Journey to the Tibetan Plateau: Biology at Extreme Altitudes
2007 Exploration Seminar in China

**THIS PROGRAM IS FULL AND NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS**

Program Directors: Michael Dillon & Melanie Frazier
Dates of Instruction: August 22 - September 18, 2007

The QiongLai mountains of Southwest China offer a dramatic and unique landscape filled with biological wonders and cultural richness.  These mountains are a biodiversity hotspot and are home to many species, including Giant Pandas, which are found nowhere else.  For these reasons, this region provides an unparalleled opportunity to study adaptations of diverse organisms to equally diverse environments.

In this course, students will work in groups on guided independent research projects as we explore the rapid ecological transitions that occur along the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau.  Our journey will begin in the bustling city of Chengdu - capital of the Sichuan province.  From there we will traverse up the eastern flank of the Tibetan Plateau stopping at four sites: Dujiangyan (3000 ft in altitude), Wolong (6500 ft), Rilong (12,800 ft), and Ba Lang Shan pass (14,800 ft), near the towering Four Sisters Mountains (Siguniangshan, 20,000+ ft, see picture).  At each site we will investigate how the distinct climatic conditions influence local plant and animal communities.  Furthermore, we will have the opportunity to experience both rural and urban life in China, meet local scientific experts, and of course, sample the delicious, world-famous Sichuan cuisine.

Be prepared for the adventure of a lifetime!  You’ll leave everything you know behind as you immerse yourself in Chinese culture and explore rugged, remote terrain that few westerners have seen.  This experience will be physically and culturally challenging:  expect to hike at high altitudes with a day pack, live in rustic hotels, eat primarily local food, and get a crash course in Mandarin.  In addition to the research, you’ll have opportunities for excursions to local historical sites, and nature reserves, including the world-famous Giant Panda Research Center (where you can hold a baby panda). 

Students will earn 5 graded credits of upper-division ecology/physiology/plant biology (BIO 497) or CHID 474 Asia Study Abroad (I&S).  Participants will be expected to complete an independent research project and will be evaluated based on a research paper, written in the format of a standard scientific journal, and a final oral presentation.  The skills learned and applied in this intensive course will be invaluable for any future endeavor - whether the student pursues a career in research science, conservation, or medicine.

Student costs:  
$2,550 Program Fee
$200 IPE Fee
Additional costs include: Round trip travel to Chengdu, visa, some meals, immunizations, insurance and personal spending.

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