Ecology and Evolution In this introduction to ecology and evolutionary biology we will cover the topics of interspecific interactions (competition, predation, mutualism), demography and life-history patterns, succession and disturbance in natural communities, species diversity, stability and complexity, causes of evolutionary change, speciation, phylogenetic reconstruction, and population genetics.   The laboratory component will examine lecture topics in detail (such as measuring the evolutionary response of bacteria, adaptations of stream invertebrates to life in moving water, invasive species and their patterns of spread).  We will emphasize experimental design, data collection in the field and in the laboratory, data analysis, and writing skills. This course is not open to seniors and second semester juniors in the Fall.

Cell Biology and Genetics In this introduction to modern cellular, genetic, and molecular biology we will explore life science concepts with an emphasis on their integral nature and evolutionary relationships.  Topics covered will include cell membrane structure and function, metabolism, cell motility and division, genome structure and replication, the regulation of gene expression and protein production, genotype to phenotype relationship, and basic principles of inheritance.  Major concepts will be illustrated using a broad range of examples from plants, animals, and microorganisms.  Current topics in biology will be integrated into the course as they arise.

Natural Science and the Environment We will explore in detail a series of current environmental issues in order to learn how principles of biology, chemistry, geology, and physics, as well as interdisciplinary scientific approaches, help us to identify and understand challenges to environmental sustainability. In lecture, we will examine global environmental issues, including climate change, water and energy resources, biodiversity and ecosystem services, human population growth, and world food production, as well as the application of science in forging effective, sustainable solutions. In the laboratory and field, we will explore local manifestations of global issues via experiential and hands-on approaches.

Adirondack Park: Conversations about Conservation The Adirondack Park in northern New York is considered one of the world’s greatest experiments in conservation. Throughout its ~130 year history, this experiment has attempted to balance rigorous environmental protections for millions of wilderness acres with the economic realities of residents who live in the park. We will undertake an interdisciplinary approach to explore how park conservation is affected by climate change, rural economies, recreation, tourism, slow food, and political action. Building upon course readings and discussions, and direct engagement with the Adirondack landscape, stakeholders, and local industries, students will develop practical policy recommendations to address pressing conservation issues in the park.

Carolyn Dash

Reviews and ratings for Carolyn Dash at Middlebury College.Carolyn Dash teaches Ecology and Evolution, Cell Biology and Genetics, Natural Science & Environment and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Carolyn Dash good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

Professor Dash is really great and she made the labs much better than they otherwise would have been. Other than that, this course is really not great. It feels very child-like but then is also sneaky pretty challenging. I'm only an ES minor and had to take the class, and it was my least favorite class at the college but partly because I am not focused on science much. It's no big deal if you also have to take it. The labs are kind of fun and its not too intense, but def nothing special. 