Genetic diversity and plant breeding

Additional course evaluations for BI1103

BI1103 Genetic diversity and plant breeding, 15.0 Credits

Genetic diversity and plant breeding

Syllabus approved

2013-11-27

Subjects

Biology

Education cycle

Master’s level

Modules

Title	Credits	Code
Laboratory practicals	5.00	1002
Literature project	5.00	1003
Written examination	5.00	1004

Advanced study in the main field

Second cycle, only first-cycle courses as entry requirements(A1N)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Knowledge equivalent to 180 credits including 90 credits Biology and English B from upper secondary school or equivalent.

As an alternative to the above, equivalent to 120 credits including 60 credits Biology of which at least 5 credits Genetics and at least 5 credits Plant Biology/Plant Physiology must be included. English skills equivalent to English B from upper secondary school.

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.

Formats and requirements for examination

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

• If the student fails a test, the examiner may give the student a supplementary assignment, provided this is possible and there is reason to do so.
• If the student has been granted special educational support because of a disability, the examiner has the right to offer the student an adapted test, or provide an alternative assessment.
• If changes are made to this course syllabus, or if the course is closed, SLU shall decide on transitional rules for examination of students admitted under this syllabus but who have not yet passed the course.
• For the examination of a degree project (independent project), the examiner may also allow the student to add supplemental information after the deadline. For more information on this, please refer to the regulations for education at Bachelor's and Master's level.

Other information

• The right to take part in teaching and/or supervision only applies to the course date to which the student has been admitted and registered on.
• If there are special reasons, the student may take part in course components that require compulsory attendance at a later date. For more information on this, please refer to the regulations for education at Bachelor's and Master's level.

Additional information

At least 5 credits of genetics and 10 credits of plant biology are recommended.

Responsible department

Department of Plant Biology

Further information

There are no Grading criteria posted for this course