Principles of Phylogenetics: Systematics

Integrative Biology 200A

UC Berkeley, Spring 2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution." - T. Dobzhansky

 

 

 

 


"Principles of Phylogenetics: Systematics" (IB200A) covers the core theory and methodology for comparative biology: phylogenetic analysis with emphases on both morphology and molecules, and both living and fossil organisms. Labs are closely integrated with lectures and will cover the major algorithms and computer software used to implement these approaches. This class is meant for graduate students and advanced undergraduates. Requirements include participation in discussion, two exams, and a term project. This project will be a phylogenetic analysis of the interrelationships among a set of taxa using all major available methodologies. In addition to a written report in the form of a professional journal publication, we will have a mini-symposium at the end of the term where students can give a short presentation of their results. This project is an important practical experience; we encourage you to focus on organisms that you are studying for your thesis or other research. Thus, this course is an excellent way to accomplish preliminary research suitable for later funding requests, etc. IB 200A is taught every other Spring semester (in even-numbered years) and alternates with IB 200B "Principles of Phylogenetics: Ecology and Evolution"  (taught in odd-numbered years),  Both are intended for graduate students and advanced undergraduates.  IB 200A covers the core theory and methodology for tree building, while IB 200B covers the many important uses of phylogenetic trees for addressing questions in ecology, evolution, development, functional morphology, populational genetics, conservation, biogeogeography, and speciation


 

 

 

 

Announcements

 

 

 

Syllabus and Handouts

 

 

 

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Reading List

 

 

 

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IB 200B

 

 

 

 

Tuesdays and Thursdays: Lectures 12:30 - 2:00, 3083 VLSB -- Computer Lab 2:00 - 3:30, 3056 VLSB or BioMed Library Computer Room