Genetics Course Catalog

ANSCI/DYSCI/GENETICS 951: Seminar in Animal Breeding

Credits unavailable

ANSCI/GENETICS/POPHLTH 849: Genomic Epidemiology

Credits unavailable

An introduction to genomic epidemiology, including a general overview of genetics and Mendelian and complex inheritance, as well as various elements of study design, such as participant ascertainment; phenotype definition; biologic sample selection; genotyping, sequencing, and quality control; measurement of covariates; and choice of analytic methods. Briefly covers original study designs; focuses on current study designs.

BIOCHEM/BME/BMI/CBE/COMPSCI/GENETICS 915: Computation and Informatics in Biology and Medicine

1 credits

Participants and outside speakers will discuss current research in computation and informatics in biology and medicine. This seminar is required of all CIBM program trainees.

BIOCHEM/BOTANY/GENETICS 840: Regulatory Mechanisms in Plant Development

Credits unavailable

Molecular mechanisms whereby endogenous and environmental regulatory factors control development; emphasis on stimulus perception and primary events in the signal chain leading to modulated gene expression and cellular development.

BIOCHEM/GENETICS 631: Plant Genetics and Development

3 credits

Covers the basic concepts of genetics and genomics as applied to plants and their development, including discussions on breeding systems (modes of reproduction, sex determination, self incompatibility and crossing barriers), linkage analysis, genome structure and function (structure, function and evolution of nuclear and organellar chromosomes; haploidy and polyploidy; expression regulation and epigenetics), along with a description of current methodologies used in the analysis of these processes within the context of plant development. The objective is to instigate a broader knowledge and understanding of the principles and methodologies used in plant genetics and their applications in investigations of the molecular mechanisms that modulate plant development.

BIOCHEM/GENETICS/MDGENET 620: Eukaryotic Molecular Biology

Credits unavailable

Focuses on the basic molecular mechanisms that regulate DNA, RNA, and protein metabolism in eukaryotic organisms.

BIOCHEM/GENETICS/MICROBIO 612: Prokaryotic Molecular Biology

3 credits

Molecular basis of bacterial physiology and genetics with emphasis on molecular mechanisms; topics include nucleic acid-protein interactions, transcription, translation, replication, recombination, regulation of gene expression.

BIOLOGY/GENETICS 522: Communicating Evolutionary Biology

2–3 credits

Exposure to diverse topics in contemporary evolutionary biology and development of critical thinking and communication skills. Most weeks guest lecturers present their own primary research on a specialized topic in evolutionary biology. Seminars include perspectives from genetics, ecology, geoscience, zoology, botany, microbiology, systematics, molecular biology, and integrative research. Some weeks feature special topics and discussions on pedagogical, legal, outreach, or other issues in evolutionary biology. Includes thinking critically about methodology, experimental design and interpretation, and how conclusions are reached in evolutionary biology by reading primary and secondary literature, attending seminars, discussing topics with speakers and other students, and preparing a written report. The 3-credit version of the course delves deeper into communication of evolutionary biology to researchers, undergraduates, K-12 students, and the general public.

BOTANY/ENTOM/GENETICS/ZOOLOGY 820: Foundations of Evolution

2 credits

Explore some of the most important themes and debates that have permeated evolutionary biology over the last 50 years. Read key papers related to each controversial topic, debate the pros and cons of competing viewpoints, and reflect on the relevance of the issue to contemporary evolutionary biology.

BOTANY/GENETICS/MM&I/PLPATH 655: Biology and Genetics of Fungi

3 credits

Fungal genetics, genomics, and physiology using plant pathogenic fungi and the genetic models Aspergillus nidulans and Neurospora crassa as model systems to explore the current knowledge of fungal genetics and plant/fungal interactions.

CHEM/GENETICS 626: Genomic Science

Credits unavailable

Brings cutting-edge topics in the genomic sciences into the reach of those in chemistry, biology, engineering, computer science statistics fields. Enables biologically-oriented students to deal with advances in analytical science so that they may incorporate new genomic science concepts into their own scientific repertoires.

