Stable Isotope Methods in Modern and Paleo Ecology
E-PSCI 191
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
The elements of life—carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur—can be used to trace ecological processes across the biosphere through their stable isotope ratios. This small, seminar-style course introduces students to stable isotope methods and applications in ecology, with emphasis on water, plants, animals, and forensic case studies. Class meetings will combine short lectures, hands-on labs, and project-based work. The course culminates in a group project in which students formulate a research question, design an experiment, conduct field and laboratory work, and present their results. Open to juniors, seniors, and graduate students with instructor permission.
Course Notes
EPS 191 is also offered as HEB 121. Students may not take both for credit. This course fulfills the EPS sub-discipline requirement of Geobiology, Geochemistry, and Earth History.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
