BIOS 659 - Molecular Evolution & Phylogenetics

Course Description

Molecular Evolution & Phylogenetics is a graduate-level course emphasizing both the theory and practice of reconstructing evolutionary history using molecular data. We will explore:

1. The major approaches to evolutionary reconstruction and hypothesis testing.
2. The historical phylogenetic controversies and philosophical arguments.
3. Various models of evolution for inferring rates of substitutions.
4. Estimating and using molecular clocks to test hypotheses about divergence times, rates, etc, and recent controversies surrounding molecular clocks.
5. Using relative substitution rates to test hypotheses about the activity of Darwinian and purifying selection.
6. Various approaches to determining the accuracy and robustness of evolutionary reconstructions (bootstrapping, statistical tests, etc).
7. Genetic polymorphism and population trees.
8. Computational approaches: Using computer tools (desktop and cluster-based) in evolutionary reconstructions.

Molecular Evolution & Phylogenetics will feature an interactive lecture format with guest presentations, hands-on demonstrations, and an emphasis on applying new knowledge to novel explorations of your data.

Course Materials

• Complete Syllabus
• Course Schedule
• Assignments