Curriculum
Statistical Genomics (SGX)
To learn about relevant biology and terminology, to understand the most important mathematical models and inference methods in statistical genetics, to be able to test for association between genetic variants and outcomes of interest, and to use genome-wide statistical models to help understand the genetic mechanisms underlying a trait and to predict outcomes.
Annual Availability
SGX will next be offered in 2024
COORDINATORS:
General outline
Prerequisites
Mathematical Foundations for Biostatistics, Data Management and Statistical Computing, Principles of Statistical Inference, Regression Modeling for Biostatistics 1
Time commitment
8-12 hours total study time per week
Semester availability
Semester 2 in year of delivery, this unit is offered every second year.
Assessment
Assignments 60%: three written assignments, each worth 20% and a final assignment (at-home) written examination 40%.
Prescribed Texts
Handbook of Statistical Genomics (Eds: Balding, Marioni and Moltke, 4th ed, Wiley 2019). This is an expensive reference that few will be able to buy, but online access should be available through your university library; if not, arrangements will be made.
Special Computer Requirements
“R” (freeware – coordinator will give instructions on how to download)Content
Statistical genomics is the application of statistical methods to understand genomes, their structure, function and history, in many different scientific contexts, including understanding biological mechanisms in health and disease. Statistical genomics is characterised by large datasets, high-dimensional regression models, stochastic processes, and computationally-intensive statistical methods. We will use the statistical package R to perform regression-based analyses of genetic data.
Resources
Course notes, assignment material and interaction facilities available online We will also use some of the 18 online lectures on Statistical Genetics offered by Henry Stewart Talks, available at https://hstalks.com/playlist/963/statistical-genetics/. Access details will be provided.
The BCA acknowledges we live and work on the ancestral lands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who have for thousands of generations exchanged knowledge for the benefit of all. We pay our respects to those who have cared and continue to care for Country.
