Phylogenetics. ((4 Credits))

Catalog description

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 3500 with a minimum grade C- and University Advanced Standing Delves into the principles and methodologies of phylogenetics, equipping students with the necessary skills to explore evolutionary relationships among organisms and genes. Emphasizes the importance of "tree-thinking," and interpreting and constructing phylogenetic trees, gaining insights into their implications for evolutionary biology and specific disciplines for their major. Covers key topics such as sequence alignment techniques, parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian tree reconstruction methods, and concepts of nodal support and trait evolution. Utilizes hands-on projects for designing reproducible workflows for phylogenetic inference and compiling novel molecular datasets from reputable online databases. Culminates in the application of phylogenetic reconstruction methodologies on datasets created by students. Develops skills in professional communication by synthesizing analyses and results into formats suitable for scientific presentation, including posters, oral presentations, and manuscripts.