This course offers a critical review of contemporary concepts and controversies in evolutionary biology. Topics include basic population and quantitative genetics, the microevolutionary processes that change the genetic structure of populations, Darwinian natural selection and alternative modes of selections, hierarchical selection, the principles by which the tree of life is reconstructed, adaptation, speciation, and macroevolution. Assigned readings include current research literature. Format: lecture/discussion, three hours per week. Evaluation will be based on problem sets, two mid-examinations and a final exam. 85% of the final grade is determined by performance on written exercises and examinations, 15% on participation in discussions. Prerequisites: Biology 202. Enrollment limit: 36 (expected: 24). Preference given to Biology majors. Satisfies distribution requirement in major.

Hour: GILL