In Genetics, you will develop an appreciation of the continuity of genetics that will build on the classical foundations of molecular genetics established in the Level 2 Life Sciences courses. This will enable you use both classical and molecular genetics to address contemporary problems in studies of medicine, biotechnology and evolution.

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

None

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

The in-course assessment consists of an essay (10%), two laboratory reports (20%), an oral presentation (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 Genetics and to improve written and oral communication skills.

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

■ demonstrate a deep understanding of Genetics;

■ carry out, and apply practical skills to, a wide variety of experiments in molecular genetics;

■ critically analyse experimental results, using numerical and computer skills where appropriate;

■ appraise and criticise original scientific literature from a variety of sources; 

■ communicate experimental, interpretative and ethical aspects of science, using oral presentations, written work and information technology.