Teaching Load = 5 courses/academic year (quarter system - 10 weeks each)
5 credits
This course is an introduction to the field of epigenetics - heritable, yet reversible changes in gene expression that are not associated with changes to genetic information (e.g. mutations in DNA). The course will cover epigenetic phenomena observed in eukaryotes, and their impact on gene expression. Topics include understanding the difference between genetics and epigenetics, types of epigenetic modifications, genomic imprinting, paramutation and the impacts of epigenetics on disease.
5 credits; ~30-60 students/class
Includes the analysis of genes and their transmission, how genes affect phenotypes, the structure of genetic information (DNA, RNA and chromosomes), and the segregation of chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis. We also explore the use of genetic information in recombinant DNA technology, biotechnology and medical genetics (genetic testing/screening for inherited diseases, cloning, genetically modified organisms etc.).
5 credits; ~30 students/class
An upper-level course that is based on an in-depth analysis and discussion of the central dogma of molecular biology; including the structure, synthesis, function and regulation of the informational macromolecules(DNA, RNA and protein). Includes discussion of molecular techniques and applications to research through reading primary scientific literature and analyzing data.
5 credits; ~12 students/class
A hands-on lab course in which students are assigned projects directly related to the instructor’s field of study. At the end of the quarter, students are required to give a formal presentation of their results at a public School of STEM Symposium or similar UW event.
(1-5 credits); per arrangement
5 credits; ~48 students/class
A ‘science and society’ course that covers the principles of genetics (both classical and molecular) at the level of the general public, with discussion of some of the ethical and social implications of emerging genetic technology and the use of genetic information. We discuss DNA structure, and how DNA structure is related to its function; the rules of inheritance (Mendelian genetics); current debates around the use of genetic information for health, forensics, and modern genetic engineering of plants and animals; current press reports of advances in genetics, and how to distinguish between evidence and opinion relative to these topics.
