Adv Topics in Evolutionary Biology (M) (839C1)
Advanced Topics in Evolutionary Biology (Masters)
Module 839C1
Module details for 2017/18.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
Students will work in groups on advanced research-led topics in evolutionary biology. Topics may include symbiosis, sex and variation, but will vary from year to year. They will be selected according to staff interests, recent developments in the field, and the construction of a coherent package that covers a range of approaches in evolutionary biology, from molecular to ecological. Each topic will be introduced by a 'scene setting lecture' by a member of staff. Students will then be given a set of references to relevant papers in the library. Groups will present their reports on the topics, via written material in Study Direct, seminars, reviews and news and view articles. Students who successfully complete the module will understand recent theoretical and empirical developments in several areas of current research in evolutionary biology, critically read the primary literature in evolutionary biology, synthesise information from the primary literature and present their findings in written analyses and oral presentations.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of recent theoretical and empirical developments at the forefront of the field of evolutionary biology
Critically evaluate research findings and methodologies in evolutionary biology, synthesizing literature to build coherent arguments and conclusions, and propose new hypotheses
Demonstrate the ability to independently manage their own learning in the field of evolutionary biology and communicate their findings clearly, concisely and effectively
Demonstrate systematic understanding and detailed knowledge of the structure and physiology of animals
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Report | T2 Week 5 | 25.00% |
| Presentation | T2 Week 9 (13 minutes) | 30.00% |
| Report | T2 Week 10 | 45.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 11110002000 |
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11100000000 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 1 hour | 00000010000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Adam Eyre-Walker
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/34777
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.

