This course will introduce graduate and advanced undergraduate students to fundamental concepts in the theory and application of isotope geochemistry to address environmental questions. This course will provide a broad overview of isotope geochemistry across the realms of the geosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere, with an emphasis on marine systems. We will cover the distribution and fractionation of isotopes, learn about traditional and cutting-edge analytical methods, and explore applications of these concepts as tracers of important ecological and environmental processes.

Prerequisites: Strong background in chemistry, biology, and earth systems recommended. Undergraduate participation with permission from the instructor.

Learning Outcomes:

• Fundamental Knowledge: Develop fundamental knowledge of isotope theory across a range of isotope systems, environments, and applications through lectures, peer-peer learning, literature, and case studies.

• Oral and Written Communication Skills: Utilize fundamental knowledge of concepts and vocabulary to effectively communicate understanding of stable isotope data.

• Critical Evaluation Skills: Gain necessary knowledge of isotope theory and application to constructively evaluate the published literature in the fields of environmental isotope geochemistry.

Example Syllabus