Course content

This course will introduce general concepts, technology and methods in genomics, with a major focus on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). NGS is a revolutionary technology that provides biologists and medical scientists with the ability to collect and analyze massive amounts of DNA and RNA sequences. This technology is an important research tool in many aspects of biology and medicine, because it can be applied in so many ways. Topics will cover, sample handling, NGS technology and DNA/RNA Sequencing applications/protocol. Relevant bioinformatics, related to study design, data prepossessing and analysis (statistical methods, databases for storage and post analysis).

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

Upon completion and passing of the course, the candidate should...

• be at the forefront of knowledge within the field of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• know the molecular and bioinformatic principles, issues, and methods within the field.
• be able to assess the appropriateness and application of various NGS methods (RNA and DNA sequencing) and processes in research and professional development projects.
• be able to update their knowledge within the field.
• be able to apply knowledge to new areas within the field.
• be familiar with the most common data formats and bioinformatic methods for processing datasets generated from NGS.

Skills:

Upon completion and passing of the course, the candidate should...

• be able to formulate issues, plan, and conduct research and professional development work involving the use of NGS.
• be able to handle complex professional questions related to the use of NGS in different fields.
• be capable of collaborating with bioinformaticians on the analysis of specific datasets from NGS studies.
• be able to critically evaluate the results from a completed NGS project.

General Competence:

Upon completion and passing of the course, the candidate should...

• be able to identify relevant ethical issues related to NGS technology and its use in research.
• be able to conduct NGS-related research with professional integrity.
• be able to communicate NGS-related research and development work through recognized national and international channels.

Learning methods and activities

Supervised self-tuition, lectures, laboratory lectures, laboratory exercises, bioinformatics exercises, semester assignment (term paper) and exam.

If less than 5 students sign up for the course, learning methods and activities might be changed, or the course might be canceled.

Compulsory assignments

• All lectures and excercises
• Semester paper

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge in molecular biology, molecular cell biology and data analysis equivalent to MOL4010, BI1001, BI1005, BI2012, BI2014, BI3016, MA0301, ST1201, ST1101, IT1103, IT1105 (TDT4120), TDT4145, TKJ4175, BT8102.

Required previous knowledge

Admission requirements: Master's Degree or similar, Medical students at the Student Research Programme, other candidates with a lower degree will be individually evaluated.