BCHM406-12W (C)
Whole Year 2012
Genomics
Description
This course covers the principles of genome analysis (genomics) drawing upon the wealth of information being generated by genome mapping and sequencing projects. Seminar topics will examine how the application of modern molecular genetic techniques, coupled with comparative evolutionary analyses, are improving our understanding of biological systems.
Genomics is a new and integrally important part of biology. Through the sequencing, characterisation, and study of DNA, it is now possible to decode the complete genetic complement of any organism. Genome science is revolutionising almost all fields of biological enquiry, and in the course we will look at examples from fields as diverse as medicine, microbiology, molecular genetics, ecology and evolution.
The course is taught as 12 two-hour sessions, that will comprise a mixture of discussion, presentation and computer-based tutorials. It is divided into four broad modules: genome technologies and bioinformatics, functional genomics, comparative genomics and genome biology and evolution.
We will cover emerging experimental technologies in genomics and functional genomics, with a focus on human health and genetics. You will apply these to developing your own genome sequencing proposal.
A key component of the course is hands-on genome sequence analysis, where you will learn how to annotate and analyse genomes using bioinformatics and comparative genomics tools. For this part of the course, you will work as teams and write a draft paper based on unpublished sequence data given to your group during the course.
In addition, we will examine the biology of genomes, examining how genomes evolve and how population genetics and modes of reproduction impact the architecture and make-up of genomes.
Learning Outcomes
• An up-to-the-minute knowledge of methods in genome sequencing and functional genomics methodologies.
• An understanding of genomics as a tool for answering biological questions (as opposed to a means of generating data for the sake of it).
• Reading skills required to navigate, understand and question scientific literature.
• Practical bioinformatics skills in genome annotation and data analysis.
• A broad understanding of how genomes evolve.
• Experience in writing grant proposals, short reports and scientific papers.
• Experience in scientific collaboration involving data analysis, interpretation and presentation of results.
• Oral presentation skills
Subject to approval of the Head of Department.
Timetable
The course will take the form of twelve 2-hour sessions, which will comprise a combination of formal lectures, discussion and tutorial sessions. Articles drawn from the scientific literature will form the basis of the readings, and students are expected to have read the relevant papers prior to each session. Detailed information about each session, together with reading lists and other resources, will be available on Learn.
Course Coordinator / Lecturer
Paul Gardner
Lecturers
Chris Glover
, Anthony Poole
and Stinus Lindgreen
Guest Lecturers
Dr Martin Kennedy (Department of Pathology, University of Otago)
and Dr David Liberles (visiting Erskine Professor, University of Wyoming)
Assessment
|
Final Exam
|
|
50%
|
|
Genome analysis
|
11 May 2012
|
20%
|
|
Functional Genomics
|
17 May 2012
|
10%
|
|
Research Proposal
|
17 Aug 2012
|
20%
|
Textbooks
There will also be some material and exercises aimed at helping you get started if you have not taken BIOL330 or an equivalent course.
For further information see
School of Biological Sciences.
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BCHM406-12W (C)
Whole Year 2012
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