Biology 370 - MICROBIAL DIVERSITY

This course focuses on the origin and diversification of microorganisms, with emphasis on eukaryotic cells (cells with nuclei). The first weeks of lecture will cover the basics of evolutionary analysis, and the origin and diversification of bacteria and archaea. From there, we will focus on the diversification of eukaryotes, with specific lectures on topics such as microbes and AIDS, and the origins of plants, animals and fungi. Evaluation is based on a combination of tests, discussions and a research paper on a topic chosen by each student. Prerequisite: BIO 152 or 154. Laboratory (BIO 371) is recommended but not required.