Upper-Division

Lectures and laboratory computer exercises familiarize students with research methods, study design, statistics, and research tools for large marine vertebrates (seals, birds, fish, and sharks). Research topics include: animal tracking; diving physiology; behavior; foraging ecology; and energetics.

Comparative physiology of mammals, birds, and fish with emphasis on locomotor performance and exercise in aquatic and terrestrial environments. Cardiovascular, respiratory, and skeletal muscle systems examined.

An introduction to evolution at the molecular level. Topics include neutral theory of evolution, natural selection, molecular clocks, molecular phylogenetics, and biogeography. (Formerly Biology 176.)

One laboratory section per week that applies the theory developed in course 170 to computer and laboratory experiments.

A companion course to 172 Population Genetics that applies the theory developed in that course to related disciplines including conservation biology, ecology, agriculture, and population biology. Original scientific literature relating to the theory developed in BIOE 172 is read, and applied problem sets are solved by the students. Students cannot receive credit for this course and BIOE 272L.

Provides for individual programs of study (a) by means other than the usual supervision in person, or (b) when the student is doing all or most of the coursework off campus. With permission of the department, may be repeated for credit, or two or three courses taken concurrently. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency.