Essentials of Stable Isotope Ecology

Whether you are starting your first stable isotope based research project, or already an experienced user there is always something new to learn about the applications of stable isotopes to ecological research. Through a series of interactive modules this asynchronous course will set you up for success in this field. Drawing on twenty year's experience at the forefront of this field, I will guide you from the fundamentals of isotope chemistry, from biogeochemical cycling through to ecological functioning. The course is designed around five independent modules: Module 1 - What is an Isotope: Starting at the very start this module consists of two units, the first addressing key physical and chemical properties of stable isotopes while the second covers lab instrumentation and sample QA/QC Module 2 - Isotopes in the Environment: Four units assessing isotopic applications derived from global biogeochemical cycles of a) Carbon, b) Nitrogen, c) Hydrogen & Oxygen, and d) sulphur. Module 3 - Isotopic Incorporation: Separate units covering trophic fractionation (what it is and how to handle it) and tissue turn over, two factors essential to understanding the transition for environmental to ecological isotopic applications Module 4 - Spatial Ecology: You are where you eat! Here I describe a foolproof mechanism to infer an organisms spatial ecology from stable isotope ratios Module 5 - Trophic Ecology: The largest module in the course, through 6 units I will describe the ecological theory behind and best practises associated with stable isotope mixing models, estimation of trophic position, the iotopic niche and the isotopic food web This course provides all the context for the accompanying Data Analysis for Stable Isotope Ecologists course, and attendees will receive a 50% discount on the price of that course.