BVB313 Molecular Ecology

Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Gardens Point, Internal

Overview

Understanding the dispersal and movement of genes in populations is fundamental to the management of invasive species, the management of wild resources and the conservation of rare species. In this unit, you will synthesize scientific literature, develop and apply problem solving skills through genetic data analysis and critical evaluation of results in molecular ecological research, and communicate outcomes in written format. This unit will provide the theoretical and analytical training required for practicing ecologists to use genetic techniques in research and applied settings.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:

1. Integrate theoretical knowledge in biology and genetics and apply to population and ecosystem ecology and management.
2. Generate and evaluate possible solutions to ecological problems associated with population processes, genetic diversity and differentiation.
3. Apply genetic analysis approaches relevant to molecular ecology.
4. Synthesize and critically evaluate molecular ecology research results.
5. Communicate the use of molecular tools for understanding ecological processes in written formats.

Content

Learning Approaches

The unit consists of a mixture of face-to-face lectures, workshops and a series of guided computer laboratory practicals. Practical sessions will examine typical questions investigated in population genetic studies and further, will familiarize you with current digital practices and technologies applied to genetic analyses. Ethical considerations in genetic research will be highlighted. You will develop analytical and problem-solving skills whilst working independently and within groups. Critical analysis, problem solving, and written communication skills are embedded within the syllabus. You can expect to spend between 10-15 hours per week on average involved in preparing for and attending all scheduled classes, completing assessment tasks, and undertaking your own independent study to consolidate your learning. 

Feedback on Learning and Assessment

There are multiple opportunities to receive feedback on your learning in this unit. Whole-of-class and individual feedback will be provided during laboratory practicals and workshops. Feedback on the summative assessment tasks will be provided by a rubric, with personalised written comments.

Assessment

Overview

Assessment in this unit will consist of three elements:

• a workbook with the results of your population genetics analysis on a selected research topic, 
• a report outlining your investigation of a next-generation sequencing approach to a molecular ecology research problem,
• a centrally timetabled examination on the theoretical and applied concepts gained from the lectures and practical sessions.

Unit Grading Scheme

7- point scale

Assessment Tasks

Assessment: Workbook

You will undertake a series of guided computer analysis tasks on research data relating to a research project in molecular ecology. Projects will be worked in groups in a computer laboratory with short group presentations during class to obtain feedback (formative). Each group will submit a written workbook covering the material analysed in the practical classes. These will be submitted during class.

The late submission period does not apply and no assignment extensions are available.

Assessment: Report

You will develop a scientifically informed understanding of a research problem in molecular ecology through the analysis of next-generation sequencing data, critical evaluation of results and synthesis of outcomes in a written scientific /technical report.  You will adopt an ethical and responsible approach to using AI-assisted technologies for writing the report.

This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.

Assessment: Examination

A written examination based on lectures (theory) and practical content. The exam will consist of short answer and short essay questions designed to assess your knowledge of the theoretical and applied concepts relating to molecular ecology and population genetics management.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.

The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.

You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.

Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.

Requirements to Study

Costs

There are no out of the ordinary costs associated with the study of this unit.

Resources

Risk Assessment Statement

The unit consists of classroom-based lectures, discussions and practicals, all of which are extremely low risk activities. 

Course Learning Outcomes

ST01 Bachelor of Science

1. Develop a broad, multidisciplinary understanding of science and a specialised, in-depth knowledge of at least one discipline.
   Relates to: ULO1, Examination
2. Use higher order thinking skills to design, plan, and conduct investigations and evaluate data to address scientific questions and challenges.
   Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Workbook, Report, Examination
3. Develop and demonstrate key competencies in scientific practices and relevant technologies.
   Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Workbook, Report, Examination
4. Communicate scientific findings, concepts and evidence-based reasoning to diverse audiences using a variety of methods.
   Relates to: ULO5, Report

SV02 Bachelor of Science

1. Develop a broad, multidisciplinary understanding of science and a specialised, in-depth knowledge of at least one discipline.
   Relates to: ULO1, Examination
2. Use higher order thinking skills to design, plan, and conduct investigations and evaluate data to address scientific questions and challenges.
   Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Workbook, Report, Examination
3. Develop and demonstrate key competencies in scientific practices and relevant technologies.
   Relates to: ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Workbook, Report, Examination
4. Communicate scientific findings, concepts and evidence-based reasoning to diverse audiences using a variety of methods.
   Relates to: ULO5, Report