Evolutionary Biology

Full course description

Evolution is the most important principle in biology. It is the only scientific biologically theory that unifies all phenomena of life from the level of (macro)molecules to ecosystems. Ever since the Modern Synthesis early last century (when Darwin's insights were combined with modern genetics), evolutionary research has expanded enormously. Subsequent developments – the birth of molecular biology, the ever increasing power of computers and the development of phylogenetics - have led to an enormous increase in our understanding of the processes and patterns of evolution. This course emphasizes the general principles of evolution, the hypotheses on the causes of evolutionary change (relevant for most organisms), and the large patterns which are visible in the history of the earth. This course is an excellent opportunity to obtain a base in evolutionary knowledge, regardless of the field you will work in (biology or elsewhere).

The course zooms in from macro-evolutionary patterns to micro-evolutionary processes. You will look at the geological and paleontological history of the earth and how biologists use phylogeny to reconstruct deep past (the tree of life) using genetic data. A fundamental unit within biology is the species and therefore also theories of species and speciation will be discussed. Furthermore, how random changes in populations (genetic drift) and natural selection influence evolution will be investigated using simulation models. In relation to this you will look beyond alleles into quantitative genetics and the evolution of phenotypes, and also at the process of adaptation. Finally, evolution is used to 1) explain life history characters (e.g. how many children does an organism produce) and obtain a different view on human medicine, and 2) understand co-evolution between species.