Human Evolutionary Genetics : Origins, Peoples and Disease

Human Evolutionary Genetics is a groundbreaking text which for the first time brings together molecular genetics and genomics to the study of the origins and movements of human populations.

Starting with an overview of molecular genomics for the non-specialist (which can be a useful review for those with a more genetic background), the book shows how data from the post-genomic era can be used to examine human origins and the human colonisation of the planet, richly illustrated with genetic trees and global maps.

For the first time in a textbook, the authors outline how genetic data and the understanding of our origins which emerges, can be applied to contemporary population analyses, including genealogies, forensics and medicine.Drawing its material from a range of disciplines, this text is an invaluable resource for courses in: Human Evolution Human Variation Biological Anthropology Physical Anthropology Human Population Genetics Features * Carefully structured to introduce the subject to a diverse readership, this book follows a logical progression: * Introduces molecular genetics and genomics * Examines human evolutionary origins * Describes dispersal of human populations * Applies human genetic data to aspects of contemporary populations including forensics, genealogy and medicine * Extensively supported by thirty 'Opinion Boxes' written by guest contributors, such as David Goldstein and Hank Greely, outlining their views on issues in the field.

These boxes demonstrate to the student that scientific research is an ongoing process, and that theories are constantly being questioned and thereby evolving. * In addition to the 'Opinion Boxes', there are boxes giving background theory, describing methodologies, and others which highlight specific genetic loci.* Recognising that students and researchers come from different disciplines the authors explain specialist terms where they are first used, and then collate them in an extensive glossary. * Given the dynamic nature of the subject, numerous web links are included at the end of each chapter.

These links also encourage readers to explore topics in greater depth. * To ensure that the reader has fully grasped the essential facts, each chapter concludes with a summary of the key points.