Interested in learning more about microbiology, especially in aquatic habitats? Ian teaches the following classes at Cornell University:

BioMI 3500 – Marine Microbes and Disease in a Changing Ocean– Fa 3 cr

Marine microorganisms fuel globally significant elemental cycles through their activities. They also drive diseases in multicellular life through pathogenesis, modulation of host-associated microbiomes, and through induction of stressors (e.g. toxins, hypoxia). The purpose of this course is to provide junior- and senior-level students a background in biological oceanography, marine microbial ecology, biogeochemistry, and disease pathogenesis in marine habitats. The emphasis of the course is on understanding how biology affects and is affected by the oceans, and how organisms interact to produce ocean biological phenomena. The course is divided into 4 modules: 1) Marine microbial diversity and ocean structure; 2) Ocean biogeochemistry; 3) Marine disease pathogenesis; and 4) Pollution and climate change. This course will equip students with foundations for further undergraduate courses in ocean sciences and environmental dynamics, and for graduate studies in biological oceanography and marine biology.

BioMI 7800 – Fundamental Topics in Ocean Studies – Fa 1 cr

The oceans cover 70% of the planet and are at the center of earth’s function as a habitable planet. They hold value for humans in context of cultural and natural resources, and are also sources and sinks of phenomena that affect global climate. The purpose of this graduate class is to introduce students to a breadth of topics related to the oceans through survey of contemporary and historic literature, preparation of funding proposals to facilitate future work, and sharing research ideas as they relate to the oceans. Students will share recent research findings from the peer-reviewed literature, learn about funding opportunities, prepare and peer-review funding proposals available to ocean sciences, and share their research ideas or current work performed in graduate study.

Ian advises in the following undergraduate majors:

Biological Sciences

Environment and Sustainability

For fun, Ian also helps Prof. Grossman teach:

PE1106 Introduction to Water Polo – Fa 1cr

This course introduces the fundamental skills needed to play water polo. It covers basic rules and terminology, and teaches essential techniques including swimming and treading (eggbeater kick), passing and shooting, defensive play, and team strategy. The course includes a total of eighteen hours of in-pool instruction, combining drills, guided practice, and scrimmages. A strong swimming background is required; participants must be able to remain in the water and swim comfortably for an hour. This is a co-ed course designed for beginners. If you have previously played competitive water polo, this course is not appropriate for you. If you are unsure about your suitability, please contact the instructor.