Introduction to molecular ecology

Molecular tools are an integral part of studies aimed at describing and characterizing biodiversity. The aim of the course is to present various molecular approaches (barcoding, metabarcoding and environmental DNA, etc.) for (1) describing, characterizing and quantifying this diversity at intra- or interspecific, population or ecosystem levels, and (2) presenting their fields of application at different scales of time and space. The course will include practical aspects aimed at familiarizing students with these techniques, implementing them, analyzing the resulting data and reporting on them. Priority will be given to group work in interaction with researchers and teacher-researchers.

Specific skills :

- use one or more molecular biology techniques to produce molecular data;

- analyze molecular data, particularly in terms of diversity

General skills :

- Mobilize the fundamental concepts and technologies of molecular biology to address an eco-evolutionary issue related to diversity analysis and/or analyze a research or presentation document.

- Interpreting experimental data

- Identify the different stages of an experimental approach

- Be able to develop a logical argument with a critical mind

- Taking charge of a TP project

- Identify specific regulations and implement the main preventive health and safety measures.