Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2019 - BISC 424 D100

Applied Genomics (3)

Class Number: 3725

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2019: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2019: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 101, BISC 102, BISC 202, MBB 222, MBB 231, and either BISC 357 or MBB 331; all with a grade of C- or better.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The course provides an overview of "omics" methods in large-scale identification of gene functions in various organisms, and demonstrates how this knowledge can be applied in genomics fields, including plant and animal breeding. Students who have taken Special Topics BISC 471 Applied Genomics may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

Novel genomics technologies such as next generation DNA sequencing technologies and genome-wide association genetics are rapidly changing the landscape of various fields of biological research. The relative ease by which large quantities of data can be obtained now allows parts and whole genomes to be assessed and compared in ways that were impossible just a few years ago.  Without going into extensive technical detail, this course aims at providing an overview of the applications of genomic technologies spanning from sequencing and comparison of expressed portions of genomes known as transcriptomes, to large-scale identification of gene variants in humans and agricultural species and genomics-assisted selection in the breeding of domesticated animals and plants. Applications in ecology, anthropology, toxicology, pharmacology, disease control and analysis of bacterial and viral communities of oceans to the human gut will also be discussed. Classes will be based on lecturers introducing disciplines of genomics combined with presentations and discussions of primary research papers and reviews on presented genomics disciplines. Tutorials will be used to aid the analysis of discussed publications. We will also research prospective employers in the field, both commercial and institute-based, learn what they are doing and what specific skill set they are looking for, to prepare students for a potential career in this exciting field.

Grading

  • Written and oral presentation 40%
  • Tutorials 30%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

The course will be based on primary research literature and reviews that will be provided as pdfs.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS