Ancient DNA

Study human and non-human ancient DNA from sampling and laboratory methods to computational interpretation. Lectures address degradation, contamination, extraction, library preparation and sequencing choices. Hands-on work covers preprocessing, mapping and reference bias, authentication and damage, low-coverage genotype approaches, ancestry estimation, phylogenomic analysis and admixture statistics. The programme connects these methods to evolutionary and archaeological questions while examining ethical responsibilities and limits of inference from degraded material. Live sessions: 21, 22, 25

…The conversation also covers ancient DNA and the Dead Sea Scrolls, automation in biology and the distinction between supporting researchers and replacing scientific judgment.