In Molecular and Cellular Biology, you will learn to apply the principles of genetics and biochemistry to advance your understanding of the molecular basis of life. Molecular and Cellular Biology 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. 

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

None

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 lab report (10%) will be comprised of a written report (7%) and a written AI pseudo-viva (3%) one essay (10%) and a class test written under exam conditions in the December diet (10%).

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 Molecular and Cellular Biology and to improve written and oral communication skills.

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

■ demonstrate a sound and broad understanding of modern molecular biology 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 technique;

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

■ appraise original scientific literature and apply computer search engines and databases to investigate scientific problems, obtain further information and to communicate results and conclusions.