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ESS 8: The Oceans: An Introduction to the Marine Environment (EARTHSYS 8)

The course will provide a basic understanding of how the ocean functions as a suite of interconnected ecosystems, both naturally and under the influence of human activities. Emphasis is on the interactions between the physical and chemical environment and the dominant organisms of each ecosystem. The types of ecosystems discussed include coral reefs, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, coastal upwelling systems, blue-water oceans, estuaries, and near-shore dead zones. Lectures, multimedia presentations, group activities, and tide-pooling day trip.
Terms: Spr | Units: 4 | UG Reqs: WAY-SMA

ESS 10SC: In the Age of the Anthropocene: Coupled-Human Natural Systems of Southeast Alaska

Southeast Alaska is often described as America's "last frontier," embodying a physical reality of the "pristine" that was once revered by the early romantics and founders of the modern conservation movement throughout Western North America. Although endowed with more designated Wilderness land than any other state, Alaska remains a working landscape: a mixed cash-subsistence economy where communities rely upon the harvest and export of natural resources. Here, ecosystem services remain tangible, and people living in communities that are unconnected by roads confront questions of sustainability on a daily basis. This field-based course introduces students to the global questions of land use change and sustainable resource management in the American West through the place-based exploration of Southeast Alaska. Focused on four key social-ecological challenges -- fisheries, forestry, tourism, and energy -- the coupled human-natural systems of Southeast Alaska provide a unique lens for students to interpret broader resource management and conservation issues. The curriculum balances field explorations and classroom lectures with community exploration in which students will engage with fishermen, hatchery workers, forest managers, loggers, mill owners, tour operators, tourists, city officials, citizens, and Native residents. Students will catch their own salmon, walk through old-growth and logged forests, kayak next to glacial moraines, and witness the impacts of human activities, both local and global, on the social-ecological systems around them. In the context of rapidly changing ecosystems, students will confront the historical, ecological, and economic complexities of environmental stewardship in this region. By embedding their experiences within frameworks of land change science, land-ocean interactions, ecosystem ecology, and natural resource management and economics, students will leave this course ready to apply what they have learned to the global challenges of sustainability and conservation that pervade systems far beyond Alaska. This course is co-sponsored by the School of Earth Sciences and takes place in Sitka, Alaska. Students arrange for their arrival at the seminar's point of origin; all subsequent travel is made possible by Sophomore College and the School of Earth Sciences.
Terms: Sum | Units: 2
Instructors: ; Dunbar, R. (PI)

ESS 12SC: Environmental and Geological Field Studies in the Rocky Mountains (EARTHSYS 12SC, GS 12SC)

The ecologically and geologically diverse Rocky Mountain area is being strongly impacted by changing land use patterns, global and regional environmental change, and societal demands for energy and natural resources. This field program emphasizes coupled environmental and geological problems in the Rocky Mountains, covering a broad range of topics including the geologic origin of the American West from three billion years ago to the present; paleoclimatology and the glacial history of this mountainous region; the long- and short-term carbon cycle and global climate change; and environmental issues in the American West related to changing land-use patterns and increased demand for its abundant natural resources. In addition to the science aspects of this course we will also investigate the unique western culture of the area particularly in regards to modern ranching and outfitting in the American West. These broad topics are integrated into a coherent field-study as we examine earth/ environmental science-related questions in three different settings: 1) the three-billion-year-old rocks and the modern glaciers of the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming; 2) the sediments in the adjacent Wind River basin that host abundant gas and oil reserves and also contain the long-term climate history of this region; and 3) the volcanic center of Yellowstone National Park and the mountainous region of Teton National Park. Students will complete six assignments based upon field exercises, working in small groups to analyze data and prepare reports and maps. Lectures will be held in the field prior to and after fieldwork. The students will read two required books prior to this course that will be discussed on the trip.nnNote: This course involves one week of backpacking in the Wind Rivers and hiking while staying in cabins near Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Students must arrive in Salt Lake City on Monday, September 4. (Hotel lodging will be provided for the night of September 4, and thereafter students will travel as a Sophomore College group.) We will return to campus on Friday, September 22.
Terms: Sum | Units: 2
Instructors: ; Chamberlain, P. (PI)

ESS 38N: The Worst Journey in the World: The Science, Literature, and History of Polar Exploration (EARTHSYS 38N, GS 38N)

This course examines the motivations and experiences of polar explorers under the harshest conditions on Earth, as well as the chronicles of their explorations and hardships, dating to the 1500s for the Arctic and the 1700s for the Antarctic. Materials include The Worst Journey in the World by Aspley Cherry-Garrard who in 1911 participated in a midwinter Antarctic sledging trip to recover emperor penguin eggs. Optional field trip into the high Sierra in March.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 3 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci

ESS 42: The Global Warming Paradox II (EARTHSYS 42)

Further discussion of the complex climate challenges posed by the substantial benefits of energy consumption, including the critical tension between the enormous global demand for increased human well-being and the negative climate consequences of large-scale emissions of carbon dioxide. Discussions of topics of student interest, including peer-reviewed scientific papers, current research results, and portrayal of scientific findings by the mass media and social networks. Focus is on student engagement in on-campus and off-campus activities. Prerequisite: EESS 41N or EARTHSYS 41N or consent of instructor.
| Units: 1

ESS 43: The Global Warming Paradox III

Further discussion of the complex climate challenges posed by the substantial benefits of energy consumption, including the critical tension between the enormous global demand for increased human well-being and the negative climate consequences of large-scale emissions of carbon dioxide. Discussions explore topics of student interest, including peer-reviewed scientific papers, current research results, and portrayal of scientific findings by the mass media and social networks. Focus is on student engagement in on-campus and off-campus activities.May be repeat for credit
Last offered: Spring 2016 | Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 46N: Exploring the Critical Interface between the Land and Monterey Bay: Elkhorn Slough (EARTHSYS 46N)

Preference to freshmen. Field trips to sites in the Elkhorn Slough, a small agriculturally impacted estuary that opens into Monterey Bay, a model ecosystem for understanding the complexity of estuaries, and one of California's last remaining coastal wetlands. Readings include Jane Caffrey's "Changes in a California Estuary: A Profile of Elkhorn Slough". Basics of biogeochemistry, microbiology, oceanography, ecology, pollution, and environmental management.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3 | UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
Instructors: ; Francis, C. (PI)

ESS 49N: Multi-Disciplinary Perspectives on a Large Urban Estuary: San Francisco Bay (CEE 50N, EARTHSYS 49N)

