There is a maximum number of 10 participants.
Objectives/ aim
At the end of this course:
You can describe the impact and limitations of the various Human Genome Projects (i.e. Genomics).
You will be aware that not only Genomics, but also Proteomics and Epigenomics are important in explaining biological variation and have a substantial impact on human health related research.
You will have insight into the importance of mouse models as an indispensible tool for molecular biological research into human health.
You can describe the importance of modern forensic genetic research.
Content
This course discusses the most recent publicly available information on Genomics, Proteomics, and Epigenomics with the aim to provide a better understanding of the importance of biological individuality – the uniqueness of each individual – for biomedical and genetic research.
These fields of research are still expanding as we speak, and rely heavily on high power computer technology (in-silico genetics and bio-informatics) in order to fully their potential. We also pay attention to molecular biological techniques which allow the manipulation of human and non-human genomes, such as gene-therapy.
As human genetic variation has many influences, hands-on experience enabling you to identify genetic variation will provide a clear insight into the many issues surrounding the reliable detection and interpretation of genetic heterogeneity among humans.
Literature
Will be announced in the course book.
Form of tuition
This intensive course is build for a small number of students (maximum of 10). The course has a simple structure and comprises of a series of lectures plus a large number of up-to-date review articles which the students are expected to read before attending the lectures. The limited group size of enrolled students also allows visits to a number of high-tech LUMC-laboratories. Roughly 50% of the course is in the from of extensive DNA-hands-on experience at the Forensic Laboratory for DNA Research of the LUMC in order to participate in a number of forensic genetic, population genetic and evolutionary genetic experiments.
Mode of assessment
There is a mandatory presence at all lectures and hands-on moments. At the end of the course the group of students must submit a detailed report describing and interpreting the results of the DNA-hands-on task. This report will be evaluated by the course committee.
Entry requirements/recommended prior knowledge
A number of essential review articles will be announced well in advance on the BlackBoard site. These should be read before participation.
Registration/enrolment
There is a maximum number of 10 participants.
Remarks
This is a strictly online-only course. All essential course information, including the course book will be present at the TOC1 BlackBoard site which is will be open for enrolled students and tutors at least two weeks prior to the start of the course. Thus, a printed course book will not be made available.