This Evolutionary Genomics programme offers a strong foundation for understanding the evolutionary processes that shape the genomic variation of populations. You will learn to use DNA sequencing technologies and bioinformatics tools to handle large amounts of data, understand what drives the evolution of populations and species, and address questions in biodiversity conservation.

Are you intrigued by the rapid growth of genomic data and want to explore the genetic variation at the level of DNA sequences? Are you interested in understanding the genetic differences between individuals, populations, or species? Do you want to learn bioinformatic tools to analyze DNA sequence data? This Master’s programme will provide the tools and knowledge to explore these questions through the analysis of genes and genomes.

You will receive training in:

1. Population Genetics: You will study the genetic diversity within and between populations and learn how to analyze and interpret genetic variation (e.g. determine which genetic variants are beneficial, harmful, or neutral, or infer past population size changes from DNA sequence variation)
2. Molecular Evolution: You will dive into how small differences in DNA, RNA, and proteins contribute to evolutionary processes.
3. Phylogenetics: You will investigate the evolutionary relationships between species, populations, and genes, building phylogenetic trees to understand these connections.
4. Genome Evolution: You will explore larger, structural changes in genomes over time, understanding how entire genomes evolve and what drives these changes.
5. Paleogenetics: You will study the evolutionary past on our planet by investigating of preserved genetic material from the remains of ancient organisms

Knowledge of evolutionary genomics has applications outside of the scientific world. In the programme, you will gain skills needed in many different professions. For instance, after completion of this programme, you may work with wildlife agencies to study genetic diversity in endangered species or aid in breeding programs by managing and analysing genetic data.

You can apply evolutionary theory to understand the impact of environmental changes on species and ecosystems, or how genomes evolve in response to climate change or human interference. You can also use your expertise to improve crop yields, pest resistance, or disease tolerance in agriculture through the study of evolutionary genomics.

Reasons to choose the Master in Evolutionary Genomics:

• Broad education in evolutionary genomics suitable for diverse careers in biotechnology, bioinformatics, medicine, forensics, agriculture, food security, and wildlife conservation.
• Excellent opportunities for experimental and computational studies to gain experience for research
• Flexible programme allows you to create your own direction based on your interests

Programme overview:

The compulsory courses within the Master’s programme in Evolutionary Genomics will give you a strong foundation in evolutionary biology, genetics, statistics, and bioinformatics. Specifically, the Master’s program in Evolutionary Genomics includes courses in theory and practice of evolutionary genomics, hands-on exercises in DNA sequence analysis, advanced statistics for biologists, evolutionary ecology, and paleogenetics.

There is plenty of space within the programme to allow you to choose optional courses, so you can pursue a programme adapted to your interests and career aims. You can include at least 22.5 credits of optional courses, and these can be in other subjects or taken at another university.

During the compulsory independent project, the degree project, you will apply the knowledge and skills you have developed, in conducting a scientific study within evolutionary genomics.

Career opportunities:

A Master’s degree in Evolutionary Genomics opens up many career possibilities within academia or the public sector.

On completion of this programme you will be eligible to apply for PhD studies. The programme also gives a sound background for work in the applied fields of biotechnology, bioinformatics, medicine, forensics, agriculture, food security, and wildlife conservation.