Functional Genomics

This course provides practical and theoretical skills concerning classical as well as new large-scale and technology-driven approaches in today's molecular biology, and knowledge to evaluate when and how such methods are best put into use. Genome sequencing and analyses at the whole-genome level (genomics) are covered in depth, including different sequencing techniques and strategies, comparative genomics and metagenomics. The course covers methods for studying global genome output, such as RNA (transcriptomics), proteins (proteomics), and different classes of metabolites (metabolomics). The course also covers forward and reverse genetics and the use of model organisms. Ethical aspects of genetics and genomics will be discussed as well. The course includes lectures, laboratory sessions and seminars. During the course, each student performs a literature study related to the course content, presented orally and in a written summary, with structured feedback as part of the communication training at the faculty. Site visits to local biotech companies and/or functional genomics-related platforms are arranged, to provide examples of how functional genomics methods are applied.