Entry requirements

120 credits and (1) Molecular Evolution, or (2) Evolutionary Processes, or (3) Genetic and Molecular Plant Science. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to provide the student with knowledge in theory and analytical methods in population genetics. After having passed the course the student should be able to

• Solve biological problems with the help of population genetics principles
• Explain the principles of population genetics
• Identify relevant question formulations in population genetics and propose strategies to solve the problems
• Use previously acquired knowledge (mathematics, statistics and programming) to solve genetic problems

Content

The course begins with an introduction to genetic heritance and mendelian genetics, followed by two main parts

• The principles of population genetics: allele frequencies, spectrum of allele frequencies, linkage disequilibrium, genetic diversity and measures of diversity, Wright-Fisher model, coalescense theory, inbreeding, population structure and selection.
• Analysis of population genetics: coalescense theory and simulations, estimation of parameters (mutational and recombination rates) and neutrality tests. Examples of complex models.

Instruction

The teaching is done in the form of lectures, mathematical problems and computer exercises.

Assessment

Written test 4 credits; presented analytical problems 1 credit.

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.