Entry requirements

150 credits including alt 1) 60 credits biology and 30 credits chemistry or 30 credits earth sciences, alt 2) 90 credits biology, alt 3) 60 credits earth sciences including Principles of Palaeobiology 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

The general aim of the course is to illustrate the interactions between molecular patterning, ontogeny and morphology in an evolutionary perspective. These interactions are studied in detail in selected examples from invertebrates and vertebrates.

After having completed the course the students should be able to:

• explain how genomic, developmental biological, morphological and palaeontological data can be connected in a phylogenetic framework to illustrate macroevolutionary issues
• use basic genomic and developmental biological concepts such as paralogy, orthology, gene expression, cell populations and "cell fate choice"
• account for the detailed morphological structure and evolution of the examples that are discussed during the course
• review and evaluate scientific papers critically
• present research results based on critical evaluation of scientific papers.

Content

The course includes examples from invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as an overview of underlying common principles. We study among others the common body plan and patterning of bilaterians, the evolution of the head and the origin and evolution of paired extremities in vertebrates and arthropods. We discuss these questions in a genomic, developmental biological, morphological and palaeontological perspective, within a phylogenetic framework where questions as character polarity are taken into consideration.

Instruction

Teaching includes lectures, seminars and laboratory practicals. Participation in seminars and practicals is compulsory.

Assessment

Parts of the course: Theory 10 credits; Seminars 2 credits; Laboratory session 3 credits;

The theoretical course is examined in a written examination of basic concepts and theories. The seminars require active participation. The laboratory sessions require active participation and laboratory reports.