(in Polish) Molecular methods in ecology and evolution 1400-235MMEE
The aim of the course is to provide students with tools necessary for designing and performing molecular experiments in ecology and evolution with an emphasis on an ability to design own experiments from scratch for novel species. The course covers wide variety of techniques, from old-fashioned microsatellites to cutting-edge genomic signatures. The lecture presents the background of population genetics and genomics, genomic imprints of selection or specific applications such as environmental DNA. During practicals the students learn how to apply theory to real-life data using a variety of freely available software.
Lectures
Genetic markers. Mutations, genetic drift, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and its consequences. Neutral theory and signatures of selection. Population structure, migrations. Phylogeography. Conservation genetics, introgression, hybridization. Evolutionary genomics. Reduced representation techniques. eDNA, metabarcoding. Evolvability
Practicals (exercises)
The practical part of the course is divided into two parts. Part I involves "wet lab" activities focused on problems specific for molecular ecology and evolution. Part II covers computational techniques and data analysis.
Part I: Isolation of DNA from various material (eg. faeces, hair, parasites etc. ). Comparison of isolation methods. Primer design for non-model species. Optimizing and improving PCRs, how to start from scratch, how to deal with inhibitors.
Part II: How to characterize genetic diversity. How to detect and analyse ignatures of selection. Describing and analysing population structure. Estimating relationship between individuals from genetic data. Association study (GWAS). All software used in class in freeware, students can use their own laptops.
Mode
Requirements
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
K_W07 Understands relationships between non-model species. Knows methods for analysing phylogenetic relationships.
K_W08 Understands the usefulness of statistical tools for molecular ecology and evolution
K_W09 Knows bioinformatic tools dedicated to specific research problems studied in ecology and evolution
K_W10 Knows lab techniques used in molecular studies of non-model species.
K_W13 Knows basics of study design using specialised techniques applied in ecology and evolution
Skills
K-U01 Selects and applies techniques relevant to the research questions in ecology and evolution
K_U05 Can apply correct methods for data analysis, can use relevant software.
K_U07 With a help of a supervisor, can design an experiment and is able to critically revise a study.
Social skills
K_K03 Can communicate newest knowledge in molecular ecology and evolution
K_K06 Follows ethical guidance for studying ecology and evolution
Assessment criteria
Class / practicals: a written assignment submitted by the end of the semester
Lecture: written exam (test)
Bibliography
AD Cutter. A primer of molecular population genetics. Oxford University Press 2019
DL Hartl, AG Clark Principles of population genetics. Oxford University Press 2006
Beebee T, Rowe G. An introduction to molecular ecology. Oxford University Press 2004
AJ Bakre. Molecular methods in ecology. Blackwell Science Ltd 2000.
R Frankham, JD Ballou, DA Briscoe. Introduction to conservation genetics. Cambridge University Press 2003
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: