Course overview
This course aims to provide advanced theoretical understanding of modern advances in techniques for systematics, evolution and the fossil record and the application of these to the study of the evolution and conservation of biodiversity. Students will investigate a range of key topics in evolutionary biology and apply critical thinking by assessing current literature in the area. Topics will include: past climates and habitats and how they have shaped the present day Australian biota; evolutionary trees; morphological and molecular systematics, ancient DNA; molecular clocks; biogeography; extinction; and computational challenges for processing and interpreting large-scale genomic data in phylogeography. Several themes will be explored in detail throughout the course; in particular, adaptations displayed by native animals and plants to arid, nutrient-stressed, aquatic and/or marine environments.
Course learning outcomes
- Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate theories of cutting-edge solutions to problems in evolutionary biology and demonstrate an understanding of the importance of evolutionary studies as a foundation of comparative biology
- Understand the importance of the fossil record in evolutionary studies from a theoretical perspective and the role of phylogenetic studies in the wider context of biodiversity and conservation
- Present information relating to the evolution of the Australian biota in a written form that aligns with conventions for scientific reports
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