300525 VO Population Genetics (2008S)

The teaching aims are to cover the principles of population genetics and the application of molecular approaches in whole-organism biology. Particular emphasis is given on the presentation of case studies which can be used in high-school teaching. The lecture starts with theoretical concepts and methodological (laboratory) tools in population genetics. A next thematic block covers insights into social systems of free-living organisms through genetic relatedness studies, followed by considering evolutionary processes which shape the within-species distribution of genetic diversity. A further thematic block deals with the importance of genetic considerations in conservation-relevant applied sciences. The lecture finished with genetic applications in human forensics. The didactic approach is frontal teaching with 1-2 additional speakers, in order to cover additional, specialised topics.