This course will be focused around San Francisco Bay, the largest estuary on the Pacific coasts of both North and South America as a model ecosystem for understanding the critical importance and complexity of estuaries. Despite its uniquely urban and industrial character, the Bay is of immense ecological value and encompasses over 90% of California's remaining coastal wetlands. Students will be exposed to the basics of estuarine biogeochemistry, microbiology, ecology, hydrodynamics, pollution, and ecosystem management/restoration issues through lectures, interactive discussions, and field trips. Knowledge of introductory biology and chemistry is recommended.
| Units: 3

ESS 56Q: Changes in the Coastal Ocean: The View From Monterey and San Francisco Bays (EARTHSYS 56Q)

Preference to sophomores. Recent changes in the California current, using Monterey Bay as an example. Current literature introduces principles of oceanography. Visits from researchers from MBARI, Hopkins, and UCSC. Optional field trip to MBARI and Monterey Bay.
| Units: 3 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci

ESS 57Q: Climate Change from the Past to the Future (EARTHSYS 57Q)

Preference to sophomores. Numeric models to predict how climate responds to increase of greenhouse gases. Paleoclimate during times in Earth's history when greenhouse gas concentrations were elevated with respect to current concentrations. Predicted scenarios of climate models and how these models compare to known hyperthermal events in Earth history. Interactions and feedbacks among biosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. Topics include long- and short-term carbon cycle, coupled biogeochemical cycles affected by and controlling climate change, and how the biosphere responds to climate change. Possible remediation strategies.
| Units: 3 | UG Reqs: WAY-SMA

ESS 60: Food, Water and War: Life on the Mekong

Preparatory course for Bing Overseas Studies summer course in Cambodia. Prerequisite. Requires instructor consent.
| Units: 1

ESS 61Q: Food and security (EARTHSYS 61Q, INTNLREL 61Q)

The course will provide a broad overview of key policy issues concerning agricultural development and food security, and will assess how global governance is addressing the problem of food security. At the same time the course will provide an overview of the field of international security, and examine how governments and international institutions are beginning to include food in discussions of security.
Last offered: Autumn 2015 | Units: 3

ESS 101: Environmental and Geological Field Studies in the Rocky Mountains (EARTHSYS 100, GS 101)

Three-week, field-based program in the Greater Yellowstone/Teton and Wind River Mountains of Wyoming. Field-based exercises covering topics including: basics of structural geology and petrology; glacial geology; western cordillera geology; paleoclimatology; chemical weathering; aqueous geochemistry; and environmental issues such as acid mine drainage and changing land-use patterns.
Terms: Aut | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Chamberlain, P. (PI)

ESS 106: World Food Economy (EARTHSYS 106, EARTHSYS 206, ECON 106, ECON 206, ESS 206)

The economics of food production, consumption, and trade. The micro- and macro- determinants of food supply and demand, including the interrelationship among food, income, population, and public-sector decision making. Emphasis on the role of agriculture in poverty alleviation, economic development, and environmental outcomes. (graduate students enroll in 206)
Terms: Spr | Units: 5 | UG Reqs: WAY-SI

ESS 107: Control of Nature (EARTHSYS 107)

Think controlling the earth's climate is science fiction? It is when you watch Snowpiercer or Dune, but scientists are already devising geoengineering schemes to slow climate change. Will we ever resurrect the woolly mammoth or even a T. Rex (think Jurassic Park)? Based on current research, that day will come in your lifetime. Who gets to decide what species to save? And more generally, what scientific and ethical principles should guide our decisions to control nature? In this course, we will examine the science behind ways that people alter and engineer the earth, critically examining the positive and negative consequences. We'll explore these issues first through popular movies and books and then, more substantively, in scientific research.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3 | UG Reqs: WAY-ER

ESS 108: Research Preparation for Undergraduates

For undergraduates planning to conduct research during the summer with faculty through the MUIR and SUPER programs. Readings, oral presentations, proposal development. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Spr | Units: 1

ESS 111: Biology and Global Change (BIO 117, EARTHSYS 111)

The biological causes and consequences of anthropogenic and natural changes in the atmosphere, oceans, and terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Topics: glacial cycles and marine circulation, greenhouse gases and climate change, tropical deforestation and species extinctions, and human population growth and resource use. Prerequisite: Biology or Human Biology core or graduate standing.
Terms: Win | Units: 4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA

ESS 112: Human Society and Environmental Change (EARTHSYS 112, HISTORY 103D)

Interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human-environment interactions with a focus on economics, policy, culture, history, and the role of the state. Prerequisite: ECON 1.
Terms: Aut | Units: 4 | UG Reqs: WAY-SI

ESS 117: Earth Sciences of the Hawaiian Islands (EARTH 117, EARTHSYS 117)

Progression from volcanic processes through rock weathering and soil-ecosystem development to landscape evolution. The course starts with an investigation of volcanic processes, including the volcano structure, origin of magmas, physical-chemical factors of eruptions. Factors controlling rock weathering and soil development, including depth and nutrient levels impacting plant ecosystems, are explored next. Geomorphic processes of landscape evolution including erosion rates, tectonic/volcanic activity, and hillslope stability conclude the course. Methods for monitoring and predicting eruptions, defining spatial changes in landform, landform stability, soil production rates, and measuring biogeochemical processes are covered throughout the course. This course is restricted to students accepted into the Earth Systems of Hawaii Program.
Terms: Aut | Units: 4 | UG Reqs: WAY-SMA

ESS 118: D^3: Disasters, Decisions, Development (EARTHSYS 124, ESS 218, GEOPHYS 118, GEOPHYS 218, GS 118, GS 218)

This class connects the science behind natural disasters with the real-world constraints of disaster management and development. In each iteration of this class we will focus on a specific, disaster-prone location as case study. By collaborating with local stakeholders we will explore how science and engineering can make a make a difference in reducing disaster risk in the future. Offered every other year.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 3-5

ESS 132: Evolution of Earth Systems (EARTHSYS 132, EARTHSYS 232, ESS 232)

This course examines biogeochemical cycles and how they developed through the interaction between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere. Emphasis is on the long-term carbon cycle and how it is connected to other biogeochemical cycles on Earth. The course consists of lectures, discussion of research papers, and quantitative modeling of biogeochemical cycles. Students produce a model on some aspect of the cycles discussed in this course. Grades based on class interaction, student presentations, and the modeling project.
Terms: Win | Units: 4

ESS 135: Community Leadership

Offered through Residential Education to residents of Castano House, Manzanita Park. Topics include: emotional intelligence, leadership styles, listening, facilitating meetings, group dynamics and motivation, finding purpose, fostering resilience. Students will lead discussions on personal development, relationships, risky behaviors, race, ethnicity, spirituality, integrity.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr | Units: 1-2 | Repeatable 3 times (up to 6 units total)
Instructors: ; Jones, J. (PI)

ESS 141: Remote Sensing of the Oceans (EARTHSYS 141, EARTHSYS 241, ESS 241, GEOPHYS 141)

How to observe and interpret physical and biological changes in the oceans using satellite technologies. Topics: principles of satellite remote sensing, classes of satellite remote sensors, converting radiometric data into biological and physical quantities, sensor calibration and validation, interpreting large-scale oceanographic features.
Terms: Win | Units: 3-4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-AQR
Instructors: ; Arrigo, K. (PI)

ESS 146A: Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: The Atmospheric Circulation (CEE 161I, CEE 261I, EARTHSYS 146A, EARTHSYS 246A, ESS 246A, GEOPHYS 146A, GEOPHYS 246A)

Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the atmospheric circulation. Topics include the global energy balance, the greenhouse effect, the vertical and meridional structure of the atmosphere, dry and moist convection, the equations of motion for the atmosphere and ocean, including the effects of rotation, and the poleward transport of heat by the large-scale atmospheric circulation and storm systems. Prerequisites: MATH 51 or CME100 and PHYSICS 41.
Terms: Win | Units: 3

ESS 146B: Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: the Ocean Circulation (CEE 162I, CEE 262I, EARTHSYS 146B, EARTHSYS 246B, ESS 246B)

Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the large-scale ocean circulation. This course will give an overview of the structure and dynamics of the major ocean current systems that contribute to the meridional overturning circulation, the transport of heat, salt, and biogeochemical tracers, and the regulation of climate. Topics include the tropical ocean circulation, the wind-driven gyres and western boundary currents, the thermohaline circulation, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, water mass formation, atmosphere-ocean coupling, and climate variability. Prerequisites: EESS 146A or EESS 246A, or CEE 162D or CEE 262D, or consent of instructor.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3

ESS 148: Introduction to Physical Oceanography (CEE 162D, CEE 262D, EARTHSYS 164)

Formerly CEE 164. The dynamic basis of oceanography. Topics: physical environment; conservation equations for salt, heat, and momentum; geostrophic flows; wind-driven flows; the Gulf Stream; equatorial dynamics and ENSO; thermohaline circulation of the deep oceans; and tides. Prerequisite: PHYSICS 41 (formerly 53).
Terms: Win | Units: 4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
Instructors: ; Fong, D. (PI)

ESS 151: Biological Oceanography (EARTHSYS 151, EARTHSYS 251, ESS 251)

Required for Earth Systems students in the oceans track. Interdisciplinary look at how oceanic environments control the form and function of marine life. Topics include distributions of planktonic production and abundance, nutrient cycling, the role of ocean biology in the climate system, expected effects of climate changes on ocean biology. Local weekend field trips. Designed to be taken concurrently with Marine Chemistry (EESS/EARTHSYS 152/252). Prerequisites: BIO 43 and EESS 8 or equivalent.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3-4 | UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
Instructors: ; Mills, M. (PI); Selz, G. (TA)

ESS 152: Marine Chemistry (EARTHSYS 152, EARTHSYS 252, ESS 252)

Introduction to the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills required to critically evaluate problems in marine chemistry and related disciplines. Physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine the chemical composition of seawater. Air-sea gas exchange, carbonate chemistry, and chemical equilibria, nutrient and trace element cycling, particle reactivity, sediment chemistry, and diagenesis. Examination of chemical tracers of mixing and circulation and feedbacks of ocean processes on atmospheric chemistry and climate. Designed to be taken concurrently with Biological Oceanography (EESS/EARTHSYS 151/251)
Terms: Spr | Units: 3-4 | UG Reqs: WAY-AQR, WAY-SMA
Instructors: ; Casciotti, K. (PI)

ESS 155: Science of Soils (EARTHSYS 155)

Physical, chemical, and biological processes within soil systems. Emphasis is on factors governing nutrient availability, plant growth and production, land-resource management, and pollution within soils. How to classify soils and assess nutrient cycling and contaminant fate. Recommended: introductory chemistry and biology.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3-4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA

ESS 156: Soil and Water Chemistry (EARTHSYS 156, EARTHSYS 256, ESS 256)

(Graduate students register for 256.) Practical and quantitative treatment of soil processes affecting chemical reactivity, transformation, retention, and bioavailability. Principles of primary areas of soil chemistry: inorganic and organic soil components, complex equilibria in soil solutions, and adsorption phenomena at the solid-water interface. Processes and remediation of acid, saline, and wetland soils. Recommended: soil science and introductory chemistry and microbiology.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1-4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA

ESS 158: Geomicrobiology (EARTHSYS 158, EARTHSYS 258, ESS 258)

How microorganisms shape the geochemistry of the Earth's crust including oceans, lakes, estuaries, subsurface environments, sediments, soils, mineral deposits, and rocks. Topics include mineral formation and dissolution; biogeochemical cycling of elements (carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metals); geochemical and mineralogical controls on microbial activity, diversity, and evolution; life in extreme environments; and the application of new techniques to geomicrobial systems. Recommended: introductory chemistry and microbiology such as CEE 274A.
Terms: Win | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Francis, C. (PI)

ESS 162: Remote Sensing of Land (EARTHSYS 142, EARTHSYS 242, ESS 262)

The use of satellite remote sensing to monitor land use and land cover, with emphasis on terrestrial changes. Topics include pre-processing data, biophysical properties of vegetation observable by satellite, accuracy assessment of maps derived from remote sensing, and methodologies to detect changes such as urbanization, deforestation, vegetation health, and wildfires.
Terms: Win | Units: 4
Instructors: ; Lyons, E. (PI)

ESS 163: Demography and Life History Theory (ESS 363)

Life history theory is the branch of evolutionary biology that attempts to understand patterns of investment in growth, reproduction, and survival across the life cycle. It is the theory that explains the major transitions that mark individual organisms' life cycles from conception to death. In this class, we will focus on the central themes of life history theory and how they relate to specific problems of the human life cycle. In addition to the classic questions of life history theory (e.g., evolution of reproductive effort, size vs. quality, etc.), we will discuss some peculiar issues that relate specifically to humans. In particular, we will explore the intersection of life history theory and more classical economic approaches to decision theory and rational choice. This will include an exploration of the evolution of economic transfers and their implications for demographic transitions, ecological resilience, and the consumption of natural resources. This discussion will explore how an understanding of life history theory might help in promoting investments in future welfare or developing policies that promote sustainability.
Terms: Win | Units: 5 | UG Reqs: GER:DB-SocSci
Instructors: ; Jones, J. (PI)

