Genetics: Population Genetics and Human Traits from edX

This is the third genetics course in a three-part series. Building upon the concepts from biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology from our 7.00x Introductory Biology MOOC, these genetics courses go to a new level of depth. How do we determine the content of genomes? What can allele frequencies tell us about the genetics of different populations? And why does this matter to human society?

Professors Mary Gehring and Olivia Corradin will challenge you to expand your understanding of genetics. You will study the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures.

We developed the 7.03x Genetics series with an emphasis on:

Developing your scientific thinking skills including articulating hypotheses, designing experiments, performing thought experiments, and interpreting data.
Using data based on real scientific experiments and highlighting the scientific process in assessments.
Demonstrating that biology is an active field that changes daily through examples of research and relevance to medicine, not static information in a textbook.
Uniting themes and principles that inform how scientists conduct and interpret research.
Implementing the science of learning in the course design.

What you'll learn

How to appreciate the applications of genetics to everyday life.
How to apply terminology appropriately to concepts in genetics.
How to justify the use of specific sequencing methods for answering genetic questions.
How to interpret the patterns and driving forces of genetic variation within and between human populations.
How to analyze results from genome-wide association studies.
How to use a quantitative approach to determine genetic features of different populations.
How to explain the impact of genetic tools on human society.

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to appreciate the applications of genetics to everyday life.
How to apply terminology appropriately to concepts in genetics.
How to justify the use of specific sequencing methods for answering genetic questions.
How to interpret the patterns and driving forces of genetic variation within and between human populations.

How to analyze results from genome-wide association studies.
How to use a quantitative approach to determine genetic features of different populations.
How to explain the impact of genetic tools on human society.

How to appreciate the applications of genetics to everyday life.
How to apply terminology appropriately to concepts in genetics.
How to justify the use of specific sequencing methods for answering genetic questions.
How to interpret the patterns and driving forces of genetic variation within and between human populations.
How to analyze results from genome-wide association studies.
How to use a quantitative approach to determine genetic features of different populations.
How to explain the impact of genetic tools on human society.

Syllabus

Genomes and DNA Sequencing

Population Genetics

Genetics of Quantitative Traits

Human Genetics

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches content of genomes, quantitative methods, and genetics impact on population structures

Emphasizes scientific thinking skills development, such as designing experiments and interpreting data

Incorporates real-world examples and research to demonstrate genetics as an active field

Provides a scientific approach to studying genetic variation within and between human populations

Covers a range of topics, including genome sequencing, population genetics, and human genetics

Requires a basic understanding of genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry

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 Genetics: Population Genetics and Human Traits with these activities:

Organize study materials for review

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Organizing study materials supports overall learning and retention.

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Gather lecture notes, assignments, and any other relevant materials.
Create a systematic organization system, such as using folders or a digital note-taking app.
Review the organized materials regularly to reinforce understanding.

Design a DNA sequencing experiment

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Designing a sequencing experiment strengthens understanding of DNA sequencing principles.

Browse courses on Genome Analysis

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Identify a specific research question or hypothesis to be tested using DNA sequencing.
Choose an appropriate DNA sequencing method based on the research question and available resources.
Design the experimental setup, including sample preparation, sequencing parameters, and data analysis plan.

Develop hypothetical scenarios on genetic variation

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Creating scenarios strengthens comprehension of the patterns and forces shaping genetic variation in populations.

Browse courses on Population Genetics

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Consider a population of organisms with a specific genetic trait.
Simulate changes in allele frequencies over time due to factors such as mutation, genetic drift, and natural selection.
Analyze the results and explain how these factors influence genetic variation.

Four other activities

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Analyze simulated genome-wide association data

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Practice interpreting and analyzing GWAS data enhances understanding of the impact of genetic variation on complex traits.

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Obtain simulated GWAS data from public databases or online resources.
Perform quality control and data preprocessing steps.
Run statistical tests to identify significant associations between genetic variants and the trait of interest.
Interpret the results and discuss their implications for understanding the genetic basis of complex traits.

Join a discussion group on genetic ethics

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Engaging in group discussions on genetic ethics fosters critical thinking and ethical reasoning.

Browse courses on Bioethics

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Identify online or local discussion groups focused on genetic ethics.
Actively participate in discussions, share perspectives, and engage with other participants.
Reflect on the ethical implications of genetic technologies and their impact on society.

Attend a workshop on quantitative genetics

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Attending a quantitative genetics workshop offers hands-on experience with advanced methods for analyzing genetic data.

Browse courses on Quantitative Genetics

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Identify relevant workshops or conferences on quantitative genetics.
Register for the workshop and prepare for active participation.
Engage with experts, ask questions, and participate in discussions on advanced quantitative genetic methods.

