ZL5041:03
Molecular Methods in Evolution and Ecology
Townsville
Inadmissable Subject Combination: ZL3041
30 lectures, 5 tutorials, 36 hours practicals. First semester.
Available to students enrolled for the degrees of MSc (including a two semester customised DipResMeth), MAppSc, BAppSc or Graduate Diplomas.
Staff: Assoc. Professor D Blair.
Bodies die in each generation, but genes are transmitted on through time. A study of genes provides a means of tracing the evolutionary histories of individuals, species and higher taxa. This subject introduces the techniques used for such studies and their application in ecology, evolutionary and molecular biology. Topics covered range from the “big questions” of the origins of the phyla to fine scale issues such as kinship and paternity, the flow of genes within and among populations and genetic methods in forensic research. The subject will be based on lectures, tutorials and practicals which will involve intensive computer use at scheduled times. Students will be required to attend ZL3041 lectures and practicals.
Learning Objectives:
- an appreciation of the architecture of the genome and the ways in which genes evolve;
- an understanding of the ways in which genetic techniques can be used to answer questions in ecology and evolutionary biology;
- an appreciation of the role of computers and electronic databases in aiding such studies.
Assessment by examination, practical reports and assignments/presentation.