View Specification DocumentImmunology of Infection 4A option BIOL4189
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Infection and Immunity
- Credits: 20
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This course focuses on the mechanisms of immune protection against infectious agents (including bacteria, viruses and parasites), and the immune evasion strategies employed by these pathogens.
The course includes an optional 3-day field trip. There is no cost to the student for the field trip.
Timetable
This option is assigned to block S2-A. Normally, there are 3 hours of teaching on Mondays, which may be split over more than one session.
Requirements of Entry
Normally, only available to final-year Life Sciences students in a Infection & Immunology programme. Visiting students may be allowed to enrol, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Chief Adviser and the Course Coordinator.
Excluded Courses
None
Assessment
The course will be assessed by a 2-hour examination (75%) and in-course assessment consisting of a poster presentation (25%).
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
The aims of this course are to develop:
■ in depth knowledge of immune responses to infectious agents, and of mechanisms used by pathogens to avoid immune detection and attack;
■ understanding of current controversies and emerging questions in vaccination;
■ the ability to synthesise the research literature and present it to other scientists.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
■ discuss the molecular and cellular interactions that occur between bacteria and their hosts, and immune mechanisms underpinning bacterial protection;
■ appraise how immune responses against parasites and viruses are initiated and regulated;
■ interpret and present information from relevant literature.