The course aims to provide an introduction, with real world examples, to the main concepts in metamorphism and metamorphic processes including examples of...

Metamorphism and Metamorphic Processes (GEOL0032)

The course aims to provide an introduction, with real world examples, to the main concepts in metamorphism and metamorphic processes including examples of modern research practice.

By the end of this module students will have:

the ability to identify different metamorphic rocks in hand and thin section and place constraints on P-T conditions of formation;
	an understanding of the dynamical processes involved in high-pressure metamorphism and the complex feedbacks between fluids, reaction rates and large-scale strain in crustal and mantle environments;
	knowledge of modern experimental techniques and an ability to critically assess the results of such experiments.

The course provides an introduction to the major vertebrate groups (jawless vertebrates, placoderms, cartilaginous fish, ray-finned fish, lobe-finned fish,...

Vertebrate Palaeontology and Evolution (GEOL0009)

The course provides an introduction to the major vertebrate groups (jawless vertebrates, placoderms, cartilaginous fish, ray-finned fish, lobe-finned fish, early tetrapods, modern amphibians, lizards, snakes, turtles, crocodiles, dinosaurs and birds]. The core of the course concerns the anatomy and evolutionary relationships of these groups, which are examined through lectures and practical classes in the Grant Museum of Zoology. The course also uses vertebrates to illustrate two important aspects of palaeontological research: analytical methods and evolutionary processes. The methods introduced by these lectures include phylogenetic analysis, cladistic biogeography, and taxic and phylogenetic diversity estimation. Students will also examine evolutionary phenomena such as exaptation and adaptation, extinction, adaptive radiation, and the influence of physical factors on evolutionary history.

By the end of this module students should:

show an ability to identify members of particular vertebrate groups;
	be able to analyse the functional significance of particular anatomical features;
	be able to apply phylogenetic and other analytical techniques;
	have developed a more detailed understanding of key evolutionary events such as the end-Cretaceous extinction.
GEOL0003 History of Life is a prerequisite for this module.