ENY 5820 -- Insect Molecular Genetics
Days, times and place to be determined
Bldg. 970, Natural Area Drive
updated 10-04

Instructor and Office Hours:
Dr. Marjorie A. Hoy
Room 3111, Entomology-Nematology Bldg.
Bldg. 970, Natural Area Drive, 2004
P.O. Box 110620
TEL 352-392-1901 X153
FAX 352-392-0190
mahoy@ifas.ufl.edu

Office hours: I will have regularly scheduled office hours during the week, or by appointment.

Course Description: The course emphasizes the fundamental concepts behind several molecular methods, such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cloning, sequencing, genomic libraries and Southern and Northern blots, that are used to answer questions of interest to entomologists. The course is organized into three components and is intended to provide people with little previous experience in molecular genetics with an introduction to concepts, terminology and applications of these powerful tools. Part I. Review of basic information on DNA, RNA, transcription, translation, overview of genetic principles and terminology and overview of insect genome organization. Part II. Overview of major molecular genetic techniques, emphasizing principles, including use of restriction enzymes, cloning, genomic and cDNA libraries, DNA sequencing, genetic modification of Drosophila using P-element mediated transformation methods. Part III. Use of these techniques to understand sex determination, insect behavior, insect ecology, insect systematics, and the application of transformation methods to management of pest insects. The literature is reviewed and information provided on sources of additional information.

Objectives and Goals: The student will learn the basic terms and concepts associated with genetic manipulation of insects and the use of molecular genetic methods to solve problems in entomology involving sex determination, insect behavior, systematics, ecology, and transformation of pest and beneficial insects. The course will enable a student to identify literature for additional study on specific topics. Students are expected to read the assigned material, answer the study questions provided and participate in any discussions. Students are expected to take all examinations.

Reading Assignments:

Textbook: The reading assignments include the second edition of Insect Molecular Genetics. Copies of this book will be placed in the Reading Room and in the Graduate Secretary's office. This text is not required.

Grading scale:
Two midterms 25% each
Final examination 50%
Course Grade Mean Total %
90-100% A
85-89% B+
80-84% B
75-79% C+
70-74% C
65-69% D+
60-69% D
Below 59 E

Critical Dates for Exams or Other Work: Please see the printed syllabus for scheduled dates of exams. There will be two lecture exams and a final comprehensive exam, for a total of 100%. Students will be expected to sign the following statement on all exams: "On my honor I pledge that I have neither given nor received assistance in the completion of this test."

Policy Related to Class Attendance: Students are expected to attend all lectures. Students should respond to questions during the lecture discussion periods.

Policy Related to Make-Up Exams or Other Work: Examinations may be made up only with advance permission or an excuse from a doctor or the infirmary. Extenuating personal situations include a death or serious illness of an immediate family member. Call prior to the examination and leave a message on my voice mail.

Class Demeanor Expected by Instructor: Please be considerate of your classmates by not chatting during lecture. The banging of doors is very distracting to both students and professor, therefore please arrive on time and do not leave early. Turn off cell phones and beepers before coming into classroom. UF rules prohibit your having food or drinks in classrooms. Use of tobacco products (in any form) in the classroom is prohibited.

Additional General Information: The following information applies to all courses at the University of Florida.

We, the members of the University of Florida community, pledge to hold ourselves and our peers to the highest standard of honesty and integrity.

Academic Honesty: As a result of completing the registration form at the University of Florida, every student has signed the following statement: "I understand that the University of Florida expects its students to be honest in all their academic work. I agree to adhere to this commitment to academic honesty and understand that my failure to comply with this commitment may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from the University."

Copyrighted Materials and Software Use: All students are required and expected to obey the laws and legal agreements governing copyrighted material and software use. Failure to do so can lead to monetary damages and/or criminal penalties for the individual violator. Because such violations are also against University policies and rules, disciplinary action will be taken as appropriate.

Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: Students requesting classroom accommodation must first register with the Dean of Students Office. The Dean of Students will provide documentation to the student who must then provide this documentation to the Instructor when requesting accommodation.

University Counseling Services: Resources are available on-campus for students having personal problems or lacking clear career and academic goals which interfere with their academic performance. These resources include:

1. University Counseling Center, 301 Peabody Hall, 392-1575, personal and career counseling;
2. Student Mental Health, Student Health Care Center, 392-1171, personal counseling;
3. Sexual Assault Recovery Services (SARS), Student Health Care Center, 392-1161, sexual counseling; and
4. Career Resource Center, Reitz Union, 392-1601, career development assistance and counseling.