Illuminating biology: An evolutionary perspective

The invention and perfection of photosynthesis is without question one of the true milestones in the evolution of life on Earth. The development of the ability of some photosynthetic organisms to oxidize water to form molecular oxygen changed the redox balance of the Earth and provided the energetic basis for more advanced life to develop. This talk will discuss the complex nonlinear evolutionary path that has led to the modern process of photosynthesis.

2:00-2:10: Break

2:10-2:40: Dr. Patricia Wittkopp - University of Michigan
Bringing an Evolutionary Perspective to Developmental Biology

The genetic and molecular mechanisms controlling development are the product of evolution and can influence the way in which traits evolve. This talk will discuss the ways in which an appreciation of natural history and evolutionary processes can enhance our understanding of animal development.

2:50-3:20: Dr. Georg Striedter - University of California, Irvine
Large and Complex Brains Evolved Repeatedly

Large and complex brains evolved not just in primates, but also in other taxonomic groups, including octopuses, manta rays, electric fishes, parrots, crows, dolphins, and elephants. Most of these species are highly social. Although the brains of different species share myriad similarities, they also differ in many respects. Dr. Striedter aims to understand how and why those species differences arose. The ultimate goal of this research is to test theories about how brains evolve.

3:30-3:45: Dr. Brian Wiegmann - Associate Director of Education and Outreach, National Evolutionary Synthesis Center, Durham, NC

3:45-4:00: Wrap-up

THE TEACHER WORKSHOP

On 17 October 2008, this half-day event will build on the themes of the symposium, provide hands-on training in the effective use of curriculum and resources available for the classroom, and focus on examples from conservation biology and public health. Sponsored by AIBS and NESCent, the workshop will feature presentations by Anna Thanukos and Jennifer Collins from the Understanding Evolution project and Sam Donovan and Ethel Stanley from BioQUEST Curriculum Consortium.

Date: Friday, October 17th, 2008
Time: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Marriott Memphis Downtown, Memphis, TN - Knoxville Room
Registration: Anyone participating in this workshop must be registered for the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) Professional Development Conference (http://www.nabt2008.org) and must pre-register, at no cost, ahead of time with AIBS or NESCent staff. Enrollment in this workshop is limited. To register, go to http://www.nescent.org/eog/signup_aibs_nescent_evolution.php or contact Kristin Jenkins at or 919.668.4544.