PLSCI 6300

Mycology: The Interactive World of Fungi

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Fungi are a major group of eukaryotes and a sister lineage to animals. We will consider evolutionary relationships and ecology of fungi and fungus-like organisms, focusing on their significance to human agriculture. We will develop a research proposal to investigate the biology of a recently discovered fungus as well as discuss and evaluate research papers. Laboratory activities will involve mastering the applied techniques to study fungi, including isolation and identification of wild species. The skills gained in this course will serve future careers in mycology, plant pathology, biotech, and environmental sciences.

Prerequisites BIOEE 1780 or PLSCI 2410 or PLSCI 2430.

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2024FA, 2023FA, 2022FA

Learning Outcomes

• Apply molecular phylogeny reconstruction methods for identification and classification of fungi and fungus-like organisms.
• Design a study to test hypotheses about aspects of fungal biology, ecology, and/or evolution and develop a written research proposal.
• Critique work of others, including peer research proposals and journal articles.
• Practice the applied techniques to study fungi.

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