An interdisciplinary group of doctoral students from around the world studies at Cal State Fullerton this week (June 28-July 1 and July 3-6) as part of an intensive five-week field- and laboratory-based summer course, taught by science faculty Hope Johnson and Sean Loyd.
Johnson, associate professor of biological science, and Loyd, assistant professor of geological sciences, are among university researchers teaching the “International Geobiology Course,” offered through USC’s Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies.
The geobiology course explores the evolution of the Earth and its biosphere, with students participating in laboratory work in Dan Black Hall and McCarthy Hall. Activities include DNA isolation of environmental samples, carbon dioxide uptake studies, cutting rocks for future analysis and carbon isotope analysis, said Johnson.