Entry requirements

At least two years of basic courses in Natural Sciences, equivalent to 50 points/75 ECTS credits in Biology and 20 points/30 ECTS credits in Chemistry. Biology courses should include Cell Biology, Genetics and Gene Technology, Structure and Physiology of Organisms, and Ecology. Alternatively, one year of Chemistry together with 20 points/30 ECTS credits in Biology including Structure and Physiology of Organisms and Genetics and Gene Technology.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• describe the basic mechanisms behind evolution of DNA sequences and gene structure
• describe the principles for population genetics and transcriptome evolution
• describe the latest progress within molecular genetics
• use molecular genetic laboratory methods
• describe the main fields of research and studies of modern evolutionary genetics.
• use available sources of information as well as basic laboratory methods to generate molecular genetic information

Content

The course consists of three parts: theory, seminars and practicals.

Theory:

The lectures are centred around a broad spectrum of subjects connected to evolutionary genetics and genomics

o Historical introduction to evolutionary genetics

o Mutations, specialisations and origins

o DNA sequence evolution and mechanisms for molecular evolution

o Genetic markers o Genome size and organisation

o Evolution of genome organisation

o Mapping of genes

o Evolution of sex chromosomes and sex determination mechanisms

o Population genetics and conservation genetics o Transcriptome and proteome evolution

-Theoretical lectures are combined with:

o Seminars: discussions within specialised areas (speciation mechanisms, the genom conflict etc.)

o Research presentations: ongoing research projects are discussed.

Seminars:

One of the more efficient learning techniques take place through questioning lectures and discussions. The students read scientific, and popular articles prepare presentations for other students and discuss them.

Practical exercises:

o Laboratory exercises: to test different genetic analyses. This includes DNA-extraction, sequencing, the microsatellite typing, experimental design (with problem-based learning).

o Data analyses of own data and of data available in general databases.

Instruction

Lectures, laboratory sessions, seminars, discussion sessions, computer exercises, literature assignments and projects. Participation in lab practicals, computer assignments and project work is compulsory.

Assessment

To pass the course, the students should:

o complete practical exercises and lab reports, 4 credits

o participate in seminars, 3 credits

o pass an examination, 8 credits

The grading is based on the results of the examination. Satisfactorily performed laboratory sessions and discussions can give extra points. After the examination, the students are offered to mark his/her own examination and well performed marking will give extra points.