Evolutionary Genomics

15 credits

Syllabus, Master's level, 1BG317

A revised version of the syllabus is available.
Code
1BG317
Education cycle
Second cycle
Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
Biology A1N
Grading system
Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail (U)
Finalised by
The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 15 April 2010
Responsible department
Biology Education Centre

Entry requirements

150 credits completed courses including alternative 1) 60 credits biology and 30 credits chemistry or 30 credits earth sciences, alternative 2) 90 credits biology. and in both cases Evolutionary genetics 15 credits or Microbial genetics 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

The course focuses on theory, and methods that can be applied to large amounts of data to highlight different evolutionary issues. This is exemplified by organisms from many different organism groups, such as plants, animal and microorganisms. After completing the course, the student should be able to

  • give examples of evolutionary mechanisms at the genomic level
  • account for - basic evolutionary processes at the molecular level - the principles of inference of evolutionary mechanisms based on genomic variation - the principles for analysis of DNA sequences and gene expression - the forces and mechanisms that govern changes in the structure and size of the genome and to put these in an evolutionary/phylogenetic perspective - the connection between evolution at the molecular and phenotypic level
  • independently use - statistical methods to recreate and analyse evolutionary processes at DNA level - computer-based methods for genome analysis of gene expression
  • from different perspectives discuss evolutionary processes at the genomic level
  • critically review and communicate principles, problems and research results

Content

The course includes the following modules:

  • Course module on population genomics - Forces that govern evolution of DNA sequences (mutation, random genetic drift, selection, recombination), genetic variation within and between populations, statistical analysis of DNA sequences, association mapping
  • Course module on gene expression - Natural variation in the regulation of genes/expression and its importance for evolution
  • Course module on genome evolution - Mechanisms that govern the architecture and contents of the genomes, such as replication of genes and genomes, horizontal gene transfer and gene loss. Evolutionary relationships between genomic and phenotype changes
  • Project Work A practical or literature-based project is conducted at one of the departments involved in the course and the students give an oral presentation and write a report.

Instruction

The teaching includes lectures, computer exercises, seminars and project work. Participation in computer exercises, seminars and project work are compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Theory 5 credits; Laboratory session 3 credits; Seminars 2 credits; Project work 5 credits

The theory part is examined through a written examination. The module laboratory sessions require participation at the laboratory sessions and approved laboratory reports. The seminars require active participation and the project work is presented both orally and in written form.

No reading list found.

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