ENV 2500 Introduction to Genetics: Current Applications

This is an introductory course where the concepts and applications of genetics are analyzed. The course applies the use of basic theoretical-practical fundamentals in genetics to address problems in various fields. Students will familiarize with the Central Dogma of molecular biology, understand the processes of gene expression, and analyze mutation effects. It is a course focused in analyzing recent research topics and discussing controversial issues related to genetics. It has an essential practical complement by means of a field tour for the collection and analysis of samples. This will allow the development of several laboratory processes where the student acquires the skills to apply basic molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and electrophoresis. In addition, they will be able to use specialized software for the analysis of DNA sequences. Through the analysis of specialized literature, the aim is to broaden the knowledge about the diversity of applications of genetics in different fields. During the course, we also develop skills in group work and leadership, as well as assertive communication in an oral and written form.