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 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Key Skills in Biomedicine

Code:

BI1BM12

Convenor:

DR Lizzy Lander

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Bacteriology and Virology

Code:

BI1BAC2

Convenor:

DR Geraldine Mulley

Summary:

This module builds on the Introductory Microbiology module (BI1S1) to explore the diversity of bacteria and viruses and their impact on health, medicine and biotechnology. Phenotypic and phylogenetic methods used to identify and classify bacteria are covered in lectures and practical classes and the impact of HGT on the genetic make-up and properties of bacteria considered. Key examples of selected bacteria highlighting their diversity and impact also reinforce understanding of the structure, function and metabolism of bacterial cells. The complexity and dynamic nature of bacterial communities is addressed including infection of bacteria by bacteriophage. Study of viruses continues with examples of human and/ or animal outbreaks that pose a major threat with focus on respiratory viruses and retroviruses, including HIV. The module concludes with a review of key recent events in Virology.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Introductory Microbiology

Code:

BI1S1

Convenor:

DR Geraldine Mulley

Summary:

This module provides students with an introduction to the discipline of Microbiology. Students will learn the fundamental biology of bacteria, archaea, protists, fungi and viruses; their structure, replication, nutrition, the diverse environments where they live (including host-microbe interactions), and how some microbes benefit society (food production and biotechnology), whilst others cause disease. The module will also provide students with an understanding of how some microbes cause infections, the various ways to prevent and treat infectious diseases, and how microbes develop resistance to antimicrobials. Students will learn the techniques needed for safe handling of microbiological samples to isolate and purify bacteria and fungi from food samples in the laboratory.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Laboratory and Study Skills for Biomedicine

Code:

BI1BF1

Convenor:

DR Mike Fry

Summary:

• To provide training and experience in a range of basic laboratory techniques essential to a biomedical scientist and to develop the necessary mathematical and problem skills required to carry out experiments and to analyse data• To provide knowledge of how the biomedical profession is monitored and regulated• To help students develop effective time management and organisation, team work, communication and interpersonal skills and to encourage a self-learning approach to studying• To develop data graphing and computing skills• To gain knowledge of the careers of different types of Biomedical Scientists

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Practical 30%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Metabolic and Practical Biochemistry

Code:

BI1BAB2

Convenor:

DR Alice Pollitt

Summary:

The regulation of metabolism is fundamental to life.  From energy generation to the formation and breakdown of the building blocks which make up the human body (proteins, lipids and polysaccharides) these cellular metabolic processes are highly controlled and coordinated.  Supported by practical sessions this module will explore the critical principles that underpin metabolism and how these are studied in a laboratory setting.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Set exercise 50%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Introduction to Evolutionary Processes

Code:

BI1EAD1

Convenor:

DR Louise Johnson

Summary:

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Fundamentals of Physics for Medicine

Code:

BI1EPM

Convenor:

DR Lindsey Thompson

Summary:

This module is designed for students with little or no recent background in physics and will provide students with basic knowledge of physics and its applications in biology. Lectures will provide a broad base of fundamental principles of Physics while practical sessions will give students a chance to gain some ‘hands on’ experience. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Set exercise 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Metabolic Biochemistry

Code:

BI1MB2

Convenor:

DR Craig Hughes

Summary:

This module is all about energy.  Metabolism is a term encompassing the fundamental processes for life; the extraction of energy from food molecules for use in cellular processes and growth.  When it becomes dysregulated it underlies diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.  This is all controlled by enzymes.  This module will cover how enzymes work and how they are fundamental for regulating all steps in metabolic pathways.  You will also gain first-hand experience of studying enzymes in the laboratory.  You will learn about a number of metabolic pathways and about how they interact and cross-over with each other dynamically in response to the energy needs of the cell.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Report 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Digestion and Nutrition

Code:

AP1A18

Convenor:

DR Sokratis Stergiadis

Summary:

You’ll learn about the anatomy of the digestive tract of animals and humans, and understand the associated digestive physiology. You’ll also learn about the chemical composition of foods and feeds, the nutrients they contain, how they can be analysed and how they contribute to overall diets, energy and nutrient intakes. You’ll learn through lectures and a software-assisted practical exercise.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Report 20%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Molecular Studies for the Life Sciences

Code:

CH1FC3

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

Summary:

Designed specifically for students in the life sciences, this module builds on the key chemical concepts for the molecular sciences, covering core ideas in physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. This module follows on from CH1FC1, but can also be taken as a stand-alone module. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Fundamental Concepts in Chemistry 1