ESS 164: Fundamentals of Geographic Information Science (GIS) (EARTHSYS 144)

Survey of geographic information including maps, satellite imagery, and census data, approaches to spatial data, and tools for integrating and examining spatially-explicit data. Emphasis is on fundamental concepts of geographic information science and associated technologies. Topics include geographic data structure, cartography, remotely sensed data, statistical analysis of geographic data, spatial analysis, map design, and geographic information system software. Computer lab assignments. All students are required to attend a weekly lab session.
Terms: Aut | Units: 3-4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
Instructors: ; Lyons, E. (PI)

ESS 165: Advanced Geographic Information Systems (ESS 265)

Building on the Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems course, this class delves deeper into geospatial analysis and mapping techniques. The class is heavily project-based and students are encouraged to bring their own research questions. Topics include topographic analysis, interpolation, spatial statistics, network analysis, and scripting using Python and Acrpy. All students are required to attend a weekly lab. ESS 164 or equivalent is a prerequisite.
Terms: Spr | Units: 4 | Repeatable 2 times (up to 8 units total)
Instructors: ; Lyons, E. (PI)

ESS 179S: Seminar: Issues in Environmental Science, Technology and Sustainability (CEE 179S, CEE 279S, EARTHSYS 179S)

Invited faculty, researchers and professionals share their insights and perspectives on a broad range of environmental and sustainability issues. Students critique seminar presentations and associated readings.
Terms: Sum | Units: 1-2 | Repeatable 2 times (up to 4 units total)

ESS 181: Urban Agriculture in the Developing World (EARTHSYS 181, EARTHSYS 281, ESS 281, URBANST 181)

In this advanced undergraduate course, students will learn about some of the key social and environmental challenges faced by cities in the developing world, and the current and potential role that urban agriculture plays in meeting (or exacerbating) those challenges. This is a service-learning course, and student teams will have the opportunity to partner with real partner organizations in a major developing world city to define and execute a project focused on urban development, and the current or potential role of urban agriculture. Service-learning projects will employ primarily the student's analytical skills such as synthesis of existing research findings, interdisciplinary experimental design, quantitative data analysis and visualization, GIS, and qualitative data collection through interviews and textual analysis. Previous coursework in the aforementioned analytical skills is preferred, but not required. Admission is by application.
| Units: 3-4

ESS 183: Food Matters: Agriculture in Film (EARTHSYS 183, EARTHSYS 283, ESS 283)

Film series presenting historical and contemporary issues dealing with food and agriculture across the globe. Students discuss reactions and thoughts in a round table format. May be repeated for credit.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 206: World Food Economy (EARTHSYS 106, EARTHSYS 206, ECON 106, ECON 206, ESS 106)

The economics of food production, consumption, and trade. The micro- and macro- determinants of food supply and demand, including the interrelationship among food, income, population, and public-sector decision making. Emphasis on the role of agriculture in poverty alleviation, economic development, and environmental outcomes. (graduate students enroll in 206)
Terms: Spr | Units: 5

ESS 208: Topics in Geobiology (GS 208)

Reading and discussion of classic and recent papers in the field of Geobiology. Co-evolution of Earth and life; critical intervals of environmental and biological change; geomicrobiology; paleobiology; global biogeochemical cycles; scaling of geobiological processes in space and time.
Terms: Aut | Units: 1 | Repeatable 3 times (up to 3 units total)

ESS 210: Techniques in Environmental Microbiology

Fundamentals and application of laboratory techniques to study the diversity and activity of microorganisms in environmental samples, including soil, sediment, and water. Emphasis is on culture-independent approaches, including epifluorescence microscopy, extraction and analysis of major biomolecules (DNA, RNA, protein, lipids), stable isotope probing, and metabolic rate measurements. Format will include lectures, laboratory exercises, and discussions. Students will learn how to collect, analyze, and understand common and cutting-edge datasets in environmental microbiology.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Dekas, A. (PI)

ESS 211: Fundamentals of Modeling (EARTHSYS 211)

Simulation models are a powerful tool for environmental research, if used properly. The major concepts and techniques for building and evaluating models. Topics include model calibration, model selection, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis, and Monte Carlo and bootstrap methods. Emphasis is on gaining hands-on experience using the R programming language. Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of statistics.
Terms: Aut | Units: 3-5

ESS 212: Measurements in Earth Systems

Preference will be given to ESS first-year grad students. Techniques to track biological, chemical, and physical processes operating across the San Francisquito Creek watershed, encompassing upland, aquatic, estuarine, and marine environments. Topics include gas and water flux measurement, assessment of microbiological communities, determination of biological productivity, isotopic analysis, soil and water chemistry determination, and identification of rock strata and weathering processes.
Terms: Win | Units: 3-4

ESS 214: Introduction to geostatistics and modeling of spatial uncertainty

Introduction of fundamental geostatistical tools for modeling spatial variability and uncertainty, and mapping of environmental attributes. Additional topics include sampling design and incorporation of different types of information (continuous, categorical) in prediction. Assignments consist of small problems to familiarize students with theoretical concepts, and applications dealing with the analysis and interpretation of various data sets (soil, water pollution, atmospheric constituents, remote sensing) primarily using Matlab. No prior programming experience is required. Open to graduates. Open to undergraduates with consent from the instructor. 3-credit option includes midterm/final or student-developed project. 4-credit option requires both. Prerequisite: College-level introductory statistics.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3-4

ESS 215: Earth System Dynamics

This is a graduate level course that examines the dynamics of the Earth System from an integrated perspective. Lectures introduce the physical, biogeochemical, ecological, and human dimensions of the Earth System, with emphasis on feedbacks, thresholds and tipping points. Human interactions with climate and land systems are emphasized in order to enable in-depth exploration of Earth System dynamics. Lab projects focus on a region of the globe for which rich coordinated data sources exist and complex Earth System dynamics dominate the environment
| Units: 2

ESS 216: Terrestrial Biogeochemistry

Nutrient cycling and the regulation of primary and secondary production in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems; land-water and biosphere-atmosphere interactions; global element cycles and their regulation; human effects on biogeochemical cycles. Prerequisite: graduate standing in science or engineering; consent of instructor for undergraduates or coterminal students.
| Units: 3

