"Nothing in Biology Makes Sense Except in the Light of Evolution". Evolutionary theory and methods are essential in all branches of modern biology. This course will put into practice the material covered in BIO 351 (Principles of Evolution: Theory), offering students the opportunity to develop and realize an evolutionary research project in association with a faculty mentor.

Basic studies and BIO 351 "Principles of Evolution: Theory" (or comparable course in evolutionary biology) successfully completed

By the end of the course, the students will be able to: - develop an independent research project on an evolutionary theme - critically assess the scientific literature in their topic area - execute a lab- and/or field-based research project Key skills By the end of the course, the students will be able to: - develop, design and realize a research project in cooperation with a scientific mentor - prepare both oral and written reports on original research

Oral/Poster Presentation (50%) Research Report (50%)