General Catalog 2024-25

Lecture, three hours. Enforced requisite: course 101 or Life Sciences 4. Advancements in genomic research have rapidly transformed traditional archaeological and historical investigations of human past. Drawing from recent research, focus on how genomic analysis has shed new light on old debates such as migration of Homo sapiens out of Africa, human interbreeding with Neanderthals, first migration to North America, ethnic expansions throughout Europe, and genetic legacy of historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson and Genghis Khan. Discussion of practical and theoretical issues surrounding genetic research on history of humans, including challenges of using ancient and modern DNA, population genetic theory, and ethical implications of genetic research for understanding ethnicity. Letter grading.