CRB/GENETICS 710: Developmental Genetics

3 credits

Covers a broad range of topics in animal development, with an emphasis on molecular mechanisms. Focuses on common themes, with the goal of understanding and analyzing current research in developmental biology and genetics.

ENTOM/GENETICS/ZOOLOGY 624: Molecular Ecology

Credits unavailable

Basic principles of molecular ecology. Lecture topics include population genetics, molecular phylogenetics, rates and patterns of evolution, genome evolution, and molecular ecology.

GENETICS 133: Genetics in the News

3 credits

The science of genetics is at the heart of many issues facing our society, and as such, genetics is often in the news. Explores the underlying genetics and methodologies to gain a deeper understanding of the science behind the headlines so that we can make more informed decisions as citizens, and you can be part of a movement to help educate those around you.

GENETICS 155: Freshman Seminar in Genetics

1 credits

Introduction to the discipline of genetics, to the UW Laboratory of Genetics, to some of the research projects the faculty are pursuing, to resources available at UW-Madison, and to the career options open to an individual with a genetics undergraduate degree.

GENETICS 234: Genomes and Society

3 credits

The sequencing of genomes has transformed our understanding of the evolution of species and human history, our approaches to improve health and medicine, as well as how we tackle global environmental challenges. Explore the many ways in which the sequencing of genomes is revolutionizing our world, and dive into DNA from viral to human genomes. Understand how genomes are expressed, the impact on phenotype, as well as how it can change over time and in different conditions, are processes that are essential for life and the evolution of species.

GENETICS 289: Honors Independent Study

1–2 credits

Research work for Honors students under direct guidance of a faculty member in an area encompassing Genetics. Students are responsible for arranging the work and credits with the supervising instructor.

GENETICS 299: Independent Study

1–3 credits

Research work for students under direct guidance of a faculty member in an area encompassing Genetics. Students are responsible for arranging the work and credits with the supervising instructor.

GENETICS 335: Genomes in a Modern World

3 credits

The ability to sequence genomes rapidly has transformed our understanding of the evolution of species and human history, our approaches to improve health and medicine, as well as how we tackle global environmental challenges, and increasingly impacts our modern world. Explore the interdisciplinary connections between genetics- and genomics-based research and important current questions related to ethics, history, and public policy.

GENETICS 375: Special Topics

1–4 credits

Specialized subject matter of current interest to undergraduate students.

GENETICS 399: Coordinative Internship/cooperative Education

1–8 credits

An internship under guidance of a faculty or instructional academic staff member in Genetics and internship site supervisor. Students are responsible for arranging the work and credits with the faculty or instructional academic staff member and the internship site supervisor.

GENETICS 400: Study Abroad in Genetics

Credits unavailable

A study abroad equivalency that does not equate to a UW-Madison course. Requires current enrollment in a UW-Madison sponsored study abroad program.

GENETICS 466: Principles of Genetics

3 credits

Genetics in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Includes transmission genetics, molecular genetics, evolutionary genetics, genetic engineering, and societal issues associated with genetics. Illustrative material includes bacteria, plants, insects, and vertebrates.

GENETICS 467: General Genetics 1

3 credits

Genetics of eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Includes transmission genetics, probability and hypothesis testing, genetic mapping, molecular genetics, gene expression, and genetic engineering. Illustrative material includes viruses, bacteria, plants, fungi, insects, and humans.

GENETICS 468: General Genetics 2

Credits unavailable

Genetic analysis, population genetics, evolution and quantitative genetics. Includes mutant screens, pathway analysis, mosaic analysis, reverse genetics, genomics, Hardy-Weinberg linkage equilibrium, inbreeding, genetic drift, natural selection, population structure, inheritance of complex traits, domestication and human evolution.

