Undergraduate study

Undergraduate 

Neuroscience BSc/MSci

Bio-Imaging in the Life Sciences 4D option BIOL4190

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic
  • 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

An introduction to biological imaging, incorporating fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, image analysis and image processing. Fundamental aspects of image analysis will be covered. 

Timetable

This option is assigned to block S2-D. There is normally one 3-hour session on Fridays.

Excluded Courses

None.

Assessment

The course will be assessed by a 2-hour examination (70%) and in-course assessment consisting of a take-home research assignment (30%). 

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

The course aims to prepare the student for work involving collecting and analysing digital images that relate to biological research. The course will provide students with an appreciation of how quantitative data can be extracted from digital images.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ Apply image analysis software to the investigation of biological research;

■ Discuss the broad range of approaches to quantitative image analysis;

■ Handle large image volumes and multiple file types;

■ Appraise the quality of digital images;

■ Discuss the merits of a variety of imaging modalities and their applications.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions