Evolution (BIOL 2040)
The department recently added a second year core class in Introduction to Evolution. This course examines evolution on both the short term (generation to generation changes known as "Microevolution") as well as the long term time scales ("Macro-evolution"). Based on the previous 3rd year offering (BIOL 3041), this course examines genetic change in populations; Inheritance and Selection on continuously varying traits; The analysis of adaptation; Inference of evolutionary relationships; The processes by which one species diverges into two, and the evolutionary origins of novel traits and life forms. The course involves a weekly laboratory, involving both illustrative exercies and experiments with living populations to extend topics discussed in class.

Ecological Genetics (BIOL 3044)
This is a course for advanced students who have taken the introductory course in evolution (BIOL 2040). This class will present an examination of genetic variation in ecologically important traits. Both single gene and continuously varying (quantitative) traits will be examined. Topics will include methods for determining whether a trait is inherited; the action of natural selection in the wild; the evolution of niche breadth (specializing vs. generalizing); the maintenance of genetic variation; and selection for diversification. Throughout the course, we will seek rigorous evidence for the action of natural selection, testing each observation against the expectations of non-selective (neutral) theories. Although, this course has not been offered for several years, there is good news. This course will once again be offered in the winter semester of 2007-08.

Previous Teaching:
In previsous years I have been involved in several other courses:

Honours Research and Seminar (BIOL 4900)
Along with several other Biology faculty, I have taught the Honours Class. This class accompanies the Honours thesis. Students gain experience in presenting their research to others in a variety of formats, and gain insights into such topics as Applying to Graduate School, and Careers of working scientists. Students interested in pursuing Honours research should check the Honours Website for guidance, and feel free to contact me if you have questions.

Ecology (BIOL 2060)
Along with several other Biology faculty, I teach the second year Ecology course. This course looks at the basics of Ecology including interactions between organisms and their environment, population growth, competition and predation, community structure, and landscape level processes.

Terrestrial Diversity (BIOL 2002)
This course is now offered as part of Diversity of Plants and Animals (Biol 2004)

Resource Ecology (BIOL 3063)