BENA2024 Population genetics (4 cr)

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Study level:

Intermediate studies

Grading scale:

0-5

Language:

English, Finnish

Responsible organisation:

Department of Biological and Environmental Science

Curriculum periods:

2017-2018, 2018-2019, 2019-2020

Description

Content

Lectures involve the methods used to study genetic variation in wild populations, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and the factors undermining it (inbreeding, selection, mutation, genetic drift and migration) and adaptation and speciation from a population genetics viewpoint. Exercises and computer simulations.

Completion methods

-Prepared handouts are the base of the course (in Optima)
-Lectures: 10 lectures (each 2 hours); students complete exercises to enhance learning of the subjects covered during the lecture.
-Homework: For every lecture there are 2-3 homework tasks for testing understanding.
-Learning tasks: Computer-based simulations (4 hours / student) + report of the simulations including a simulation planned and executed by the student
-Exam: Includes 2 essay questions and questions similar to homework exercises.

Assessment details

Computer simulation practicals + report
Exam

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student masters the basic concepts of population genetics including genetic variation, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and the effects and interactions of different evolutionary factors (inbreeding, selection, mutation, genetic drift and migration) in wild populations. The student also understands the linkage between the above-mentioned factors and adaptation and speciation occurring in wild populations. The student can simulate the effects of different evolutionary factors on population allele frequencies using simple computer program, as well as solve problems linked with population genetics.

Completion methods

Method 1

Select all marked parts

Method 2

Select all marked parts

Parts of the completion methods

Unpublished assessment item