Courses & Units
Advanced Conservation Physiology and Disease Ecology KPZ716
Introduction
This unit will provide you with an advanced level of knowledge of the physiology of reproduction, stress and disease ecology in higher vertebrates. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of how knowledge of a species' physiology and behaviour, particularly in relation to reproduction, is critical to the implementation of sound conservation strategies and captive management. Retaining the theme of conservation management, you will gain an appreciation of the importance of understanding disease ecology and epidemiology for conservation and experience in applying this knowledge in novel situations. Fundamental topics covered will include: sexual differentiation; physiology of gestation and lactation in eutherian and marsupial mammals; comparative endocrinology of reproduction in birds and reptiles; adrenal physiology; the stress response; the transmission of infectious disease; causes of disease emergence in wildlife; and disease control. You will consider special topics including recent developments in: ethical considerations in animal research: reproductive technologies; stress effects on reproduction; non-invasive hormone monitoring; endocrine disruptors; disease surveillance; exposure versus infection; and understanding disease dynamics. In practical classes you will gain hands-on experience in relevant laboratory and theoretical research techniques as they apply to professional practice. The assessment in this unit will provide you with opportunities to demonstrate mastery in using primary literature to critique and apply knowledge and skills creatively in novel situations.
Summary
| Unit name | Advanced Conservation Physiology and Disease Ecology |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KPZ716 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Biological Sciences |
| Coordinator | Doctor Ashley Edwards |
| Teaching staff | Professor Elissa Cameron|Associate Professor Scott Carver |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | On-Campus | International | Domestic | |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Note
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Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 20/2/2023 | 21/3/2023 | 10/4/2023 | 28/5/2023 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2023 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2023 will be available from the 1st October 2022. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the physiology, endocrinology of reproduction, adrenal function and disease ecology in the terrestrial vertebrates
- Formulate decisions regarding the conservation and captive breeding of terrestrial vertebrates by synthesising information from a selection of relevant and valid sources
- Integrate observations, and draw conclusions which apply expert judgements from, practical activities
- Communicate your research effectively using a range of formats relevant to a wide range of audiences
- Justify animal research from an ethical perspective through careful consideration of impacts on individuals relative to benefits for conservation
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 010999 | $1,037.00 | $1,037.00 | not applicable | $2,472.00 |
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Requisites
Prerequisites
KZA212Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 1 x 2-hour lecture and 1 x 3-hour practical each week |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Report (10%)|Discussion Paper (12.5%)|Poster presentation (12.5%)|Critical Review (25%)|Final Exam (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.