Duration
15h Th, 15h Pr
Number of credits
| Master in biology of organisms and ecology (120 ECTS) | 3 crédits | |||
| Master in oceanography (120 ECTS) | 4 crédits |
Lecturer
Coordinator
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the first semester, review in January
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
Analysis of the natural distribution of stable isotopes (= non-radioactive isotopes) of light elements C,H,N,O,S) is used to tackle multiple marine ecology and biogeochemistry topics. The course is divided in 3 parts: 1. General presentation of stable isotopes and theory of isotopic effects and fractionation; 2) Illustration of some applications of isotopic tracers in marine ecology and biogeochemistry; 3) Practical part based on a scientific question and aiming to help students design a sampling protcol, get familiar with isotopic ratios measurements (including sample preparation) and data analysis (use of mixing models and isotopic niche models).
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
1. Present stable isotopes (nature, properties, measurement methods).
2. Present their use in marine ecology and biogeochemistry (food webs, carbon and nitrogen cycle, water cycle).
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Basics in chemistry and ecology.
This course is mostly adapted for students using these techniques in their master or PhD research or willing to inform themselves on trophic ecology methods.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
PPT presentations.
Students will perform isotopic measurements (carbon and nitrogen) on organic samples that they collected themselves to get familiar with use of stable isotopes in trophic ecology.
Practical work presenting several methods of data analysis.
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Attendance in person (+ problem-based practical part).
Oral course: 6 theoretical sessions + 1 tutorial class session.
Practical work: one day (sampling), 2 days (sample preparation, isotopic measurements) + time dedicated to data analysis and report writing.
Schedule to be established with students.
Organisational adjustments related to the current health context
cf français
Recommended or required readings
Powerpoint presentations used for the class will be given to students.
Assessment methods and criteria
Below you will find information on the evaluation methods planned for in-person and remote exams as well as those planned for hybrid sessions. Depending on how the health crisis evolves, the chosen method will be communicated to you no later than one month before the start of the exam session.
Individual practical work report (written evaluation, no oral presentation) + written exam (open questions). Evaluation in french or english.
> Face-to-face written and oral exam (update 10/12/2020)
Work placement(s)
Organizational remarks
Attendance to theoretical sessions and practical work mandatory.
Contacts
Dr. Gilles Lepoint, Laboratoire d'Océanologie, 04/366.33.27, G.Lepoint@uliege.be
Dr. Loïc Michel, Ifremer Brittany, Loic.michel@uliege.be