ESS 217: Climate of the Cenozoic

For upper-division undergraduate and graduate students. The paleoclimate of the Cenozoic and how climate changes in the past link to the carbon cycle. Topics include long- and short-term records of climate on continents and oceans, evidence for and causes of hyperthermal events, how the Earth's climate has responded in increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Guest speakers, student presentations.
| Units: 3

ESS 218: D^3: Disasters, Decisions, Development (EARTHSYS 124, ESS 118, GEOPHYS 118, GEOPHYS 218, GS 118, GS 218)

This class connects the science behind natural disasters with the real-world constraints of disaster management and development. In each iteration of this class we will focus on a specific, disaster-prone location as case study. By collaborating with local stakeholders we will explore how science and engineering can make a make a difference in reducing disaster risk in the future. Offered every other year.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 3-5

ESS 219: Climate Variability during the Holocene: Understanding what is Natural Climate Change

Many elements of the debate about attribution of modern climate change to man-made influences hinge on understanding the past history of climate as well as forcing functions such as solar output, volcanism, and "natural" trace gas variability. Interest in Holocene reconstructions of past climate and forcing functions has surged in the last 20 years providing a robust literature set for discussion and analysis. The goal of this class is to provide graduate students with a view of the archives available for Holocene paleoenvironmental analysis, the tracers that are used, and the results thus far. We will also explore the world of data-model comparisons and examine the role that paleorecords play in the IPCC reports. The class will consist of some lectures as well as many class discussions based on assigned readings.
| Units: 3

ESS 220: Physical Hydrogeology (CEE 260A)

(Formerly GES 230.) Theory of underground water occurrence and flow, analysis of field data and aquifer tests, geologic groundwater environments, solution of field problems, and groundwater modeling. Introduction to groundwater contaminant transport and unsaturated flow. Lab. Prerequisite: elementary calculus.
Terms: Aut | Units: 4
Instructors: ; Gorelick, S. (PI)

ESS 221: Contaminant Hydrogeology and Reactive Transport (CEE 260C, GS 225)

Decades of industrial activity have released vast quantities of contaminants to groundwater, threatening water resources, ecosystems and human health. What processes control the fate and transport of contaminants in the subsurface? What remediation strategies are effective and what are the tradeoffs among them? How are these processes represented in models used for regulatory and decision-making purposes? This course will address these and related issues by focusing on the conceptual and quantitative treatment of advective-dispersive transport with reacting solutes, including modern methods of contaminant transport simulation. Some Matlab programming / program modification required. Prerequisite: Physical Hydrogeology ESS 220 / CEE 260A (Gorelick) or equivalent and college-level course work in chemistry.
Terms: Win | Units: 4

ESS 232: Evolution of Earth Systems (EARTHSYS 132, EARTHSYS 232, ESS 132)

This course examines biogeochemical cycles and how they developed through the interaction between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere. Emphasis is on the long-term carbon cycle and how it is connected to other biogeochemical cycles on Earth. The course consists of lectures, discussion of research papers, and quantitative modeling of biogeochemical cycles. Students produce a model on some aspect of the cycles discussed in this course. Grades based on class interaction, student presentations, and the modeling project.
Terms: Win | Units: 4

ESS 240: Advanced Oceanography

For upper-division undergraduates and graduate students in the earth, biologic, and environmental sciences. Topical issues in marine science/oceanography. Topics vary each year following or anticipating research trends in oceanographic research. Focus is on links between the circulation and physics of the ocean with climate in the N. Pacific region, and marine ecologic responses. Participation by marine scientists from research groups and organizations including the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute.
Terms: Aut | Units: 3 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 241: Remote Sensing of the Oceans (EARTHSYS 141, EARTHSYS 241, ESS 141, GEOPHYS 141)

How to observe and interpret physical and biological changes in the oceans using satellite technologies. Topics: principles of satellite remote sensing, classes of satellite remote sensors, converting radiometric data into biological and physical quantities, sensor calibration and validation, interpreting large-scale oceanographic features.
Terms: Win | Units: 3-4 | UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-AQR
Instructors: ; Arrigo, K. (PI)

ESS 242: Antarctic Marine Geology (EARTHSYS 272)

For upper-division undergraduates and graduate students. Intermediate and advanced topics in marine geology and geophysics, focusing on examples from the Antarctic continental margin and adjacent Southern Ocean. Topics: glaciers, icebergs, and sea ice as geologic agents (glacial and glacial marine sedimentology, Southern Ocean current systems and deep ocean sedimentation), Antarctic biostratigraphy and chronostratigraphy (continental margin evolution). Students interpret seismic lines and sediment core/well log data. Examples from a recent scientific drilling expedition to Prydz Bay, Antarctica. Up to two students may have an opportunity to study at sea in Antarctica during Winter Quarter.
| Units: 3

ESS 244: Marine Ecosystem Modeling

This course will provide the practical background necessary to construct and implement a 2-dimensional (space and time) numerical model of a simple marine ecosystem. Instruction on computer programming, model design and parameterization, and model evaluation will be provided. Throughout the 10-week course, each student will develop and refine their own multi-component marine ecosystem model. Instructor consent required.
Terms: Win, Spr | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Arrigo, K. (PI)

ESS 245: Advanced Biological Oceanography

For upper-division undergraduates and graduate students. Themes vary annually but include topics such as marine bio-optics, marine ecological modeling, and phytoplankton primary production. May be repeated for credit. Enrollment by instructor consent only.
| Units: 3-4 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 246A: Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: The Atmospheric Circulation (CEE 161I, CEE 261I, EARTHSYS 146A, EARTHSYS 246A, ESS 146A, GEOPHYS 146A, GEOPHYS 246A)

Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the atmospheric circulation. Topics include the global energy balance, the greenhouse effect, the vertical and meridional structure of the atmosphere, dry and moist convection, the equations of motion for the atmosphere and ocean, including the effects of rotation, and the poleward transport of heat by the large-scale atmospheric circulation and storm systems. Prerequisites: MATH 51 or CME100 and PHYSICS 41.
Terms: Win | Units: 3

ESS 246B: Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: the Ocean Circulation (CEE 162I, CEE 262I, EARTHSYS 146B, EARTHSYS 246B, ESS 146B)

Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the large-scale ocean circulation. This course will give an overview of the structure and dynamics of the major ocean current systems that contribute to the meridional overturning circulation, the transport of heat, salt, and biogeochemical tracers, and the regulation of climate. Topics include the tropical ocean circulation, the wind-driven gyres and western boundary currents, the thermohaline circulation, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, water mass formation, atmosphere-ocean coupling, and climate variability. Prerequisites: EESS 146A or EESS 246A, or CEE 162D or CEE 262D, or consent of instructor.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3

