Skip to main content
Home

Information for:

  • Alumni
  • Applicants
  • Current Students
  • Staff
  • Parents
  • Job Vacancies
  • Covid-19
  • Cymraeg
My country:

Main Menu

    • Study Options
      • Study Home
      • Why Study at Bangor?
      • Undergraduate Study
      • Postgraduate Taught Study
      • Postgraduate Research
      • Part-time Courses
      • January Start Courses
      • Degree Apprenticeships
      • Study Abroad
      • Work Experience
    • Study Advice
      • Apply
      • Already Applied?
      • Fees and Finances
      • Scholarships and Bursaries
      • Get Ready for University
    • Explore Bangor
      • Open Days and Visits
      • Virtual Student Experience

    Find a Course

    Order a Prospectus

    • Student Life
      • Student Life Home
      • Bangor and the Area
      • Social Life and Entertainment
      • Accommodation
      • Clubs and Societies
      • Sport
      • Virtual Student Experience
    • Your Experience at Bangor
      • Student Support
      • Skills and Employability
      • Study or Work Abroad
      • Fees and Finances

    Student Profiles

    Student Videos and Vlogs

    • Choose Bangor
      • International Home
      • Why Bangor?
      • Location
      • Accommodation
      • Student Support
      • Contact Us
    • Apply
      • Entry Requirements
      • Tuition Fees and Scholarships
      • How to Apply
      • Already Applied
      • Study Abroad
      • Exchanges

    Country Specific Information

    Join us on a Virtual Open Day

    Bangor University International College

    Covid-19 Information

    • Research
      • Research Home
      • About Our Research
      • Research in our Academic Schools
      • Research Institutes and Centres
      • Research Portal
      • Research, Innovation and Impact Office (RIIO)
      • Energy
      • Research News
    • Postgraduate Research Opportunities
      • Postgraduate Research
      • Doctoral School
    • Events and Training Opportunities
      • Researcher Development
    • The University
      • About Us
      • Our Mission
      • Strategy 2030
      • Annual Review
      • Our Location
      • Academic Schools and Colleges
      • Services and Facilities
      • Vice Chancellor’s Office
      • Working with Business
      • Working with the Community
      • Sustainability
      • Health and Wellbeing
      • Contact Us
    • Working for Us
      • Job Vacancies
    • University Management and Governance
      • Policies and Procedures
      • Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
      • Management and Governance
    • University and the Community
      • Pontio
      • Sports Facilities
      • Conference Facilities
      • Places to Eat and Drink
      • Public Events
      • Widening Access
      • Services to Schools
    • Business Services
      • Business Services Home
    • Collaboration Hub
      • Collaboration Hub
      • Funding for Collaborative Research and Development (R&D) & Innovation
      • Business Facilities and Networks
      • Consultancy, Specialist Expertise and Knowledge
      • Commercialisation and Intellectual Property (IP)
      • Student Placements and Internships in Business & Enterprise
      • Training and Continuing Professional Development
      • Degree Apprenticeships
    • Conferencing and Business Dining
      • Conferencing Facilities
      • Business Dining
    • Contacts
      • Research, Innovation and Impact Office (RIIO)
      • Get In Touch
    • News
      • Current News
      • Research News
      • Student News
    • Events
      • Events

    • Study Options
      • Study Home
      • Why Study at Bangor?
      • Undergraduate Study
      • Postgraduate Taught Study
      • Postgraduate Research
      • Part-time Courses
      • January Start Courses
      • Degree Apprenticeships
      • Study Abroad
      • Work Experience
    • Study Advice
      • Apply
      • Already Applied?
      • Fees and Finances
      • Scholarships and Bursaries
      • Get Ready for University
    • Explore Bangor
      • Virtual Open Days and Visits
      • Virtual Student Experience

    Find a Course

    Order a Prospectus

    • Student Life
      • Student Life Home
      • Bangor and the Area
      • Social Life and Entertainment
      • Accommodation
      • Clubs and Societies
      • Sport
      • Virtual Student Experience
    • Your Experience at Bangor
      • Student Support
      • Skills and Employability
      • Study or Work Abroad
      • Fees and Finances

    Student Profiles

    Student Videos and Vlogs

    • Choose Bangor
      • International Home
      • Why Bangor?
      • Location
      • Student Support
      • Contact Us
    • Apply
      • Entry Requirements
      • Tuition Fees and Scholarships
      • How to Apply
      • Already Applied
      • Study Abroad
      • Exchanges

