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701-0328-00L 4 Credits MSC D-USYS , D-BIOL

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Advanced Ecological Processes

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Janneke Hille Ris Lambers

For students of the following study programmes only: Biology Master Teaching certificate Biology Environmental Sciences Master UZH MNF Biology UZH MNF Geography /Earth Sciences

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:51

Abstract

This course presents the theoretical and empirical approaches used to understand the ecological processes structuring communities. Central problems in community ecology including the dynamics of species interactions, the influence of spatial structure, the controls over species invasions, and community responses to environmental change will be explored from basic and applied perspectives.

Objective

Students will understand how ecological processes operate in natural communities. They will appreciate how mathematical theory, field experimentation, and observational studies combine to generate a predictive science of ecological processes, and how this predictive science informs conservation and management decisions. Upon completing the course, students will be able to: Understand the factors determining the outcome of species interactions in communities, and how this information informs management. Apply theoretical knowledge on species interactions to predict the potential outcomes of novel species introductions. Understanding the role of spatial structure in mediating population dynamics and persistence, species interactions, and patterns of species diversity. Use population and community models to predict the stability of interactions between predators and prey and between different competitors. Understand the conceptual basis of predictions concerning how ecological communities will respond to climate change. Discuss the types of conceptual advances ecology as a science can realistically achieve, and how these relate to the applications of the discipline.

Content

Lectures supplemented with readings from the primary literature and occasional computer exercises will focus on understanding central processes in community ecology. Topics will include demographic and spatial structure, consumer resource interactions, food webs, competition, mutualism, invasion, the maintenance of species diversity, and species effects on ecosystem processes. Each of these more conceptual topics will be discussed in concert with their applications to the conservation and management of species and communities in a changing world.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 90 minutes
Aids: only calculator

The final grade comes from a final exam (80%) and a graded compulsory continuous performance assessment (20%). This continuous performance assessment exercise - which must be passed on its own - consists of a written summary and analysis of one of the assigned research articles (primary literature). After assessment and revision, the article summaries will be posted to a class wiki page so that they are available to the entire class for preparation for the final exam.

Registration & Places

Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Advanced Ecological Processes	Mon 12:15-14:00 (CHN F 42)	2 h weekly