BOT 303A - Advanced Botanical & Evolutionary Research: Intro to CalBG & The Consortium

This course provides an introduction to the RSABG/CGU graduate program in Botany. Items to be covered in this course are: -Insight into the goals and expectations that the program and the faculty have for each student -Explanation of our philosophical approach to plant comparative biology and the curriculum that has been developed, emphasizing common themes and information reinforcement. [What do we expect you to know when you graduate?] -Session with each faculty member on his/her research interests, scientific approach to life, etc. -Laboratory skills and safety -Introduction to some of the important technical skills necessary for success in the program in Botany and a career in research. -Data management and maintenance of a database -Botanical collections: permit acquisition, note keeping, label preparation, specimen mounting, specimen handling; curatorial skills? -General aspects of field work, including preparation for the field (data acquisition (sleuthing), mapping, field equipment, etc.), in the field techniques (what to collect, how to collect-field press? silica gel? liquid nitrogen? FPA?; photographs; 4-wheel driving; etc.) -Introduction to the writing skills vital for success in the program in Botany and a career in research. -The importance of, and guidelines for, successful grant writing -The importance of, and guidelines for, successful manuscript preparation and submission. -The importance of oral presentations and in particular, PowerPoint preparation and presentation
Units: 2
Course Type: Seminar