GENETICS 520: Neurogenetics

3 credits

The genetic basis of nervous system development, structure, function, and dysfunction. Will emphasize both current research findings on the genetic basis of specific neurological disorders, as well as genetic methodologies and experimental approaches used in neurobiological research.

GENETICS 525: Epigenetics

3 credits

Introductory course in epigenetics - the layer of chemical information that sits on top of the genome - that switch genes 'on' or 'off'. Will introduce how the epigenome, in collaboration with the genome, controls versatile biological processes and cell fates. Will also cover the latest advances of how humans can control their own epigenetic destiny by lifestyle, diet, and other environmental factors.

GENETICS 527: Developmental Genetics for Conservation and Regeneration

3 credits

Human-induced factors such as changes in land use and global climate are causing rapid worldwide biodiversity loss. Can modern molecular genetics contribute to species preservation? In this course, we will first explore the challenges and potential of molecular genetic methods based on biobanking, gene editing and nuclear transfer for animal biodiversity preservation. Topics covered will include: i) maternal factors and early animal development, ii) interspecies somatic cell nuclear transfer (isSCNT) and oocyte-mediated reprogramming in animal cloning, iii) developmental, phylogenetic and ecological considerations for biobanking, iv) gene editing and synthetic biology as potential tools to recapture biodiversity. Use knowledge in animal population status, developmental genetics and phylogeny to address real-life problems involving the conservation of threatened animal populations.

GENETICS 528: Study Abroad: International Field Study in Animal Biodiversity

Credits unavailable

A study abroad equivalency for a hands-on experience in genetics and animal biodiversity that does not equate to a UW-Madison course. Requires current enrollment in a UW-Madison sponsored study abroad program.

GENETICS 545: Genetics Laboratory

2 credits

Gain practical experience in classical and molecular genetic laboratory techniques using plants, animals, and fungi. Topics include complementation and linkage analysis, gene mapping, library screening, yeast and bacterial transformation, restriction analysis, PCR, sequencing, and Southern blot analysis.

GENETICS 548: The Genomic Revolution

Credits unavailable

Profound advances are now possible thanks to genomic data and analysis. Introduces the structure, function, and evolution of genomes. It also outlines the realized and prospective benefits of genomic technology for human health, agriculture, and conservation.

GENETICS 564: Genomics and Proteomics

Credits unavailable

The basic principles of genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics will be taught through a semester-long project of the students choosing. Creative problem solving in science skills will be learned through a variety of active-learning techniques that include: reading of primary literature, group presentations, peer review, bioinformatic lab exercises, science communication skills (writing visualization), and creating a website. Emphasis will be placed upon how to effectively communicate science (written, oral and written). Topics include: genomic sequencing, phylogeny, domain analysis, transcriptomics, CRISPR screens, chemical genomics, quantitative proteomics and protein networks. Capstone course.

GENETICS 566: Advanced Genetics

Credits unavailable

Principles of classical and modern genetic analysis taught through readings in the scientific literature and group projects. Capstone course.

GENETICS 567: Companion Research Seminar

1 credits

Student-led discussions on scientific, societal, and professional topics relevant to Senior research and selected original research presentations.

GENETICS 588: Immunogenetics

3 credits

Explores the interaction between genetics and the immune system. Examines the genetic mechanisms that drive the immunological and clinical differences observed between individuals when confronted with the same environment of immunological insults, such as COVID-19, influenza, allergies and cancer. Stresses clinical and research perspectives and their societal implications.

GENETICS 605: Clinical Cases in Medical Genetics

Credits unavailable

The use of genetics in medicine has experienced significant growth over the past 50 years, identifying risk genes, and devising diagnostic tests and therapies based on this knowledge for specific clinical disorders such as cystic fibrosis, achondroplasia, and Retts syndrome. MDs and biomedical scientists from UW Hospital and Clinics, the School of Medicine and Public Health, and other UW units will present lectures in this field followed by question-answers sessions. Other class sessions will be devoted to student presentations and open discussion of research literature.

