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  3. Genetics & The Evolution of Life

Genetics & The Evolution of Life (BIOL10005)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 2
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The objective of this subject is to familiarise students with modern concepts of genetics, animal and plant diversity and evolution.

Topics studied include the nature of variation, inheritance, genes and chromosomes, human genetics, DNA replication, gene action and expression, population genetics, selection, the genetics of speciation, molecular evolution, evolutionary biology and the origin of life, classification of organisms diversity of life, communities, ecosystems and the relationship of organisms to their environment, human impact, preserving habitats and genetic variation.

Intended learning outcomes

At the completion of this subject, students should be able to understand:



  • the basic mechanisms of inheritance, recombination and mutation;
  • the structure of DNA, its replication and the molecular basis of gene action;
  • the nature of genetic variation in populations, natural selection, microevolution, reproductive isolation and speciation;
  • the evidence for the evolution of life
  • and apply the principles of classification;
  • the diversity of organisms and their relationship to each other and the environment; and
  • the basic concepts of population ecology, community structure and ecosystem.

Generic skills

Students should develop generic skills in:

  • manipulating laboratory equipment, in particular using microscopes and gel electrophoresis;

  • the recording of observations and the analysis and interpretation of data;

  • the statistical analysis of genetic data; and

  • accessing information sources and discerning use of the world wide web.

Last updated: 3 October 2024