GEN2052 Genomics and population genetics
Faculty of Science
GEN2052 Genomics and population genetics is a level 2, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Science, offered in 2025 in Semester 2 at Clayton and Malaysia. It needs (GEN2041 and BIO1011); and (BIO1022, BIO1042 or BIO1062) and unlocks 4 units.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2025
- Semester 2
- Clayton, Malaysia
- Assessment
- No exam
- 4 tasks
This is the 2025 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
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Requisites
Before GEN2052
Prerequisites
Pass these before you enrol.
Prohibitions
You can't enrol if you have passed any of these.
After GEN2052
4 units list GEN2052 as a prerequisite or corequisite.
Overview
The structure, function, variation and evolution of DNA and of genomes are examined at both the individual and population levels in a range of organisms, including humans. Topics include: genome structure and approaches to genome analysis; basic principles and practical use of bioinformatics methods for genome projects; functional and comparative genomics; evolution of gene families and movement of genes from organelle to nuclear genomes; genome variation between individuals and species and its applications in genetics; processes that change the genetic constitution of populations and species during evolution.
Offerings in 2025
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Second semester | Clayton | On campus |
| Second semester | Malaysia | On campus |
Assessment
- Problem solving activitiesExercise5%
- Laboratory reportsDemonstration20%
- TestsQuiz / Test40%
- Portfolio35%
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Explain how genes are organised in chromosomes and genomes and the implications of this for gene expression and function, how genomes are mapped and sequenced, how genes and genomes are analysed at a molecular level, and the uses of genomics in modern genetic research;
- 2
Explain how DNA and genomes change and the implications of this for evolution and the uses of DNA variation in modern applications such as DNA profiling;
- 3
Explain how genes behave in populations, describe concepts such as mutation and genetic drift, and illustrate how genetic variation can result in fitness differences that may drive evolution through the process of natural selection;
- 4
Investigate the relevance and value of genetics and genomic to human society;
- 5
Demonstrate communication skills to to synthesise and convey complex concepts to peers and non-specialist audiences;
- 6
Demonstrate basic experimental, bioinformatics and statistical techniques to collect, interpret and analyse data, and solve genetic problems.
Workload and teaching
- Workshops12 hours
- Assessments2 hours
- Laboratories20 hours
- Teaching approachProblem-based learning
- Teaching approachActive learning
- 2.5 hours of online activities;
- 1 hour of workshop;
- 2 hours of laboratory and
- 6.5 hours of independent study per week and
- 2 hours of assessments (in week 6 and 12)
Lectures will be used to deliver the formal unit content. Weekly laboratory-based classes will complement the lectures. Weekly problem sets will be used to develop your understanding of the genetic concepts. You will learn laboratory techniques, the value of working with peers as part of a team, understand the principles underlying experimental design, and have developed important problem-solving skills in many human and population aspects of genetics.
Learning resources
Required resources
Sanders and Bowman Second Edition. Genetics Analysis: An Intergrated Approach. Pearson.
Bring your own device
Laboratory coat
Closed shoes
Where it fits
GEN2052 is part of 4 areas of study in the 2025 handbook.
Contacts
- Chief Examiners
- Associate Professor Kathryn Hodgins
- Unit Coordinators
- Associate Professor Kathryn Hodgins
- Dr Teng Suk Kuan
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for GEN2052?
You need (GEN2041 and BIO1011); and (BIO1022, BIO1042 or BIO1062) before you enrol.
What can I take after GEN2052?
GEN2052 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 4 units, including BIN3890, GEN3010, GEN3062 and GEN3990.
When is GEN2052 offered?
In 2025, GEN2052 runs in Semester 2 at Clayton and Malaysia.
Does GEN2052 have an exam?
No. GEN2052 has 4 assessment tasks and no exam.
Which majors and minors include GEN2052?
GEN2052 is part of Genetics and genomics; and Genomics and bioinformatics.