    Country Specific Information

    Join us on a Virtual Open Day

    Bangor University International College

    Covid-19 Information

    • Research
      • Research Home
      • About Our Research
      • Research in our Academic Schools
      • Research Institutes and Centres
      • Research Portal
      • Research, Innovation and Impact Office (RIIO)
      • Energy
      • Research News
    • Postgraduate Research Opportunities
      • Postgraduate Research
      • Doctoral School
    • Events and Training Opportunities
      • Researcher Development
    • The University
      • About Us
      • Our Mission
      • Strategy 2030
      • Annual Review
      • Our Location
      • Academic Schools and Colleges
      • Services and Facilities
      • Vice Chancellor’s Office
      • Working with Business
      • Working with the Community
      • Sustainability
      • Health and Wellbeing
      • Contact Us
    • Working for Us
      • Job Vacancies
    • University Management and Governance
      • Policies and Procedures
      • Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement
      • Management and Governance
    • University and the Community
      • Pontio
      • Sports Facilities
      • Conference Facilities
      • Places to Eat and Drink
      • Public Events
      • Widening Access
      • Services to Schools
    • Business Services
      • Business Services Home
    • Collaboration Hub
      • Collaboration Hub
      • Funding for Collaborative Research and Development (R&D) & Innovation
      • Business Facilities and Networks
      • Consultancy, Specialist Expertise and Knowledge
      • Commercialisation and Intellectual Property (IP)
      • Student Placements and Internships in Business & Enterprise
      • Training and Continuing Professional Development
      • Degree Apprenticeships
    • Conferencing and Business Dining
      • Conferencing Facilities
      • Business Dining
    • Contacts
      • Research, Innovation and Impact Office (RIIO)
      • Get In Touch
    • News
      • Current News
      • Research News
      • Student News
    • Events
      • Events

Information for:

  • Alumni
  • Applicants
  • Current Students
  • Staff
  • Parents
  • Job Vacancies
  • Covid-19
My country:

Search

Close

Breadcrumb

  • Cymraeg

Share this page:
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Apply Now

Find out how to apply

Open Days

More information

Order a Course Guide

Order Now

Request Information

Get in touch

Chat to our staff and students

Connect through Unibuddy

Module BNS-2002:
Genes, Development, and Evolution

Module Facts

Run by School of Natural Sciences

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1

Organiser: Dr John Mulley

Overall aims and purpose

"Nothing in Biology Makes Sense except in the Light of Evolution" (Dobzhansky, 1973)

The last few years have seen a major reassessment of our understanding of evolutionary theory, with the proposed introduction of an “Extended Evolutionary Synthesis” (EES). In this 20 credit 2nd year module, you will be introduced to both the historical development of the fields of evolutionary biology and genetics through the 19th and 20th centuries, and to more recent advances in genomics, epigenetics, and evolutionary developmental biology (Evo-Devo).

You will consolidate and build on knowledge that was introduced in the first year 'Ecology and Evolution' module (DNS1003) and we will emphasise the importance of the process of evolution and its fundamental relevance to all biodiversity.

Course content

  1. Bioinformatic delineation of species (computer practical). These computer sessions will provide hands-on experience of the use of molecular data (DNA sequences) in identifying species.

  2. Evolution and genetics in the 19th century (the "Modern Synthesis"). This topic will introduce the development of evolutionary theory from antiquity to the mid-20th century, identifying key experiments and important figures in the fusion of population genetics and Darwinian theory that we know as the 'Modern Synthesis'.

  3. Do we need an "extended evolutionary synthesis"? Some have argued that the 'Modern Synthesis' is no longer fit for purpose given advances that have been made in some key fields of biological sciences, and that we need an 'Extended Evolutionary Synthesis'. This idea will be discussed with respect to two main fields: 3a. Evolutionary-developmental biology (Evo-Devo) 3b. Genomics

  4. Genetic markers, linkage mapping and QTL analysis. This final section will cover important genetic markers and technologies, and their application to selective breeding.

Assessment Criteria

C- to C+

Knowledge mostly based around lectures and practicals. Some evidence of reading at least some of the prescribed literature outside the lectures. Limited evidence of understanding and ability to critically evaluate and synthesize the various strands of information.

(C- to C+)

threshold

Basic knowledge derived from the lectures and practicals, but with no evidence of ability to critically synthesize this basic knowledge

(D- to D+)

good

Knowledge based around lectures and practicals and, for marks at the higher end of the scale, with clear evidence of reading the prescribed literature outside the lectures. The student understands some of the fundamentals and demonstrates some ability to critically evaluate and synthesize the various strands of information.

