The 27th Summer Institute in Statistical Genetics

Module 7: Applications of Population Genetics

Wed, July 13 to Fri, July 15

This module considers the analyses now possible for whole-genome sequence data collected on large numbers of individuals. Specific topics include characterization of de novo mutations and the comparison of growth rates among populations. Sequence data allow detailed examination of the signatures of natural selection and methods to compare selective constraints across populations and to seek evidence for recent, population-specific adaptation will be covered. The analysis of identity-by-descent segment sharing, and random projection for IBD detection (RaPID) to infer demographic history will be covered, as will methods to reconstruct the genetic architecture of major human diseases.

Suggested pairing: Module 8: Statistical Genetics and Module 19: Forensic Genetics

Learning Objectives: After attending this module, participants will be able to:

  1. Identify the assumptions of Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium, and how deviations from these assumptions affect patterns of genetic variation.
  2. Simulate data under both the Wright-Fisher model as well as the Coalescent.
  3. Identify population structure using principal components analysis, Structure, and spatially explicit methods.
  4. Infer signatures of natural selection using haplotype based methods.
  5. Simulate and measure the genetic architecture of complex traits.