About this course

BIO322 introduces how genome-scale variation drives biological differences across species, among individuals within populations, and between cells in an organism. The course focuses on evolutionary, regulatory, and molecular mechanisms, as well as computational approaches used to analyze and interpret complex genomics data.

The course includes weekly lectures and group-based exercises. Lectures provide conceptual introductions to key topics, while weekly group tasks give students hands-on experience with real genomic data, analytical methods, and interpretation of results. Individual contributions within group work are documented.

Assessment consists of weekly tasks, quizzes, and a final hypothetical research proposal, through which students develop the ability to formulate and address biologically meaningful questions using genomics.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE: At the end of the course, students will have knowledge about how genomic data from different species, between different individuals of the same species, and between different cells within an organism can be used to gain insight into biological phenomena. This will include conceptual principles specific to these three levels, along with methods and approaches and exposure to what kind of questions can be addressed at each level.

SKILLS: At the end of the course students should be able to design experiments, choose and prepare methods for analysing data, and be able to make a critical interpretation of results from such analyses.

GENERAL COMPETENCE: The student must have a good overview of both the possibilities and challenges of using genomics data to provide biological insight, so that he or she can make independent assessments of new methods and technologies in the future.

  • Learning activities

    The course is divided into four main modules:

    1. Genomic evolution between species
    2. Genomic variation between individuals
    3. Genomic regulation within an individual
    4. Research project (group work)

    Each module includes a mix of theoretical lectures and mandatory hands-on exercises every week.

    At the end of each of the first three modules, there is a quiz on Canvas, which can be taken multiple times. Students must score at least 80% to pass each module.

    In Module 4, students will work in groups to develop a research project proposal. This includes a presentation where they receive feedback, followed by the submission of a written report.

  • Teaching support

    Self-Learning Guides for each lecture will be available before the first lecture.

    Lecture materials will be uploaded to Canvas. There will be four QA sessions for report writing, two in the middle of the semester and two towards the end. Questions can be asked during lectures or sent by email.

  • Syllabus

    Course materials directly linked to mandatory quizzes (Quiz 1-3 and final quiz)

  • Prerequisites

    BIO210 and/or BIO200.

    This course requires basic knowledge of molecular biology and genetics, including the structure and function of DNA, RNA, and proteins, as well as fundamental principles of genetic inheritance and mutations. Basic understanding of probability distributions, p-values, and statistics is necessary. Basic bioinformatics skills in R are required.

    Group work starts early, so students should register for the course as soon as possible.

  • Recommended prerequisites

    STIN100

    It is recommended that students have knowledge of population genetics, including Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, genetic drift, and selection. Additionally, a basic understanding of genomic analyses such as genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and GWAS is beneficial. Familiarity with functional analyses such as CRISPR, RNA sequencing, and Hi-C analysis will help in following the course more smoothly.

  • Assessment method

    To pass the course, students must(1) submit the weekly group assignments, with documented individual contributions,(2) pass Quiz 1-3 and the final quiz, and(3) submit the final project report and participate in the final project presentation. Portfolio assessment. Karakterregel: Passed/Not Passed

    1. Weekly Assignment (Module 1 - 3)

    Each week, students must submit their exercises in groups on Canvas. The goal is not perfection but engagement and effort. Students are encouraged to attempt the exercises to the best of their ability. If they encounter difficulties, they may include comments such as: "We got this far but don’t fully understand" or "We encountered this error." These submissions will not be penalized for being incomplete, as long as there is a demonstrated effort. Model answers will be provided after the deadline to allow students to compare their work and identify areas for improvement.

    2. Integrated Quizzes (Module 1 - 3 and final)

    At the end of each module, students will take a quiz available on Canvas. These quizzes serve both as a review and as an assessment of understanding. To ensure mastery of key concepts, quizzes can be attempted multiple times, allowing students to improve their scores through repeated engagement. A passing score of at least 80% is required for each module's quiz. This system encourages continuous learning and provides opportunities for students to identify and address gaps in their understanding.

    3. Final Group Project (Module 4)

    In the final module, students will work in groups to develop a research project proposal, applying the theories and techniques learned throughout the course. Each group will collaborate to select a research question, either from a provided list of topics or by proposing their own.

    The final proposal should be 2-3 pages in length. Minor deviations are permitted, though conciseness is encouraged. A clearly defined hypothesis will facilitate the structuring of methods and analysis. The proposal must include a clear Materials and Methods section describing how data will be collected and analyzed. In addition, students should discuss expected results, considering both potential findings that support the hypothesis and alternative outcomes that do not.

    The project concludes with both a written submission and an oral group presentation. Presentations will take place over two days. Each group is required to evaluate the presentations of two other groups. Attendance on both presentation days is mandatory.



    Portfolio Karakterregel: Passed / Not Passed

  • About use of AI

    K2 - Specified use of AI

    Students are allowed to use artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with coding and language refinement, but all AI-generated content must be critically reviewed by the student.

    The final quality and accuracy of the work are the student’s responsibility, and AI-generated content must not be simply copied and submitted without evaluation. AI should be viewed as a support tool, not a replacement for personal effort and academic judgment.

    Descriptions of AI-category codes.

  • Mandatory activity

    Group Work & Attendance Policy

    For all group assignments and the final project, students must document each member’s contributions to ensure accountability. Attendance is not mandatory; however, students are responsible for ensuring that their absence does not negatively affect their group’s progress. Group members are expected to communicate effectively and coordinate their responsibilities independently.

    Attendance does not affect the evaluation, but students are expected to attend regularly to stay updated on lecture content and announcements.

  • Notes

    If there are fewer than 6 students, the course will be given with an alternative teaching plan.

  • Teaching hours

    Structured teaching time includes lectures, supervised exercise sessions, Q&A sessions, and final project presentations. During exercise sessions, instructors are present to provide guidance, answer questions, and support group-based work. These activities constitute the formally scheduled teaching components of the course.

  • Admission requirements

    By enrolling in this course, students acknowledge that they have read and understood the syllabus. If any aspects require clarification, students are encouraged to ask at the beginning of the semester. The course structure and requirements will remain as stated and cannot be modified based on individual preferences. However, exceptions may be considered in cases of exceptional and well-documented circumstances, such as severe illness or injury requiring hospitalization, the loss of a close family member, legal obligations (e.g., court appearances), or other critical personal situations that significantly impact a student’s ability to complete the course. In such cases, students should contact the instructor as soon as possible to discuss potential accommodations.