Evolution: Student Links
Evolution
Science as a Human Endeavor
To learn more about the interests and accomplishments of diverse scientists and engineers, and how people with varied backgrounds contribute to and depend on the advancement of science and technology, visit the links below.
Geerat Vermeij
Vermeij is a Professor at the University of California, Davis. Blind since birth but with an acute sense of touch, he is an evolutionary biologist who studies structure and function in different kinds mollusks, from snails to squid.
Scott V. Edwards
Edwards studies the genetics and evolution of birds to study patterns of speciation and the process of adaptation. His work bridges the Reproduction and Evolution units.
Lisa White
White is Director of Education and Outreach at the University of California’s Museum of Paleontology in Berkeley. She develops programs on teaching and learning of evolution, especially the fossil record, through hands-on experiences and online resources.
Hopi Hoekstra
Hoekstra is a professor of evolutionary biologist at Harvard University. She uses natural populations of mice to study the genetic basis of adaptation – from physical traits to behavior. She received an award from the National Academy of Sciences for her extraordinary achievement in biology.
Activity 6
Mutations and Evolution
Sickle Cell Simulation
Use this simulation to explore how the presence of malaria and access to health care affect the sickle cell trait.
Activity 7
Origins of Species
Galapagos Finch Evolution
Watch this video about Peter and Rosemary Grant and their 40-year study of the Galapagos Finches.
Evolution in Action in Salamanders
Watch this video and reflect on whether you think these salamanders in California are becoming different species.
Grant Data
Examine this spreadsheet containing real data collected by Peter and Rosemary Grant on the medium ground finch in 1977. Analyze the data to determine if birds that survived the drought showed any other differences, other than beak size, from the birds that didn’t survive.
Activity 12
Whale of a Tale
Whale DNA Evidence
Read about a study that revealed genetic evidence of how whales evolved from land mammals.
The Evolution of Whales
View a drawing and diagram on the evolution of cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises).
Introduction to Whales and Dolphins
Scroll down this site to find information and photos on whale evolution and to link to related sites. Site maintained by University of California Museum of Paleontology.
Activity 13
Embryology
Chick Embryo Development
Watch a time-lapse video of chick embryo development over 5 days.
Activity 14
The Sixth Extinction?
Bioprospecting
Learn more about how humans might be affected by extinction of species and loss of biodiversity.
Bioprospecting in Yellowstone National Park
Read about the growing scientific interest in bioprospecting and extremophiles in Yellowstone National Park.
Bioprospecting with the Leafcutter Ant
Read about how scientists are bioprospecting for novel antibiotic drugs with the leafcutter ant.
Activity 16
Manipulating Genes
Links about selective breeding and artificial selection
Where does seedless watermelon come from?
U apple breeder is Minnesota’s ‘Captain crunch’ – StarTribune.com
Heritage and Ancient Grain Project Feeds a Growing Demand | CALS
Cassava is Genetically Decaying, Putting Staple Crop at Risk | CALS
Creating Cooler Chickens for a Warming Earth – Modern Farmer
Breeding resistant chickens for improved food safety
Two of the world’s top three insecticides harm bumblebees – study | Environment | The Guardian
The turning of wolves into dogs may have occurred twice | Science News for Students
Dog domestication happened just once, ancient DNA study suggests | Science News
Links about genetic modification and genetic engineering
GMO Basics | GMO Answers
The Truth about Genetically Modified Food – Scientific American
Genetically Modified Foods
Why genome editing offers a targeted way of breeding better crops
Pharming for Farmaceuticals
Altered Food, GMOs, Genetically Modified Food – National Geographic
Scientists Say GMO Foods Are Safe, Public Skepticism Remains | National Geographic | The Plate
How did Roundup Ready and Roundup develop? | GMO Answers
Bt-Corn: What It Is and How It Works | Entomology
Why Roundup Ready Crops Have Lost their Allure – Science in the News
Farmers Say GMO Corn No Longer Resistant to Pests – Scientific American
Genetically Engineered Salmon Approved for Consumption – The New York Times
Genetically Modified Mosquito Sparks a Controversy in Florida – Yale E360
For Extension on Gene TherapyGene therapy ‘cures’ boy of blood disease that affects millions | New Scientist
Read about how gene therapy is being used to treat sickle cell disease
New gene-editing technology successfully cures a genetic blood disorder in mice: Technology may offer a minimally invasive treatment for genetic disorders of the blood — ScienceDaily
Learn about new technology that cures beta thalassemia and sickle cell disease in mice.