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
• Quantitative genetics

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. 

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.

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 effect 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. From their research project, students will learn to apply advanced statistical procedures in the analysis of codominant markers in forensic studies, and ecological studies involving relatedness estimates and paternity studies. Specific expected learning outcomes are:

1. A thorough understanding of the basic principles of DNA structure, replication, transcription and translation
2. An understanding of basic chromosome structure, and the significance of chromosomal change in evolution and illness
3. Development of the ability to carry out  genetic analyses on data sets comprised of codominant genetic markers such as allozymes, microsatellites and SNPs, in order to quantify variation, gene flow and evolutionary divergence
4. The ability to carry out complex genetic tests on genetic data for the purposes of forensic study

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. A report prepared on a lab research project will emphasise the application of modern statistical techniques in the analysis of genetic variation for forensic study. Assessment is discussed with students and tailored to each individual student's needs. Theory is generally tested using formal examination and emphasis given to one major lab project.

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

Bachelor of Science or equivalent with a major in the field of biological sciences with relevant experience or academic achievement. First year Biology, first year Genetics and first year Statistics are recommended. First year Chemistry is desirable.

This course is an excellent accompaniment to postgraduate courses specialising in genetics, ecology, evolution or molecular biology.