Molecular Methods in Ecology and Evolution

Coordinator

Prof. Dr. B. Wertheim (Evolutionary Genetics, RUG)

Second examiner
Prof Dr. J. Falcao Salles (GREEN, RUG)

Aim of the course
Molecular methods are now widely used in ecological and evolutionary studies, to answer questions ranging from the evolutionary history of populations to patterns in community ecology. How can we use these molecular tools to enhance our knowledge of population genetics, phylogeny, molecular and adaptive variation, and community structure?

The objective of this course is to introduce students to a range of molecular techniques (DNA, RNA and protein- based) that are applied in ecological and evolutionary research. We will teach ‘how’ these techniques are properly applied, as well as their potential and limitations.

At the end of the course, the student is able to:
1. work properly and safely in a molecular lab;
2. describe, discuss and practice a range of molecular approaches that are currently used in ecological and evolutionary research;
3. apply molecular approaches to solve research questions in ecology and evolution;
4. use some software packages for analyzing molecular data.

Learning outcomes
Students will be able to: work properly and safely in a molecular lab, to describe a range of molecular approaches that are currently used in ecological and evolutionary research, to apply molecular approaches to solve research questions in ecology and evolution; to use some software packages used for analyzing molecular data. Suggested reading: An introduction to Molecular Ecology, 2nd edition – Trevor Beebee & Graham Rowe, 978.0.19.92925.9

Contents and structure
This course is set up in two parts, of which you may opt to follow only the first part or both. The first part of course is a mixture of lectures, dry lab (computer) and wet lab practicals. It provides an introduction to molecular techniques that are used in ecological and evolutionary research: DNA extraction; basics principles of PCR, qPCR and primer design; cloning; sequencing approaches and phylogenetic analyses of sequences; fingerprinting techniques; research: RNA extraction; neutral markers; RNAi and methylation; population genetics and phylogeny; protein quantification and activity.

You may opt to participate in the second part of the course, which comprises a research project, which will be carried out individually or by groups of 2 students and will fit within the ongoing research of the Microbial Ecology, Animal Ecology or Evolutionary Genetics department.

Lecturers

• Prof. Dr. J. Falcao Salles
• Prof. dr. B.I. Tieleman
• Dr. E. Geuverink
• Prof. dr. B. Wertheim

General Information