MOLECULAR ECOLOGY
(objectives)
The use of molecular and bioinformatic tools has significantly contributed to our understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes underlying the genesis of biodiversity and the fundamental principles of modern conservation biology. The course aims to provide the student with a thorough understanding of these tools and the main ecological and evolutionary issues that can be addressed through their application. The course will also investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptation of organisms to environmental changes, both current and past, the molecular methods for monitoring the different hierarchical levels of biodiversity, and elements of molecular demography.
EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES
1) Knowledge and understanding. Students who complete this course will be able to solve ecological and evolutionary problems using molecular ecology tools. In general, they will develop the ability to understand the application of the tools of molecular ecology proper for understanding the main eco-evolutionary processes that shape diversity in natural populations.
2) Applying knowledge and understanding. Students who complete this course will be able to apply the knowledge obtained using experimental and bioinformatics tools typical of molecular ecology for solving problems in the ecological and evolutionary fields. In particular, this knowledge will be applied in conservation biology and in invasion biology.
3) Making judgements. Students who complete this course will be able to apply critical reading of scientific literature to formulate informative hypotheses of experimental data.
4) Communication skills. Students will be stimulated to discuss and compare opinions during the course to develop their communication skills. At the end of the course, students will have the ability to communicate the knowledge acquired clearly and understandably.
5) Learning skills. At the end of the course, students will be able to formulate solid scientific questions based on evidence and develop experimental paths by gradually integrating scientific literature and acquired technical knowledge.
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