This course will teach students about molecular methods that can be used in conservation, population monitoring, and studies of molecular ecology.
The course will be taught in English.
This course aims to introduce student to both methods and theory behind molecular population and conservation genetics. Specific lectures will focus on methods ranging from whole genome sequencing to eDNA. We will also focus on the use of these methods in ecology and conservation.
Themes:
· Advanced calculations of population genetics
· Visualizing variation among populations
· Introgression and hybridization
· Genetic rescue and conservation genetics
· Whole genome consequences of inbreeding and population decline
· Making links with policy makers and the public
1. Scales of biodiversity (from genes to communities) and biodiversity loss
2. Four evolutionary forces (mutation, drift, selection, migration) shaping population genetic diversity
3. Types of genetic data and metrics of genetic diversity
4. Identifying demographic declines and genomic erosion
5. Population structure, admixture, and introgression
6. Genetic load, inbreeding depression, and genetic rescue
7. Selection and maladaptation
8. Time series data: genetic monitoring, historic and ancient DNA
9. Applications and limitations of environmental DNA
10. Incorporating genetics into conservation practice and management
Practical activities will include exercises to calculate population genetic statistics and visualize genetic variation in relation to geographical distributions in wild organisms. The exercises will be based in R and on other web-based programs. At the end of the course, these results will be presented in the format of a scientific poster.
The course will consist of lectures and hands-on exercises, paper discussions, and practical exercises.
The exam will consist of an oral presentation of the practical work and an oral exam covering the lecture material. The student must succeed in all components of the exam to pass the course.
Textbook : Conservation and the Genomics of Populations. Oxford press. Authors : Allendorf, Funk, Aitken, Byrne and Luikart.
The course will also draw heavily from contemporary scientific literature.
| Training | Block | Credits | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor in Biology | 3 | 4 | No |