Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2017

Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
Agroecosystem Sciences Master
Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2011)
Minors
Agricultural- & Food- and Environmental Economics
701-1651-00L	Environmental Governance Number of participants limited to 30.	W	3 credits	2G	E. Lieberherr, G. de Buren, R. Schweizer
Abstract	The course addresses environmental policies, focusing on new steering approaches, which are generally summarized as environmental governance. The course also provides students with tools to analyze environmental policy processes and assesses the key features of environmental governance by examining various practical environmental policy examples.
Learning objective	To understand how an environmental problem may (not) become a policy and explain political processes, using basic concepts and techniques from political science. To analyze the evolution as well as the key elements of environmental governance. To be able to identify the main challenges and opportunities for environmental governance and to critically discuss them with reference to various practical policy examples.
Content	Improvements in environmental quality and sustainable management of natural resources cannot be achieved through technical solutions alone. The quality of the environment and the achievement of sustainable development strongly depend on human behavior and specifically the human uses of nature. To influence human behavior, we rely on public policies and other societal rules, which aim to steer the way humans use natural resources and their effects on the environment. Such steering can take place through government intervention alone. However, this often also involves governance, which includes the interplay between governmental and non-governmental actors, the use of diverse tools such as emission standards or financial incentives to steer actors' behavior and can occur at the local, regional, national or international level. In this course, we will address both the practical aspects of as well as the scientific debate on environmental governance. The course gives future environmental experts a strong basis to position themselves in the governance debate, which does not preclude government but rather involves a spectrum from government to governance. Key questions that this course seeks to answer: What are the core characteristics of environmental challenges from a policy perspective? What are key elements of 'environmental governance' and how legitimate and effective are these approaches in addressing persistent environmental challenges?
Lecture notes	Lecture slides and additional course material will be provided on Moodle.
Literature	We will mostly work with readings from the following books: - Carter, N. (2007). The politics of the environment: Ideas, activism, policy (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. - Hogl, K., Kvarda, E., Nordbeck, R., Pregernig, M. (Eds) (2012): Environmental Governance: The Challenge of Legitimacy and Effectiveness. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar Publishing Limited.
Prerequisites / Notice	A detailed course schedule will be made available at the beginning of the semester. During the lecture we will work with Moodle. We ask that all students register themselves on this platform before the lecture and to bring a laptop, tablet or smartphone to class, so that you can complete exercises using Moodle. We recommend that students have (a) three-years BSc education of a (technical) university; (b) successfully completed Bachelor introductory course to environmental policy (Entwicklungen nationaler Umweltpolitik (or equivalent)) and (c) familiarity with key issues in environmental policy and some fundamental knowledge of one social science or humanities discipline (political science, economics, sociology, history, psychology, philosophy)
752-2122-00L	Food and Consumer Behaviour	W	2 credits	2V	M. Siegrist, C. Hartmann
Abstract	This course focuses on food consumer behavior, consumer's decision-making processes and consumer's attitudes towards food products.
Learning objective	The course provides an overview about the following topics: Factors influencing consumer's food choice, food and health, attitudes towards new foods and food technologies, labeling and food policy issues
751-2903-00L	Evaluation of Agricultural Policies	W	3 credits	2G	M. Stolze, S. Mann
Abstract	The course focuses on agricultural eeconomic research with particular focus on policy evaluation. We impart insights in the issue of policy evaluation as part of agricultural economics research.
Learning objective	Focus: Policy Evaluation ------------------------------------------- The students are to... - have a critical look at different angles of agri-economic research - study scientific literature of the focus theme - consider strengths, weaknesses and the application of research approaches - apply knowledge gained from other courses with respect to the focus theme - get insights in agricultural economic research of the national research institutions by visiting Agroscope and the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) - be capable to conduct evaluations and critically reflect evaluation results
Content	Unit: Subject ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 01: Introduction 02: The normative frame for policy evaluation 03: Excursion to Frick 04: Public Politics for Evaluation 05: Application of Evaluations 06: Quantitive Methods 07: Excursion to Tänikon 08: Qualitative Methods 09: Case Study 10: Examination
Lecture notes	Handouts (power point presentations)
Literature	1) Bussmann Werner, Klöti Ulrich und Knoepfel Peter, 2004 (Hrsg). Einführung in die Politikevaluation. Helbling&Lichtenhahn. In German language. Will be privided by the lectures in unit 01. 2) Vedung Evert, 2000. Public Policy and Program Evaluation. ISBN 0-7658-0687-8.
Prerequisites / Notice	Unit 03: 1 day course at FiBL in 5070 Frick, www.fibl.org Unit 09: 1 day course at Agroscope in Tänikon, 8356 Ettenhausen, www.agroscope.admin.ch
751-2205-00L	Advanced Management in the Agri-Food-Chain	W	2 credits	2G	M. Weber
Abstract	Advanced Management in the Agri-Food-Chain (Vorlesung wird in deutscher Sprache abgehalten.)
Learning objective	After the lecture the students ... ... know the characteristics and consequences of complexity in the organizational world, ... know and can apply selected comprehensive models for managing in complex situations, ... know possible practical applications and examples of the treated contents to organizations in the Agri-Food Chain and ... are able to deepen the relevant topics in an autonomous way.
Content	In the lecture the following contents will be treated: - State, reasons and effects of complexity in the organizational world. - A basic framework for shaping and governing intelligent organizations. - Selected contemporary models for managing in the complex organizational world. - Transfer and adaption of the models to organizations in the Agri-Food Chain.
Lecture notes	Reader with selected contents.
Prerequisites / Notice	- Vorlesung "Management in the Agri-Food Chain" in D-USYS
751-5001-00L	Agroecologists without Borders	W	2 credits	2S	A. Hofmann, J. Dierks, R. Feola Conz, J. Six
Abstract	In this seminar students apply their knowledge on sustainable agriculture, tropical soils and land use to a case study related to a current research project from the Sustainable Agroecosystems group. The seminar offers interactions with researchers and extension specialists working in the context of agricultural development.
Learning objective	(1) Students analyze one concrete example of an agricultural research project in a tropical agroecosystem. (2) Students broaden their understanding of environmental and socio-economic challenges of smallholder farmers. (3) Students articulate complexity and challenges in agricultural development interventions. (4) Students develop their science communication skills by producing science communication materials in the context of the given case study. (5) Students practice their project management skills and write a project management plan.
Prerequisites / Notice	Students signing up for this class should have a strong interest in tropical agriculture and science communication.
860-0023-00L	International Environmental Politics Particularly suitable for students of D-ITET, D-USYS	W	3 credits	2V	T. Bernauer
Abstract	This course focuses on the conditions under which cooperation in international environmental politics emerges and the conditions under which such cooperation and the respective public policies are effective and/or efficient.
Learning objective	The objectives of this course are to (1) gain an overview of relevant questions in the area of international environmental politics from a social sciences viewpoint; (2) learn how to identify interesting/innovative questions concerning this policy area and how to answer them in a methodologically sophisticated way; (3) gain an overview of important global and regional environmental problems.
Content	This course deals with how and why international cooperation in environmental politics emerges, and under what circumstances such cooperation is effective and efficient. Based on theories of international political economy and theories of government regulation various examples of international environmental politics are discussed: the management of international water resources, the problem of unsafe nuclear power plants in eastern Europe, political responses to global warming, the protection of the stratospheric ozone layer, the reduction of long-range transboundary air pollution in Europe, the prevention of pollution of the oceans, etc. The course is open to all ETH students. Participation does not require previous coursework in the social sciences. After passing an end-of-semester test (requirement: grade 4.0 or higher) students will receive 3 ECTS credit points. The workload is around 90 hours (meetings, reading assignments, preparation of test). Visiting students (e.g., from the University of Zurich) are subject to the same conditions. Registration of visiting students in the web-based system of ETH is compulsory.
Lecture notes	Assigned reading materials and slides will be available at http://www.ib.ethz.ch/teaching.html (select link 'Registered students, please click here for course materials' at top of that page). Log in with your nethz name and password. Questions concerning access to course materials can be addressed to Dennis Atzenhofer at dennis.atzenhofer@ir.gess.ethz.ch). All assigned papers must be read ahead of the respective meeting. Following the course on the basis of on-line slides and papers alone is not sufficient. Physical presence in the classroom is essential. Many books and journals covering international environmental policy issues can be found at the D-GESS library at the IFW building, Haldeneggsteig 4, B-floor, or in the library of D-USYS.
Literature	Assigned reading materials and slides will be available at http://www.ib.ethz.ch/teaching.html (select link -Registered students, please click here for course materials- at top of that page). Log in with your nethz name and password. Questions concerning access to course materials can be addressed to dennis.atzenhofer@ir.gess.ethz.ch).
Prerequisites / Notice	None

Crop Health Management
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-4506-00L	Plant Pathology III	W	2 credits	2G	U. Merz, M. Maurhofer Bringolf
Abstract	Identification based on host, symptoms and micro-morphology, completed with life cycles and related control measures of the most important fungal diseases and their causal pathogens of annual and perennial crops with agricultural significance.
Learning objective	The students will learn and train preparation skills for microscopy, aquire knowledge of selected diseases (identification, biology of pathogen, epidemiology and systematics) and understand the corresponding integrated control measures practiced in Swiss agriculture.
Content	One exercice will be on an e-learning base (with computers) also to prepare the students for the final e-exam.
Lecture notes	A script will be used on annual and perennial crops and their most important diseases. It will be updated stepwise
Prerequisites / Notice	The course will be in German (spec. nomenclature)
751-4805-00L	Recent Advances in Biocommunication Number of participants limited to 25	W+	3 credits	2S	C. De Moraes
Abstract	Students will gain insight into the role of sensory cues and signals in mediating interactions within and between species. There will be a primary, but not exclusive, focus on chemical signaling in interactions among plants, insects and microbes. The course will focus on the discussion of current literature addressing key conceptual questions and state-of-the-art research techniques and methods.
Learning objective	Students will gain insight into the role of sensory cues and signals in mediating interactions within and between species. There will be a primary, but not exclusive, focus on chemical signaling in interactions among plants, insects and microbes. The course will focus on the discussion of current literature addressing key conceptual questions and state-of-the-art research techniques and methods. Students will engage in discussion and critical analyses of relevant papers and present their evaluations in a seminar setting.
751-5121-00L	Insect Ecology	W+	2 credits	2V	C. De Moraes, M. Mescher, N. Stanczyk
Abstract	This is an introductory course in insect ecology. Students will learn about the ways in which insects interact with and adapt to their abiotic & biotic environments and their roles in diverse ecosystems. The course will entail lectures, outside readings, and critical analysis of contemporary literature.
Learning objective	Students completing this course should become familiar with the application of ecological principles to the study of insects, as well as major areas of inquiry in this field. Highlighted topics will include insect behavior, chemical and sensory ecology, physiological responses to biotic and abiotic stressors, plant-insect interactions, community and food-web dynamics, and disease ecology. The course will emphasize insect evolution and adaptation in the context of specific interactions with other organisms and the abiotic environment. Examples from the literature incorporated into lectures will highlight the methods used to study insect ecology.
Lecture notes	Provided to students through ILIAS
Literature	Selected required readings (peer reviewed literature, selected book chapters). Optional recommended readings with additional information.
