LSC-20003 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

This module explores how we can study and manipulate genetic material, from sequencing technologies to gene cloning and genetic engineering. You will learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs. Through tutorials and workshops, you will develop skills in introductory bioinformatic tools, whilst also considering some important ethical principles, developing key reasoning and analytical skills.

In this module you will learn how to manipulate genetic materials and explore applications that transformed our understanding of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnology. You will also learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs. You will be introduced to bioinformatics tools and learn to design and analyse nucleic acid sequences. This module also aims to increase student confidence when discussing experimental design and reading protocols and methods sections of academic literature.

Intended Learning Outcomes

explain the principles and significance of nucleic acid replication, hybridisation and transcription, and apply them to the analysis and manipulation of DNA and RNA in vitro: 1,2
discuss the principles of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), molecular cloning and DNA sequencing, and apply them to the analysis and manipulation of DNA: 1,2
assess the strategies and techniques used in molecular cloning, and apply them to the expression of recombinant proteins for the analysis of gene function and other applications of modern biotechnology: 1,2
evaluate current technologies for genome sequencing and apply this knowledge to the main areas of biotechnology and medicine: 1,2
locate and analyse gene and protein sequences using common bioinformatics tools: 1
recognise and discuss key ethical issues related to the use of DNA manipulation and their implications for the development of Genetically Modified Organisms: 2

Study hours

IN-SITU LEARNING ACTIVITIES:
18 hours live sessions (tutorials, discussions, workshops¿)
4 x 2 hours IT workshops
ASYNCHRONOUS DIRECTED LEARNING:
10 x 4 hours engagement with asynchronous content (including consumption, wider reading and note taking)
INDEPENDENT STUDY & ASSESSMENT:
4 hours computer task assessment
80 hours independent study including preparation for formative test and final assessment

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment