Undergraduate Plant Science 2023-2024

Terrestrial ecosystems play a pivotal role in modulating the fluxes of energy and matter at the Earth’s surface, including the cycling of carbon, nutrients and greenhouse gases. Understanding the structure and function of terrestrial ecosystems is critical for understanding environmental challenges such as global warming, biodiversity loss, sustainable development and pollution. This course develops principles of systems ecology and biogeochemistry, focusing on the fundamental role played by living things in regulating key ecosystem processes such as carbon cycling, nutrient dynamics, trophic transfers, and land-atmosphere exchange of greenhouse gases.

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This advanced soil science course provides additional teaching of physical, chemical and biological properties of soils in the context of food security and climate change. You will learn a variety of processes that affect soil productivity, accompanied by practical sessions that will teach relevant analytical methods. Students are introduced to modelling of agricultural impacts on soils and the environment, particularly in relation to greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration, so that mitigation strategies can be assessed.
There are two practical sessions with assignments, a debate and a final exam.

The emphasis of the course is on plant ecophysiological responses, mostly in relation to natural environments. Lectures, labs and an excursion provide a diverse set of learning opportunities.
Coursework is based on a choice from one of the practical investigations done during the course. Coursework consists of a lab report and a linked recorded presentation. During each investigation, students are asked to design a simple experiment and sampling regime using plant material and a range of measurement options. Investigative work is intended to help students to develop specialist knowledge and a capacity for creative, independent and critical thinking, problem identification and problem solving. Oral presentations, including participation in Q&As, help students to develop confidence and oral communication skills.