Principles of Paleobiology
Since the 1970s paleontology has evolved from a topic-oriented discipline focused on taxonomy, systematics and stratigraphic correlation primarily, to a far more diverse, integrative and data-analytic research program focused on the inference of historical state/process from empirical data. As a result, contemporary students of the subject need to be exposed to a far broader range of topics, skills, concepts and theories that those that are part of a traditional paleontology course program. This course is designed to deliver focused instruction in the more paleobiological side of paleontology. In so doing, it will increase students’ understanding of, and appreciation for, developments, advances, and current controversies being debated within contemporary paleontology. The course will be delivered in the form of a survey of major paleobiological research programs and will include training in basic data and data-analysis skills as well as reviews of fundamental concepts and ongoing controversies.
Sylabus
Week 1 - Nature of the Fossil Record
Week 2 - Description and Analysis of Morphology
Week 3 - Species, Species Definitions & Species Concepts
Week 4 - Classification, Taxonomy & Systematics
Week 5 - Phylogenetic Inference
Week 6 - Biostratigraphy Zonation & Correlation
Week 7 - Diversity
Week 8 - Disparity
Week 9 - Mid-Term Examination
Week 10 - Patterns & Modes of Origination
Week 11 - Patterns & Modes of Extinction
Week 12 - Tempo & Mode of Evolution (Macroevolution)
Week 13 - Paleobiogeography
Week 14 - Paleoecology
Week 15 - Conservation Paleobiology
Week 16 - Astrobiology
Week 17 - Final Examination
