This program is embedded as part of a multi-term course titled Evolutionary Ecology Across Climatic Gradients. Students will receive one grade for the full course in spring semester, but MUST enroll in BOTH course modules:

• PLSCI 2535 Evolutionary Ecology Across Climatic Gradients I (Winter 2027 Field Travel)
• PLSCI 2536 Evolutionary Ecology Across Climatic Gradients II (Spring 2027, Wed 10:10am-12:05pm, First Seven Week, Jan - March)

Course Description: Tropical forests have a stunning array of diversity, and adaptations to strong species interactions, while species in alpine ecosystems have highly-specialized adaptations to challenging environmental conditions. To study this gradient, we will embark on a field course spanning multiple biogeographic regions in Ecuador, a region that boasts some the highest degrees of species diversity and endemism. Through muddy booths ecology we will traverse an elevation gradient from the paramo in the Andes down into the highly diverse amazon rainforest. Through hikes, group projects, data collection and self-driven reflections, our journey will explore the causal reasons underlying vast differences in the ecology & evolution of these systems and the challenges posed to scientific understanding. The course will count for four credit hours spread across two modules in January term, and the spring semester. Additionally, we will meet in the late fall for a one-day orientation and cultural humility tutorial. The wrap-up module during the first seven weeks of the spring semester will give students time to develop their field observations and data collection into a final research paper. Students will get one final grade in the spring semester for both modules. 

Recommended Background: Prior courses in ecology, evolution and/or data analysis are an asset but not required.

Potential Distributions – based on CALS 2025+ Distribution Requirement Overview
Biological Sciences
Data Literacy*

Older System
BIO-AG (Introductory Life Sciences/ Biology)
MQL-AG (Quantitative Literacy)*

The course counts toward the 120 credits that Cornell undergraduate students must earn for graduation. Depending on a student's college, the courses may also fulfill other requirements for electives, distribution requirements, or majors.

Course expectations

You'll be expected to:

• Be respectful and fellow participants, instructors, and local guides.
• Adhere to all field station rules.
• Respect local culture and biodiversity.
• Attend class daily.
• Complete all assignments in a timely manner.
• Read assigned materials in advance of each class period.
• Participate in class discussions, case studies, seminars, and field trips.