Environmental DNA, Theories and Applications
This course offers an interdisciplinary introduction to environmental DNA (eDNA) as a powerful tool for detecting and monitoring biodiversity in natural and human-influenced environments. eDNA refers to genetic material that organisms leave behind in water, soil, or air, and it is increasingly used across research and applied fields such as ecology, conservation, aquaculture, and animal science.
Students will gain an understanding of the theoretical foundations of eDNA, including how it originates, persists, and moves through different environments. The course covers both aquatic and terrestrial systems, with real-world examples ranging from marine biodiversity surveys and fish farm monitoring to terrestrial species detection and wildlife and domestic animal management.
Throughout the course, students will explore how eDNA can support practical decision-making in fields such as aquaculture (e.g., pathogen detection, stock monitoring), terrestrial and marine ecology (e.g., species inventories, habitat assessments), and animal science (e.g., non-invasive monitoring of livestock and wildlife). Ethical, legal, and societal aspects of eDNA use will also be discussed, along with communication of eDNA findings to stakeholders.
No prior experience with molecular biology is required. This course is particularly relevant for master’s students in biology, environmental science, animal science, marine studies, ecology, and natural resource management.
Upon successful completion of this course, it is expected that the student will have reached the following learning objectives:
Knowledge
- has good knowledge of the theoretical principles underlying environmental DNA (eDNA), including its origin, degradation, and transport in the environment
- has insight into key applications of eDNA in biomonitoring, research, and resource management
Skills
- can describe and critically assess the main methodological steps in an eDNA workflow, including sampling strategies, laboratory techniques, and bioinformatic analysis
- can evaluate the strengths and limitations of eDNA approaches compared to traditional monitoring techniques
General competence
- can communicate central concepts and findings related to environmental DNA to both specialists and non-specialists
- can reflect on the ethical, legal, and practical implications of using eDNA in research and environmental management
No tuition fees. Costs for semester registration apply.
Students must have access to a laptop with a camera and a headset.
The course is delivered entirely online and combines asynchronous and synchronous learning activities. Core content is presented through pre-recorded video lectures that students can access at their own pace. These are supplemented by interactive online seminars, where students discuss key topics, case studies, and recent research with peers and instructors.
Participation in seminars is expected and designed to support critical reflection and deepen understanding of course materials.
Additional learning activities include guided reading, short quizzes, and optional exercises related to eDNA workflows. A digital learning platform is used to organize resources, communicate updates, and facilitate student interaction.
A final oral presentation (exam) is given individually by each student on a given topic.
Compound assessment, grading rule: A-F.
• Compulsory participation (80%) in seminars. Grading rule: Approved / Not approved. Prerequisite for receiving a final grade in the course, counts 0/100 of the grade.
• Oral exam / presentation based on given assignment (10 days), counts 100/100 of the grade. Grading rule: A-E, best A, fail F.