Updated to reflect the latest discoveries in the field, the Fifth Edition of Hartl's classic text provides an accessible, student-friendly introduction to contemporary genetics. Designed for the shorter, less comprehensive introductory course, Essential Genetics: A Genomic Perspective, Fifth Edition includes carefully chosen topics that provide a solid foundation to the basic understanding of gene mutation, expression, and regulation. New and updated sections on genetic analysis, molecular genetics, probability in genetics, and pathogenicity islands ensure that students are kept up-to-date on current key topics. The text also provides students with a sense of the social and historical context in which genetics has developed. New and expanded end-of-chapter material allows for a mastery of key genetics concepts and is ideal for homework assignments and in-class discussion.