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Genetic Epidemiology Foundations

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Based on 51 ratings
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Todd Edwards and Stephanie A. Santorico

This course is presented by the University of Colorado Denver in collaboration with the Vanderbilt Genetics Institute at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the International Genetic Epidemiology Society. It is designed to provide students with the background and knowledge foundations necessary to conduct statistical analysis of genetic association study data. This course includes multiple lectures and evaluations on each of the topics: the history of genetics research presented by Dr. Nancy Cox, foundational concepts in population genetics presented by Dr. Bruce Weir, population structure in genetic association studies presented by Dr. Todd Edwards, quality control in genetic studies presented by Dr. Goncalo Abecasis, analysis of population-based case-control association studies presented by Dr. Celia Greenwood, and analysis of family-based studies presented by Dr. Joan Bailey-Wilson. Examples of concepts and reference literature are also provided in this 6-module course.

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What's inside

Syllabus

What is Genetic Epidemiology? Historical Perspective and Introduction
Taught by Dr. Nancy Cox, Vanderbilt University Medical Center. In this module you will better understand genetic epidemiology from its origins to how modern ‘omics is integrated into genetic epidemiology of complex traits. Coverage includes introduction of liability and threshold models, genetic regulation of gene expression, and transcriptome imputation.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops foundational concepts in population genetics, which are core concepts in epidemiology
Examines quality control and imputation, which are important steps in genetic data analysis
Explores advanced topics such as genetic association studies, which are used to identify genetic variants associated with disease
Taught by experienced instructors from top universities and research institutions
Provides comprehensive coverage of genetic epidemiology, including historical perspectives, population genetics, and statistical methods
Includes hands-on labs and interactive materials, which help learners apply the concepts they learn

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Reviews summary

Foundational genetic epidemiology for professionals

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive and expertly taught foundation in genetic epidemiology. Many highlight the clarity of the lectures and the depth of knowledge provided by the diverse team of instructors, particularly praising modules on quality control in genetic data and population structure. Learners appreciate its well-structured modules that build concepts logically. However, some learners noted the course is heavily theoretical, with a common desire for more hands-on activities or software demonstrations. It is generally suitable for those with some prior background in genetics and statistics, rather than absolute beginners.
Focuses on theoretical principles rather than practical application.
"While the content is excellent, it is quite conceptual and lacks practical coding exercises."
"I was hoping for more hands-on practice, but this course is clearly designed to provide a theoretical framework."
"The course emphasizes theoretical underpinnings, which is great for understanding, but less so for direct application with software."
Best for learners with a background in statistics or basic genetics.
"It really assumes you have a strong background in statistics already; for me, it was challenging to keep up at times."
"I found it was not for absolute beginners and would recommend a strong foundation in biology and stats prior to taking."
"The pace was quite fast; I felt more comfortable due to my prior exposure to statistical genetics."
The module on data quality control is particularly praised for its utility.
"The quality control module by Dr. Abecasis was particularly helpful and directly applicable."
"It solidified my understanding of QC in genetic data, which is crucial for my research work."
"I found the module on basic quality control in genetic data to be extremely insightful and well-explained."
Provides a robust conceptual framework essential for genetic epidemiology.
"This course is incredibly well-structured and solidified my understanding of key concepts."
"It's a solid foundation for anyone looking to enter or deepen their knowledge in genetic epidemiology."
"I appreciated how the course built concepts logically from history to modern applications, making it very comprehensive."
Led by renowned experts, providing deep insights into complex topics.
"The lectures by experts like Dr. Cox and Dr. Abecasis are top-notch, truly illuminating."
"I found the instructors to be highly knowledgeable and articulate in their explanations of each module."
"The diverse team of lecturers, each a specialist in their area, made the content incredibly engaging and authoritative."
Learners expressed a wish for more practical exercises and software use.
"My only minor critique is that I wished there were more practical exercises or demonstrations with actual software."
"I think future iterations could benefit from integrating more hands-on activities, especially for data analysis portions."
"Could use more practical examples demonstrating data analysis techniques within the modules."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Genetic Epidemiology Foundations with these activities:
Review basic statistics
Strengthen the foundation for understanding statistical methods in genetic epidemiology.
Browse courses on Statistics
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks
  • Complete practice problems
Read 'Introduction to Genetic Analysis'
Review the core principles of genetics to prepare for the course.
View Introduction to Genetic Analysis on Amazon
Show steps
  • Gather required materials
  • Read and make notes on chapters 1-5
  • Complete the end of chapter questions
Organize and summarize lecture notes
Improve retention and understanding of course material.
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes
  • Summarize key concepts
  • Organize notes in a logical structure
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Participate in a study group
Enhance understanding through collaboration and peer support.
Browse courses on Genetics
Show steps
  • Find or form a study group
  • Meet regularly to discuss course material
  • Work together on assignments and projects
Solve genetic problems
Improve problem-solving skills and apply genetic concepts.
Browse courses on Genetics
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks
  • Solve problems independently
  • Check answers and identify areas for improvement
Complete online tutorials on genetic analysis
Supplement course material with additional resources.
Show steps
  • Identify relevant tutorials
  • Watch videos and complete exercises
  • Apply new knowledge to course assignments
Create a visual representation of genetic data
Enhance data interpretation and communication skills.
Browse courses on Data Visualization
Show steps
  • Choose a dataset and software
  • Create visual representations (e.g., graphs, charts)
  • Interpret and present results
Design a research proposal
Develop a plan for a genetic research project.
Show steps
  • Identify a research question
  • Review relevant literature
  • Design a study plan
  • Write a research proposal

Career center

Learners who complete Genetic Epidemiology Foundations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events (including disease), and the application of this study to the control of diseases and other health problems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Medical Geneticist
A Medical Geneticist is a physician who interprets genetic tests, counsels patients and families about genetic disorders, and provides treatment recommendations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Geneticist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists design, conduct, and analyze research studies. They may work independently or as part of a team.
See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist
Biostatistician
A Biostatistician is a statistician who works in the field of biology, applying statistical methods to the analysis of biological data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst collects, processes, and analyzes data to extract meaningful insights. They use statistical techniques to identify trends and patterns in data.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Computational Biologist
A Computational Biologist uses computational methods to analyze and interpret biological data, such as DNA and protein sequences.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computational Biologist
Health Educator
A Health Educator is responsible for promoting health and preventing disease by providing information and education to individuals and communities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Genetic Counselor
A Genetic Counselor provides information and support to individuals and families affected by genetic disorders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Genetic Counselor
Science Writer
A Science Writer communicates complex scientific information to a non-scientific audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Writer
Healthcare Administrator
A Healthcare Administrator is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the delivery of health care.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator
Public Health Nurse
A Public Health Nurse provides health care services to individuals and communities, with a focus on prevention and health promotion.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Nurse
Teacher
A Teacher is responsible for educating students at all levels, from preschool through college.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Medical Laboratory Scientist
A Medical Laboratory Scientist performs tests on blood, urine, and other body fluids to help diagnose and treat diseases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Laboratory Scientist
Pharmacist
A Pharmacist dispenses medications and provides advice on their use to patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist
Physician Assistant
A Physician Assistant is a healthcare professional who provides medical care under the supervision of a physician.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Genetic Epidemiology Foundations.
Cover image
Mathematical and Statistical Methods for Genetic...
Save
A comprehensive guide to statistical methods used in genetic epidemiology, offering in-depth coverage of approaches for analyzing genetic data.
Mathematical and Statistical Methods for Genetic...
Paperback
Check
Mathematical and Statistical Methods for Genetic...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Fundamentals of Genetic Epidemiology
Save
A comprehensive textbook on genetic epidemiology, providing a broad overview of the field, from study design to data analysis and interpretation.
Fundamentals of Genetic Epidemiology
Hardcover
$$$$
Introduction to Genetic Analysis
Save
Provides a foundational review of genetic analysis, making it an excellent reference for those new to genetics or needing a comprehensive overview.
Introduction to Genetic Analysis
Hardcover
$$$$
Loose-leaf Version for Introduction to Genetic...
Loose Leaf
$$$$
Introduction to Genetic Analysis
Hardcover
$$$
LaunchPad for Griffith's Introduction to Genetic...
Printed Access Code
$$$
SaplingPlus for Introduction to Genetic Analysis...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
SaplingPlus for Introduction to Genetic Analysis...
Printed Access Code
$$
An Introduction to Genetic Analysis, Solutions...
Paperback
$$$$
Introduction to Genetic Analysis
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Save
Provides a solid foundation in biostatistics, covering concepts essential for understanding and conducting genetic epidemiology studies.
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics (with CD-ROM)
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics (with Data Disk)
Hardcover
$$
Fundamentals of biostatistics
Hardcover
$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics/Book and Disk 4th...
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics [FUNDAMENTALS OF...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics by Bernard Rosner...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Fundamentals of Biostatistics
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Introduction to Genetic Analysis (Loose-Leaf)
Save
An integrated approach to genetic analysis, combining concepts from classical genetics, molecular genetics, and population genetics, offering a comprehensive overview.
Loose-leaf Version for Introduction to Genetic...
Loose Leaf
$$$
Cover image
Principles of Plant Breeding
Save
Although focused on plant breeding, provides a solid foundation in genetics principles, making it a useful reference for understanding genetic concepts in genetic epidemiology.
Principles of Plant Breeding
Hardcover
$$$$
Principles of Plant Breeding
Kindle Edition
$$$$

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Course image
Rating
4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
16 hours to complete
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado System
Instructors
Todd Edwards
Stephanie A. Santorico
Language
English
Transcripts
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Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops foundational concepts in population genetics, which are core concepts in epidemiology
Examines quality control and imputation, which are important steps in genetic data analysis
Explores advanced topics such as genetic association studies, which are used to identify genetic variants associated with disease
Taught by experienced instructors from top universities and research institutions
Provides comprehensive coverage of genetic epidemiology, including historical perspectives, population genetics, and statistical methods
Includes hands-on labs and interactive materials, which help learners apply the concepts they learn
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