The Yeast Genetics & Genomics course is a modern and intensive laboratory course that teaches students the full repertoire of genetic and genomic approaches needed to dissect complex problems using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Both of classical and modern approaches are emphasized, including the isolation and characterization of mutants, tetrad analysis, and complementation. Synthetic biology is explored through CRISPR/Cas9-directed engineering of heterologous biosynthetic pathways in yeast.

Students will learn genome-based methods of analysis facilitated by the Saccharomyces Genome Database, yeast genome sequences, the gene deletion collection, and other genomic resources available to the community. Molecular genetic techniques, including yeast transformation, gene replacement by PCR, construction and analysis of gene fusions, and generation of mutations, are also emphasized.

Students will combine classical approaches with whole genome sequencing to gain experience in identifying and interpreting genetic interactions, including suppression and synthetic lethality.

Students will perform genome-scale screens using the synthetic genetic array (SGA) methodology.

Students will be immersed in yeast genomics and computation methods for analyzing genome-scale data.

Students will perform and interpret experiments using PCR-amplicon and whole genome sequencing.

Students will gain first-hand experience in modern cytological approaches such as epitope tagging and imaging yeast cells using fluorescence microscopy with GFP-protein fusions and fluorescent indicators for different subcellular structures and organelles. Lectures on fundamental aspects of yeast genetics and genomics will be presented along with seminars given by prominent experts in the field on topics of current interest.

Please note that students are expected to attend the entire course, which spans evenings and weekends.