Ecosystems in a Changing Climate ? Processes, Landscapes and Climate Interactions
Summary
In this course, you will learn how ecosystems are affected by and interact with the climate across different spatial and temporal scales. The studies combine theoretical elements with practical field and analysis exercises. You will study key ecological and climate-related processes, such as biogeography and scale thinking, climate–ecosystem feedbacks, such as carbon balance, albedo, and hydrology. Basic biogeochemistry and greenhouse gas dynamics are also included in the course. The studies consist of theoretical elements with practical field and analysis exercises.
About
You will collect, interpret, and integrate data on vegetation, soil, and climate. The course also provides an introduction to dendroecology and how climate and environmental gradients are reflected in tree growth. Throughout the course, you will practice linking observations and data to larger climate and ecosystem processes.
After completing the course, you can expect to be able to:
- plan and carry out field sampling and document collected material using relevant methods and metadata.
- integrate field data with geodata/remote sensing to place local observations in a landscape context.
- process and analyze time series and present results in figures/maps/reports.
The course consists of:
- laboratory work
- seminars
- fieldwork
- group projects
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Admission to the course requires 90 credits in the main field of study of Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences or Geography. Including basic knowledge of climate- and ecosystems (e.g. through one of the courses GV1410 Geoscience: Basic Course, GVN400 Investigation Methods in Earth Sciences or NG0210 Field Course in the Subarctic - Physical Geography and Ecology).
Applicants with equivalent education may be admitted to the course after assessment.
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
