BIOCB 4910

Quantitative Approaches to Population Genetics

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This course covers the latest development and cutting-edge research topics in population genetics, aiming to enable students to perform research in population genetics. The first part will cover coalescent theory and inference involving complex demography. The second part will discuss natural selection and methods for inferring selection. We will allude to the complexity of demographic history and natural selection and their importance in explaining genomic patterns. The third part will introduce new data types and the challenges and opportunities with these data. We will dive into genotype likelihood and will emphasize the importance of simulation in population genetics. The course will be mostly delivered through lecturing, each interspersed with short conversations about reading assignments. Coursework involves reading literature, solving problem sets, and a course project.

Prerequisites STSCI 2100 or STSCI 2150 or MATH 1710 or permission of instructor.

Distribution Requirements (BIO-AG, BSC-AG, DLS-AG, MQL-AG)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2026SP, 2025SP, 2024SP, 2023SP

Learning Outcomes

• Derive, compute, and interpret population genetic statistics grounded in coalescent and other evolutionary theories, and relate these quantities to observable patterns of genetic data.
• Apply population genetic models and inference frameworks to analyze genetic datasets, formulate and test evolutionary hypotheses, and draw evidence-based conclusions.
• Design and implement forward- and backward-in-time simulations (e.g., using tools such as SLiM and msprime) that incorporate key evolutionary processes, including mutation, recombination, migration, genetic drift, and natural selection.
• Conduct rigorous statistical analyses of simulated and empirical data, evaluate model fit, and interpret results in the context of evolutionary questions.
• Critically assess the assumptions, limitations, and appropriate use of analytical methods and published findings in population genetics.
• Communicate quantitative and evolutionary concepts effectively through clear written, oral, and visual scientific presentations.

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