ANSC40310 Animal Genomics and Quantitative Genetics

Academic Year 2023/2024

This module is for students taking the MSc in Animal Science. Content and will also be made available as part of structured PhD programmes.

The module is designed for life sciences graduates who wish to develop their expertise and extend their knowledge of genomics and quantitative genetics and how these scientific fields contribute to modern livestock breeding. In recent decades, genetic improvement of domestic animals has been revolutionised through integration of genome sequence information with quantitative genetic theory. These developments, coupled with recently developed technologies such as genome editing and high-resolution phenomics, are providing the scientific tools that will underpin future breeding programmes for sustainable animal agriculture, improved animal welfare, enhanced traceability, and healthier human diets.

The learning materials for this module will provide students with the knowledge and insight to understand and critically evaluate applications of modern technologies in animal breeding programmes.

Topics covered will include:
• The structure and function of animal genomes.
• Technologies for accessing, analysing, and applying genome sequence information in animal breeding.
• Genome editing in livestock species.
• Integrative genomics and computational biology in domestic animals.
• Livestock evolution, biodiversity, and conservation genomics.
• Theoretical foundations of quantitative genetics and animal breeding.
• Modern genome-enabled breeding programmes in practice.
• Commercial applications of genomics in domestic animals.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the biology of animal genomes and how genome sequence information can be leveraged for animal breeding and genetic improvement.
• Evaluate and understand how genome sequence information can be accessed at different scales and resolutions.
• Critically assess applications of genome editing in livestock species.
• Understand livestock evolutionary history, biodiversity, and the importance of genetic conservation.
• Understand the fundamental concepts, principles, and statistical framework of quantitative genetics and animal breeding.
• Evaluate modern genome-enabled breeding programmes in livestock.
• Evaluate commercial applications of genomic technologies in domestic animals.
• Collaborate and communicate with peers and other stakeholders to engage with, and critically evaluate the latest developments in animal genomics and breeding.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24

Tutorial

16

Specified Learning Activities

60

Autonomous Student Learning

100

Total

200

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
This module will be delivered through the UCD Brightspace VLE system and will consist of the following learning activities:
• Lectures (including guest lectures).
• Practical tutorials and peer-to-peer work.
• Individual and group online presentations.
• Asynchronous Discussion threads on Brightspace led by tutors.
 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Continuous Assessment: Will include participation in in-class activities, written assignments, and class presentations.
Individual and group project work is also included.
Throughout the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

100


Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Remediation Type Remediation Timing
In-Module Resit Prior to relevant Programme Exam Board
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Peer review activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Name Role
Professor Emmeline Hill Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor David MacHugh Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Kieran Meade Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 

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