701-0263-01L	Seminar in Evolutionary Ecology of Infectious Diseases	W	3 credits	2G	A. Mikaberidze, S. Bonhoeffer, R. R. Regös
Abstract	Students of this course will discuss current topics from the field of infectious disease biology. From a list of publications, each student chooses some themes that he/she is going to explain and discuss with all other participants and under supervision. The actual topics will change from year to year corresponding to the progress and new results occuring in the field.
Learning objective	This is an advanced course that will require significant student participation. Students will learn how to evaluate and present scientific literature and trace the development of ideas related to understanding the ecology and evolutionary biology of infectious diseases.
Content	A core set of ~10 classic publications encompassing unifying themes in infectious disease ecology and evolution, such as virulence, resistance, metapopulations, networks, and competition will be presented and discussed. Pathogens will include bacteria, viruses and fungi. Hosts will include animals, plants and humans.
Lecture notes	Publications and class notes can be downloaded from a web page announced during the lecture.
Literature	Papers will be assigned and downloaded from a web page announced during the lecture.
751-4811-00L	Alien Organisms in Agriculture	W	2 credits	2G	J. Collatz, M. Meissle
Abstract	The course focuses on alien organisms in agriculture as well as the scientific assessment and regulatory management of their effects on the environment and agricultural production.
Learning objective	Students will understand the consequences arising from the unintentional or deliberate introduction of alien organisms into agricultural systems. They will be able to understand the concept of environmental risk assessment and be able to evaluate risk management options.
Content	Alien organisms in agriculture is a topic that receives an increasing awareness among farmers, agricultural scientists, regulators and the general public. Students of this course will learn about the nature of alien organisms such as invasive species, biocontrol organisms and genetically modified organisms. With a particular focus on arthropods, plants and their interactions we will look at the potential threats the novel organisms pose, the benefits they provide and how both of these effects can be scientifically assessed. Students will learn how the topic of alien organisms in agriculture is intrinsically tied to policy making and regulation and get to know current examples and future challenges in research. In the last part of the course students will be able to apply the acquired knowledge in a practical exercise (case study).
Lecture notes	Material will be distributed during the course
751-5001-00L	Agroecologists without Borders	W	2 credits	2S	A. Hofmann, J. Dierks, R. Feola Conz, J. Six
Abstract	In this seminar students apply their knowledge on sustainable agriculture, tropical soils and land use to a case study related to a current research project from the Sustainable Agroecosystems group. The seminar offers interactions with researchers and extension specialists working in the context of agricultural development.
Learning objective	(1) Students analyze one concrete example of an agricultural research project in a tropical agroecosystem. (2) Students broaden their understanding of environmental and socio-economic challenges of smallholder farmers. (3) Students articulate complexity and challenges in agricultural development interventions. (4) Students develop their science communication skills by producing science communication materials in the context of the given case study. (5) Students practice their project management skills and write a project management plan.
Prerequisites / Notice	Students signing up for this class should have a strong interest in tropical agriculture and science communication.

Environmental Crop Physiology
Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
751-3405-00L	Chemical Nature of Nutrients and their Availability to Plants: The Case of Phosphorus Number of participants limited to 18.	W+	4 credits	4G	E. Frossard, T. I. McLaren, L. P. Schönholzer
Abstract	The course will present the principles underlying the use of radioisotopes in soil/plant systems. It will present how the introduction of an isotope into a system can be done to get some information on the structure of the system. Case studies will be presented to determine element availability. Finally, published studies from other groups will be analyzed and presented by the students.
Learning objective	At the end of this course the students are familiar with the principles on which radioisotope works are based and they have learned from case studies how radioisotopes can be used to obtain meaningful data. They are aware of the advantages of using radioisotopes in element cycling studies, but also of the risks and open questions related to isotope work.
Content	Radio-isotopes are extensively used at the soil/plant or ecosystem level to quantify the fluxes of elements (phosphorus (P), heavy metals, radionuclides) within a given system and to assess the importance of processes controlling these fluxes (e.g. exchange reactions between the soil solution and the soil solid phase, element turnover through the microbial biomass, organic matter mineralization etc.). The course will first present the principles, the basic assumptions and the theoretical framework that underlay the work with radioisotopes. It will present how the introduction of an isotope into a system can be done so as to get information on the structure of the system (e.g. number and size of compartments). Secondly, case studies on isotopic dilution and tracer work will be presented for instance on the isotopic exchange kinetics method to determine nutrients or pollutants availability. The case studies will be adapted to the ongoing research of the group of plant nutrition and will thus give an insight into our current research. In addition, published studies will be analyzed and presented by the students. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of work with radioisotopes will be analyzed and discussed critically.
Lecture notes	Documents will be distributed during the lecture
Literature	Will be given during the lecture
Prerequisites / Notice	The lecture will take place at the ETH experimental station in Eschikon Lindau. See the location of the station at: http://www.pe.ipw.agrl.ethz.ch/about/reach
751-4003-01L	Current Topics in Grassland Sciences (HS)	W+	2 credits	2S	N. Buchmann
Abstract	Research results in agro- and forest ecosystem sciences will be presented by experienced researchers as well as Ph.D. and graduate students. Citation classics as well as recent research results will be discussed. Topics will range from plant ecophysiology, biodiversity and biogeochemistry to management aspects in agro- and forest ecosystems.
Learning objective	Students will be able to understand and evaluate experimental design and data interpretation of on-going studies, be able to critically analyze published research results, practice to present and discuss results in the public, and gain a broad knowledge of recent research and current topics in agro- and forest ecosystem sciences.
Content	Research results in agro- and forest ecosystem sciences will be presented by experienced researchers as well as Ph.D. and graduate students. Citation classics as well as recent research results will be discussed. Topics will range from plant ecophysiology, biodiversity and biogeochemistry to management aspects in agro- and forest ecosystems.
Lecture notes	none
Prerequisites / Notice	Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of plant ecophysiology, terrestrial ecology and management of agro- and forest ecosystems. Course will be taught in English.
751-4104-00L	Alternative Crops	W	2 credits	2V	A. Walter, B. Büter, E. A. Pérez Torres
Abstract	Few crops dominate the crop rotations worldwide. Following the goal of an increased agricultural biodiversity, species such as buckwheat but also medicinal plants might become more important in future. The biology, physiology, stress tolerance and central aspects of the value-added chain of the above-mentioned and of other alternative crops will be depicted.
Learning objective	During this course, students learn to assess the potential of different minor or alternative crops compared to the dominant major crops based on their biological and agronomical features. Each student will assess and present a specific alternative crop of his or her choice based on information from scientific articles and Wikipedia. Wikipedia-entries will be generated.
751-4203-00L	Horticultural Science: Case Studies (HS) Number of participants limited to 24.	W	2 credits	2G	L. Bertschinger, J. Rösti, V. J. U. Zufferey
Abstract	Lectures address 2 horticultural cropping systems and value chains, each one in 4 2h-lecture blocks. Afterwards, the students split in 2 groups for addressing a case study focusing on one of the cropping systems treated before. An excursion to a research site might be included. In a final colloquium, each group presents a report on their case study and their conclusions.
Learning objective	Achieve a deepened understanding of horticultural value chain challenges relating to ecological intensification, resource efficiency, climate change and healthy and safe food, and the problem solution strategies and scientific principles behind. Deliver in a team effort a report and a presentation providing a comprehensive insight into a problem of the horticultural value chain and its science-based solution strategy.
Content	In the autumn semester, the two addressed cropping systems and value chains are fruit-production and viticulture. In the spring semester, the two addressed cropping systems and value chains are vegetable-production- and berry-production or glasshouse-horticulture. The selected topics address challenges with regard to ecological intensification, resource efficiency or climate change and branch into on-going research and development projects.
Lecture notes	Documents handed out during the case studies.
Literature	As provided by the case study leaders.
Prerequisites / Notice	The course builds on basic knowledge delivered in 'Horticultural Crops I' and 'Horticultural Crops II'. If these courses have not been followed by interested participants, equivalent knowledge and experience will greatly support a successful and productive participation of the participating student. Language: spoken E, G or F, Documents: Preferably English, G/F possible.
751-5101-00L	Biogeochemistry and Sustainable Management	W+	2 credits	2G	N. Buchmann, C. Bachofen, V. Klaus
Abstract	This course focuses on the interactions between ecology, biogeochemistry and management of agro- and forest ecosystems, thus, coupled human-environmental systems. Students learn how human impacts on ecosystems via management or global change are mainly driven by effects on biogeochemical cycles and thus ecosystem functioning, but also about feedback mechanisms of terrestrial ecosystems.
Learning objective	Students will know and understand the complex and interacting processes of ecology, biogeochemistry and management of agro- and forest ecosystems, be able to analyze and evaluate the various impacts of different management practices under different environmental conditions, based on real-life data, and be able to coordinate and work successfully in small (interdisciplinary) teams.
Content	Agroecosystems and forest ecosystems play a major role in all landscapes, either for production purposes, ecological areas or for recreation. The human impact of any management on the environment is mainly driven by effects on biogeochemical cycles. Effects of global change impacts will also act via biogeochemistry at the soil-biosphere-atmosphere-interface. Thus, ecosystem functioning, i.e., the interactions between ecology, biogeochemistry and management of terrestrial systems, is the science topic for this course. Students will gain profound knowledge about nutrient cycles in managed and unmanaged grassland, cropland and forest ecosystems. Responses of agro- and forest ecosystems to the environment, e.g., to climate, anthropogenic deposition, major disturbances, soil nutrients or competition of plants and microorganisms, but also feedback mechanisms of ecosystems on (micro)climate, soils or vegetation patterns will be studied. Different management practices will be investigated and assessed in terms of production and quality of yield (ecosystem goods and services), but also in regard to their effect on the environment, e.g., greenhouse gas budgets. Thus, students will learn about the complex interactions of a coupled human-environmental system. Students will work with real-life data from the long-term measurement network Swiss FluxNet. Data from the intensively managed grassland site Chamau will be used to investigate the biosphere-atmosphere exchange of CO2, H2O, N2O and CH4. Greenhouse gas budgets will be calculated for different time periods and in relation to management over the course of a year. In a final report, students will compare their findings to the forest site Davos.
Lecture notes	Handouts will be available on the webpage of the course.
Literature	Will be discussed in class.
Prerequisites / Notice	Prerequisites: Attendance of introductory courses in plant ecophysiology, ecology, and grassland or forest sciences. Knowledge of data analyses and statistics. Course will be taught in English.
751-5115-00L	Current Aspects of Nutrient Cycle in Agro-Ecosystems Does not take place this semester. This lecture will take place next year in autumn 2018.	W+	2 credits	1S	E. Frossard
Abstract	The seminar concerns current aspects and research related to nutrient cycles in agro-ecosystems. It offers to deepen the knowledge on a specific theme related to nutrients. It is composed by presentations of national and international speakers and by an excursion. The students write a report where they compile the obtained information, relate it to their own knowledge and include literature.
Learning objective	Listen and understand expert's presentations. Ask questions and contribute to the discussion during the talk sessions and the excursion. Link the information obtained during the seminar with knowledge from previous lessons and with literature searched to complement the matter. Expand the knowledge on nutrient cycles and nutrient management in the agro-ecosystem.
751-5125-00L	Stable Isotope Ecology of Terrestrial Ecosystems	W+	2 credits	2G	R. A. Werner, N. Buchmann, A. Gessler
Abstract	This course provides an overview about the applicability of stable isotopes (carbon 13C, nitrogen 15N, oxygen 18O and hydrogen 2H) to process-oriented ecological research. Topics focus on stable isotopes as indicators for the origin of pools and fluxes, partitioning of composite fluxes as well as to trace and integrate processes. In addition, students carry out a small project during lab sessions.
