Astrobiology is the study of life in the Universe and the chemistry, physics, and adaptations that influence its origin, evolution and destiny. It is an interdisciplinary science encompassing aspects of biology, geology and astronomy.
The course format includes lectures from specialists in these fields, video presentations and laboratory exercises. Through these media, students will attempt to define life, learn how life is strongly coupled with its environment, how evidence of life can be found in the geological record on Earth, and how it is being sought elsewhere in the Solar System and beyond.
Lectures topics cover: the origin of life and its philosophical implications, molecular biology, the tree of life, fossil records, biomarkers, extra-solar planets, history of Earth - the Solar System - the Universe, and the role of creation myths in a modern culture (go to http://aca.mq.edu.au/course for full list of lecture topics and lecturers). Practical work will include set readings, essays, laboratory work, a short presentation on a relevant topic and a final test.
