Advanced Biosystematics

A seminar series will cover advanced topics within biosystematics theory and methodology. Focus will be on theory and methods for phylogenetic reconstructions, uses of phylogenies in studies of evolution (comparative methods), phylogenetic analysis of intraspecific variation related to geography and ecology (phylogeography) and the use of DNA barcoding in the assessment and analysis of biodiversity. The course is held every second year, next time spring 2025.

The candidate will know about:

• Gene and species trees, the use of coalescent theory in modern phylogenetic biology and phylogeography
• Phylogenetic networks
• Use of phylogenetic methods and DNA barcoding in general studies of biological diversity

Skills

The candidate is able to:

• Use different statistical approaches for the reconstruction of evolutionary history
• Comparative methods

General competence

The candidate is able to:

• Reconstruct evolutionary relations between organisms and groups of organisms
• Use such relationships in studies of processes underlying biological diversity

Seminar: 40 hours. Obligatory participation in at least 80% of the seminars.

Final assessment is a written report on a given subject.