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701-1413-00L 3 Credits BSC , MSC D-USYS , D-BIOL
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Population and Quantitative Genetics

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Thomas Städler, Dr. Tadeas Jan Priklopil
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:41

Abstract

This course is an introduction to the rapidly developing fields of population and quantitative genetics, emphasizing the major concepts and ideas over mathematical formalism. An overview is given of how mutation, genetic drift, gene flow, mating systems, and selection affect the genetic structure of populations. Evolutionary processes affecting quantitative and Mendelian characters are discussed.

Objective

Students are able to - describe types and sources of genetic variation. - describe fundamental concepts and methods of quantitative genetics. - use basic mathematical formalism to describe major population genetic concepts. - discuss the main topics and developments in population and quantitative genetics. - model population genetic processes using specific computer programs.

Content

Population Genetics: Types and sources of genetic variation; randomly mating populations and the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; effects of inbreeding; natural selection; random genetic drift and effective population size; gene flow and hierarchical population structure; molecular population genetics: neutral theory of molecular evolution and basics of coalescent theory. Quantitative Genetics: Continuous variation; measurement of quant. characters; genes, environments and their interactions; measuring their influence; response to selection; inbreeding and crossbreeding, effects on fitness; Fisher's fundamental theorem.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts

Literature

Hamilton, M.B. 2009. Population Genetics. Wiley-Blackwell, Chichester, U.K.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
Benutzung eines zweisprachigen Lexikons möglich.Use of a bilingual dictionary possible.
Digital
The exam takes place on devices provided by ETH Zurich.
Digitale schriftliche Prüfung unter Benutzung gestellter Computer mit eingebauter Rechner-Funktion.Digital written exam using provided computers with built-in calculator function.Prüfungsfragen sowohl in Deutsch als auch in Englisch.Exam questions will be provided in German and English.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Population and Quantitative Genetics
  • Mon 14:15-16:00 (HG D 7.2)
2 h weekly

Offered In