BEng Biomedical Engineering

Title:

Anatomy & Physiology

Code:

BI1AP12

Convenor:

DR Natasha Barrett

Summary:

Anatomy and Physiology introduces the amazing structure and function of key bodily systems to explore how organs work to support life. Whilst focussing on the context of a healthy Human, the structure and function of the Human body is consolidated through selected comparisons made to other vertebrates.  Theoretical knowledge, to introduce the structure and function of each of the main body systems, is gained through lectures, and then applied in practical classes.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Building Blocks of Life

Code:

BI1BEC1

Convenor:

PROF Phillip Dash

Summary:

Genes and cells are the fundamental building blocks of all life. All life is made up of cells and their function is controlled by genes. In this module we will introduce students to the dynamic nature of the cell and major concepts in cell biology and genetics. Microbial, animal and plant cell structures are examined and compared during a tour of the structure and function of the major organelles. The module also provides an overview of major cellular processes including energy production, cell death, cell communication, photosynthesis, stem cells, organization of cells into tissues and how cells survive extreme environments. Alongside this understanding of cells we will also examine genetics and genetic tools to understand transcription and translation, inheritance and evolution, gene regulation and key experimental techniques such as genetic engineering.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Key Skills in Biomedicine

Code:

BI1BM12

Convenor:

DR Chris Jones

Summary:

Alongside gaining in-depth biological knowledge in other modules, developing transferrable skills is essential for your development as a Biologist. This module focuses on providing a common foundation in transferable skills relevant to increasing success whilst studying at university and in future careers.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Electronics

Code:

BI1EE17

Convenor:

DR Sillas Hadjiloucas

Summary:

This module provides a foundation in the theory that supports the understanding of DC and AC (frequency dependent) circuits, and circuits that contain logic elements and Operational Amplifiers (Op-Amps). This module also introduces the analysis and design of such circuits.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Mathematics

Code:

BI1MA17

Convenor:

PROF Faustina Hwang

Summary:

In this module, you will develop the mathematical knowledge and skills that are fundamental to becoming a biomedical engineer. Topics include algebra, complex numbers, statistics, calculus, vectors, and matrices, and they are taught with engineering examples to help highlight how the topics are relevant for your degree. You will also learn MATLAB, powerful mathematical computing software that is used by professionals throughout the world. Lectures are interactive, and weekly tutorials provide an opportunity for you to practise problem-solving with support and feedback from peers and tutors, to help you master the material.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Physics for Biomedical Engineering

Code:

BI1PH17

Convenor:

DR Yoshikatsu Hayashi

Summary:

Physics is of fundamental importance in biomedical engineering, from modelling the behaviour of biological systems to understanding the operation of medical imaging technology, such as MRI scanners. This module provides a foundation in relevant areas of physics, which will be built upon in many modules later in the Biomedical Engineering degree programmes. The emphasis is on analytical skills based on differentiation and integration, and the understanding of concepts, as well as intuitive imagination applied to physical phenomena. A functional understanding of Newton’s laws will be achieved by lab practical sessions using computer simulations.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Programming

Code:

BI1PR17

Convenor:

DR Evangelos Delivopoulos

Summary:

Programming is a fundamental skill in all forms of engineering. It is ubiquitously used in modelling, problem solving, designing and data analysis. The aim of this module is to provide students with the needed foundation to analyse, comprehend and produce their own code in C++ and Matlab. There is 1 hour of theoretical lectures and 2 hours of practical sessions per week; the practicals provide an opportunity to work and build upon the material taught during the lectures. There is a test at the end of the autumn term and assessed exercises throughout the year, to provide students with regular feedback on their progress. At week 6 of spring term, students start their final project (worth 50% of the module) on designing and implementing a substantial software kit.

Assessment Method:

Practical 40%, Project 50%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Medical Applications of Physics

Code:

BI2AP22

Convenor:

DR Lindsey Thompson

Summary:

This module will provide students with a good understanding of how fundamental principles are essential to how some key organs in the body function. The focus is to relate understanding to diagnosis and treatment of specific common conditions associated with each of the organs studied. Students will gain experience of the full process and will be provided with opportunities to discuss key equipment, treatment options and choices at the clinical level. Clinical case studies will be presented by clinicians. No previous knowledge of Physics is required.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Medical Robotics and Prosthetics

Code:

BI2MR22

Convenor:

PROF William Harwin

Summary:

This module considers innovation and design in the areas of prosthetics, robotics, exosketons, medical equipment etc to help humans and animals. The module will explore current state of the art, and the techniques needed to innovate and invent new devices and methods. The course will also look at the foundational maths that guides the movement of robots and people.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biomedical Problem Solving

Code:

BI2PS22

Convenor:

EUR ING PROF Simon Sherratt

Summary:

This module includes a substantial group project in which students from different programmes in the School of Biological Sciences work together, pooling their expertise to tackle a given biomedical problem. The module introduces students to the concepts, practice and management associated with undertaking a project during which a technological solution is created for a given biomedical problem situation. The module addresses the lifecycle activities associated with developing a product to address the problem, as well as the management activities required to ensure the product is developed on time and is fit for purpose. Students will be involved in both developing a product and evaluating it across a range of conditions. A group work approach is adopted, whereby students work in multi-disciplinary teams to achieve common goals within the practical periods and through independent study. Students are also introduced to good design practice, health and safety, commercial awareness, and legal, ethical and security issues.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biomedical signal processing and feedback systems

Code:

BI2SP22

Convenor:

PROF Ying Zheng

Summary:

This module will introduce students to the fundamentals of processing biomedical signals, including analysing signals in both the time and the frequency domain. It will also familiarise students with feedback systems which are essential for almost all body functions and processes. The importance of system stability will be discussed. 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biomedical Sensors and Wearable Technology

Code:

BI2SW22

Convenor:

DR John Bowen

Summary:

Sensors have important biomedical applications in the monitoring of physiological parameters, in the control of assistive technologies, and as the basis of many diagnostic and medical imaging systems. This module will cover the different types of sensors used for biomedical application areas, their characteristics and principles of operation. You will also learn how sensors can be combined with embedded processors – small computer systems that are often hidden from the user – to produce wearable sensors for medical and healthcare applications. By the end of the module, you will be able to choose appropriate sensors and transducers for a given application and be able to calculate how the output signals they produce are related to the quantities they are sensing. You will also be able to program an embedded processor to perform a typical task for a wearable device. The module consists of lectures reinforced by laboratory practicals.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Clinical Biomedicine

Code:

BI2BCB5

Convenor:

PROF David Leake

Summary:

The Clinical Biomedicine module describes what happens to your blood or tissue sample when it is taken to the Pathology laboratories in a hospital. The role of haematology laboratories in investigating the various types of blood cells, leukaemias, lymphomas, myelomas, blood groups and haemostasis is described.  The techniques used in cellular pathology laboratories are covered, including histopathology, immunochemistry, cytology, cervical screening and auto-immunity. The types of assays used in clinical biochemistry laboratories are described and their roles in diagnosing liver, renal, endocrine and heart disease and inborn errors of metabolism. The use of tumour markers in cancer patients is discussed, as is the detection and measurement of drugs, both therapeutic and illegal, and poisons. You will carry out a practical in which you diagnose someone’s disease by determining their haematocrit, haemoglobin concentration, blood type and full blood count. There is also a practical on the different types of blood coagulation assays and one in which you stain a cervical biopsy and carry out a Papanicolaou stain of cells. There is a talk from a hospital scientist on careers in hospital laboratories.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Report 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biologically Inspired Computing

Code:

BI2BI17

Convenor:

PROF Slawomir Nasuto

Summary:

In spite of the advances in computing technology naturally occurring systems are still surprising us with the spectrum of complex behaviours they exhibit - pattern recognition, ability to self-repair, robustness to perturbations or noise, and adaptability in face of dynamic and often unpredictable environment. Seemingly simple tasks for natural systems offer state of the art challenges for traditional computation.

Such ability of dealing with complex information has inspired number of researchers to pursue novel computational methods inspired by biological solutions to what seem to be computational problems.

