Syllabus

BI1103 Genetic diversity and plant breeding, 15.0 Credits

Subjects

Education cycle

Modules

Advanced study in the main field

Grading scale

Language

Prior knowledge

Objectives

After completion of the course the student is expected to be able to:

• explain the concept of genetic diversity and how evolutionary processes and domestication affect genetic diversity

• explain concepts of quantitative genetics, breeding methods and regulations for the development of plant varieties

• understand principles of mapping quantitative traits in plant genomes and how to use this as a first step towards the identification of genes controlling phenotypic traits

• broadly explain next generation sequencing technologies and perform basic sequence analyses

• describe different biotechnological applications within plant breeding

• independently search, summarize and interpret literature within the topics covering genetic diversity and/or plant breeding and present this information in writing and orally

• conduct laboratory work to demonstrate genetic diversity at the molecular level, compile the results and write a lab-report

Content

The course deals with issues within evolution, domestication and breeding. More specifically it focuses on different reproductive systems and their breeding strategies, on the use of next generation sequencing technologies to sequence whole genomes and their applications in breeding. Important qualitative and quantitative plant traits will be high-lighted both genetically and phenotypically. Practical exercises are parts of the course including both wet lab, phenotyping of plants and computer exercises. Application of molecular marker systems in selection processes as well as other methods in plant biotechnology constitutes a section of the course besides bioethical aspects. Legislation connected with variety production and the ownership of variety material will be discussed.

Grading form

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed exams, passed presentations, passed lab-report and fulfilled compulsory parts.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

Responsible department

Department of Plant Biology