NBIA07032U Evolution and Ancient DNA: Practice and Theory

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Biology
Content

Laboratory projects will relate to the ongoing research at the Centre for GeoGenetics. Seminars will revolve around the following topics, but may vary according to teachers being available:
- Early Human Evolution
- Modern Humans and Human Demography
- The Genetic Difference between Human and other Primates
- Introduction to Ancient DNA
- Ancient Dirt DNA. DNA from Ice, Dung and Sediments
- Ancient Phylogenetics & Population Genetics
- The Early Genetic Life
- Evolution of Non-Coding DNA
- Exobiology. Life in the Universe
- The Evolution of Dinosaurs
- Dinosaurs and Feathers
- The Evolution of Mammals
- The Evolution of Whales
- Pathogens and Diseases

Learning Outcome


Competences

Discuss and critically review scientific articles

Present scientific literature before an audience

Critically assess the data and findings underlying evolutionary models

Conceptualize current and contemporary meta-discourse perceptions within ancient DNA research

 

Skills

Describe the major events in vertebrate and invertebrate evolution

Outline the current theories on human evolution and dispersal

Use the acquired knowledge to identify potential evolutionary questions that can be addressed using genetic information

Identify the problems, caveats and perspectives of using ancient DNA as testimony of prehistoric life

Carrying out a 3-week laboratory project, involving DNA extraction, PCR and sequence analysis

 

Knowledge

Possess an overview of ancient DNA and associated methodologies

Describe early human evolution, and population histories of humans

Describe the technology behind ancient protein analysis

Describe the evolution of early tetrapods

Describe the evolution from Dinosaurs to Birds, and the early evolution and diversification of modern birds

Outline the genetic differences between human and other primates

Literature
Scientific literature will be handed out during the course
BSc degree in archaeology, biology, geology, or similar
Practical laboratory projects for the first three weeks. Each project group will consist of 3-4 students. This is followed by seminars with presentations and discussion of scientific literature and project results.
This course is aimed at all students with an interest in evolution, and in particular students considering doing a Master's degree in evolutionary biology.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Colloquia
  • 26
  • Exam
  • 2
  • Preparation
  • 154
  • Project work
  • 24
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written examination, 2 hours under invigilation
The exam takes 2 hours and is based on multiple choice and essay questions.
Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Criteria for exam assesment
See description