Topics in Geobiodiversity and Stable Isotopes

This course exams the key questions of biodiversity through time (Geobiodiversity) and examines how we might tackle these questions using isotope biogeochemistry. The course consists of two interwoven components. First, what are the drivers of biodiversity - such as global and regional climate change, rise of topographic barriers, supply of nutrients, etc. Second, how do organisms obtain their isotopic signatures and how these might be used to differentiate between the drivers of biodiversity. The course will use case studies of biodiversity questions in key areas such as the Cenozoic of Asia, North America, and South America to develop research questions and approaches. The course will consist of lectures, work groups, and selected readings. Grade: Credit, No Credit.