Genetics is the basis for most biological, medical and biotechnical subjects. Consequently, in order to optimally exploit biotechnical tools, knowledge about basic genetics is of great importance. This course aims to give a broad knowledge, from an evolutionary perspective, of how genetic variation is formed and inherited, and how it evolves.
A number of basic aspects of genetics will be studied, for example:
- The origins of life, and the “Tree of Life”: the origins, development and relationships (phylogeny) of all organisms.
- The mechanisms of evolution.
- The genetic difference between organisms: differences and similarities in the architecture and function of the genomes, and how this evolved through the evolution.
- Inheritance of genes and traits: different modes of inheritance (Mendelian, asexual and epigenetic) and their effect on the “success” of individuals and species.
- Inherited diseases: their causes and effects.
- Genetic differences between human populations: their historical origin and subsequent spread, and their medical importance.