Entry requirements

150 credits including (1) 60 credits in biology and 30 credits in chemistry, or (2) 60 credits in chemistry, including Biochemistry, 15 credits, and 30 credits in biology, including 15 credits in molecular genetics, and in both cases one of the courses Microbial Genetics, Molecular Biology and Genetics II, Molecular Cell Biology, Population Genomics and Genetic and Molecular Plant Science. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Learning outcomes

The overall aim of the course is to provide practical and theoretical skills concerning classical as well as new large-scale and technology-driven approaches in molecular biology, and to discuss and evaluate when and how these methods are best put into use.

After completion of the course, the student should be able to

• describe and differentiate between large-scale analyses at different levels, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, metagenomics and systems biology
• describe and understand when to use a broad spectrum of functional genomics methods, and be updated on current technical developments within the genomics and functional genomics fields
• suggest and outline solutions to theoretical and experimental problems within the genomics and functional genomics fields, using classical as well as new techniques
• plan and carry out a small functional genomics project, both theoretically and experimentally
• handle and analyse large-scale experimental datasets, and present results and interpretations in a scientifically stringent manner
• critically examine research reports and publications dealing with genomics and functional genomics, and be able to suggest alternative interpretations and salient follow-up experiments
• identify and discuss ethical aspects of genetics/genomics.

Content

The course provides a comprehensive view on current methods that can be used to investigate genomes and gene function, ranging from classical genetics to the latest high-throughput methods. Attention is given to experimental design and how to choose between available methods. Topics include genomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and systems biology, as well as use of model organisms, methods for gene disruption, and discussions of gene ethics. Current examples of the application and development of functional genomics technology within biotech industry are included in the course as well.

Instruction

The teaching is provided as lectures, literature project, experimental work and site visits. Integrated communication training with feedback and self evaluation are integral parts of the course.

Assessment

Modules: Theory 8 credits; Laboratory session 5 credits; Literature project 2 credits

The theory part is examined through a written examination and seminars. The module experimental work requires implemented laboratory sessions and written laboratory reports followed up with oral presentations. The module literature project is presented in writing according to instruction, and as an oral presentation.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.