This module covers the theory and implementation of a number of computational systems inspired by biology, including brain inspired artificial neural networks, evolutionary algorithms, swarm intelligence methods based on social organisms, computing instantiated in molecules and cells and biologically inspired pattern formation systems.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Oral 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Bioinformatics & Computational Biology

Code:

BI2BT5

Convenor:

PROF Liam McGuffin

Summary:

Bioinformatics is an essential part of modern biology. This module will provide students with introduction to the key concepts of bioinformatics and computational biology and it is aimed at second or third year students. The knowledge and core bioinformatics techniques that are taught will help to equip students with the vital computational and programming skills that are required for successful careers in many fields of modern biology. The module does not have any prerequisites and it will use practical examples to demonstrate the power of bioinformatics for enhancing research across the biological sciences at all levels; from molecular and cellular biology to zoology and ecology.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 10%, Project 50%, Report 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Summer Placement

Code:

BI2PLA

Convenor:

DR Renee Lee

Summary:

In a competitive job market, understanding how the professional work place functions, along with well developed employability skills are essential to securing future employment. In this module, students will undertake a short placement within a relevant company or organisation. This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience of the working world, improve and diversify their skills as well as enhancing their curriculum vitae. Students will be supported in finding their own placement, a useful skill for seeking out future employment opportunities.

Assessment Method:

Oral 20%, Report 80%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 2

Code:

ED2TS2

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, ten day placements in June/July in secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting.

In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school students. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.

Students will be selected by application and interview.

Please be aware that once the placement has been completed in June it is not possible to switch from this module in the Autumn Term as students have completed practical activities directly relating to 50% of the mark (Professionalism and portfolio) and that link to activities in the Autumn Term.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Research Project

Code:

BI3PRO

Convenor:

DR Renee Lee

Summary:

The aim of project work is to provide the student with an experience of biological research through the design and execution of an individual project.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Assistive Technology and Rehabilitation Engineering

Code:

BI3AT17

Convenor:

PROF Faustina Hwang

Summary:

This module examines how human capabilities are affected by ageing and impairment, and how this affects interactions with technology that can improve quality of life and independence.

It introduces a range of examples where the application of engineering principles and practices have been used in the design and development of assistive technology devices and rehabilitation systems.

The module comprises 20 hours of in-class lectures and interactive exercises plus a programme of guided independent study/directed reading. The module is assessed by research and/or design work and a written report on the work.

Assessment Method:

Report 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Brain Computer Interfaces

Code:

BI3BC17

Convenor:

DR Yoshikatsu Hayashi

Summary:

The module aims at providing real experience of developing and performing Brain Computer Interfaces – decoding the relaxation state and motor intention. Electronics (BI1EE17) and Signal Processing (BI2SP17) must be completed in priori.

Assessment Method:

Report 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Radiation in Medicine

Code:

BI3BDI2

Convenor:

DR Lindsey Thompson

Summary:

This module will provide students with a good understanding of an introduction to clinical diagnostics and nuclear medicine. The aim is to develop an understanding of imaging equipment linked to diagnostics.  Students will also gain experience of Nuclear Medicine in terms of safety, treatments, treatment planning.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Neurobiology

Code:

BI3BI8

Convenor:

DR Nandini Vasudevan

Summary:

The aim of this course is to develop a comprehensive picture of the nervous system. This will be achieved by delivering a broad ranging course on neurobiology that covers molecular, cellular, systematic aspects of neurobiology.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biomechanics and Soft Technologies

Code:

BI3BS22

Convenor:

DR Yoshikatsu Hayashi

Summary:

This module introduces students to basic knowledge in biomechanics, soft robotics, and technologies that capitalize on the recent advancements in material science. Based on the understanding of human body in terms of biomechanics and body control, the module will explore technologies such as the flexible electrodes used as implants, the state of the art in soft robotics used in biomimicry and assistive robotics. 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering

Code:

BI3BT17

Convenor:

DR Evangelos Delivopoulos

Summary:

