I. Introduction to Evolutionary Biology
Definition of evolution
Historical context of evolutionary biology
Basic principles of evolutionary theory
Evolutionary evidence
II. History of Life on Earth
Origin of life
Early life forms
Major evolutionary transitions
Mass extinctions
Evolution of modern humans
III. Evidence for Evolution
Fossil record
Comparative anatomy and embryology
Molecular biology and genetics
Biogeography
IV. Darwinian Evolution and Natural Selection
Darwin’s theory of natural selection
Evidence for natural selection
Mechanisms of natural selection
Adaptation and fitness
V. Genetic Variation and Mutation
Sources of genetic variation
Mutations and their effects
Genetic drift
Gene flow
VI. Genetic Drift and Gene Flow
Genetic drift and its effects
Founder effects and bottlenecks
Gene flow and its effects
Hybridization and introgression
VII. Adaptation and Coevolution
Adaptation and its evolution
Convergent and divergent evolution
Coevolutionary arms races
Mimicry and camouflage
VIII. Sexual Selection and Mating Systems
Sexual selection and its evolution
Intrasexual and intersexual selection
Mating systems and their evolution
Sexual conflict
IX. Phylogenetics and Systematics
Phylogenetic analysis and methods
Molecular systematics
Taxonomy and classification
Species concepts
X. Macroevolution and Speciation
Macroevolutionary patterns and processes
Mechanisms of speciation
Hybridization and speciation
Evolutionary radiations
XI. Human Evolution and Social Implications
Human evolution and the fossil record
Human genetic diversity and origins
Cultural evolution
Evolution and society
XII. Applications of Evolutionary Biology
Evolutionary medicine
Conservation biology
Agriculture and crop improvement
Evolutionary psychology and behavior
