Genetics & Recombinant DNA

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This module will provide in-depth insights into the complexity of gene regulatory circuits using just a handful of well-studied research subjects from animal and plant developmental genetics. We will see how specific biological questions can be tackled from a molecular genetics, epigenetics, population genetics and evolutionary genetics perspective and how the diversity of approaches leads to a better understanding of biological phenomena from a holistic point of view. This will enhance the general understanding on the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary processes that shaped living beings. During the course of this module, a special focus will be put on how to approach biological research questions. This comprises formulating research questions, hypothesis building and hypothesis testing, experimental design, distinguishing bottom-up and top-down approaches as well as ultimate and proximate causation. Lectures for the module will be delivered online. Practicals will be face-to-face if possible. Online practicals will be offered for students who prefer not to be on campus. Counts as elective course for Biological Sciences majors.