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BI2017

Genetics and Evolution

Choose study year
Credits 7.5
Level Intermediate course, level II
Course start Autumn 2024
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement School exam

About

About the course

Course content

The course covers different aspects of evolutionary genetics including population genetics (Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Fst, Inbreeding, linkage disequilibrium), evolutionary quantitative genetics (Lande equation, phenotypic plasticity, multivariate evolution), phylogenetic analyses (building and using phylogenetic tree), adaptation (optimality models, comparative analyses, life history evolution), genetics of speciation (DMB incompatibility, outbreeding depression, reinforcement). Simple statistical models used in evolutionary biology are also presented.

During the course, emphasis is placed on issues related to conservation biology and biodiversity, such as genetic and evolutionary rescue.

Learning outcome

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

  • understand and explain fundamental concepts and terminology in the field of evolutionary genetics.
  • have a good understanding of central concepts in population and quantitative genetics.
  • understand the basic scientific methods, including data analysis, used in population genetics and quantitative genetics and carry out simple analyses using empirical data.
  • interpret results from studies in population and quantitative genetics.
  • reflect on the outcome of studies in evolutionary biology on a general level and evaluate their biological significance, particularly in the context of conservation biology.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, discussions (ca. 32 hours), exercises (ca. 18 hours). During the exercises students analyse data and interpret results from studies in evolution. The analytical part is performed using R. For the obligatory semester assignment, groups of ca. 5 students analyse data from existing research projects and present orally the research question, the method used, the results, and their interpretation.

Compulsory assignments

  • Semester assignemnt

Further on evaluation

In the case of 'fail' or 'retake', the final written examination needs to be taken again. The written exam can be changed to an oral exam in the semester when the course is not taught.

Appeals for reassessment apply to the final written examination

Course materials

- Futuyma, DJ. & Kirkpatrick, M. 2022. Evolution. Sinauer (ISBN: 9781605357409).

- Lecture notes, compendia, and various scientific publications.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
BI2011 3.7 sp Autumn 2008
BI2040 3.7 sp Autumn 2008
This course has academic overlap with the courses in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

  • Ethology
  • Biodiversity
  • Biology
  • Biotechnology
  • Cell Biology
  • Ecology

Contact information

Course coordinator

Lecturers

Department with academic responsibility

Department of Biology