Overview

The lectures build on the 1st year "Principles of Life 1" module. Subjects covered include the organisation of the eucaryotic genome, DNA fingerprinting, human genetic defects, genome editing, the use of reporter genes etc.

The molecular biology practicals are designed to give experience in applied molecular methodologies covering a range of key technologies including the isolation of human DNA from cheek cells, restriction enzyme digestion of DNA, agarose gel electrophoresis, the polymerase chain reaction, the analysis of genetically modified plants etc

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -(D+) A threshold student should have a basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. The student should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the links between DNA, RNA and Proteins. A knowledge of the types of molecules that comprise life as well as how they are formed, what they do in the organism and how many can be exploited commercially.

-good -{B+) A good student should have a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of Molecular Biology. The student should demonstrate an ability to think critically about the subject.

-excellent -(A+) An excellent student should fulfil all the criteria for a good student and also demonstrate the ability to understand and integrate information acquired from other sources (e.g. literature or online resources)

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate appropriate numerical and report writing skills.

• Demonstrate competence in performing common molecular biological techniques (pipetting, dilution, setting up enzymatic reactions, polymerase chain reaction, gel electrophoresis, data recording and analysis).

• Demonstrate knowledge and conceptual understanding of how the genome is organised.

• Demonstrate knowledge in the use of a variety of genetic tools.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the key biological functions of DNA, RNA and proteins