FRS 002T - Sec. 001 - (2 units) - CRN 93085 - R 4:10 – 6:00 pm - 123 Wellman

Chemistry and Evolution – From Molecules to Elephants

Instructor: Thorsten Dieckmann, Department of Chemistry, College of Letters and Science

Description: The subject matter addresses the theories regarding the origin of life on earth. We will explore the pre-biological environment and learn how something complicated can evolve from simple precursors. Information will be presented through informal lectures, assigned reading, video and discussion.

Format: The seminar will meet for two hours each week. The time will be divided between informal lecture presentations, discussion, and student presentations. Reading material will be provided. There is no text for the course. Grading: Students will be required to give a short presentation on a topic to be chosen in consultation with the instructor. The course grade will be based on the quality of their oral presentation (2/3) and on the frequency and quality of their participation in class discussion (1/3).

About the Instructor: Professor Dieckmann is a member of the faculty in the Department of Chemistry. His research interests include pre-biological evolution, ribo-nucleic acids, and their role in biology and medicine. Current projects include studies of catalytic RNA molecules and RNA-protein interactions during the virus life cycle. He currently teaches courses on physical biochemistry, physical chemistry and general chemistry.