(B- to B+)

excellent

Knowledge greatly extends upon class material and demonstrates extensive evidence of extra reading. The student clearly understands the fundamentals and demonstrates an ability to critically evaluate and synthesize various strands of information.

(A- to A*)

Learning outcomes

  1. Be able to explain how contemporary bioinformatic tools can be used to delimit species and to investigate intraspecific variation from an evolutionary perspective.

  2. Have a clear understanding of the principles of evolution by natural selection and some basic theories in population genetics, as well as an appreciation of current debates in evolutionary theory and the role of embryonic development in morphological change.

  3. Appreciate the various types of genetic marker, the technology involved in their use, and their potential utility in population and ecological genetics, taxonomy, disease and evolution.

  4. Be able to integrate knowledge acquired from different sources, and to apply a problem-solving approach when presented with a hypothetical scenario.

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
CLASS TEST Online (Blackboard) test

An online test, based on multiple choice questions, fill-the-blanks, calculations and problem solving

30.00
EXAM Section B 15.00
REPORT Spider bioinformatics report 40.00
Section A 15.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Lecture

Online videos and related activities, followed up with live chat and Q&A sessions

20
Practical classes and workshops

Bioinformatics practical - spider DNA. Labster practical simulation activities

10
Private study

Videos and other resources will be made available via the module Blackboard page to guide independent study. There is a dedicated module TALIS reading list. There is an expectation that elements of the directed reading and supporting materials will be used to build upon the lecture material when students are completing assessments.

170

Transferable skills

  • Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
  • Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance
  • Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.

Subject specific skills

  • Appreciate the interdisciplinary and/or reciprocal nature of relationships within the subject area.
  • Appreciation of the complexity and diversity of processes through the study of relevant systems.
  • Apply subject knowledge to the understanding and addressing of problems.
  • Recognize the moral, ethical and social issues relating to the subject.
  • Develop and identify research question(s) and/or hypotheses as the basis for investigation.
  • Conduct fieldwork and/or laboratory work competently with awareness of appropriate risk assessment and ethical considerations
  • Consider issues from a range of interdisciplinary perspectives.
  • Collect, analyse and interpret primary and/or secondary data using appropriate qualitative and/or quantitative techniques.
  • Prepare effective maps, diagrams and visualizations.
  • Undertake field and/or laboratory studies to ensure competence in basic experimental and/or fieldwork skills.
  • Engagement with current subject developments and their application.

Resources

Resource implications for students

None

Talis Reading list

http://readinglists.bangor.ac.uk/modules/bns-2002.html

Reading list

Reading list on TALIS

Pre- and Co-requisite Modules

Pre-requisite of:

  • BSX-3139: Molecular Ecology & Evolution
  • BSX-2018: Behavioural Ecology
  • BSX-3148: Developmental Biology

Courses including this module

Compulsory in courses:

