GEN2041 · Foundations of genetics

Overview

In this unit, you’ll explore fundamental genetic principles common to all complex lifeforms, exploring the key concepts and methods that underpin the foundations of genetics. The unit encompasses a broad array of topics including: inheritance patterns of traits; the structure and organisation of genes, chromosomes, and genomes; and gene regulation, mutation, and function. You’ll examine the relationships between genotype and phenotype, the intricacies of genetic linkage and gene mapping, and the significance of chromosomal variation in both evolutionary processes and human disease. To illustrate these concepts, we'll draw on examples from a diverse array of organisms, including the human species. The unit will include lectures, hands-on workshops, and lab work to help you understand and apply these concept.

Areas of study: Biotechnology Genetics and genomics

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain what genes do, how they can vary and how they influence the inheritance of traits through interactions with other gene products and environmental factors;
2. Identify the common molecular mechanisms that underlie inheritance and describe the structural features of DNA, genes and chromosomes;
3. Compare and evaluate the unique features of a range of organisms used in studying genetics;
4. Apply skills in group work, written and oral communication to convey complex concepts to peers and non-specialist audiences;
5. Apply basic experimental and statistical techniques to design experiments, collect, interpret and analyse data, and solve genetic problems.

Workload

• One 2-hour workshop/assessment session; • 2-3 hours laboratory week; • One 1-hour online lecture (own time) and • 6-7 independent study per week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.