Molecular Ecology [SBOEM124]

Learning outcomes

This course will demonstrate how molecular tools can be used for studies in ecology and contemporary evolution. It will be heavily methods-based, and will include discussions of recent literature.

Topics will include:

- Sequencing methods from traditional to high-throughput

- Population and conservation genetics

- Statistical methods for inferring population structure and contemporary patterns (Fst, AMOVA, inferring selection)

- Conservation genetics

- Phylogeoraphy

In the practical part of the course, students will work independently in the molecular lab, including:

- DNA extraction and evaluation

- PCR amplification

- DNA sequencing

- Analysis of Sanger sequencing and high-throughput DNA sequence data

At the end of the course, students should be prepared to choose appropriate molecular methods for their research questions and analyze the results. They will understand the advantages and disadvantages of different methods, and will have sufficient laboratory experience to to start a research project.

Content

Methods for data aquisition and analysis used in molecular ecology, population and conservation genetics, quantitative genetics, phylogenetics and phylogeography. Students will learn how to generate and analyze both classical and state-of-the-art (i.e. next generation) DNA sequencing methods.In the practical part of the course, students will work to perform DNA extractions, PCR amplification, and DNA sequencing.

At the end of the course, students should be prepared to choose appropriate molecular methods for their research questions and analyze the results. They will understand the advantages and disadvantages of different methods, and will have sufficient laboratory experience to to start a research project.