Lectures focus on how genetic variation is created and how genes are passed from generation to generation. As well as a broad introduction to the subject, the course aims to promote discussion about the current and future application of the human genome project, genomic data and genomic editing in the medical field. Students also gain experience in lab work, data interpretation and presentation and the course includes visits to local research institutions to learn more about the practical side of research.
Watch a short video featuring course tutor, Dr Maya Ghoussaini.
What will I be studying?
The course is taught through three termly units, each having its own topic. The Saturday day-schools take place in Cambridge, with the first taking place at Madingley Hall, the headquarters of the Institute of Continuing Education, on 13 October 2018. The other teaching sessions use a range of venues in addition to Madingley Hall, including the Science Education Centre, the Pharmacology Department and the Strangeways Research Laboratory.
Unit 1: DNA, the stuff our genes are made of
5 Saturday day-schools on Saturdays, 13 October 2018, 20 October 2018, 03 November 2018, 10 November 2018 and 24 November 2018.
This unit aims to introduce the core concepts of what genes are and how they work, enabling students to appreciate the transfer of information from DNA to living cells. Practical work in the laboratory will allow students to observe cell structure and to appreciate how DNA can be handled and manipulated in the laboratory.
Unit 2: From genes to genomes
4 Saturday day-schools on Saturdays 19 January 2019, 26 January 2019, 02 February 2019, 16 March 2019.
The second unit explores some of the many areas of active whole genome research which followed on from the Human Genome Project and led to an unprecedented transformation in our understanding of human diseases and medical practices. We explain how genetic variation across the human genome can be used to study susceptibility to diseases and the role of epigenetics in gene expression and disease. We focus particularly on cancer and explain how we are currently using genome editing technologies to edit the genome of cells grown in the lab, in the hope of curing hereditary diseases in the future.
Unit 3: Genetics: past, present and future
5 Saturday day-schools on Saturdays, 11 May 2019, 18 May 2019, 25 May 2019, 01 June 2019, 08 June 2019
This unit introduces the theory of evolution and the science behind the inheritance of specific characteristics, by considering how genes are passed on from generation to generation and how characteristics are influenced by genes and the environment. It includes practical sessions exploring recombinant gene and protein expression and also discusses the potential of genetic manipulation. You will be given the opportunity during this term to present on a topic of your own interest in the broad area of genetics.
What can I go on to do?
If you wish, you may develop your studies by taking the Certificate in Evolutionary Biology, which can be combined with the Certificate in Genetics to make the award of the Certificate of Higher Education in Genetics and Evolution. Alternatively, you may choose to deepen your study by taking the Diploma in Evolutionary Biology. Please see the Biological and life sciences webpage.
In addition, we are the process of developing a range of new undergraduate courses in the biological sciences including courses exploring immunology, infection and a more in-depth study of genetics.