Mechanisms of evolution Field of study: Biotechnology
Programme code: W2-S2BTA19.2021

Module name: Mechanisms of evolution
Module code: 2BT_E_51
Programme code: W2-S2BTA19.2021
Semester:
  • summer semester 2025/2026
  • winter semester 2025/2026
  • summer semester 2024/2025
  • winter semester 2024/2025
  • summer semester 2023/2024
  • winter semester 2023/2024
  • summer semester 2022/2023
  • winter semester 2022/2023
  • summer semester 2021/2022
  • winter semester 2021/2022
Language of instruction: English
Form of verification: course work
ECTS credits: 4
Description:
The module provides current knowledge on evolution of life forms. Focuses on mechanisms of evolution, i.e. processes changing phenotypic and/or genetic composition of populations, theoretical models of natural selection and genetic drift. These along with principle of uniformitarianism and empirical testing of hypotheses are used then to present contemporary examples of experiments illustrating various processes leading to evolutionary change. Natural selection as a process resulting in adaptation. Mystery of sexual reproduction, sexual selection and genetic conflicts. Students will be familiarized with principles of molecular evolution, changes affecting genes and genomes. Basics of molecular phylogenetics and molecular clocks allowing dating of lineage divergence. Speciation, origin of reproductive barriers and role of hybridization in diversification are discussed next. Genome studies illuminating the past history of the human family close the module.
Prerequisites:
Basic knowledge of biology, botany, zoology and genetics on the BSc level allowing comprehension of the presented topics.
Key reading:
see: syllabus compulsory reading
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
She/he acquired basic knowledge on the origin of organisms and their evolution on Earth. [2BT_E_51_1]
 2BT_E_W01_P [4/5]
Understands the evolutionary processes in populations, both at the phenotypic and genic levels, driven by natural selection and/or genetic drift. [2BT_E_51_2]
 2BT_E_W03_P [4/5]
Explains the molecular processes underlying origin of new genes and species. [2BT_E_51_3]
 2BT_E_W02_P [4/5]
Student is able to apply molecular analytical tools in the studies on evolution. [2BT_E_51_4]
 2BT_E_W04_P [4/5]
She/he explains the biological diversity resulting from adaptation and speciation. [2BT_E_51_5]
 2BT_E_K02_P [4/5]
Student is able to critically evaluate results published in evolutionary biology papers. [2BT_E_51_6]
 2BT_E_U02_P [4/5]
Developed the habit of using scientific information resources and using critical inference when faced with alternative concepts and explanations. [2BT_E_51_7]
 2BT_E_K01_P [4/5]
Understands the need of updating knowledge in her/his special field critically looking at the acquired information. [2BT_E_51_8]
 2BT_E_U06_P [4/5] 2BT_E_K01_P [4/5]
Type Description Codes of the learning outcomes of the module to which assessment is related
Exam [2BT_E_51_w_1]
Test covering seminar content in the form of a mixed test.
 2BT_E_51_1 2BT_E_51_2 2BT_E_51_3 2BT_E_51_4 2BT_E_51_5 2BT_E_51_6 2BT_E_51_7 2BT_E_51_8
Form of teaching Student's own work Assessment of the learning outcomes
Type Description (including teaching methods) Number of hours Description Number of hours
discussion classes [2BT_E_51_fs_1]
seminar on selected issues using multimedia presentations and discussions.
 30
Student self study based on a handbook, and internet resources.
 55 Exam [2BT_E_51_w_1]
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)