Agricultural Genetics

Provide knowledge of the fundamental priciples of heredity: trait inheritance, basic concepts of quantitative genetics. Introduce the mechanisms linking genotype to phenotype based on flux of information within the cell from DNA replication to gene expression and regulation. Provide knowledge of the different types of mutations underpinning genetic diversity. Introduce basic concepts of bacterial and viral genetics and DNA technologies. Provide knowledge of the concept of Dawinian evolution with focus on genetic changes within populations. Introduce basic principles of animal and plant breeding.

Understanding and being able to apply tools for genetic data analysis and interpretation, basic statistical approaches for formulation and validation of genetic models. Ability to understand the relationship between genotype and phenotype as a theoretical basis for crop and animal breeding programmes. Understand the principles underlying programs for biodiversity preservation.