Environmental DNA – from Sample to Sequences
This hands-on course provides practical training in environmental DNA (eDNA) methods, guiding students through the complete workflow from field sampling to sequenced DNA. Students will gain experience with widely used protocols for collecting and processing eDNA in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Field and lab work includes sampling, filtration, DNA extraction, and PCR and sequencing, followed by basic data processing using user-friendly bioinformatic tools.
The course emphasizes good laboratory practices, contamination control, and scientific documentation, equipping students to produce reliable and reproducible results. Through practical exercises and guided supervision, participants will learn how eDNA can be applied across a range of biological disciplines - including ecology, environmental monitoring, aquaculture (e.g. pathogen or species detection), and animal science (e.g. non-invasive monitoring of livestock and wildlife).
The course is relevant for master and PhD students in biology, environmental science, ecology, animal science, aquaculture, and related fields.
- Students must meet current admission requirements for the associated study programme (Master in Biosciences).
- Students must have passed the course BIO5036 Environmental DNA, Theories and Applications.
After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge
- understands the practical steps involved in generating eDNA data, including sample collection, laboratory workflows, and sequencing
- has insight into sources of contamination and quality control measures in the eDNA field and lab work
Skills
- can carry out eDNA field sampling following established protocols in aquatic or terrestrial environments
- can independently perform laboratory procedures such as filtration, DNA extraction, and PCR.
- can process and interpret basic sequence output
General Competence
- can work systematically and responsibly with eDNA under conditions that require attention to detail and contamination control
- can document and report sampling methods, lab results, and preliminary data interpretations in accordance with scientific standards
Elective, specialization in
- Marine Ecology
- Animal science
- Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management
- Aquaculture
Fieldwork, lab teaching, computer labs and seminars.
The course is organized as an intensive, hands-on module combining field excursions, laboratory sessions, computer labs, and seminars. Students will participate in supervised fieldwork to collect environmental samples, followed by laboratory work involving filtration, DNA extraction, PCR and sequencing. In computer labs, students will learn to perform basic bioinformatic processing and interpretation of eDNA sequence data using accessible tools. Seminars and group discussions are integrated throughout the course to support reflection, data interpretation, and connection to real-world applications. Active participation in all components is expected.
Compound assessment, grading rule: A-F.
- Compulsory participation (80%) on field excursions. Grading rule: Approved / Not approved. Prerequisite for receiving a final grade in the course, counts 0/100 of the grade.
- Compulsory participation (80%) on laboratory sessions. Grading rule: Approved / Not approved. Prerequisite for receiving a final grade in the course, counts 0/100 of the grade.
- Compulsory participation (80%) on computer lab sessions. Grading rule: Approved / Not approved. Prerequisite for receiving a final grade in the course, counts 0/100 of the grade.
- Written assignment (10 days), counts 100/100 of the grade. Grading rule: A-E, best A, fail F.
None except computer.
Generating answers using ChatGPT or similar artificial intelligence and submitting them wholly or partially as your own work is considered cheating. Read more here: Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in studies