Invasive Alien Species in a European perspective

DESCRIPTION

This BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) course was designed for students who want to learn or deepen their knowledge about invasive alien species and their impact on biological diversity and ecosystem services.

• According to the UN Panel on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), invasive alien species are one of the greatest threats to biodiversity.

• This is an international course, free for students from EU GREEN. Admitted students will receive a travel grant from the Erasmus+ mobility program to cover travel and accommodation expenses in Évora (Portugal).

• Since English is the language of instruction, candidates must have a good command of the English language.

• Upon successful completion of the course, the student will gain a network of professional contacts, consisting of students and professors from all over Europe.

• After one month of online theoretical classes, students will spend a week in Évora, at the University of Évora (Portugal), where practical exercises, study visits, and lectures will take place. We will visit different aquatic habitats to study invasive animals and plants.

• The theoretical classes will cover the reasons why some species become invasive, how they spread in the environment, and the methodologies used for their management.

• Examples of invasive alien species from various European countries will be presented, and students will learn how analytical techniques using environmental DNA can be applied for detection and monitoring, as well as assess the risk of their spread.