General Topic: Genome-wide analysis of selection signatures and genotype-phenotype associations

28 October -1 November 2019

This course comprises two approaches: one based only on genomic information, which will use populations genetics techniques to detect signatures of selection (both natural and artificial); the other approach will combine genomic and phenotypic data to identify genetic associations for specific phenotypes (i.e. GWAS, genome-wide association studies).

The course is structured in modules over five days. Each day will include an introductory lecture with class discussion of key concepts. The remainder of each day will consist of practical hands-on sessions. These sessions will involve a combination of both mirroring exercises with the instructor to demonstrate a skill as well as applying these skills on your own to complete individual exercises. After and during each exercise, interpretation of results will be discussed as a group.

The course is aimed at advanced students, researchers and professionals interested in learning how to make use of genomic information to study how selection has shaped the genome and how the genome influences measurable phenotypes. It will include information useful for both beginners and more advanced users. We will start by introducing general concepts of population genetics, which will take up most of the first half of the course; the second half of the course will be centered mainly on GWAS and related aspects.

Attendees should have a background in biology, specifically genetics. There will be a mix of lectures and hands-on practical exercises using R and the Linux command line, and bespoke software. Some basic understanding of R programming and the Linux environment will be advantageous. Attendees should have also some familiarity with genomic data such as those arising from NGS experiments, including genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS), and commercial genotyping platforms.

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