Entry requirements

60 credits in biology including 1) The Evolution and Diversity of Organisms (15 credits, course completed), Molecular Biology and Genetics (10 credits, course completed) and Ecology and Population Genetics (15 credits, course taken), or 2) Biology A: Patterns and Processes (22.5 credits) or Biology A: Patterns, Processes and Science Education (22.5 credits).

Learning outcomes

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

• describe the basic mechanisms behind evolution of DNA sequences and genome 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

Teaching is provided in the form of lectures, laboratory sessions, seminars, discussion sessions, supervised excersice opportunities, computer exercises and literature assignments. Participation in lab practicals, computer assignments and project work is compulsory.

Assessment

The requirements for passing the course are: passed result on a written theoretical test (8 credits), completed practical exercises and lab reports (4 credits), a completed and orally presented literature assignment (1.5 credits), and active participation in discussion seminars (1.5 credits).

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.