MSCI 208

Molecular Ecology: Concepts and Methods

Use of genetic information affecting interactions of organisms with environment. Lectures on molecular markers used to assess diversity in communities, characterize spatial/temporal variation in species composition, assess genetic variability in populations, discriminate/reveal kinship among individuals, and detect/quantify gene expression important in organismal responses to environmental fluctuation. Basic molecular methods (DNA and RNA isolation/amplification/cloning/sequencing) taught. Students projects as budget permits. Enrollment limited. Lecture 2 hours; laboratory 6 hours.

Units: 4.0