Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:


  • Explain and critically assess the foundations of modern ecotoxicology, both fundamental and applied.
  • Characterize major classes of pollutants and their mechanisms of action across levels of biological organization.
  • Apply ecotoxicological concepts and methods to assess environmental risk.
  • Interpret and evaluate scientific data from analytical, experimental, and biomonitoring approaches.
  • Critically analyze case studies and engage with current societal, regulatory, and scientific challenges.
  • Work collaboratively on practical exercises and communicate findings clearly in written and oral form.

Goals

The course aims to provide students with an advanced overview of ecotoxicology, emphasizing the links between molecular mechanisms, organismal responses, ecological effects, and societal applications. Students will engage with state-of-the-art research, risk assessment tools, and real-world case studies, preparing them to address current and emerging environmental challenges.

Content

Content (indicative)


  • Foundations of ecotoxicology: history, scope, major environmental disasters, and relevance to biodiversity, public health, and One Health.
  • Pollutant classes: inorganic, organic, emerging pollutants (pharmaceuticals, microplastics, nanomaterials), atmospheric and physical stressors, and biological agents.
  • Mechanisms and effects: molecular/cellular pathways, biomarkers, physiological and behavioral responses, population dynamics, ecosystem-level impacts.
  • Methods in ecotoxicology: experimental tests, model organisms, extrapolation to field, bioindicators, biomonitoring programs, advanced analytical techniques, omics approaches.
  • Risk assessment and regulation: key concepts (NOEC, PNEC, SSDs), European and international frameworks (REACH, Stockholm Convention), links to policy and management.
  • Case studies and perspectives: pollinators and pesticides, PFAS in drinking water, microplastics in oceans, combined stressors (pollution + climate change), future directions.

Table of contents

Table of contents (indicative)


  • Modern concepts and foundations in ecotoxicology
  • Pollutant classes and mechanisms of action
  • Molecular, physiological, behavioral, and ecosystem-level effects
  • Experimental methods, bioassays, and analytical approaches
  • Risk assessment, regulation, and societal perspectives
  • Integrative case studies and emerging challenges


The table of contents provides a broad overview of the course. Specific topics, case studies, and practical exercises may evolve during the course.

Teaching methods

The course combines:


  • Interactive lectures and seminars, including sessions by invited experts.
  • Practical work and supervised lab/field exercises.
  • Critical reading and group discussion of scientific articles.
  • A site visit to an environmental research and analysis center.
  • Role-playing and scenario-based exercises linking science and policy.

Assessment method

Evaluation consists of two complementary components:


  • Theoretical exam (60%): oral exam with written preparation, assessing both course content and the student’s ability to connect it to their individual report.
  • Practical work (40%): continuous evaluation of laboratory work, exercises, presentations, and written assignments carried out during the practical sessions.


Grades are valid only for the current academic year. In case of failure, the course (theory and practical components) must be retaken in full.

Language of instruction

English