ALE 3320
Biological Control
University of Vermont
Spring 2026
Lecture
Aiken Center 112
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11:40 am – 12:55 pm
This syllabus and section description are subject to revision and will be updated by January 2026 to reflect finalized readings, assignments, and guest lectures.
Instructor: Dr. Maryam Nouri-Aiin
Email: Maryam.Nouri-Aiin@uvm.edu
Credit Hours: 3
Attributes: Quantitative and Data Literacy (QD); Writing and Information Literacy Tier 2 (WIL2)
Course Description:
This course explores the theory and application of biological control of insect pests, weeds, and plant pathogens. Students examine ecological and evolutionary principles shaping predator–prey and host–parasite interactions and analyze how natural enemies regulate pest populations in agricultural and natural systems. Emphasis is placed on classical, augmentative, and conservation biological control strategies, and on the quantitative and writing skills necessary to evaluate them. Through critical reading of primary literature, data analysis, and applied projects, students learn to connect ecological theory with real-world pest management solutions.
Course Goals and Objectives:
1. Understand ecological principles that underpin successful biological control.
2. Evaluate classical, augmentative, and conservation strategies in different systems.
3. Analyze and interpret data using appropriate statistical and graphical tools.
4. Develop scientific writing skills through structured assignments and peer review.
5. Design and communicate a research project linking theory to biological control practice.
Course Expectations:
The course combines lecture, discussion, and student-led literature presentations. Students are expected to engage actively in discussions, lead a topic session, and participate in collaborative peer review. Per University policy for a three-credit course, students should expect to spend approximately 6–8 hours per week outside of class on reading, writing, data analysis, and research preparation.
Primary readings include selected chapters from Van Driesche et al. and recent peer-reviewed papers. Additional readings will be posted on Blackboard. Textbooks such as Van Driesche, R.G. et al. 2008. Control of Pests and Weeds by Natural Enemies (Cambridge University Press, ISBN 9780521822462) may be used as a reference.
Evaluation:
Grades will be based on the following components:
• Participation and discussion leadership – 20%
• Weekly writing assignments and peer reviews – 25%
• Midterm exam – 15%
• Final written research project – 30%
• Final presentation – 10%
All written work emphasizes clarity, analytical depth, and synthesis of ecological and experimental evidence. Late submissions may incur a penalty unless prior arrangements are made with the instructor.
Course Website:
https://maryam-nouriaiin.com/teaching
Biological Control
University of Vermont
Spring 2026
Lecture
Aiken Center 112
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11:40 am – 12:55 pm
This syllabus and section description are subject to revision and will be updated by January 2026 to reflect finalized readings, assignments, and guest lectures.
Instructor: Dr. Maryam Nouri-Aiin
Email: Maryam.Nouri-Aiin@uvm.edu
Credit Hours: 3
Attributes: Quantitative and Data Literacy (QD); Writing and Information Literacy Tier 2 (WIL2)
Course Description:
This course explores the theory and application of biological control of insect pests, weeds, and plant pathogens. Students examine ecological and evolutionary principles shaping predator–prey and host–parasite interactions and analyze how natural enemies regulate pest populations in agricultural and natural systems. Emphasis is placed on classical, augmentative, and conservation biological control strategies, and on the quantitative and writing skills necessary to evaluate them. Through critical reading of primary literature, data analysis, and applied projects, students learn to connect ecological theory with real-world pest management solutions.
Course Goals and Objectives:
1. Understand ecological principles that underpin successful biological control.
2. Evaluate classical, augmentative, and conservation strategies in different systems.
3. Analyze and interpret data using appropriate statistical and graphical tools.
4. Develop scientific writing skills through structured assignments and peer review.
5. Design and communicate a research project linking theory to biological control practice.
Course Expectations:
The course combines lecture, discussion, and student-led literature presentations. Students are expected to engage actively in discussions, lead a topic session, and participate in collaborative peer review. Per University policy for a three-credit course, students should expect to spend approximately 6–8 hours per week outside of class on reading, writing, data analysis, and research preparation.
Primary readings include selected chapters from Van Driesche et al. and recent peer-reviewed papers. Additional readings will be posted on Blackboard. Textbooks such as Van Driesche, R.G. et al. 2008. Control of Pests and Weeds by Natural Enemies (Cambridge University Press, ISBN 9780521822462) may be used as a reference.
Evaluation:
Grades will be based on the following components:
• Participation and discussion leadership – 20%
• Weekly writing assignments and peer reviews – 25%
• Midterm exam – 15%
• Final written research project – 30%
• Final presentation – 10%
All written work emphasizes clarity, analytical depth, and synthesis of ecological and experimental evidence. Late submissions may incur a penalty unless prior arrangements are made with the instructor.
Course Website:
https://maryam-nouriaiin.com/teaching