Evolutionary Genetics
Syllabus, Bachelor's level, 1BG205
- Code
- 1BG205
- Education cycle
- First cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Biology G2F
- Grading system
- Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with credit (4), Pass with distinction (5)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 18 April 2011
- Responsible department
- Biology Education Centre
Entry requirements
80 credits in biology equivalent to the basic course in biology within the Bachelor Programme in Biology/Molecular Biology.
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
- 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 focuses on the following concept and processes: Historical introduction to evolutionary genetics. Mutations: the source of genetic variation. DNA sequence evolution and mechanisms for molecular evolution. Population genetics: factors determining the composition and change in allale and genotype frequencies. Genetic markers and sequencing technologies. Mapping of genes: establishing the link between phenotype and genotype. Conservation genetics. Evolution of genetic systems, sex chromosomes and sex determination mechanisms. Speciation processes. Selfish genes: conflicts between genetic elements within an individual. Phylogeny: methods to analyse evolutionary relatedness between populations. Domestication: changes in the genetic composition of wild animals through selective breeding.
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.