Implantable devices and regenerative medicine can now restore lost organs and their function. Soft, biodegradable constructs are laden with stem cells and transplanted into healthy tissue. On the other hand, elastic materials and refined microfabrication techniques have made it possible to engineer interfaces that can be chronically implanted, in order to record and stimulate the nervous system. This module provides students with a foundation in materials science and then introduces a series of medical device fabrication and tissue engineering technologies. The module examines different applications, such as artificial vision, cardiovascular implants and nervous system interfaces. These topics are examined over a series of 2 hour lectures. During a 3 week period in the mid-term, students undertake a team based project, writing a grant proposal for their team’s research idea and pitching it to their colleagues.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Oral 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Medical Imaging

Code:

BI3MI17

Convenor:

DR John Bowen

Summary:

In this module, you will gain an understanding of the techniques and processes for creating visual representations of the interior of the body for clinical analysis and medical intervention. The module covers the fundamentals, operation, design and application of the most commonly used medical imaging systems, including MRI, CT and ultrasound imaging, as well as fluorescence microscopy techniques. Relevant image processing techniques will be covered, with emphasis on those based around functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The module consists of lectures and practical sessions, during which you will learn to view, process and analyse human fMRI data.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Seminars in Biology

Code:

BI3S78

Convenor:

DR Louise Johnson

Summary:

This module utilises seminar series in SBS and other relevant Schools. Students will attend their choice of ten or more life science research seminars throughout the academic year, and write and submit a report for each. Assessment will be based on three assignments: an MCQ test on experimental design and statistics; a Summary Paragraph based on a result presented at a seminar; and a portfolio of seminar reports accompanied by a synoptic essay.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Virtual Reality

Code:

CS3VR16

Convenor:

PROF Richard Mitchell

Summary:

To describe virtual reality in terms of the scientific issues, application areas and strengths and weaknesses of the technology. To provide experience of various devices and software. To provide hands-on experience of various devices and software.

This module also encourages students to develop a set of professional skills, such as creativity (of virtual world), group work, scripting and effective use of commercial software.

Assessment Method:

Exam 30%, Set exercise 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 4

Code:

ED3TS4

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, ten day placements in June/July in secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting.

In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school pupils. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.

Students will be selected by application and interview.

Please be aware that once the placement has been completed in June it is not possible to switch from this module in the Autumn Term as students have completed practical activities directly relating to 50% of the mark (Professionalism and portfolio) and that link to activities in the Autumn Term.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Innovation and Product Development

Code:

PM3IPD1

Convenor:

DR Al Edwards

Summary:

PM3IPD1 gives students an understanding of the innovation process “from science to person”, introducing the core topics of scientific innovation and product development (focussed on medicines, medical devices and cosmetics), whilst developing core skills that link science to industry. Students will learn to identify critical business development challenges that need to be addressed for science to benefit society.

This part 3 module will introduce students to core topics surrounding the societal and industrial challenge of translating science into real-world public benefit in the form of innovative products. The taught content covers the full range of innovation skills and knowledge, including a range of critical business development areas, alongside details of the product development pathway. Innovation topics include customer and market insight, intellectual property, finance, business development, and finally leadership. Students will also follow the lifecycle of a product launch, becoming aware of how to effectively plan a product launch. This will be applied to a broad spectrum of products arising from a range of chemical and life sciences including pharmacology and pharmaceutical science; chemistry and cosmetic chemistry; biomedical science and bioengineering. Diverse case studies of real products and innovations, plus product concepts, will be explored by students. These will include pharmaceuticals, medical devices, chemical industry and cosmetic products, to allow students to connect with their respective degree programmes.

No prior knowledge of innovation is required, but we expect students to bring their expertise in their respective degree subject to the module. Interprofessional communication skills are vital for innovation, and students from different backgrounds will benefit from studying together. For example, pharmacology students will benefit from gaining an understanding of chemical formulation and bioengineering. Cosmetic chemistry students will get a chance to understand the connection between consumer products and healthcare/pharmaceuticals. Bioscience students will gain insight into how fundamental biomedical science can translate into products that benefit society. A key requirement is applying science and engineering principles to innovation and product development.

The students will learn by doing, gaining transferrable innovation skills. The module thus teaches the core skills and knowledge to navigate the path “from science to person”.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.