Learning objective	Students will be familiar with basic and advanced applications of stable isotopes in studies on plants, soils, water and trace gases, know the relevant approaches, concepts and recent results in stable isotope ecology, know how to combine classical and modern techniques to solve ecophysiological or ecological problems, learn to design, carry out and interpret a small IsoProject, practice to search and analyze literature as well as to give an oral presentation.
Content	The analyses of stable isotopes often provide insights into ecophysiological and ecological processes that otherwise would not be available with classical methods only. Stable isotopes proved useful to determine origin of pools and fluxes in ecosystems, to partition composite fluxes and to integrate processes spatially and temporally. This course will provide an introduction to the applicability of stable isotopes to ecological research questions. Topics will focus on carbon (13C), nitrogen (15N), oxygen (18O) and hydrogen (2H) at natural isotope abundance and tracer levels. Lectures will be supplemented by intensive laboratory sessions, short presentations by students and computer exercises.
Lecture notes	Handouts will be available on the webpage of the course.
Literature	Will be discussed in class.
Prerequisites / Notice	This course is based on fundamental knowledge about plant ecophysiology, soil science, and ecology in general. Course will be taught in English.
751-3603-00L	Current Challenges in Plant Breeding Number of participants limited to 15.	W	2 credits	2G	B. Studer, A. Hund, University lecturers
Abstract	The seminar 'Current challenges in plant breeding' aims to bring together national and international experts in plant breeding to discuss current activities, latest achievements and future prospective of a selected topic/area in plant breeding. The topic this year will be: 'Potential and limitations of genomic selection in plants'.
Learning objective	The educational objectives cover both thematic competences and soft skills: Thematic competences: - Deepening of scientific knowledge in plant breeding - Critical evaluation of current challenges and new concepts in plant breeding - Promotion of collaboration and Master thesis projects with practical plant breeders Soft skills: - Independent literature research to get familiar with the selected topic - Critical evaluation and consolidation of the acquired knowledge in an interdisciplinary team - Establishment of a scientific presentation in an interdisciplinary team - Presentation and discussion of the teamwork outcome - Establishing contacts and strengthening the network to national and international plant breeders and scientist
Content	Interesting topics related to plant breeding will be selected in close collaboration with the working group for plant breeding of the Swiss Society of Agronomy (SSA). For this year, the topic 'Potential and limitations of genomic selection in plants' was selected. In the fall semester (November 29, 2017), the enrolled students will meet with the lecturers as well as four to six tutors, selected according to their expertise in the selected topic (one afternoon, for about two hours). After an input talk by the lecturers, four to six specific questions/aspects will be identified and phrased. The tutors and the enrolled students will be assigned to four to six different groups, to critically evaluate one question/aspect of the selected topic. The students, guided by tutors, will prepare a presentation of 15 minutes (plus 5 minutes discussion) covering their specific question/aspect. Participation on that afternoon will be mandatory. End of January (January 30, 2018), a one-day seminar on the selected topic will be organized. After one to two keynote speakers (international experts), four invited talks will link the selected topic to practical plant breeding. In the afternoon, the four to six students groups will present and discuss with the experts their specific questions on the selected topic/area. These presentations will be evaluated by the lecturers. The seminar will be public and serve as annual meeting of the SSA working group for plant breeding, bringing together the experts in plant breeding. The course is designed for a maximum of 15 Master students and 10 PhD students (advertised and recruited via the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center). For full and active participation, a total of 2 credit/ECTS points will be provided.
Lecture notes	Seminar abstracts
Literature	Peer-reviewed research articles, selected according to the selected topic/area.
Prerequisites / Notice	Participation in the BSc course 'Pflanzenzüchtung' is strongly recommended, a completed course in 'Molecular Plant Breeding' is highly advantageous.

Page 1 of 3 All