Biomolecular Sciences 3A BIOL3005

  • Academic Session: 2023-24
  • School: School of Molecular Biosciences
  • Credits: 60
  • Level: Level 3 (SCQF level 9)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes

Short Description

In Biomolecular Sciences, you will learn to apply the principles of genetics and biochemistry to advance your understanding of the molecular basis of life. Biomolecular Sciences 3A & 3B build on the Level 2 Life Sciences courses, developing an in depth understanding of molecular genetic methods, genomics, gene expression, protein science, biotechnology, cellular organisation, signalling, and metabolism underpinned by a programme of laboratory practicals.

Timetable

Lectures, laboratory work, tutorials, seminars etc as organised.

Requirements of Entry

Normally, this course is only open to students admitted to Level-3 of a programme for which this is a compulsory course. The course may also be available to visiting students, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Chief Adviser and the Course Coordinator.

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

The course will be assessed by means of a 2-hour data analysis examination paper (20%) in the December diet, a 2-hour examination paper (30%) in the April / May diet and in-course assessment (50%).

The in-course assessment consists of three lab reports (30%), one essay (10%) and a class test written under exam conditions in the December diet (10%).

Main Assessment In: December and April/May

Course Aims

The aim of this course is to provide students with the opportunity to develop skills in practical laboratory techniques, problem solving, critical analysis, interpretation and discussion of factual information and data relevant to modern Biomolecular Sciences and to improve written and oral communication skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ demonstrate a sound and broad understanding of biomolecular sciences and analyse data of a numerical or logical nature in this context;

■ apply practical skills in fundamental molecular techniques and analyse and interpret results obtained from using these techniques;

■ demonstrate proficient communication skills by giving well-constructed oral and written presentations;

■ appraise original scientific literature and apply computers, where appropriate, to investigate scientific problems, to obtain information, and to communicate results and conclusions.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.