Precision Genomics BIOL5469

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: MVLS College Services
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

In this course, students will discover how we use our current knowledge of gene function to develop models linking genotype to phenotype (functional genomics) in a range of diseases. They will also explore examples of gene-drug interactions and individual drug response models developed thanks to pharmacogenomics. Finally, students will learn how genetics, genomics, and gene therapies are developed and incorporated in healthcare for the benefit of the individuals.

Timetable

Teaching will take place over 5 weeks in semester 1 and will consist of lectures and tutorials of 1-2 hr(s) duration during the first 3 weeks of the course. The last 2 weeks of the course will be used for independent learning and preparation for the assessments.

Requirements of Entry

None

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

1. 60 % - Short Answer Questions on 3 papers about precision genomics (3-5 questions; total word count: 2400 words (ILOs 1-3)

2. 40 % - Oral presentation of a mock precision genomic study (presentation time: 10 mins; Q&A: 5 mins (ILO 4)

Course Aims

The aims of this course are to:

1. Provide students with an understanding of the primary concepts of functional genomics, pharmacogenomics and gene therapy and their application in precision medicine.

2. Provide students with case studies and examples of applications of studies based on functional genomics, pharmacogenomics and gene therapy in both the research and clinical settings.

3. Provide students with an appreciation of the ethical concerns of genomics applications in precision medicine.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

1. Critically evaluate key concepts in genomic-based approaches for precision medicine

2. Critically appraise methodologies and applications of genomic-based approaches in the research and clinical setting

3. Critically appraise and apply ethical principles surrounding the use of genomic-based approaches in precision medicine

4. Apply knowledge and critical understanding of the subject to design experimental strategies using genomic-based approaches

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.