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Semester 2

Genomes and Genomics 3 (BILG09005)

Subject

Biology

College

SCE

Credits

20

Normal Year Taken

3

Delivery Session Year

2023/2024

Pre-requisites

Equivalent of the courses listed above

Course Summary

Genome sequences are available for most organisms of importance for research in life sciences. Technologies to produce sequence data continue to improve, increasing speed and decreasing cost, so genomic data is now an important part of many research projects. The study of complete genomes provides the basis for understanding living systems and the evolution of organisms at the most fundamental level, with important implications in practical applications in biotechnology and human health. Already knowledge gained from genomics is influencing the way we do science.In this course we introduce and review the development and prospects for genomic analysis. In lectures, we consider the structure, function and evolution of genomes and complement this with practicals introducing bioinformatics tools and applying them to a novel sequencing project.

Course Description

Genome sequences are available for most organisms of importance for research in life sciences. Technologies to produce sequence data continue to improve, increasing speed and decreasing cost, so genomic data is now an important part of many research projects. Many of the genes identified in these sequences are still of unknown function and there is a strong drive to develop new methods, both experimental and computer based, that offer the prospect of having complete catalogues of the biochemical or genetic function of every gene in an organism. This information will ultimately provide the basis for understanding living systems and the evolution of organisms at the most fundamental level. Already knowledge gained from genomics is influencing the way we do science.In this course we introduce and review the development and prospects for genomic analysis. There are three components to the course: a lecture series, computer based bioinformatics workshops and a practical.In the lectures, through the presentation of key genomes, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic, we consider the structure, function and evolution of genomes. We then look at tools, both experimental and statistical, to further our knowledge of genes and their functions. We conclude with examples of applications of genomics.In bioinformatics workshops we provide a grounding in important skills for the handling and analysis of sequence data. The practical gives the opportunity to generate novel genome sequences. We start in a wet laboratory with DNA isolation and preparation of a genome sequencing library for submission to Edinburgh Genomics. The resulting sequences are assembled, annotated and analysed in a computer laboratory using skills learnt in the bioinformatics workshops.Assessment comprises short quizzes, a practical report and an exam.

Assessment Information

Written Exam 40%, Coursework 60%, Practical Exam 0%

Additional Assessment Information

To pass the course, students are required to obtain an aggregate mark of 40% based on the weighting of marks for one examination and two in-course components of assessment. The in-course assessment will comprise a practical report (50% of the course mark) and short quizzes (totalling 10% of the course mark).There will be one exam held in April/May. The exam counts for 40% of the course mark.

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