Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

The course aims to give the students an understanding of basic concepts within population and conservation biology. Furthermore, the course provides knowledge of the latest technologies within monitoring population dynamics and development, including eDNA and machine learning.

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who have passed the module should be able to

• explain basic theories of conservation biology (in situ and ex situ) and the environmental, behavioral, genetic and physiological factors that determine the distribution of species
• explain the mechanisms that determine the evolutionary potential of populations
• explain how changes in population dynamics affect the population's genetic pool
• explain which conservation strategies can be used to monitor and protect species and populations, as well as their habitats.
• explain how molecular tools (eDNA and non-invasive genetic techniques) can be used to answer ecological questions such as diet overlap between species, overlap between species distribution, as well as determination of population demographic parameters and how eDNA is used in modern conservation biology

Skills

• use correct terminology for the genetic and ecological terms used in conservation biology
• explain and identify the critical factors that influence population dynamics and animal behaviour
• formulate clear hypotheses and test them using traditional and molecular techniques, as well as machine learning techniques
• use software for analyzes of genetic data (neutral and non-neutral markers) and eDNA, and interpret the results
• Knowledge of surveillance techniques using drones, infrared cameras and other techniques for monitoring populations or individual behavior
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques (Artificial Intelligence) for automated monitoring of populations or individual behaviour

Competences

Design projects for monitoring the status and development of populations, and in that context use large data sets established and coordinated across temporal and geographical scales, and also consider the interdisciplinary aspects and actors involved in a project to monitor and protect species and habitats.

Type of instruction

Lectures

Exercises

Extent and expected workload

150 hours

Exam

Exams