This course will cover the fundamental factors controlling the distribution and abundance of organisms, including interactions with the abiotic environment, fitness and natural selection, population growth and dynamics, species interactions, community dynamics, and diversity. We will address variation across space and time. The course will combine observational, experimental, and mathematical approaches to some of the applications of ecological theory, including conservation, disease dynamics, and biological control.

Studies at the molecular level of various aspects of genetics, as expressed in bacterial and viral systems. Topics include patterns and mechanisms of replication, recombination, repair, and mutation of DNA; regulation of gene activity; gene-protein relationships; and genetic engineering. The fourth hour will follow a 'journal club' format with student presentations.