Genetics in the Environment

Why do some organisms that are normally benign in their native range suddenly become noxious pests or do direct harm to humans when introduced into a new environment? How can we know where these invasions might spread? We will explore how scientists use approaches from diverse biological disciplines (genetics, ecology, evolutionary biology, physiology) to study biological invasions. This course provides a timely opportunity for students to examine the origins and consequences of invasions in biology, while gaining first-hand experience with how scientists ask and answer questions through both observation and experimentation.

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  • Coursework Overview

    The coursework for this Endeavor community involves taking a one-unit course in the fall semester and a half-unit course in the spring semester, both taught by Dr. Wu.

    Fall 2026 Semester Spring 2027 Semester
    BIOL 199: Invasions in Biology with Lab (1 unit) IDST 190: Genetics in the Environment Seminar (0.5 units)

    BIOL 199 is a required course for majors/minors in Biology or BMB (biochemistry and molecular biology). This particular BIOL 199 section also meets the environmental life science requirement for Environmental Studies majors/minors.  BIOL199 satisfies a natural science (AINS) Web of Inquiry requirement.

    IDST 190 is a half-unit project based course part of the Endeavor program.

  • Specific Course Information

    BIOL 199: Invasions in Biology with Lab

    In this class we will explore biology through the prism of invasions. We will examine how macroscopic and microscopic organisms invade new niches, the genetic and physiological factors that influence their success, and their impacts on new territory. We will develop research projects to explore the population dynamics, spatial distributions, and mechanisms of invasions, in part based on a field trip to areas managed by Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation (VADCR) and the James River Park System. Special emphasis will be placed on some common invasions of concern here in Virginia. Through this framework, we will leverage unique opportunities provided by the lab portion of the course to explore and apply some of the many approaches that scientists use to examine invasions in biology, including phenotypic, genetic, microbiological, and spatial analyses.

    IDST 190: Genetics in the Environment Seminar

    In the Spring semester, we will continue our partnership with the VA-DCR Natural Heritage Program, whose work focuses on science-based conservation to protect Virginia’ native plant and animal life and the ecosystems upon which it depends.

    As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of VA-DCR and the 40th anniversary of the Virginia Natural Heritage program, we will visit protected areas around the region to experience the impact and extent of their ongoing conservation efforts. We will also collaborate with Kevin Heffernan, Invasive Species Coordinator at DCR, on priority invasive species projects including developing outreach materials to engage the general public with the VA Native Species Management Plan, and for distribution during National Invasive Species Awareness week events in late February. We will also use these to enhance educational outreach through the UR campus.

  • Faculty Information

    Dr. Carrie Wu is a Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies Program Advisor

  • Endeavor Pre-Orientation Short Course Information

    As part of the Endeavor program, you will participate in the popular Endeavor Pre-Orientation program, where you will take a short course led by Dr. Carrie Wu.

    Short Course Description: Organisms Out of Place

    Modern global trade and travel have led to the transport of animals, plants, and microbes beyond their native ranges, both intentionally and by accident. While many of these organisms do not survive in their new environments, those that do can have devastating biological and economic consequences if they become established. In this short course, we’ll explore how scientists are using a variety of approaches to understand why some introduced species become successful invaders. Students will initiate a genetic study (that will continue through the fall semester) to help the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation determine whether local marsh grass populations have been invaded by a non-native species that is aggressively spreading throughout the Chesapeake Bay. We will also travel to the James River to experience how invasive species are impacting our local natural areas.