BIOL 4802 Research in Evolutionary Genomics

Satisfies the advanced experience requirement for the Biology major. This course will provide hands-on training in the collection and analysis of genome-scale data from non-model organisms. Students will learn good laboratory practices while learning protocols related to next-generation DNA sequencing. Students will also learn basic Linux/Unix computational skills and several bioinformatics tools that will be applied in managing and analyzing the massive amounts of data generated by this sequencing technology. Through data analyses and reviews of the primary literature, students will gain exposure to modern methods in phylogenetics and population genetics. This course is recommended for students interested in advanced topics in genomics and bioinformatics.

Course overview

Department
Biology
School
MCAS
Credits
3
Level
Undergraduate
Offered
Every Spring

Catalog details

Prerequisites
BIOL2010 and BIOL2040

Catalog text is imported from the reviewed Boston College course snapshot. Confirm eligibility in EagleApps.

Requirements fulfilled

  • Biology B.A.: 3000-level-or-higher Biology elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.S.: 3000-level-or-higher Biology elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.A.: Advanced Experience (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.S.: Advanced Experience (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)

Requirement eligibility can vary by school, cohort, and section. Confirm the selected section in EagleApps or with an advisor.

Official evaluation summary

4.75 / 5

Based on 24 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-08-02. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

  • Jeffrey Dacosta
    Fall 2026, Fall 2025, Fall 2023, Fall 2021 · Official rating 4.71/5

Sections

  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Jeffrey Dacosta · Higgins Hall 470 MW 12:00 Noon-03:00PM · Offered