James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

BZ5450 - Ecological and Conservation Genetics

Available to postgraduate science students.

Subject Description

The continuing development of genetic techniques over recent years has opened new and exciting avenues in research in ecology and conservation. A rounded education in any ecological or conservation field requires awareness of the current use and future potential of genetic techniques. This subject introduces the student to these uses. Uses of molecular phylogenies and population genetic data will be introduced to demonstrate how these can trace the evolutionary history of a group and assist in biodiversity and conservation studies. Factors affecting the genetic structure of species will be covered, including the effects of social structure and population subdivision on gene flow. There is an emphasis on the use of genetic approaches to setting conservation priorities and in management of endangered populations.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (35%) - Individual
• Written > Examination - In class - (20%) - Individual
• Oral > Presentation 1 - (15%) - Individual
• Written > Technical report - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  Students must have a good understanding of GENETICS and EVOLUTION which includes knowledge of DNA structure, microevolutionary processes, genes and heredity and genetics of populations. BS5470 or BC5101 or BS2470 or BC2023 or BC3101 SC2209 or will have acquired equivalent knowledge through industry experience. Students should have the ability to use R for data analysis or have done the JCU R Bootcamp, which can be found on LearnJCU under Organisations in the CSE_Refresh folder.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  AG3003 AG5003 BZ3450

Availabilities