Mechanisms of genetic change in plant evolution, both in nature and under human influence. Topics include neo-Darwinian theory; speciation and hybridization; origins and co-evolution of nuclear and organelle genomes; gene and genome evolution; transposable elements; chromosome rearrangements; polyploidy; genetic modification. Lab introduces methods in information gathering, bioinformatics, genome analysis, plant breeding, and genetic manipulation. Lab.

Advanced research or scholarly projects developed and conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Provides the opportunity to apply advanced knowledge and techniques of the major to a specific problem or question. Permission required.

Independent research project under the direction of a faculty sponsor for seniors in genetics and in the Honors Program. Final product is a written thesis. One or two semesters. Permission required.

Methods, applications, and implications of genomics-the analysis of whole genomes. Microbial, plant and animal genomics are addressed. Medical, ethical and legal implications of genomic data. Computer lab provides exposure and experience in a range of bioinformatics approaches used in genome analysis. Prereq: introductory genetics. Computer lab.