BIOL6243 Advanced Genetics and Bioinformatics

Offered By	School of Botany and Zoology
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Biology
Offered in	Second Semester, 2009 and Second Semester, 2010
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	Two general themes underlie much of the material covered in this course: 1. Examining genetic variation from an evolutionary perspective. 2. Considering the information in the genome, both from a genetic point of view (how genes work) and from an evolutionary standpoint (uncovering the patterns and processes of evolution from genetic data). Topics covered include: DNA structure and replication Mutation Neutral theory Selection Genome evolution Genetics of complex traits Practical classes will focus on bioinformatic analysis of DNA sequence data, covering the theory and practise of database searching, alignment, and phylogenetic analysis. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to: 1. Design and evaluate research methodology in advanced genetics and bioinformatics 2. Analyse and interpret data, and assemble and evaluate information in advanced genetics and bioinformatics 3. Construct and evaluate estimates of phylogenetic relationships 4. Create new ideas and methods in advanced genetics and bioinformatics
Indicative Assessment	Assessment will be based on: Short test in Advanced Genetics (LO 1-4) Written assignment in Advanced Genetics (LO1-4) Research (practical) assignment in Bioinformatics (LO 1-4)
Workload	Three hours of lectures per week and eight practical classes/computer labs
Course Classification(s)	AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs. and SpecialistSpecialist courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide for the acquisition of specialist skills; or 'second degree' and higher level of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs; or knowledge associated with professional accreditation.
Areas of Interest	Health, Medicine and the Body
Eligibility	Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological science with relevant experience or academic achievement. First year Biology, first year Genetics and first year Statistics are recommended. First year Chemistry is desirable.
Academic Contact	Dr John Trueman

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.