ESS 249: Marine Stable Isotopes

This course will provide an introduction to stable isotopes biogeochemistry with emphasis on applications in marine science. We will cover fundamental concepts of nuclear structure and origin of elements and isotopes, and stable isotopic fractionation. We will discuss mass spectrometry techniques, mass independent fractionation, clumped isotopes, mass balance and box models. Applications of these concepts to studies of ocean circulation, marine carbon and nitrogen cycles, primary productivity, and particle scavenging will also be discussed.
Terms: Win | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Casciotti, K. (PI)

ESS 250: Elkhorn Slough Microbiology

(Formerly GES 270.) The microbial ecology and biogeochemistry of Elkhorn Slough, an agriculturally-impacted coastal estuary draining into Monterey Bay. The diversity of microbial lifestyles associated with estuarine physical/chemical gradients, and the influence of microbial activity on the geochemistry of the Slough, including the cycling of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metals. Labs and field work. Location: Hopkins Marine Station.
| Units: 3

ESS 251: Biological Oceanography (EARTHSYS 151, EARTHSYS 251, ESS 151)

Required for Earth Systems students in the oceans track. Interdisciplinary look at how oceanic environments control the form and function of marine life. Topics include distributions of planktonic production and abundance, nutrient cycling, the role of ocean biology in the climate system, expected effects of climate changes on ocean biology. Local weekend field trips. Designed to be taken concurrently with Marine Chemistry (EESS/EARTHSYS 152/252). Prerequisites: BIO 43 and EESS 8 or equivalent.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3-4
Instructors: ; Mills, M. (PI)

ESS 252: Marine Chemistry (EARTHSYS 152, EARTHSYS 252, ESS 152)

Introduction to the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills required to critically evaluate problems in marine chemistry and related disciplines. Physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine the chemical composition of seawater. Air-sea gas exchange, carbonate chemistry, and chemical equilibria, nutrient and trace element cycling, particle reactivity, sediment chemistry, and diagenesis. Examination of chemical tracers of mixing and circulation and feedbacks of ocean processes on atmospheric chemistry and climate. Designed to be taken concurrently with Biological Oceanography (EESS/EARTHSYS 151/251)
Terms: Spr | Units: 3-4
Instructors: ; Casciotti, K. (PI)

ESS 253S: Hopkins Microbiology Course (BIO 274S, BIOHOPK 274, CEE 274S)

(Formerly GES 274S.) Four-week, intensive. The interplay between molecular, physiological, ecological, evolutionary, and geochemical processes that constitute, cause, and maintain microbial diversity. How to isolate key microorganisms driving marine biological and geochemical diversity, interpret culture-independent molecular characterization of microbial species, and predict causes and consequences. Laboratory component: what constitutes physiological and metabolic microbial diversity; how evolutionary and ecological processes diversify individual cells into physiologically heterogeneous populations; and the principles of interactions between individuals, their population, and other biological entities in a dynamically changing microbial ecosystem. Prerequisites: CEE 274A and CEE 274B, or equivalents.
Terms: Sum | Units: 3-12 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 255: Microbial Physiology (BIO 180, EARTHSYS 255, GS 233A)

Introduction to the physiology of microbes including cellular structure, transcription and translation, growth and metabolism, mechanisms for stress resistance and the formation of microbial communities. These topics will be covered in relation to the evolution of early life on Earth, ancient ecosystems, and the interpretation of the rock record. Recommended: introductory biology and chemistry.
Last offered: Autumn 2015 | Units: 3

ESS 256: Soil and Water Chemistry (EARTHSYS 156, EARTHSYS 256, ESS 156)

(Graduate students register for 256.) Practical and quantitative treatment of soil processes affecting chemical reactivity, transformation, retention, and bioavailability. Principles of primary areas of soil chemistry: inorganic and organic soil components, complex equilibria in soil solutions, and adsorption phenomena at the solid-water interface. Processes and remediation of acid, saline, and wetland soils. Recommended: soil science and introductory chemistry and microbiology.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1-4

ESS 258: Geomicrobiology (EARTHSYS 158, EARTHSYS 258, ESS 158)

How microorganisms shape the geochemistry of the Earth's crust including oceans, lakes, estuaries, subsurface environments, sediments, soils, mineral deposits, and rocks. Topics include mineral formation and dissolution; biogeochemical cycling of elements (carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metals); geochemical and mineralogical controls on microbial activity, diversity, and evolution; life in extreme environments; and the application of new techniques to geomicrobial systems. Recommended: introductory chemistry and microbiology such as CEE 274A.
Terms: Win | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Francis, C. (PI)

ESS 259: Environmental Microbial Genomics

The application of molecular and environmental genomic approaches to the study of biogeochemically-important microorganisms in the environment without the need for cultivation. Emphasis is on genomic analysis of microorganisms by direct extraction and cloning of DNA from natural microbial assemblages. Topics include microbial energy generation and nutrient cycling, genome structure, gene function, physiology, phylogenetic and functional diversity, evolution, and population dynamics of uncultured communities.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1-3

ESS 260: Advanced Statistical Methods for Earth System Analysis (STATS 360)

Introduction for graduate students to important issues in data analysis relevant to earth system studies. Emphasis on methodology, concepts and implementation (in R), rather than formal proofs. Likely topics include the bootstrap, non-parametric methods, regression in the presence of spatial and temporal correlation, extreme value analysis, time-series analysis, high-dimensional regressions and change-point models. Topics subject to change each year. Prerequisites: STATS 110 or equivalent.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 3

ESS 261: Molecular Microbial Biosignatures (GS 234A)

Critical reading and discussion of literature on molecular biosignatures as indicators of microbial life and metabolisms in modern and ancient environments. Focus will be primarily on recalcitrant lipids that form chemical fossils and topics covered will include biosynthetic pathways of these lipids, their phylogenetic origins, their physiological roles in modern organisms, and their occurrence throughout the geological record. Recommended: microbiology and organic chemistry.
| Units: 1-3

ESS 262: Remote Sensing of Land (EARTHSYS 142, EARTHSYS 242, ESS 162)

The use of satellite remote sensing to monitor land use and land cover, with emphasis on terrestrial changes. Topics include pre-processing data, biophysical properties of vegetation observable by satellite, accuracy assessment of maps derived from remote sensing, and methodologies to detect changes such as urbanization, deforestation, vegetation health, and wildfires.
Terms: Win | Units: 4
Instructors: ; Lyons, E. (PI)

