Seminar on Precambrian Geobiology and Biogeochemical Cycles

Abstract

The Precambrian Earth experienced several environmental states—all drastically different from today—that are recorded in sedimentological, fossil, and genetic records. We will review "classic" and more recent scientific literature on the evolution of chemical and biological processes to critically evaluate what we do and don't know about how our planet's biogeochemistry has changed through time.

Objective

For decades, researchers have attempted to reconstruct Precambrian environmental states and their relative timing using tracers recorded in the sedimentological, fossil, and genetic records. Here, by reading and discussing “classic” and more recently published scientific papers, students will learn about influential discoveries related to Earth history within the fields of geobiology and geochemistry. In completing the course, students will specifically learn: * Why Earth’s surface chemical composition evolved from anoxic to oxic environments * How life evolved from simple prokaryotic metabolisms to multicellular eukaryotes * The importance of geological, chemical, and biological feedback mechanisms * How to discern between biologic innovation and environmental importance * How to summarize, interpret, and discuss current evidence for what is and isn’t known about Earth’s geochemical and geobiological evolution * How to assess opposing scientific viewpoints and outstanding questions in the literature

Content

Each lecture period will consist of a presentation and discussion—to be led by 1-2 students (depending on class size)—covering a given paper or set of papers. All students are expected to read the relevant papers before class and come prepared for discussion. Lecture periods will be divided between “review” presentations aimed at introducing the background and fundamentals of each topic and “debate” or “comparison”-style presentations, in which two (sometimes opposing) views of a given topic will be discussed and assessed.

Resources