Quantitative Genetics and Genomic Breeding in Forest Trees
Course description
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and applications of quantitative genetics and modern genomic analysis in tree breeding. Participants will develop a foundation in quantitative genetics and genetic data analysis for tree breeding. By combining theoretical concepts with practical analytical tools, the course equips participants with the skills needed to design and evaluate breeding strategies and to integrate genomic
information for improving selection efficiency and adaptation in breeding programs.
This course spans from the fundamentals of linear models to advanced mixed linear models and their applications in breeding value prediction. It covers key areas of quantitative genetics, including resemblance among relatives, genotype × environment interaction, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and genomic selection. Participants will also gain hands-on experience with R and ASReml-R, applying these tools to practical exercisescand case studies.
Course facts
P000161, Quantitative Genetics and Genomic Breeding in Forest Trees, 4.0 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: Harry Wu, 2025-12-11
Valid from : Spring semester 2026 (2026-01-19)
Level
Third cycle
Subject
Biology
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
English
Entry Requirements
Objectives
On completion of the course, the student will be able to:
- Improve R programing skills and ASReml-R for genetic data analysis
- Construct additive relationship matrices among relatives.
- Partition additive, dominance, and epistatic genetic variances.
- Estimate heritability, genetic correlations, and genetic gain.
- Analyze progeny data across multiple traits and environments to predict breeding values.
- Estimate genotype × environment interaction and identify its underlying drivers.
- Perform genome-wide association analyses for QTL discovery.
- Apply genomic selection methods.
Content
The course is carried out with lectures, guest lectures, programming using R and ASReml, compulsory quizzes and compulsory final assignment.
The course provides an intermediate level study to quantitative genetics and an advanced study on linear model and genomics tools in tree breeding program. The student develops an intermediate to advanced understanding of how the quantitative genetics and linear models applied to breeding value prediction and genomic selection to accelerate tree breeding program.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Evaluation will be through assignments, with detailed assessment criteria provided at the start of the course. Grading will consist of quizzes (40%) and a final assignment (60%).
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology
Supplementary information
Other Information
This course is organised jointly by the SLU breeding network and Forest genetics, biotechnology and tree breeding research schools. Two main instructors will be Professor Fikret Isik, North Carolina State University, and Professor Harry Wu, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences.