Genetics 2

Genetics is the study of biological information; how it is coded, copied, expressed, transmitted between individuals and changed to give variation. As such, it is central to contemporary biological thinking and research, both as a topic it its own right and as a tool in the investigations of other areas of biology. This module will show how classical and molecular genetics are used to determine the organisation of genes and genomes, and to investigate how genetic differences arise and are transmitted from generation to generation. Examples are considered from the simplest prokaryotic microorganisms to man, and students will gain experience of a range of genetical techniques. Genetics is an analytical subject and particular emphasis is given to developing critical thinking and quantitative skills through problem solving.           

By the end of this module you will be able to:

Explain how classical and molecular genetic analysis is carried out in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, including man; explain how genes and genomes are organised and transmitted; how genetic variation is generated; use the conventions and language of genetics; solve simple problems in transmission and molecular genetics; carry out specified genetic procedures and interpret the results; illustrate the value and importance of the genetical approache in fundamental and applied studies of plants and animals, and in human inheritance.