring 2015

Biology-144: Biostatistics (W & F 1.30-4.30pm)
In this course, students will learn the general concepts that set the foundation for many of the statistical tests most often used by life scientists today.
Reading: 
McKillup S. "Statistics Explained: An Introductory Guide for Life Scientists", 2nd ed. Cambridge University Press (2011). - Recommended
Grafen A. and Hail R. "Modern Statistics for the Life Sciences", Oxford University Press (2002). -Recommended.


Tutorial on Experimental Evolution
Experimental evolution is the study of evolution in "real-time" using laboratory microbial systems or any other tractable experimental system. Our weekly discussion will be directed by Dr. Rees Kassen's recent textbook.
Reading: 
Kassen R. "Experimental Evolution and the Nature of Biodiversity", Roberts and Company Publishers (2014).

Upcoming...

Fall 2015

Biology-340: Metagenomics (M & W 1.30-4.30pm) 
How does the extensive genetic diversity of microbes affect human health? How do anthropogenic actions such as pollution affect microbial populations around us? This research intensive course will use genomics and metagenomics to study the ecology and evolution of antibiotic resistance in environmental microbes. For one week prior to the start of the semester, students will meet daily with the instructor to design and conduct their own metagenomic survey of microbial populations found in the Saw Kill and the agricultural lands surrounding it. During the semester, students will learn how to use open-access bioinformatics tools such as de novo assemblers and how to create their own customized database to analyze their unique metagenomic dataset. More specifically, students will learn how to assemble DNA sequence reads generated by next-generation sequencers and to identify antibioitic resistance genes among diverse microbial genomes. Students will also use statistics and phylogenetics to study the links between antibiotic resistance in environmental microbes and human pathogens. The course format creates an immersive research experience where students will study the applications of evolutionary biology and genomics to pressing public health issues, while taking an active role in an ongoing research program. Students can request campus room and board for the duration of the August laboratory session for an additional charge. Contact the instructor for more information.