Evolution and Genetics

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Consider various aspects of the process of coevolution in a wide range of interacting species.
• Using example of recent evolution, demonstrate how selection is manifest at the genomic level.
• Provide an understanding of the interaction between humans, animals and plants and how domestication has given rise to the society we see today.

Evolution typically happens over long time periods, with organisms being selected based on their environments. But climate change and human factors can also increase the rate of evolution. In this module we show how organisms evolve in terms of their environment, their competitors, and human influences. The module will begin by exploring the different ways in which interacting organisms can influence each other's evolution, and how co-evolution manifest itself in different types of interactions. Then we will focus on the interaction between humans, animals and plants and how domestication has given rise to the society we see today. An understanding of evolutionary processes, using domestication as a model system, will be investigated. We will then use example of recent evolution to understand how selection is manifest at the genomic level and how species evolve and adapt.

The principal method of teaching will be via 20 lectures plus one computer session;

Students will write an essay on one from two topics;

Students will critique an essay on the other topic;

Students will prepare a poster or 5 minute presentation;

Students will carry out genetic analysis computationally;

The students will be directed to considerable background reading.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.