BISC 3380/6470

In this course, students identify and classify invertebrates of all major phyla (use taxonomic names and zoological terminology) and examine the anatomical, morphological, and developmental characters of invertebrates. Students evaluate the ecological and evolutionary factors that explain animal diversity. Students explore the field of invertebrate zoology and its applications through traditional tools like microscopy and histology, as well as modern tools like genomics and evolutionary-developmental biology (“evo-devo”).

Graduate students build upon foundational knowledge and apply modern as well as traditional research tools to formulate new questions of the factors that explain diversity in invertebrate morphology, development, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Students also demonstrate a proficiency of writing within the discipline by summarizing and criticizing primary literature in the field.

BISC 5004/5504

In lecture, students are introduced to statistical concepts and approaches to data analysis. Lab exercises and associated homework assignments allow students to practice applying concepts and approaches to analysis of real data on computers, using the open-source statistical software R.