We will focus on the ecology and evolution of reptiles and amphibians, leveraging their diversity in the southeastern US. In both the field and laboratory, we will study 1) the evolutionary relationships among reptiles and amphibians, 2) key evolutionary innovations that characterize each major lineage, 3) reptile and amphibian systems in ecological and evolutionary research, and 4) location and identification of reptiles and amphibians.

Insects are perhaps the most important animal group on the face of the earth. Their enormous diversity makes them important models for understanding many concepts in biology. Students will observe the bits and pieces of an insect, they will discover how adaptation relates to diversity, and they will learn to identify the major insect groups. Field trips to varied habitats allow students to collect insects and understand their natural history.

This course focuses on the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases in wild animal populations. Topics include the population biology of parasites and pathogens, host immune defenses and pathogen virulence, and wildlife conservation and disease. Students will gain experience with quantitative methods and field and laboratory techniques, including parasite identification and handling of insects, birds, amphibians, and small mammals.

Two-hour, weekly discussion of recent advances in biology; attend biology seminars, interact with seminar speakers, explore the philosophy and practice of science, and learn skills in oral and written research presentation. Prerequisite: Fourth-year DMP in Biology.

A weekly seminar co-organized by participating faculty to integrate students' independent research and coursework with contemporary issues at the intersection of biology, the humanities and social sciences. Students will have the opportunity to present their ongoing research and meet with outside speakers. This course will be taken in the fourth year. Prerequisite: DMP in Human Biology.

Two-hour, weekly discussion of recent advances in biology; attend biology seminars, interact with seminar speakers, explore the philosophy and practice of science, and learn skills in oral and written research presentation. Prerequisite: Fourth-year DMP in Biology.

A weekly discussion and workshop co-organized by participating faculty to provide guidance and advice to students on completing their research or independent study and writing their thesis. Occasional seminars and opportunities to meet outside speakers will continue in this semester. This course will be taken in the fourth year. Prerequisite: DMP in Human Biology.

This course will explore paths towards careers in biology and the skills and training required to pursue them. The course will include visits from professional biologists and UVA alumnae, who will provide advice on navigation of their careers in biology. The course will also offer guidance on additional training, advanced degrees, and internships. Skills are cultured by scientific abstracts, peer and mentor interaction, and interest statements. Prerequisites: BIOL 3000, 3010 and 3020. Students who have not completed these courses may be able to take them concurrently with permission.

Independent study under the direction of a Biology faculty member for students to read and critically assess primary research papers and current reviews in a focused area of the life sciences. Directed readings and discussions can be used to explore how contemporary topics and research areas can be incorporated into other formal courses. Students will have the opportunity to develop both scientific writing and oral presentation skills.

Undergraduate research under the direction of a UVA Professor who doesn't belong to the Biology Department. Despite the 'Closed' status of BIOL4910 on SIS, the course is open for enrollment. For application instructions, see the section 'How to Enroll in Independent Research with a Faculty Member Outside of the Biology Department' at: https://bio.as.virginia.edu/undergraduate/research. Prerequisite: Instructor Permission