Learning outcomes

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

  • Understand the basic concepts of ecotoxicology and apply them to real-world cases.
  • Explain and compare the main methods used to assess toxicity.
  • Understand and apply the concept of environmental risk assessment.
  • Characterize and differentiate the main classes of pollutants.

Goals

The main goal of this course is to provide students with a theoretical and practical introduction to ecotoxicology. The course emphasizes the challenges posed by chemical pollution and modern approaches to monitoring and risk assessment.

Content

Topics covered will include:

  • Introduction to ecotoxicology: definitions, history, and scope.
  • Classes of pollutants and their effects on organisms and ecosystems.
  • Core concepts (e.g. bioaccumulation, bioconcentration, biomagnification, hazard vs risk).
  • Methods for assessing toxicity (e.g. dose–response testing with model organisms).
  • Principles of environmental risk assessment and biomonitoring.
  • Examples of bioindicators and bioassays used in practice.

Table of contents

Table of contents (indicative)


  • Foundations of ecotoxicology and environmental pollution
  • Classes of pollutants and their ecological effects
  • Principles and methods for toxicity testing
  • Environmental risk assessment and biomonitoring
  • Case studies and applied exercises


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 by invited experts, in French or English (supported by online material).
  • Guided reading and discussion of scientific articles.
  • Supervised lab work and practical exercises.

Assessment method

Evaluation consists of:

  • A written exam during the January session (75% of the final grade).
  • Practical work (25% of the final grade), assessed through continuous evaluation of participation and reports. (Practical grades are valid only for the current academic year. If the course must be retaken, both the theoretical and practical parts need to be repeated in full.)

Sources, references and any support material

  • Fundamentals of Ecotoxicology (Newman)
  • Environmental Toxicology (Wright & Welbourn)
  • Introduction to ecotoxicology (Ramade)

Language of instruction

French