BIOCB 7800

Genomic Methods in Evolution

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This class is aimed at students interested in designing experiments in evolutionary genomics. Evolutionary biology is at an exciting moment where “any organism…any genome” is possible. However, the pace of sequencing technology and computational methods development is rapid and before carrying out a research project, it is critical to use the appropriate methods for the focal research question. Specific topics will include laboratory methods, sample selection and collection, and computational approaches to data analysis. Students will read and discuss recent literature where genomics have been applied to fundamental questions in ecology, evolution, and conservation and, through discussions, develop strategies for applying these tools to their own research domains. Students are expected to present at least one paper and participate in course discussion for class credit.

Last 4 Terms Offered (None)

Learning Outcomes

• Explain different methods for generating and analyzing evolutionary genomic data.
• Explain how emerging genomic technology can be applied to fundamental questions in evolutionary biology.
• Present results of recent evolutionary genomic studies to their peers.
• Identify the appropriate methods for genomic analysis within their own research domains.
• Discuss the opportunity, limitations, and ethical considerations when applying genomics to questions across biological fields.

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