ESS 263: Topics in Advanced Geostatistics (ENERGY 242)

Conditional expectation theory and projections in Hilbert spaces; parametric versus non-parametric geostatistics; Boolean, Gaussian, fractal, indicator, and annealing approaches to stochastic imaging; multiple point statistics inference and reproduction; neural net geostatistics; Bayesian methods for data integration; techniques for upscaling hydrodynamic properties. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: 240, advanced calculus, C++/Fortran.
| Units: 3-4 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 265: Advanced Geographic Information Systems (ESS 165)

Building on the Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems course, this class delves deeper into geospatial analysis and mapping techniques. The class is heavily project-based and students are encouraged to bring their own research questions. Topics include topographic analysis, interpolation, spatial statistics, network analysis, and scripting using Python and Acrpy. All students are required to attend a weekly lab. ESS 164 or equivalent is a prerequisite.
Terms: Spr | Units: 4 | Repeatable 2 times (up to 8 units total)
Instructors: ; Lyons, E. (PI)

ESS 270: Analyzing land use in a globalized world

This is a graduate level course that examines the dynamics of land use in relation to the multiple dimensions of globalization. The objective is to understand and analyze how the expansion of global trade, the emergence of new global actors, and public and private regulations affect land use changes. Beyond getting a better understanding of the dynamics of land use change, the course will enable students to better understand how to effectively influence land use change, from different vantage points: government, NGO, information broker, corporate actor. The main emphasis is on tropical regions. Lectures introduce various topics related to theories, practical cases, and evaluation tools to better understand and analyze contemporary land use dynamics. Data analyses will be conducted in the lab section, based on case studies.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3

ESS 275: Nitrogen in the Marine Environment

The goal of this seminar course is to explore current topics in marine nitrogen cycle. We will explore a variety of processes, including primary production, nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, and anaerobic ammonia oxidation, and their controls. We will use the book Nitrogen in the Marine Environment and supplement with student-led discussions of recent literature. A variety of biomes, spatial and temporal scales, and methodologies for investigation will be discussed.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1-2 | Repeatable 2 times (up to 4 units total)

ESS 280: Principles and Practices of Sustainable Agriculture (EARTHSYS 180)

Field-based training in ecologically sound agricultural practices at the Stanford Community Farm. Weekly lessons, field work, and group projects. Field trips to educational farms in the area. Topics include: soils, composting, irrigation techniques, IPM, basic plant anatomy and physiology, weeds, greenhouse management, and marketing.
Terms: Aut, Spr | Units: 3-4 | Repeatable 3 times (up to 12 units total)
Instructors: ; Archie, P. (PI)

ESS 281: Urban Agriculture in the Developing World (EARTHSYS 181, EARTHSYS 281, ESS 181, URBANST 181)

In this advanced undergraduate course, students will learn about some of the key social and environmental challenges faced by cities in the developing world, and the current and potential role that urban agriculture plays in meeting (or exacerbating) those challenges. This is a service-learning course, and student teams will have the opportunity to partner with real partner organizations in a major developing world city to define and execute a project focused on urban development, and the current or potential role of urban agriculture. Service-learning projects will employ primarily the student's analytical skills such as synthesis of existing research findings, interdisciplinary experimental design, quantitative data analysis and visualization, GIS, and qualitative data collection through interviews and textual analysis. Previous coursework in the aforementioned analytical skills is preferred, but not required. Admission is by application.
| Units: 3-4

ESS 282: Designing Educational Gardens (EARTHSYS 182)

A project-based course emphasizing 'ways of doing 's sustainable agricultural systems based at the new Stanford Educational Farm. Students will work individually and in small groups on the design of a new educational garden and related programs for the Stanford Educational Farm. The class will meet on 6 Fridays over the course of winter quarter. Class meetings will include an introduction to designing learning gardens and affiliated programs, 3 field trips to exemplary educational gardens in the bay area that will include tours and discussions with garden educators, and work sessions for student projects. By application only.
Terms: Win | Units: 2
Instructors: ; Archie, P. (PI)

ESS 283: Food Matters: Agriculture in Film (EARTHSYS 183, EARTHSYS 283, ESS 183)

Film series presenting historical and contemporary issues dealing with food and agriculture across the globe. Students discuss reactions and thoughts in a round table format. May be repeated for credit.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 292: Directed Individual Study in Earth System Science

Under supervision of an Earth System Science faculty member on a subject of mutual interest.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum | Units: 1-10 | Repeatable 10 times (up to 10 units total)

ESS 300: Climate studies of terrestrial environments

This course will consist of a weekly seminar covering topics of interest in Cenozoic climate. The course examines the interactions between the biosphere, atmosphere and geosphere and how these interactions influence climate. The course will cover classic and seminal papers on the controls of the oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon isotopes of the hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere and how they are expressed in paleoclimate proxies. Seminar will consist of reading and discussion of these papers. Students will be responsible for presenting papers. Grades will be determined by class participation. (Chamberlain)
Terms: Spr | Units: 3
Instructors: ; Chamberlain, P. (PI)

ESS 301: Topics in Earth System Science

Current topics, issues, and research related to interactions that link the oceans, atmosphere, land surfaces and freshwater systems. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr | Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 305: Climate Change: An Earth Systems Perspective

A graduate-level, seminar-style class on climate change structured around the IPCC's AR5. Significant reading load and weekly talks by a rotating roster of contributing and lead authors from the IPCC. The focus will be on the physical science basis, adaptation and impacts (working groups 1 and 2), with some material drawn from mitigation (working group 3).
Terms: Aut | Units: 2
Instructors: ; Diffenbaugh, N. (PI)

ESS 306: From Freshwater to Oceans to Land Systems: An Earth System Perspective to Global Challenges

Within this class we will have cover Earth System processes ranging from nutrient cycles to ocean circulation. We will also address global environmental challenges of the twenty-first century that include maintaining freshwater resources, land degradation, health of our oceans, and the balance between food production and environmental degradation. Weekly readings and problem sets on specific topics will be followed by presentations of Earth System Science faculty and an in-depth class discussion. ESS first year students have priority enrollment.
Terms: Win | Units: 2

ESS 307: Research Proposal Development and Delivery

In this class students will learn how to write rigorous, high yield, multidisciplinary proposals targeting major funding agencies. The skills gained in this class are essential to any professional career, particularly in research science. Students will write a National Science Foundation style proposal involving testable hypotheses, pilot data or calculations, and broader impact. Restricted to EESS first-year, graduate students.
Terms: Spr | Units: 2

