RNR 316: Natural Resource Ecology (FALL)

Students learn the fundamental principles of ecology and examine how these principles are used to inform solutions to modern day issues surrounding natural resources. We will use in-class analytical activities and online study tools to understand and interpret research results from historic and current literature. Concepts range from evolution by natural selection, to biodiversity in all of its forms, to population dynamics and community competition models, to ecosystem processes and global nutrient and water cycles. We highlight biodiversity, habitat, energy, and water issues and discuss remediation and adaptation possibilities as we enter the human-driven Anthropocene. 

RNR458/558: Ecosystem Ecology (SPRING) 

Rapid changes to Earth’s biosphere will influence how natural and managed ecosystems function and alter the services they provide. Issues from conservation biology to sustainability and global climate change rely on a comprehensive understanding of ecosystem processes. In this class, students will learn the principles of terrestrial ecosystem ecology, examining the influence of biological, ecological, and physical processes on energy and material flows and water and elemental (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorous) cycling in ecosystems.

RNR696A: Ecoinformatics (SPRING - alternate)

Using open-access data, students will explore the layers and drivers of soil microbial community diversity within and across ecosystems. The aims of the course are to: (1) work collaboratively through project-based learning to craft a manuscript from the idea conception stage, though literature review, data analysis and interpretation, to writing and formatting a manuscript for peer-reviewed publication; (2) develop critical thinking and technical writing skills and learn how to generate testable hypotheses, and; (3) become familiar with analytical tools and understand the strength and limitations of different statistical approaches.