Develop a genetic testing proposal for a specific disease

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Creating a genetic testing proposal strengthens understanding of the applications of genetics in healthcare.

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Choose a specific disease or condition that has a genetic component.
Research the genetic basis of the disease, including known genetic variants and their associations with disease risk.
Design a genetic testing plan, including sample collection, DNA extraction, and genetic analysis methods.
Develop a proposal outlining the rationale, methods, and expected outcomes of the genetic testing program.

Career center

Learners who complete Genetics: Population Genetics and Human Traits will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Forensic Scientist

Forensic Scientists are responsible for using scientific methods to analyze evidence from crime scenes, including DNA analysis. They use their knowledge of DNA sequencing, population genetics, and human genetics to interpret genetic data and provide expert testimony in court. This Genetics course would be very useful for those aspiring to be Forensic Scientists as it explores the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures, providing a solid foundation for understanding the principles of DNA analysis and forensic genetics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Scientist

Research Scientist

Research Scientists in the field of genetics are responsible for conducting research into the genetic basis of human traits and diseases. This Genetics course would be very useful for those aspiring to be Research Scientists as it explores the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures. The course also introduces students to the latest genetic tools and technologies, providing a solid foundation for conducting genetic research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Medical Geneticist

Medical Geneticists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and management of genetic disorders. This Genetics course would be very useful for those aspiring to be Medical Geneticists as it explores the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures, providing a solid foundation for understanding the principles of medical genetics.

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Bioinformatics Analyst

Bioinformatics Analysts use computational tools to analyze large datasets of genetic information. This Genetics course would be very useful for those aspiring to be Bioinformatics Analysts as it explores the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures. The course also introduces students to the latest genetic tools and technologies, providing a solid foundation for conducting bioinformatics analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Bioinformatics Analyst

Genetic Technologist

Genetic Technologists assist with the analysis of genetic material, under the supervision of a geneticist. They also perform laboratory tests to detect mutations that may be responsible for genetic disorders. This Genetics course would be very useful for those aspiring to be Genetic Technologists as it explores the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures. This course will also assist candidates in understanding the patterns and driving forces of genetic variation within and between human populations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Genetic Technologist

Genetic Counselor

Genetic Counselors have a central role in medicine, working with patients with or at risk for genetic disorders to determine whether they wish to undergo genetic testing, interpreting the results of DNA tests, and providing genetic counseling to help them understand the results. They may also order or perform laboratory tests to detect inherited conditions, and counsel for lifestyle changes or medical interventions to reduce genetic risks. This Genetics course explores the content of genomes, quantitative methods for studying traits, and the impact of genetics on population structures. It is particularly helpful for gaining an understanding of population genetics and genetic variation within and between human populations. This would be useful for Genetic Counselors who wish to learn more about applying population genetics to the field of genetic counseling.

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Biostatistician

Biostatisticians apply statistical methods to biological data to solve research questions in the biomedical sciences. This Genetics course would be helpful for Biostatisticians who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the statistical methods used to analyze genetic data.

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Genetic Counselor Assistant

Genetic Counselor Assistants provide administrative and technical support to Genetic Counselors. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Genetic Counselor Assistants who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the role of Genetic Counselors in patient care.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers are responsible for teaching science to students at various levels of education. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Science Teachers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of genetics, particularly in the field of population genetics and human traits. The course also emphasizes the importance of scientific thinking skills, which is essential for Science Teachers.

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Clinical Research Coordinator

Clinical Research Coordinators assist with the design, implementation, and management of clinical trials. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Clinical Research Coordinators who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the clinical research process.

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Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technicians perform tests and experiments in laboratories, using specialized equipment and techniques to analyze samples and collect data. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Laboratory Technicians who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the laboratory techniques used to analyze genetic data.

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Science Writer

Science Writers are responsible for translating complex scientific information into clear and accessible language for the general public. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Science Writers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of genetics, particularly in the field of population genetics and human traits. The course also emphasizes the importance of communicating science effectively, which is essential for Science Writers.

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Physician Assistant

Physician Assistants are responsible for providing medical care to patients, under the supervision of a physician. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Physician Assistants who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the impact of genetics on patient care.

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Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers apply engineering principles to solve problems in the medical field. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Biomedical Engineers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the engineering tools and technologies used to develop new medical treatments and devices.

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Health Policy Analyst

Health Policy Analysts are responsible for analyzing and developing policies that affect the health of individuals and populations. This Genetics course would be useful for those aspiring to be Health Policy Analysts who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the genetic basis of human traits and diseases, as well as the impact of genetics on health policy.

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