Parasite and Disease Ecology

Catalog description

Parasite and Disease Ecology is designed to help upper-level undergraduate students develop the tools to solve problems and think critically about topics related to parasites and infectious diseases. By the end of the course, students will be able to summarize how abiotic and biotic factors influence host-parasite interactions; predict how parasites will spread through host populations; explain how parasites are connected within broader ecological communities and ecosystems; and apply their knowledge of disease ecology theory to case studies to recommend effective conservation and human health solutions. Throughout this course, students will also advance their abilities to find and evaluate scientific evidence, interpret figures, analyze data, simulate dynamic ecological systems, collaborate with peers, and communicate ideas and scientific results. The knowledge and skills developed in this class would be beneficial in future careers in ecology, conservation, human or veterinary medicine, public health, science communication, and more. Optional 1-credit lab: AEC 371