June 22 – July 10, 2026
Instructor: Dr. Brett Jameson (ASU BIOS)
Co-instructor: Dr. Sheryl Murdock (ASU)
Co-instructor: Dr. Nicholas Baetge (ASU BIOS)
Course Overview:
The Marine Molecular Ecology (MME) course explores the biology, diversity, and ecological importance of microorganisms in marine environments. Participants will investigate how microbial communities mediate key biogeochemical processes and respond to environmental change. Through a blend of lectures, fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and data analysis workshops, the course integrates molecular, ecological, and computational concepts to understand microbial ecosystem dynamics from genes to ecosystem function.
Participants will gain hands-on experience aboard the R/V Atlantic Explorer during an oceanographic sampling cruise to Hydrostation “S”, the world’s longest-running ocean observation program. They will also:
- Examine the physiological, ecological, and evolutionary processes that structure marine microbial communities.
- Engage in hands-on field sampling and environmental data collection in coastal and open-ocean settings.
- Conduct laboratory experiments, including experimental manipulations, incubations, and DNA-based molecular surveys.
- Monitor environmental variability and place empirical findings in their broader ecological context.
- Learn and apply analytical techniques for processing and interpreting microbial community data using R.
- Critically evaluate and discuss current research articles in marine microbiology and biogeochemistry.
- Communicate scientific findings through written reports, data visualizations, and oral presentations.
This intensive three-week field course provides undergraduate and graduate students with practical experience in marine molecular ecology, with an emphasis on marine microbial communities. Course modules and laboratory exercises are designed to introduce participants to the molecular, ecological, and analytical tools used to study microorganisms and their roles in shaping marine ecosystems. Although the course centers on marine microbes, the skills developed are broadly applicable across biomedical, ecological, environmental, and life-science disciplines.
There is NO SCUBA diving on this course
Prerequisites:
- University-level biology, chemistry, and ecology; marine science and/or oceanography are desirable.
- Experience with basic lab techniques including proficient use of micropipettes, implementation of aseptic technique, handling of common lab chemicals, ability to follow appropriate safety protocols (including PPE).
*This course involves field work both on-board research vessels and in the water. Participants should have the ability to work comfortably in the water with a mask and snorkel and should be prepared to spend extended periods of time on a boat.
The course syllabus and further information can be found here.
Course Fees and Expenses: $5,000 (includes tuition, campus accommodation and meals)
Application deadline April 30, 2026
Full course details, prerequisites and application instructions are available here.
A link to the online application form, course syllabus and further information can be found here:
https://bios.asu.edu/education/summer-courses
Suitably qualified applicants of all nationalities are eligible to apply for bursary funding towards course fees, which include 3-weeks tuition, campus accommodation and meals.
Bursary funding is not awarded for travel related expenses or medical/travel insurance, which are the sole responsibility of participants.
To apply for bursary funding please fill out the appropriate section of the application form.
Questions? Please consult the Summer Course FAQs or contact us at bios.education@bios.asu.edu