NBIA04064U Phylogenetic and Molecular Methods

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Biology
Content
The most important aspects of phylogenetics are covered through lectures and computer exercises. Students will work on phylogenetic case studies in the laboratory (doing PCR and DNA sequencing) and subsequently they will use the data for phylogenetic analysis. Through seminars the students will be trained in critical reading of phylogenetic, scientific literature.
Learning Outcome

Knowledge 

  • Basic phylogenetic theory with an emphasis on parsimony based methods
  • Basic understanding of the difference between model and non-model based phylogenetic methods
  • Basic theoretical understanding of sequence alignment 

Competences 

  • Critical evaluation of phylogenetic analyses described in scientific papers
  • Design and perform a complete phylogenetic study of a group of organisms

  Skills 

  • Perform PCR and sequencing using traditional methods
  • Use simple sequence alignment tools
  • Use the computer program TNT to perform simple phylogenetic analyses
  • Present data and phylogenetic results in a generally accepted scientific manner
Literature
Schuh, T. and Brower, A.V.Z. 2009. Biological Systematics. Principles and Applications. 2nd Ed. (Cornell University Press).
Additional manuals and scientific texts to be provided.
Lectures, exercises, seminars.
The course will only be held in odd-numbered years!
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Colloquia
  • 27
  • Lectures
  • 12
  • Practical exercises
  • 9
  • Preparation
  • 84
  • Project work
  • 74
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Continuous assessment
A project report must be handed in by the end of the course. Attendance and active participation in seminars required.
Marking scale
passed/not passed
Censorship form
No external censorship
Re-exam
There is no other reexam than following the course again.
Criteria for exam assesment
See description