In this course students learn how to find, interpret, present, and write about selected themes in ecological, evolutionary and biodiversity research. Themes can vary from year to year, and students work both individually and in groups to address questions, solve problems and develop recommendations. For each theme, students have to develop an overview of important papers, debates and research questions, and collaboratively report it back to the other students and/or develop a recommendation for policy or future research based on the scientific literature. Students will discuss and interpret research articles in the field, and conduct assignments including writing assignments, mini-literature reviews and exercises. A key component of the course will be the development of a small research proposal, an introduction or a literature review, which will be peer reviewed by other members of the group, and resubmitted in revised form.

After the course you should be able to:

1. Achieve an overview of ecological/evolutionary questions based on the scientific literature and databases

2. Critically reflect upon research methods, conclusions and statements in the discipline

3. Summarize and present advanced ecological/evolutionary themes

4. Develop, assess and give feedback on scientific texts, reviews or project proposals

5. Identify research needs and develop projects and applications