Code:

CH1FC1

Convenor:

DR David Nutt

Summary:

Starting a degree in the life sciences but don’t have an A level or equivalent in chemistry? Then this is the right module for you. Covering key topics in chemistry that all life science students should know, this module will introduce you to atomic structure, bonding, intermolecular forces, simple organic structure and nomenclature, isomerism, acids and bases and the theory of buffers, basic concepts of energy changes in chemical reactions, reaction rates, moles and concentrations. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Physical Processes for Biologists

Code:

CH1PH2

Convenor:

DR Joanne Elliott

Summary:

You will develop your knowledge of the fundamental principles of Physical Chemistry by studying the core concepts of physical processes for biologists in some depth. In lectures you will learn key concepts and in workshops you will explore your understanding.    

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Set exercise 25%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry

Code:

CH1OR2

Convenor:

DR Andrew Russell

Summary:

To introduce students to the basic concepts in organic chemistry in order to better appreciate related subjects such as Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry.

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Report 25%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Ancient Greek 1

Code:

CL1G1

Convenor:

MRS Jackie Baines

Summary:

This module aims to teach students some elements of the Ancient Greek language and give them skills to read Ancient Greek at an elementary level.

Assessment Method:

Exam 30%, Class test 70%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Latin 1 (C)

Code:

CL1L1

Convenor:

MRS Jackie Baines

Summary:

This module aims to teach students some elements of the Latin language and give them skills to read Latin at an elementary level.

Assessment Method:

Exam 30%, Class test 70%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Infectious Diseases

Code:

BI2BI45

Convenor:

DR Sheila MacIntyre

Summary:

Newly evolved viruses, antibiotic resistant bacteria, ineffective malaria drugs continue to cause problems in our fight to control infectious disease.  In this module you will initially study viruses of global significance (including Ebola and Coronaviruses), their transmission, detection and how understanding their different replication strategies helps to develop therapies and prevention methods. This is followed by a tour of bacteria, fungi and protists of clinical significance in the UK, causing for example respiratory infection, meningitis, sepsis, sexually transmitted disease, food poisoning, skin infections and malaria. Influence of the human microbiome, how synthesis of unique microbial structures are targeted by antibiotics and the problem of resistance are addressed. Your knowledge of microbiology in the hospital and community will be enhanced through practicals where you ‘Identify the culprit’. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Project 5%, Report 20%, Class test 15%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Cells and Immunity

Code:

BI2BC45

Convenor:

DR Mike Fry

Summary:

This module will build on molecular cell biology concepts introduced at Part 1 and will introduce new concepts that will form the foundation for further development in modules at Part 3. The aim will be to develop a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of eukaryotic cell structure and function in molecular terms, focusing on cells in tissues and immune cells and the interplay that occurs between them during infection. The module will start by introducing a range of topics linked to cell function in all cell types and then will move on to consider these in the context of the functioning of the immune system during an infection in a tissue.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Report 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Molecular Genetics

Code:

BI2BMG4

Convenor:

DR Eva Kevei

Summary:

This module extends understanding obtained in the Part 1 Building Blocks module on gene organisation, expression and control, and the methods used to study gene function. The module considers how chromosomes are organised and replicated, and how genes are expressed and regulated. We also provide understanding of and experience with the tools used to analyse genes and their encoded proteins at the molecular level using bioinformatic approaches and laboratory experiment.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Set exercise 50%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

The Bacterial Cell

Code:

BI2BR5

Convenor:

PROF Simon Andrews

Summary:

The purpose of this module is to provide students with an understanding of fundamental aspects of bacterial, metabolism, physiology and genetics. By the end of the course students should understand how bacteria manage to utilise a wide variety of nutrients through the diversity of their metabolic capabilities and how these processes are regulated. Students will also learn about the mechanisms of important bacterial processes, such as genetic exchange, membrane assembly, solute transport, cell growth, motility and taxis, and stress (e.g. osmotic and pH) resistance. At the practical level students will learn to perform membrane preparations, transposon mutagenesis, and biofilm and evolution experiments.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Key Skills in Biomedicine 2

Code:

BI2BM45

Convenor:

DR Renee Lee

Summary:

This module will provide students with tutorials and lectures in transferrable skills relevant to study and future careers in Biomedicine and related professions. These will include generic skills and also subject specific skills, and the content will build on and enhance the skills covered in key skills 1.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Protein Structure and Function

Code:

BI2BL5

Convenor:

DR Kimberly Watson

Summary:

To understand protein structure at the primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary levels, the properties of amino acids and chemistry of polypeptides. To know the principles of methods for determining protein three-dimensional structure To be able to relate protein structure to function for important types of proteins. To gain experience of using molecular graphics tools and the Web to investigate the structure of a protein and its relation to function To understand the principles of enzyme catalysis (kinetics, thermodynamics and allostery).

