This course will provide an introduction to the search for Life in our solar system and beyond, and how biological processes shape the environment of Earth, and possibly of other worlds. You will consider the various interpretations of what it means to be ‘alive’, the known factors that limit habitability on our modern world and the diversity of organisms that have adapted to thrive across conditions, including in ‘extreme’ environments such as hydrothermal vents, acid pools, and high deserts. You will also learn about how biology has played a role in shaping earth’s environment in the geological past and in modern times. You will learn about the search for life on other worlds, creation of new lifeforms through synthetic biology, and the interplay of scientific and cultural theories on the origin of life from abiotic conditions (i.e. abiogenesis). You will also carry out group-based projects in concert with the second half of the course, to investigate trajectories of non-human life in the solar system, within the context of earth?s geologic past, current scientific and technological advances, sustainability under scenarios of global change, and socio-cultural considerations. This multidisciplinary course contributes to the NTU mission to provide education ‘…founded on science and technology, nurturing leaders through research and a broad education in diverse disciplines.’
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A really enjoyable course exploring the possibility of life beyond Earth. Prof Thompson’s lectures are engaging and her explanations are clear and easy to understand even for students without a strong science background. However, prior knowledge in Astronomy (such as planetary science), Biology and Geography would definitely be useful for the final project.
The module is very interesting, probably one of the most interesting mods I’ve taken. If you like to contemplate about the existence of life on Earth and in the universe in relation to scientific knowledge, this mod is for you. However, the content is quite heavy and Prof Thompson will be covering almost whole chapters of the textbook each week.
The course consists of weekly/biweekly quizzes, 2 midterms and a final group project.
May 25, 2021
