Spring 2022 - HSCI 775 G100

Seminar in Molecular Mechanisms of Epigenetics (3)

Class Number: 6345

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 10 – Apr 11, 2022: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MBB 331 or permission from the instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Discussion of novel and advanced topics in chemical covalent modifications of chromatin that influence gene regulation.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is designed to provide students with an in depth understanding of current advances in epigenetics and an appreciation of the experimental efforts and methodologies used to address the physical changes to chromatin that affect gene regulation.  Following a short summary of concepts and general principles, we will discuss current understanding of how covalent modifications of chromatin are placed, erased and readout by biological systems.  Readings will be selected to emphasize biological systems that are sensitive to chromatin modifications that affect health and behavior.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The main objectives of this course are to introduce students to current environmental human health concerns and the basic research being performed to address human health problems.  At the end of the course, students should be able to evaluate peer-reviewed publications for content and rigour, while being able to describe basic techniques used to study epigenetics using examples from the primary literature.  In addition, students should demonstrate an understanding of the conceptual design of the basic molecular and biochemical approaches used to investigate human heath.  Students will learn how to critically review relevant literature and communicate these points by presenting their findings in an organized and scholarly fashion to their peers.

Grading

  • Presentation 40%
  • Assignment 40%
  • Quizzes 10%
  • Participation 10%

NOTES:

The course will consist of student presentations of peer-reviewed research papers and written reports with critical analysis of the methods, data and interpretations.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Peer-reviewed articles from the current literature will be assigned

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

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

TEACHING AT SFU IN SPRING 2022

Teaching at SFU in spring 2022 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with safety plans in place.  Some courses will still be offered through remote methods, and if so, this will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the spring 2022 term.