Prerequisite:

Finished bachelor’s or master’s degree in Biology or equivalent program of study.

Content (Syllabus outline):

• Animal diversity
• Biosphere and animal distribution
• Activity of animals
• Biomechanics
• Biomimicry
• DNA barcoding
• Animal products
• Application

Readings:

• Hickman, C. P., Keen, S. L., Larson, A., Eisenhour, d. J. (2013). Integrated Principles of Zoology. Mcgraw-Hill Education Ltd.

Objectives and competences:

The course focuses on the integration of structure and function that influences the ecology and evolution of animals. The course will present the central role of evolution in generating biological diversity, and describe animal life and a plethora of fascinating adaptations that enable animals to conquer so many ecological niches. The course will explore the link between structure and function at all levels of organization, from molecules to the biosphere, and present potential applications of integrative zoology for nature conservation, acquiring new materials and improving synthetic ones. The synthesis of the acquired knowledge will enable further insight into evolutionary ecology and its application (e.g. biomimicry).

Intended learning outcomes:

• Knowledge and understanding of evolutionary processes that shaped the ecological adaptations such as structure, physiology and life histories of animals.
• Knowledge of modern research topics in the field of evolutionary ecology, biomechanics, biomimicry etc.

Assessment:

Class paper (80 %), presentation and discussion (20 %).