Introduction to Genetic Epidemiological Research and Data Analysis

In this course you will learn about the basic principles of genetic (epidemiological) research with a focus on family-based heritability studies as well as population-based candidate-gene and genome-wide association studies. The relevant background of human genetics and statistics will be explained during interactive theoretical lectures taught by experts.

The basics of human genetics will include concepts such as DNA, single nucleotide polymorphisms, and haplotypes. Lectures will include research related issues such as the strengths and weaknesses of different study designs, the effect of population structure and population stratification, and power calculations as well as candidate-gene, genome-wide association and interaction analysis.

The theoretically acquired knowledge on human genetics and statistics will be applied in practical classes. You will get familiar with study design issues (family versus population-based, tagging strategies, etc.) and the basic statistics that are necessary to analyze genetic data such as heritability analyses, identity-by-descend/identity-by-state calculations, Hardy-Weinberg testing, Linkage Disequilibrium calculations, and testing of genotype effects in different types of data (association analysis). Common (freely available) statistical programs to perform genetic data analysis will be used, such as OpenMx, HaploView, QUANTO, and PLINK.

Learning aims: At the end of the course the participant will be able to interpret the findings of a wide range of genetic epidemiological study designs, and apply several basic forms of genetic data analysis.

Level / assumed knowledge: Some basic knowledge of genetics and statistics is recommended.

Schedule 2024: 4 full days
November 4, 5, 6 & 7: lectures from 09:00-12:00 h; computer practicals from 13:00-16:00 h
With (computer) examination on November 14, 09:00-12:00 h