  • C100: BSC Biology year 2 (BSC/B)
  • C10F: BSc Biology year 2 (BSC/BF)
  • C511: BSc Biology with Biotechnology year 2 (BSC/BIOT)
  • C512: BSc Biology with Biotechnology with International Experience year 3 (BSC/BIOTIE)
  • C102: BSc Biology (with International Experience) year 3 (BSC/BITE)
  • C300: BSC Zoology year 2 (BSC/Z)
  • C305: BSc Zoology with Animal Behaviour (with International Exp) year 3 (BSC/ZABIE)
  • C3L2: BSC Zoology with Conservation year 2 (BSC/ZC)
  • C319: BSc Zoology with Climate Change Studies year 2 (BSC/ZCC)
  • C327: BSc Zoology with Climate Change Studies w International Exp year 2 (BSC/ZCCIE)
  • C3L3: BSc Zoology with Conservation with International Experience year 3 (BSC/ZCIE)
  • C3L4: BSc Zoology with Conservation with Placement Year year 2 (BSC/ZCP)
  • C30F: BSc Zoology year 2 (BSC/ZF)
  • C304: BSC Zoology with Herpetology year 2 (BSC/ZH)
  • C307: BSc Zoology with Herpetology (with International Experience) year 2 (BSC/ZHIE)
  • C324: BSc Zoology with International Experience year 3 (BSC/ZIE)
  • C3C1: BSc Zoology with Marine Zoology (with International Exp) year 3 (BSC/ZMB)
  • C350: BSC Zoology with Marine Zoology year 2 (BSC/ZMZ)
  • C36P: BSc Zoology with Marine Zoology with Placement Year year 2 (BSC/ZMZP)
  • C329: BSc Zoology with Primatology year 2 (BSC/ZP)
  • C32P: Zoology with Primatology with Placement Year year 2 (BSC/ZPP)
  • C330: BSc Zoology with Ornithology year 2 (BSC/ZR)
  • C3P0: BSc Zoology with Ornithology with Placement Year year 2 (BSC/ZRP)
  • C3D3: BSC Zoology with Animal Behaviour year 2 (BSC/ZWAB)
  • C3DP: BSc Zoology with Animal Behaviour with Placement Year year 2 (BSC/ZWABP)
  • C101: MBiol Master of Biology year 2 (MBIOL/BIO)
  • C510: MBiol Biology with Biotechnology year 2 (MBIOL/BIOT)
  • C302: MZool Zoology with Animal Behaviour year 2 (MZOOL/AB)
  • C30P: MZool Zoology with Animal Behaviour with Placement Year year 2 (MZOOL/ABP)
  • CD34: MZool Zoology with Conservation year 2 (MZOOL/CONS)
  • CD3P: MZool Zoology with Conservation with Placement Year year 2 (MZOOL/CONSP)
  • C303: MZool Zoology with Herpetology year 2 (MZOOL/HERP)
  • C325: MZool Zoology with Animal Behaviour with International Exp year 3 (MZOOL/ZAIE)
  • C321: MZool Zoology with Climate Change year 2 (MZOOL/ZCC)
  • CD35: MZool Zoology with Conservation w International Experience year 3 (MZOOL/ZCIE)
  • C326: MZool Zoology with Herpetology with International Experience year 3 (MZOOL/ZHIE)
  • C353: MZool Zoology with Marine Zoology year 2 (MZOOL/ZMZ)
  • C354: MZool Zoology with Marine Zoology with International Exp. year 3 (MZOOL/ZMZI)
  • C37P: MZool Zoology with Marine Zoology with Placement Year year 2 (MZOOL/ZMZP)
  • C306: MZool Zoology (with International Experience) year 3 (MZOOL/ZOIE)
  • C301: MZool Master of Zoology year 2 (MZOOL/ZOO)
  • C333: MZool Zoology with Primatology year 2 (MZOOL/ZP)
  • C33P: MZool Zoology with Primatology with Placement Year year 2 (MZOOL/ZPP)
  • C334: MZool Zoology with Ornithology year 2 (MZOOL/ZR)
  • C3P4: MZool Zoology with Ornithology with Placement Year year 2 (MZOOL/ZRP)

Optional in courses:

  • C183: BSC Appl.Terrestrial & Marine Ec 4 year 2 (BSC/APTME)
  • C185: BSc Applied Terrestrial & Marine Ecology with Intl Exp (5yr) year 2 (BSC/APTMIE)
  • C180: BSc Appl. Terrestrial &Marine Ec year 2 (BSC/ATME)
  • C184: BSc App Terrestrial & Marine Ecology with Intl Experience year 2 (BSC/ATMEIE)
  • C13P: BSc Applied Terrestrial and Marine Ecology with Placement Yr year 2 (BSC/ATMEP)
  • D447: BSC Environmental Conservation year 2 (BSC/ECON)
  • D448: BSC Environmental Conservation year 2 (BSC/ECON4)
  • D451: BSc Environmental Conservation (International Experience) year 2 (BSC/ENIE)
  • F900: BSC Environmental Science year 2 (BSC/ES)
  • F901: BSc Environmental Science (4 yr with placement) year 2 (BSC/ES4)
  • F90F: BSc Environmental Science year 2 (BSC/ESF)
  • 8U71: BSc Environmental Science (with International Experience) year 2 (BSC/ESIE)
  • C328: BSc Wildlife Conservation year 2 (BSC/WLC)
  • C332: BSc Wildlife Conservation with Place Yr year 2 (BSC/WLCP)
  • F850: Master of Environmental Science year 2 (M/ENVSCI)
  • F851: MEnvSci Environmental Science with International Experience year 2 (MENVSC/ESIE)
  • C336: MZool Zoology with Animal Management year 2 (MZOOL/ZAM)

Home

Study

  • Undergraduate Study
Home

Follow Us

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • LinkedIn

Bangor University

Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2DG, UK

+44 (0)1248 351151

Contact Us

Visit Us

Maps & Directions

Policy

  • Legal Compliance
  • Modern Slavery Act 2015 Statement
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Privacy and Cookies
  • Welsh Language Policy
Map

Bangor University is a Registered Charity: No. 1141565

© 2020 Bangor University