GENETICS 627: Animal Developmental Genetics

Credits unavailable

Advanced genetics course focusing on genetic mechanisms of animal embryonic development, with particular emphasis on central molecular circuitries that control development and genetic analytical tools used to reveal them. Address topics including maternal and epigenetic inheritance, the egg-to-embryo transition, pattern formation, organogenesis, coordination of cellular and molecular mechanisms, and animal models of human congenital disorders.

GENETICS 633: Population Genetics

Credits unavailable

Preparation for initiating research in the population genetics field. Explore how genetic variation is influenced by mutation and recombination, population size changes and migration, and natural selection for or against new mutations.

GENETICS 681: Senior Honors Thesis

2–4 credits

Individual study for majors completing theses for Honors degrees as arranged with a faculty member.

GENETICS 682: Senior Honors Thesis

2–4 credits

Individual study for majors completing theses for Honors degrees as arranged with a faculty member.

GENETICS 695: Advancing to Biological Sciences Phd Study

1 credits

Explore the biological science PhD student experience, from the initial stages of consideration through applications and interviews, to graduate student life and career opportunities. Reflect on personal goals and the nature of graduate study to confirm that a research-focused PhD is right for you. Consider whether to apply this year or later on, in light of admissions expectations and personal readiness. Identify research areas, PhD programs, and prospective advisors of interest. Improve application materials, strengthen interview skills, and consider individual priorities for selecting a program.

GENETICS 699: Special Problems

1–3 credits

Individual advanced work in an area of Genetics under the direct guidance of a faculty member.

GENETICS 701: Advanced Genetics

2 credits

Professional level training in genetic mechanisms and analysis, with particular emphasis on genetic transmission and genetic variation, and connections with other areas of genetics.

GENETICS 702: Advanced Genetics II

Credits unavailable

Second of semester of professional level training in genetic mechanisms and analysis as applied to genetic transmission, gene expression, forward and revese genetics, molecular genetics, genonmics, developmental genetics, and epigenetics.

GENETICS 705: Foundations of Genetics Research

Credits unavailable

Provides support, processes, and tools for advancing graduate research and refining individual research topics. Adjust and refine goals of a research topic to maximize the impact of doctoral research and learn how to navigate the shifting landscape of research throughout doctoral studies. Boost emerging graduate research plans by gaining operations skills in independent knowledge acquisition and technical skills in basic computational biology. Activities include shaping a research question, identifying barriers in the research process, building a reference bibliography of relevant background literature, using databases and other electronic resources that inform research, and operating basic tools to determine gene function.

GENETICS 707: Frontiers in Genetics Research

1 credits

Discuss contemporary issues in genetic, developmental, cell, and molecular biology with visiting speakers/professionals in the field.

GENETICS 708: Methods and Logic in Genetic Analysis

3 credits

A research-level analysis of the current research forefronts in genetic, developmental, cell, and molecular biology. Engage with research lectures on current developments in the field. Reading material is taken from the primary literature. Focuses on evaluating genetic approaches to biological questions.

GENETICS 805: Professional Development and Responsible Conduct of Genetics Research

Credits unavailable

Development of skills necessary for success in doctoral study, including professional standards and expectations for ethical research. Topics in professional development include mental health in graduate education, individual development planning, and transitions to self-directed learning. Ethics instruction addresses conflicts of interest, collaborative research, peer review, data acquisition and management, and research misconduct. All National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommended topics for Responsible Conduct of Research are covered.

GENETICS 807: Quantitative Research and Rigor in Genetics

Credits unavailable

Combines review of key statistical concepts needed for genetics research with discussions of contemporary debates and common pitfalls in the application of quantitative methods specific to genetics research. Use statistical software to explore and apply statistics to genetic inference, with an emphasis on computationally intensive methods, including group coding exercises and case studies of genetics problems. Engage with contemporary ideas around study design, transparency, rigor and reproducibility in genetics research.

