Teaching

Microbiology – BIO 326

We live in a microbial world. Microorganisms evolved over three billion years ago and are the architects of planet Earth. In this course, students explore the role of microbes in both human and ecosystem health. In laboratory, students work collaboratively on hypothesis-driven projects using both classical and cutting edge microbiological techniques.

class on dock
Night collection – credit J. Houston

Oceanography – BIO 342

In this course, students will be introduced to geological, physical, chemical, and biological processes that govern the global oceans and their role in climate change. The field and laboratory component includes deployment and application of modern oceanographic instrumentation, and data analysis and interpretation. Focus is on tools and research questions pertinent to the field of biological oceanography.

class photo tropical ecology
Tropical ecology class poses in the surf at the Belize island field station

Topics in Biological Oceanography – BIO 703

Students in this seminar course explore the current state of knowledge in the field of biological oceanography through readings and discussion of both foundational and recent scientific literature. Topics covered include primary productivity and the biological carbon pump, controls on phytoplankton blooms, harmful algal blooms, ocean acidification, oxygen minimum zones, and marine viruses.

sheri floge at microscopy
Plankton microscopy at Belize field station