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Assignment 20%, Practical 10%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Venoms and Poisons

Code:

BI2EVP5

Convenor:

PROF Phillip Dash

Summary:

This module aims to provide the student with a comprehensive overview of venoms and poisons, including an introduction to important venomous and poisonous animals and poisonous plants, including the role of the venoms or poisons for defence or predation. This module will cover the evolution of venoms and poisons, the biochemistry underpinning their synthesis and mechanism of action, general principles of toxicology and an overview of their medical uses.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Marine Biology and Conservation

Code:

BI2MBC

Convenor:

DR Glyn Barrett

Summary:

This module will introduce students to the range of marine habitats, environments and associated biodiversity present within the biosphere. The module will provide an introduction to the major physical and chemical mechanisms underpinning oceanic processes. Lectures will cover key aspects of the biology, ecology and environmental physiology of marine organisms across several domains and major phyla of life. In addition, and with a focus on the ecological impacts of human activities, the module will explore threats to marine and coastal ecosystems and examine methods in monitoring and surveying techniques for the study, management and conservation of these ecosystems.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Report 30%"

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Bacterial Pathogens & Experimental Approaches

Code:

BI3BQ78

Convenor:

DR Simon Clarke

Summary:

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of key factors involved in bacterial pathogenesis. Using selected examples of human and animal pathogens, both the disease and molecular basis of pathogenesis will be considered. This module will see students learn the advanced, modern techniques used by microbiologists to study pathogenic bacteria and to develop new strategies for prevention and treatment of disease.

Assessment Method:

Exam 35%, Oral 15%, Dissertation 35%, Class test 15%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Mechanisms for Microbial Function

Code:

BI3BG8

Convenor:

DR Glyn Barrett

Summary:

Develop specialist skills and knowledge in microbiology at the molecular level. You will become aware of exciting developments in microbiology and learn how experimental approaches are used to uncover scientific knowledge in topics including bacterial evolution and gene expression and regulation.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Assignment 15%, Oral 15%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Research Project - Biomolecular 40 Credit (B)

Code:

BI3PROB

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:

Assignment 5%, Oral 10%, Dissertation 75%, Project 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 3

Code:

ED3TS3

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, five 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.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Viral Pathogens

Code:

BI3BJ8

Convenor:

PROF Ian Jones

Summary:

To gain knowledge of the replication and cell tropisms of some of the leading virus pathogens. To convey an understanding of the diverse mechanisms by which some viruses, whilst interacting with their hosts, lead to disease while others do not.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Structural Proteomics

Code:

BI3BR7

Convenor:

DR Kimberly Watson

Summary:

This module will build upon the foundations of 3-dimensional protein structure and how ‘function follows form', laid in the Protein Structure Function module (BI2BL5). Without doubt, Structural ‘omics’ efforts have had an enormous impact on structural databases, but importantly, these efforts equally have had huge technological impact that has altered the way structural biologists and protein biochemists work. The role that Structural Proteomics has played in the first part of the 21st century is equivalent to that played by the Human Genome project in the last part of the 20th century. This module will provide an historical and up-to-date overview of the Structural Proteomics field and its impact on Life Science research.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 40%, Practical 50%, Class test 10%"

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Cancer and Cell Communication

Code:

BI3BT78

Convenor:

DR Mike Fry

Summary:

In this module we will build on content from years one and two on the importance of signal transduction pathways in the context of the causes and potential routes to treatment of cancer. These two subjects are intimately linked as much of what we know about normal cell signalling came from studying mutated oncogenes and much of the current thinking around personalised treatments for cancer centre around finding ways to target these abnormal signalling pathways in cancer whilst minimising the effects of the health tissues of the patient. We will explore these links through a combination of lectures, weekly paper discussions around key literature, problem sessions and through a student led project.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Project 15%, Class test 15%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Microbiology Field Course

Code:

BI3B67

Convenor:

DR Glyn Barrett

Summary:

