This course will systematically treat the foundations of population genetics. First, the five factors affecting dynamics of within-population genetic variability will be introduced: mutation, selection, mode of reproduction, population structure, and genetic drift. After this, we will consider interactions of these factors and will discuss applications of formal models to understanding processes in real populations. An inverse problem of inferring parameters of mutation, selection, and drift from the dynamics of a population will be addressed briefly. Finally, we will review quantitative genetics and the issue of evolution of the basic properties of populations, such as mutation rates and modes of reproduction.

Course Requirements:

Evaluation will be based on quizzes, six assignments and one term paper.

Intended Audience:

This course is intended for students in their junior or senior year, and other qualified and interested students are welcome.

Class Format:

There are two lectures per week at 1-1/2 hour each.