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.

Molecular Microbial Ecology Molecular microbial ecology (MME) uses leading-edge molecular tools to study the  interactions and diversity of microorganisms in the natural environment. MME covers topics ranging from ancient polar microbes, the human microbiome, and possibly life beyond Earth.  This course will discuss papers that highlight modern technical approaches and form the current theoretical framework in microbial ecology. The laboratory will examine the structure (who is there) and function (what are they doing) of microbial communities in environmental samples. We will cultivate novel microorganisms and analyze nucleic acids via community fingerprinting, functional gene analysis, and the computational exploration of metagenomic datasets.

Advanced Field Biology: Place-based Global Biology Education In this upper-level biology course, we will conduct field-based scientific observation, sample and data collection, and interpretation of biological phenomena. Students will be deeply engaged in off-campus, place-based learning linking Puerto Rico’s terrestrial landscapes to marine ecosystems, with a focus on the ecology, evolution and biogeochemistry across freshwater to marine system gradients. The course is split between time on-campus and off-campus conducting group research projects integrating field observations with data analysis. Students will collaborate and partner with local community members on intercultural projects with ethical local impact and relevance. Open to BIOL, MBBC, ESBI, BIOL-ECSC majors or waiver.

Microbiology The microbiological principles emphasized in this class will provide students with a foundation for advanced study in many areas of contemporary biology. The course will integrate basic and applied aspects of microbiology into a study of the prokaryotic microorganisms. General principles of bacterial cell structure, function, and the role of microorganisms in industry, agriculture, biotechnology, and disease will be discussed. An independent laboratory project will stress basic microbiological techniques as applied to the isolation, characterization, and identification of microorganisms from the natural environment.

Extremophiles: conquering Earth’s Extreme Environments Even the most extreme environments are teeming with microbial life. From highly acidic streams to hydrothermal vents with temperatures exceeding 120ºC, microorganisms manage to not only grow, but thrive. How? We will utilize biogeochemistry and cellular biology to characterize these unique microbial processes, and their impact on ecosystems, through critical reading and robust discussion of primary literature. Student-driven research will provide opportunities for advanced oral and written communication skill development.

Gut Check: Exploring Microbiomes Imagine there were an organ in your body with a mass similar to that of your heart, which trained your immune system, affecting your weight and perhaps even your behavior. Wouldn’t you want to know? There is such an organ — your microbiome, the collection of microbes in and on your body.  You are not alone; corals, squid, beetles, and many other organisms harbor microbiomes that generate nutrients, produce light, and defend their host organisms in the environment. Increasingly, we also understand microbiomes to be intrinsically and deeply embedded within social and environmental (in)justice. We will read I Contain Multitudes by Ed Yong, as well as other popular science and research papers to investigate these fascinating microbes.

Erin Eggleston

Reviews and ratings for Erin Eggleston at Middlebury College.Erin Eggleston teaches Ecology and Evolution, Molecular Microbial Ecology, Advanced Field Biology and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Erin Eggleston good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

For each of the three days of class, we went about learn the weekly material differently: Day 1=lecture, day 2=group work on problem set completed prior, 3=review. Group work got a bit repetitive, and exams could be confusing, but over-all an enjoyable class. 

I would recommend eco/evo for anyone interested in biology. It was a great blanket introduction into evolutionary theory as well as ecology. The labs were relatively involved but were also very engaging.

I loved Eggleston. I definitely struggled in this course purely because I wasn’t good at keeping up with my readings. As long as you read the course is fine. The exams were complicated and long but the content is to be expected and if you're caught up in the work it is no issue.