Core

Pre-doctoral trainees are expected to undertake the required course work of their respective academic programs (e.g. Statistics, Biostatistics, Epidemiology). These courses will also be available to postdoctoral fellows and “retraining” scientists, but not required.

Course Code Course/Seminar Title Instructor(s) Comments/Description
MGY470H
Human & Molecular Genetics
Dr. Michael Wilson
Current aspects of human and molecular genetics including chromosome structure and function, the inheritance of mutations and disease, the human genome and disease gene mapping, cancer genetics, mouse disease models and gene-based diagnostics and therapies.

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MSC2010Y
Molecular Medicine in Human Genetic Disease
Dr. Lucy Osborne
This course should encourage students to develop an approach to the genetic analysis, investigation and treatment of human disease.

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N/A
Genetic Epidemiology Foundations
Drs. Todd Edwards and Stephanie A. Santorico
This course is presented by the University of Colorado Denver in collaboration with the Vanderbilt Genetics Institute and the International Genetic Epidemiology Society. It is designed to provide students with the background and knowledge foundations necessary to conduct statistical analysis of genetic association study data.

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MMG3002Y
Biological Statistics
Drs. Gary Bader, Philipp Kim, Hannes Röst, Lincoln Stein, and Johanna Carroll

This course begins with an introduction to major computer programing concepts using the R coding language and the UNIX shell. Students are taught statistical theory and perform statistical tests using R to analyze biological datasets.

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MMG3203H
Next Generation Sequencing – Data Analysis and Interpretation
Dr. Ryan Yuen
Students will learn how to use whole-genome sequencing technology to identify disease-causing mutations in complex human disorders.

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MMG1308H
Human Genome Analysis
Drs. Ryan Yuen and Gregory Costain
The course objectives are to understand the range of current human genome analysis methods, understand how technological advancements influence human genome research, and critically evaluate research papers that utilize genome analysis techniques.

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Integrative

Courses that introduce trainees to the basic concepts and principles of genetic epidemiology, statistical genetics, and population genetics. In the past, trainees successfully completed two required integrative courses, plus one required integrative seminar in statistical methods for genetics and genomics. Trainees may take additional, elective integrative courses at their own discretion.

Course Code Course / Seminar Title Instructor(s) Comments / Description
STA480H
Fundamentals of Statistical Genetics
Prof. Lei Sun
This course provides an introduction to the concepts and fundamentals of statistical genetics, including current research directions. The course includes hands-on experience with R programming and state-of-the-art statistical genetics software packages.

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CHL5228H
Statistical Methods for Genetics Genomics Research Seminar (SMG)
Drs. Shelley Bull and Andrew Paterson

The goals are to understand current developments in statistical genetics, genomics, and genetic epidemiology, identify key literature for study design and analysis, cultivate critical evaluation skills for theories and methods, and enhance communication and presentation abilities in interdisciplinary settings.

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Cross-disciplinary

Courses designed to develop cross-disciplinary skills and knowledge. In the past, trainees successfully completed at least two cross-disciplinary courses, aiming for breadth outside their own core disciplines. Suggested courses include, but are not limited to:

Course Code Course / Seminar Title Instructor(s) Comments / Description
BCB420H
Computational Systems Biology
Prof. Boris Steipe
Current approaches to using the computer for analyzing and modeling biology as integrated molecular systems. Lectures plus hands-on practical exercises. The course extends and complements an introductory Bioinformatics course.

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CHL5121H
Genomics, Bioethics and Public Policy
Prof. Abdallah S. Daar

The course addresses the main bioethical and public policy issues associated with genomics and health biotechnology development.

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CHL5201H
Biostatistics I
Prof. Kevin Thorpe Prof. Lennon Li

Intro to biostatistics for students in the biological sciences. Clinical trainees should consider taking this course.

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CHL5210H
Categorical Data Analysis
Prof. Rafal Kustra

Based on examples from statistical genetics research.

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CHL5403H
Epidemiology of Non-Communicable Diseases
Prof. Robert Mann Prof. Michael Roerecke

The course covers the epidemiology of selected chronic diseases/health conditions and their risk factors.

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CHL5409H
Cancer Epidemiology
Prof. Meghan Walker Prof. Anna Maria Chiarelli

This is a seminar and guided-reading course for masters and doctoral students with a strongly focused interest or thesis topic in the area of cancer epidemiology.

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CSC456H1
High-Performance Scientific Computing
C. Christara, Department of Computer Science
For trainees requiring more advanced programming skills.

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