Artificial Evolution: Harnessing Mutagenesis, Genomics, and Computational Power in Modern Genetics
Organizers: Guangshuo Ou, Tsinghua University; and Yanlan Mao, University College London
Course dates: June 29, 2025 - July 19, 2025
Aims
- Tackle Unresolved Biological Questions through Hands-On Research
- Integrate Genetics with Biophysics and Computational Analysis
- Storytelling Lectures on Landmark Discoveries in Life Sciences
Description
The curriculum introduces students to artificial evolution through genetic screens rather than following a lab cookbook. The course begins with simple C. elegans phenotypes, such as "Dpy" and "Unc" traits, and gradually advances to more complex genetic defects associated with cancer, ciliopathies, and neurological disorders. Students will also conduct genetic screens to address how C. elegans survives on a bacterial species isolated from Tsinghua University's lotus pond, as well as how Drosophila larvae respond to external mechanical forces during development, emphasizing the interaction between organisms and their environment. A unique feature of the course is its intensive computational training. Students will use computational pipelines to identify causal mutations and automatically analyze large imaging datasets, and perform molecular dynamics simulations to understand the effects of missense mutations. The program is also enriched by storytelling lectures, showcasing landmark discoveries and the paradigm shifts that have shaped modern biology.
Students
The school hosts around 30 undergraduates from prestigious institutions worldwide. Students with backgrounds in life sciences, chemistry, physics or computational sciences are encouraged to apply.
Language
The school will integrate students from different countries into the same groups, with English as the sole language of instruction.
Support
This course is supported by Tsinghua University, and admitted international students will be provided with on-campus accommodation during the program.
Contact
If you are interested in this program and would like to inquire or apply, please send an email to guangshuoou@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn or y.mao@ucl.ac.uk.