Contact
Asst Professor, Augustana - Sciences
- schoepf@ualberta.ca
- Phone
- (780) 695-1515
- Address
-
C156 Classroom Building
4901-46 AveCamrose ABT4V 2R3
Overview
Area of Study / Keywords
behavioural ecology eco-physiology disease ecology animal personalities wildlife conservation movement ecology mammals birds
Research
I am a broadly trained evolutionary biologist interested in understanding how organisms respond to challenges in their environment. Because the ability of individuals to respond to challenges depends on both intrinsic and extrinsic factors, my research typically integrates questions addressing the proximate mechanisms and the ultimate reasons leading to adaptive phenotypic changes. My approach is to investigate short-term behavioural and physiological responses, and long-term evolutionary outcomes, using field observations and experiments. Currently, I am researching individuals’ responses to infection, conflict, and climate change.
Courses
AUBIO 214 - Evolution and Biodiversity
The course focuses on the evolution of biological diversity, including the mechanisms responsible for evolutionary change and the adaptations associated with the evolution of the major groups of organisms. Prerequisites: AUBIO 111 and AUSCI 115 (2022). Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUBIO 112, AUBIO 212 (2022) or AUBIO 214.
AUBIO 390 - Animal Behaviour
Introduction to key concepts and methods in animal behaviour. Both mechanistic and evolutionary points of view are considered. Topics include genetics, developmental processes, learning, neurophysiological aspects, orientation, communication, foraging and habitat use, social behaviour, parental care and mating. Prerequisites: AUBIO 112 or 212 (2022) or AUBIO 214; AUBIO 260 and AUSTA 215.
AUBIO 395 - Vertebrate Form and Function
Study of the structure, function, and diversity of vertebrates. Prerequisite: AUBIO 112 (2021) or AUBIO 212.
AUBIO 459 - Field Studies in Tropical Ecology and Conservation
Field course that addresses problems of biodiversity and conservation in tropical environments. The student participates in field workshops, and designs and conducts their own field project to answer questions related to ecological and biological conservation. Prerequisite: AUBIO 350 or AUENV 350, and consent of the instructors based on successful completion of the selection process. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUBIO 459 and AUENV 459. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.
AUENV 459 - Field Studies in Tropical Ecology and Conservation
Field course that addresses problems of biodiversity and conservation in tropical environments. The student participates in field workshops, and designs and conducts their own field project to answer questions related to ecological and biological conservation. Prerequisite: AUBIO 350 or AUENV 350, and consent of the instructors based on successful completion of the selection process. Notes: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUBIO 459 and AUENV 459. Requires payment of additional student instructional support fees. Refer to the Tuition and Fees page in the University Regulations section of the Calendar.