ESS 310: Climate and Energy Seminar

This course examines the links between climate change policy and other regulation of the energy sector in the U.S. context. In the electricity sector, these policies are likely to be closely interconnected, yet they are often considered in isolation. We will evaluate the impacts of energy, air pollution, and water pollution regulations on US greenhouse gas emissions from the energy sector. We will also examine how state regulatory activities aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the electricity sector are likely to have co-benefits for air and water pollution.
| Units: 3

ESS 311: Seminar in Advanced Applications of Remote Sensing

In this seminar course, we will invite the pioneering scientists from academia and leading experts from the industry to share their applications of remote sensing technology, with a focus on terrestrial use (e.g. agriculture and forestry). In each independent seminar, speakers will present the basic technology and focus on applications with case studies.nnStudents will gain insight into a variety of remote sensing applications in both academia and industry. No prior remote sensing knowledge is required, and each seminar is independent. Attendance is required to receive credit.
| Units: 1

ESS 318: Global Land Use Change to 2050

An exploration of the fundamental drivers behind long term shifts in the demand for, and supply of, land for agriculture, forestry and environmental uses over the next four decades. Topics include trends in food and bioenergy demand, crop productivity on existing and potential croplands, water and climate constraints, non-extractive uses such as carbon sequestration, and the role of global trade and public policies. Students will lead discussions of weekly readings and perform simple numerical experiments to explore the role of individual drivers of long run global land use.
| Units: 2-3

ESS 322A: Seminar in Hydrogeology

Current topics. May be repeated for credit. Autumn Quarter has open enrollment, For Winter Quarter, consent of instructor is required.
| Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 322B: Seminar in Hydrogeology

Current topics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
Terms: Win | Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit
Instructors: ; Gorelick, S. (PI)

ESS 323: Stanford at Sea (BIOHOPK 182H, BIOHOPK 323H, EARTHSYS 323)

(Graduate students register for 323H.) Five weeks of marine science including oceanography, marine physiology, policy, maritime studies, conservation, and nautical science at Hopkins Marine Station, followed by five weeks at sea aboard a sailing research vessel in the Pacific Ocean. Shore component comprised of three multidisciplinary courses meeting daily and continuing aboard ship. Students develop an independent research project plan while ashore, and carry out the research at sea. In collaboration with the Sea Education Association of Woods Hole, MA. Only 6 units may count towards the Biology major.
Terms: Spr | Units: 16

ESS 330: Advanced Topics in Hydrogeology

Topics: questioning classic explanations of physical processes; coupled physical, chemical, and biological processes affecting heat and solute transport. May be repeated for credit.
Last offered: Winter 2016 | Units: 1-2 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 342: Geostatistics

Classic results and current research. Topics based on interest and timeliness. May be repeated for credit.
| Units: 1-2 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 342B: Geostatistics

Classic results and current research. Topics based on interest and timeliness. May be repeated for credit.
| Units: 1-2 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 342C: Geostatistics

Classic results and current research. Topics based on interest and timeliness. May be repeated for credit.
| Units: 1-2 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 360: Social Structure and Social Networks (ANTHRO 360)

In this course, we will explore social network analysis, a set of methods and theories used in the analysis of social structure. The fundamental conceit underlying social network analysis is that social structure emerges from relationships between individuals. We will therefore concentrate in particular on the measurement of relationships, emphasizing especially practical methodology for anthropological fieldwork. This is a somewhat unusual course because of its focus on social network research coming out of anthropological and ethological traditions. While most current practitioners of social network analysis are (probably) sociologists, many of both the methodological antecedents and theoretical justifications for the field can be found in these two traditions. A major goal of this course is to understand how the methods and perspectives of social network analysis can be usefully incorporated into contemporary approaches to ethnography and other anthropological modes of investigation. Prerequisite: graduate standing or consent of instructor
Terms: Spr | Units: 5
Instructors: ; Jones, J. (PI)

ESS 363: Demography and Life History Theory (ESS 163)

Life history theory is the branch of evolutionary biology that attempts to understand patterns of investment in growth, reproduction, and survival across the life cycle. It is the theory that explains the major transitions that mark individual organisms' life cycles from conception to death. In this class, we will focus on the central themes of life history theory and how they relate to specific problems of the human life cycle. In addition to the classic questions of life history theory (e.g., evolution of reproductive effort, size vs. quality, etc.), we will discuss some peculiar issues that relate specifically to humans. In particular, we will explore the intersection of life history theory and more classical economic approaches to decision theory and rational choice. This will include an exploration of the evolution of economic transfers and their implications for demographic transitions, ecological resilience, and the consumption of natural resources. This discussion will explore how an understanding of life history theory might help in promoting investments in future welfare or developing policies that promote sustainability.
Terms: Win | Units: 5
Instructors: ; Jones, J. (PI)

ESS 363F: Oceanic Fluid Dynamics (CEE 363F)

Dynamics of rotating stratified fluids with application to oceanic flows. Topics include: inertia-gravity waves; geostrophic and cyclogeostrophic balance; vorticity and potential vorticity dynamics; quasi-geostrophic motions; planetary and topographic Rossby waves; inertial, symmetric, barotropic and baroclinic instability; Ekman layers; and the frictional spin-down of geostrophic flows. Prerequisite: CEE 262A or a graduate class in fluid mechanics.
Terms: Spr | Units: 3

ESS 364F: Advanced Topics in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics (CEE 364F)

A seminar-style class covering the classic papers on the theory of the large-scale ocean circulation. Topics include: wind-driven gyres, mesoscale eddies and geostrophic turbulence, eddy-driven recirculation gyres, homogenization of potential vorticity, the ventilated thermocline, subduction, and the abyssal circulation. Prerequisite: EESS 363F or CEE 363F. Recommended: EESS 246B.
| Units: 2-3

ESS 385: Practical Experience in the Geosciences

On-the-job training, that may include summer internship, in applied aspects of the geosciences, and technical, organizational, and communication dimensions. Meets USCIS requirements for F-1 curricular practical training. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr | Units: 1 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 398: Current Topics in Ecosystem Modeling

| Units: 1-2 | Repeatable for credit

ESS 401: Curricular Practical Training

CPT course required for international students completing degree. Prerequisite: Earth System Science Ph.D. candidate.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum | Units: 1-3 | Repeatable 4 times (up to 12 units total)
Instructors: ; Rajaratnam, B. (PI)
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