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University of Geneva

Classical papers in molecular genetics

You have all heard about the DNA double helix and genes. Many of you know that mutations occur randomly, that the DNA sequence is read by successive groups of three bases (the codons), that many genes encode enzymes, and that gene expression can be regulated. These concepts were proposed on the basis of astute genetic experiments, as well as often on biochemical results. The original articles were these concepts appeared are however not frequently part of the normal curriculum of biologists, biochemists and medical students. This course proposes to read study and discuss a small selection of these classical papers, and to put these landmarks in their historical context. Most of the authors displayed interesting personal histories and many of their contributions go beyond not only the papers we will read but probably all their scientific papers. Our understanding of the scientific process, of the philosophy underlying the process of scientific discovery, and on the integration of new concepts is not only important for the history of science but also for the mental development of creative science.

Status: Life Sciences
Status: Microbiology
Course28 hours

Featured reviews

SD

5.0Reviewed Aug 3, 2020

very informational and much important for my higher aspirations.

SB

5.0Reviewed Jan 20, 2019

I love these stories and it gives me a lot of instructions. Thanks.

CC

5.0Reviewed Nov 21, 2021

Such a great course if you are interested in the history of science

DP

5.0Reviewed Jun 19, 2019

Excellent course. It helped me a lot in understanding the classical experiments in detail.

BS

5.0Reviewed Dec 6, 2025

It's very informative course filled with a supportive information make us better in this topic of genetic thanks doc

MM

5.0Reviewed Jun 1, 2018

Amazing course! Very well designed and delivered. It was specially delightful to have some historical context to the papers, as well as insight into the biography of the scientists themselves.

DP

4.0Reviewed Jan 6, 2022

Very interesting course. I came to learn the new things of genetics which were not covered in UG PG and doctoral courses.

BS

5.0Reviewed Mar 25, 2016

Outstanding: the classic papers are always the best primary source of information!

VV

5.0Reviewed May 31, 2020

The professor was excellent and dedicated. I request the professor to take a course on fundamental papers in Biochemistry. Thank you professor Dominique!

SW

5.0Reviewed Jun 1, 2016

Very cool. Love to hear about these scientists and their lives and efforts

AM

5.0Reviewed Dec 6, 2025

It's very informative course and l gain many knowledge from it thank you

AP

5.0Reviewed Sep 5, 2020

Gave a good insight of the subject.So much of historical papers reviewed on one platform is really good.

All reviews

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