Quantitative Genetics Applications of Matrix Algebra

Catalog description

The goal of this course is development of skills in matrix algebra to describe and solve problems in the agricultural and life sciences, with particular focus on quantitative genetics. The course is designed for students with no prior knowledge of matrix algebra, and whose formal training in mathematics may be somewhat limited. It will consider the vocabulary, concepts, application and, to a lesser extent, theory of matrix algebra that is relevant to graduate students in the agricultural and life sciences. Application exercises will consider ecological systems, genotypic transition matrices, selection indices, and the numerator relationship matrix. Application of methods such as least squares, and canonical transformation to solve problems in the biological sciences using matrix algebra will also be introduced.