GENETICS 808: From Genes to Grants: Writing Winning Research Proposals in Genetics

2 credits

Introduction to professional scientific writing in the field of genetics. Develop skills and expertise in scientific writing with a special emphasis on preparing grant and fellowship research proposals in genetics and genomics.

GENETICS 875: Special Topics

Credits unavailable

Special topics of current interest to graduate students.

GENETICS 885: Advanced Genomic and Proteomic Analysis

3 credits

With the availability of genome sequences and high-throughput techniques, organismal physiology can now be examined on a global scale by monitoring the behavior of all genes or proteins in a single experiment. This course will present modern techniques in genomics and proteomics, with particular focus on analyzing the data generated by these techniques. Course material will cover genomic sequencing, comparative sequence analysis, phylogeny construction and phylogenomics, transcription factor motif discovery, DNA microarray analysis, techniques in mass spectrometry, proteomic screening methods, and protein-interaction network analysis. In addition to lecture time, the course includes computer lab where students get hands-on experience analyzing genomic and proteomic datasets. Students should have coursework in general statistics and intermediate or advanced genetics.

GENETICS 990: Research

1–12 credits

Independent laboratory research in preparation of a graduate thesis under supervision of a faculty member.

GENETICS 993: Seminar in Genetics

Credits unavailable

Various aspects of genetics: Drosophila, maize, immunogenetics, developmental genetics, or other special topics.

GENETICS/MDGENET 565: Human Genetics

3 credits

Principles, problems, and methods of modern human genetics. Focuses on how researchers discover the genetics of diseases and how those discoveries are used to improve clinical practice. Surveys aspects of (i) the molecular function of the human genome, (ii) the basic principles of human genetics including statistical genetics, quantitative genetics, and genomic variation in human populations, (iii) the genetics of rare disorders and common diseases, and genomic analysis approaches, including genome-wide association studies and sequencing, and (iv) how genetics are used in medicine and discussions covering ethical considerations of human genomic data.

GENETICS/MDGENET 662: Cancer Genetics

Credits unavailable

Focuses on the genetic basis by which cancer manifests. Provides a comprehensive overview of how cancer is generated as a result of abnormalities at the DNA level, paying special attention to oncogenes, tumor suppressors, DNA mutations, DNA repair mechanisms, chromosomal instability, and tumor heterogeneity. Stresses the role of the immune system in combating cancer, the phenomenon of cancer resistance, anti-tumor strategies, and epigenetic influences on tumorigenesis. Highlights connections between course material and clinical relevance.

GENETICS/MDGENET 677: Advanced Topics in Genetics

1–3 credits

Contents vary; consideration of subjects not included in the curriculum.

GENETICS/MDGENET/POPHLTH 636: Public Health Genomics

Credits unavailable

Provides an introduction to public health genomics through a review of fundamental principles of genetics, the use of genetic information in clinical and research settings, and its implications for disease management and prevention, and health promotion. Explores policies that guide public health and discusses current ethical, legal, and social implications of these policies.

GENETICS/NEURODPT 650: Functional Genomics of Brain Disorders

Credits unavailable

Functional genomics methods (RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, Hi-C, ChIP-seq, Tag, etc.) and their applications in the study of molecular and cellular mechanisms governing brain development, evolution, and neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Overview of relevant aspects of Genetics and Neuroscience, including genomic approaches for gene discovery for human disorders and key properties of brain cells and circuit development. Bioinformatic approaches for analyzing genome-scale data sets. Critical consideration of experimental design and analysis strategies through reading and discussion of primary research literature and the development of an original research proposal. Emphasis will be placed upon how to effectively communicate science (written and oral).

GENETICS/PLANTSCI 615: Genetic Mapping

Credits unavailable

Computing-intensive preparation for genetic mapping research, including linkage analysis and QTL mapping in designed crosses; linkage disequilibrium and association analysis (GWAS).

Genetics course catalog