Graham ThompsonWestern Science

Teaching

Biology 3598B  Behavioural Genetics

The role of genes and genetic variation in the evolution and expression of animal behaviour. Major themes include the population genetics and quantitative genetics of behaviour, the molecular biology of gene discovery, and the evolution of behavioural traits, including social traits, as studied through vertebrate and invertebrate model systems.

Biology 3436F - Animal Behaviour

This course examines the genetics, physiology and ecology of animal behaviour from an evolutionary perspective. The laboratories stress experimental methods of studying behaviour using live animals. Four lab sessions involve data collection and four lab periods involve statistical analyses (t-tests, ANOVA) and writing of a formal report using the experimental data.

Biology 3466B - Evolutionary Genetics

The study of evolution in large and small random and non-random mating populations, showing discrete and quantitative inheritance. The roles and importance of mutation, inbreeding, drift, selection and linkage

Biology 4436G – Behavioral Ecology

A study of the relationships between animal behavior, ecology and evolution. Topics include: behavioral genetics and learning; mating systems, reproductive strategies and parental investment; foraging behavior, predation and competition; social groups and communication. This course has no midterm, but does involve a semster long research project in which students design, carry-out and write-up an independent research project.

Biology 4999E - Honors Research Thesis

A major laboratory or field project in Biology that emphasizes experimental design, instrumentation, collection and analysis of data and communication of experimental results by oral and written presentations.

Biology 9436 – Graduate Seminar Course in Behavioural Ecology

The course convenes weekly, for approximately 2 hrs, and will involve debate-style discussions on selected readings. We ask, how – exactly – does selection affect the evolution and expression of animal behavior? The course adopts an interactive format whereby students explain, debate and ultimately advance current topics in behavioural ecology and sociobiology.