This course covers principles and major concepts in genetics. In addition to the principles of Mendelian segregation and heredity, we will focus on topics of particular relevance to the study of evolution, ecology and phylogenetics, including population genetics, gene mapping, sequence diversification and quantitative genetics. In the second half of the course we illustrate the practical applications of population genetics to human forensic DNA analysis and conservation biology. In the major practical component of the course, students will gain some hands on experience in human forensic DNA profiling and statistical analysis. This course is intended to be broadly relevant to all students with an interest in genetics, especially population and ecological genetics, and is also a prerequisite for Advances in Human Genetics (BIOL2152), Population Genetics (BIOL3151) and Advanced Genetics and Bioinformatics (BIOL3157). 

Honours pathway option (HPO)

Entry to the HPO requires a mark of at least 80 in BIOL1003 or BIOL1004 and approval of the course convener. The options available may vary from year to year. A typical option is for one practical report worth 20 % to be replaced by an expanded report on the human forensics component of the course. 

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to understand and critically evaluate scientific and media reports on genetic technology and genetic breakthroughs as they affect our day-to-day lives. They will also have a thorough understanding of the principles underlying population genetics, and how this relates to the use of modern genetic markers in population and forensic studies. Their grounding in the basic principles of genetics, will equip them for further study and specialisation in the field of genetics, as well as ecology and evolution. Specific expected learning outcomes are:

Assessment topics will include genetic theory covered in lectures and laboratory skills and analysis taught in practical and lab project classes. This will be done via formal examination and the submission of scientific reports on the lab work carried out throughout the semester. Each year students are involved in the design and breakdown of assessment items. We initially propose a final exam involving short answers and calculations (50%; LO 1-4) and three practical reports (50%; LO 1-4)

Three hours of lectures per week, and up to six practical/tutorial sessions of three hours

BIOL1003.