Unit information: Personal Genomics and the Population Laboratory in 2018/19

Unit name	Personal Genomics and the Population Laboratory
Unit code	SSCM30006
Credit points	10
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Richmond
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	This is part of an intercalated BSc for Medical, Veterinary or Dental students
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Bristol Medical School
Faculty	Faculty of Health Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

Genomics in the population, including study design and data collection in genetic epidemiology; population and ancestral genetics; human evolution and its implications in the clinic; commercial genomic profiles, interpreting genomic self-screening, how people respond to genomic information; importance of gene-environment interactions and correlation

Intended Learning Outcomes

After this component of the course, student will be able to:

1. Critically evaluate study designs for genetics in human population cohorts
2. Discuss emerging approaches to phenotyping
3. Understand concepts from population genetics and human evolution, with particular relevance to the clinic
4. Critically evaluate personal genetic profiles, as supplied by personal genomics companies
5. Discuss the gene-environment correlations and interactions
6. Discuss and communicate the ethical implications of collecting genetic data on a personal and population scale

Teaching Information

Methods of Teaching

This unit will be delivered in the form of workshops using a variety of methods including interactive lectures, presentations, debates and seminars.

Student Input

15 contact hours, 5 hours coursework, half of a 3-hour exam, 75 hours independent study

Assessment Information

70% of the unit is assessed through an end of year examination (one half of the three hour exam 'Written Paper 2', composed of short answer questions and essays).

30% of the unit is assessed through an in-unit oral presentation.

Reading and References

Lewin – Genes XI - 2013

Strachan and Read – Human Molecular Genetics – 4th Edition - 2010