The course "Molecular methods for management and aquaculture" will take place for the first time in the academic year 2020-2021 and will be offered in English. It will introduce students to modern genetic tools and methods to improve management of fishery and aquaculture facilities or for the conservation of marine natural resources. We will learn what factors shape genetic variability, how to estimate connectivity among populations and how to assign individuals to the populations of origin. All these elements are key for the identification of fishery limits or stocks, to detect cases of illegal fishing and trade of endangered species or to reconstruct trajectories of alien species introduction.
During the course, we will have fun by discussing case studies pointing out the sampling design, the methods and markers used, the characteristics of the species analysed and how data are handled. During the course, some experts will give lectures on specific topics based on their expertise and all students will be involved in group work and discussions. We will also have a great opportunity to experience hands on lab work by developing a molecular ecology laboratory experience with the main basic molecular biology techniques (e.g. DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing/genotyping) applied to solve ecological problems. The data will be analysed with the main molecular analysis software.
Are you ready to engage in this course? Then check the course syllabus (link) and test your skills as a molecular marine ecologist with this quick quiz.

For the complete program please consult the Syllabus