This course builds upon the second year Evolution course (BS2160) and introduces a range of more advanced and current topics within the area of evolutionary ecology with a strong focus on studies using vertebrate systems. Evolutionary ecologists investigate the interactions between and within species, and, for example, consider the evolutionary effects of competitors, mutualists, predators, prey and pathogens.

The course format will be a combination of lectures, student presentations, and student-led discussions. Practical work is part of the assessment and involves writing a scientific grant proposal and an oral presentation.

Background readings for the lectures will be primarily based on a combination of classic and recent papers that reflect both historic and current progress in the field; background readings for student-led discussions will be on recent primary literature that will provide insights into the current state of the relevant topic.

The aim of these MOODLE pages is to guide you to supplementary reading, to approved websites for further information, and to give you access to the lecture presentations. If applicable, I will also provide links to other resources, such as online videos, lectures or graphics, that will help you to learn about evolutionary ecology.

Course contributors: Dr Rüdiger Riesch (Course coordinator)