The Animal Breeding and Genomics Centre (Animal Sciences Group - Wageningen University and Research Centre), hosted the course 'QTL Mapping, MAS, and Genomic Selection' in Lelystad, from March 10-14, 2008. The course was taught by Dr. Ben Hayes from the Animal Genetics and Genomics group of the Department of Primary Industries Research Victoria (Attwood - Melbourne, Australia). In total, 48 people from China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Kenya, Lithuania, Poland, Spain, The Netherlands and United Kingdom participated in the course. Participants included PhD students, researchers and people from the breeding industry. Four people from INCO countries / new EU member states participated (China, Kenya, Lithuania, Poland).
Content of the course
Methods to use information from tens of thousands of SNP markers in genetic improvement of livestock was the primary subject of the course. Starting of with linkage disequilibrium in livestock genomes, the content moved on to whole genome association studies, and eventually genomic selection. The mixture of lectures and exercises allowed the participants to get a feeling for both the theory and practical application.
The presentations from each day are available by clicking on the titles below. Please note that these are very large files and may take time to download.
To download a PDF copy of the course notes please click here.
Course evaluation
In general, the participants indicated that this was a very good course and that Ben Hayes did an excellent job in teaching it. See the average scores (on a scale from 1 to 5) from the evalution forms underneath for more details.
Course format average score
1. The timing and duration of the course was well chosen 3.9
2. The study load of this course fitted well with the actual work load 4.2
3. The course material (book, reader, etc.) was adequate 4.5
4. The course material was received in time 4.1
5. The education format (lecture, workshop, exercises) was adequate 4.4
Course content average score
1. The course fitted well with my background knowledge on the subject 4.0
2. The contents and scientific level met my expectations 4.3
3. The quality of the lectures met my expectations 4.6
4. The quality of the discussions met my expectations 4.2
5. The quality of the exercises (if relevant) met my expectations 4.0
6. The interaction with the teacher was good 4.7
7. Overall, this course was satisfactory 4.5