A unique opportunity to travel to and study microbial biodiversity, survival mechanisms and biotechnological applications of extremophiles in Northern Iceland or Colombia (alternate years). Dependent on destination, you will be sampling from geothermal pools, glaciers and volcano slopes or lush tropical rainforest soils. Microbes will be cultured, identified and characterised in world class laboratories in destination countries where you will be working in multicultural teams of students.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 15%, Dissertation 65%, Project 10%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Medical Genetics

Code:

BI3BA7

Convenor:

DR Dyan Sellayah

Summary:

This module aims to provide students with a broad understanding of the cellular and molecular basis of hereditary human diseases and an appreciation of gene-environment interactions in determination of outcomes of genetically determined disease.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Assignment 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Selected Topics in Endocrinology and Endocrine Disease

Code:

BI3BB7

Convenor:

DR Andrew Bicknell

Summary:

The endocrine system is key to the survival an organism. This module aims to build on the concepts learn in the part 2 Endocrinology module (BI2BB4) by studying selected topics to the frontiers of knowledge.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Assignment 20%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Cardiovascular Disease

Code:

BI3BE8

Convenor:

DR David Leake

Summary:

The world’s leading cause of death is cardiovascular disease, mainly coronary heart disease and strokes. The underlying cause is most often atherosclerosis, in which cholesterol is laid down in inflamed arteries. This leads to thrombosis (clotting) and heart attacks and strokes, which are very sadly often fatal. You will learn the latest insights into the causes of heart attacks and strokes and how drugs, including the cholesterol-lowering statins, can be used to treat it. You will also discover how cardiovascular disease can be prevented by changes to our lifestyle and diet.

Assessment Method:

Exam 75%, Oral 25%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Evolutionary Medicine

Code:

BI3EM1

Convenor:

DR Dyan Sellayah

Summary:

Medicine and evolutionary biology can be seen as offering two distinct perspectives on the same biological phenomena. One is concerned with diagnosing and treating ill-health caused by dysfunctional biological processes. The other serves to understand how natural selection has shaped the genetics underlying biological processes of populations and species over generations, yet rarely are the two perspectives integrated. We know that many diseases have a genetic basis, yet understanding how evolutionary factors have shaped the underlying genetic basis for disease may provide important mechanistic insight and reveal new approaches for treatment. In this module, we will apply Darwinian and evolutionary principles to the understanding of the causes of modern medical conditions. We will study how some of the most important medical problems of our time –e.g. obesity, ageing, cancer – have been shaped by our evolutionary history and learn about its implications to population-based health outcomes.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Wildlife Diseases

Code:

BI3EP7

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

Diseases which involve wildlife either as hosts or vectors pose significant issues for the health and well-being of people, livestock, companion animals and wild animals themselves. Through lectures this course will provide a detailed knowledge of: the range of disease-causing organisms, their hosts and vectors; zoonoses, including emerging infectious diseases; agricultural diseases; co-evolution of hosts and diseases; control of diseases through management of disease agents, hosts and vectors; the conservation impacts of diseases; and the role of epidemiological modelling in devising management strategies. Examples discussed within the module will include, but not be confined to: malaria; ebola; bovine tuberculosis; rabies; myxomatosis, echinococcosis; devil facial tumour disease; plague; squirrel parapox virus; sarcoptic mange; chytridiomycosis and toxoplasmosis. Students will examine one aspect in depth through the preparation of an essay on a defined topic.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Assignment 30%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Synthetic Biology

Code:

BI3SB17

Convenor:

PROF Slawomir Nasuto

Summary:

Synthetic biology is an exciting emerging interdisciplinary area where biology meets engineering. Molecular biology and genetic engineering allow us to probe and characterise biochemical pathways expressed in cellular machinery – the cascades of reactions utilised by cells to support their various functions. Genetic engineering allows us to link these reactions to the genetic code and understand which genes are involved and how they contribute to the expression of various proteins. Systems biology allows us to characterise such various cellular circuits in terms of their design principles. Synthetic biology treats such circuits with known characteristics as building blocks and applies engineering principles, combining elements of logical circuits from theory of computability with feedback circuits from control theory, in order to create synthetic constructs – cells that have been modified in order to perform useful functions designed by us.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Oral 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

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:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.

Title:

Genes, Lifestyle and Nutrition

Code:

FB3NGLA

Convenor:

DR Vimal Karani

Summary:

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Practical 40%

Disclaimer:

Please note that all modules are subject to change.
The information contained in this module description does not form any part of a student’s contract.