BSc Biomedical Sciences

BIO1332: Biochemistry

Life is driven by biochemical reactions. Biochemistry is an introductory module providing the essentials for understanding all living processes. You will study protein structure, enzyme kinetics and basic metabolism; understanding how each of these processes function and shape the living cell. Practical sessions offer you vital hands-on experience, learning key techniques and how to apply them. Core biochemical experience is highly relevant to applications in biotechnology and medical science. This module provides the foundation from which you may progress to higher level modules in Metabolism, Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry, Bioinorganic Chemistry, and Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry.

In order to take BIO1332 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology. An A Level (or equivalent) in Chemistry is also very useful.

This module aims to teach you core concepts in biochemistry including topics on structure of proteins, enzyme kinetics and metabolic pathways. The module will also provide a background to fundamental aspects of chemistry. This module provides you with the core knowledge and skills to enhance performance in the area of biological chemistry and is a pre-requisite for second year modules in Metabolism, Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry, Bioinorganic Chemistry, and final year modules in Energy Metabolism and in Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry.

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BIO1334: Genetics

Genetics is fundamental to understanding life sciences. In this module you will gain an understanding of how information is stored and inherited in living organisms. You will consider genetics from the perspectives of DNA structure, gene expression, genome replication, heredity, genes in populations, and evolution. Modern techniques in DNA sequencing and the exploration of gene diversity will be introduced, with examples from humans and other organisms. In laboratory sessions you will learn and practice core molecular biology techniques. The coursework elements will develop your statistical analysis and problem-solving skills, together with providing an opportunity to learn and evidence strategies for successful group work and project management.

In order to take BIO1334 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

This module serves as an introduction to fundamental concepts in genetics, equipping you with essential knowledge for further study in the topic and life sciences in general. Genetics will be approached from the perspective of molecules, cells, individuals and populations. The module also gives you the opportunity to learn and practice important laboratory techniques, data collection and statistical analysis. Moreover, the practical content teaches you strategies for successful group work and project management, and the related activities enable you to develop and evidence these important graduate competencies.

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BIO1337: Microbiology

This module introduces the microbial world, enabling you to explore core concepts and skills through lectures and practical sessions. The core concepts are focused around five themes: evolution, information flow, metabolic pathways, structure and function, and the impact of micro-organisms. These themes and concepts will be explored through a diverse range of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, protists and fungi. This will introduce you to a wide variety of biological concepts ranging from an evolutionary perspective through to modern day medical microbiology. You will learn and practice core microbiology techniques in the laboratory and will develop your statistical and problem-solving skills.

In order to take BIO1337 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

This module serves as an introduction to the fundamental concepts in microbiology. These aspects of biosciences are fundamental to any understanding of the subject and underpin every degree in the subject. The module also aims to provide you with the basic knowledge that will enable you to take second and final year modules in microbiology.

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BIO1339: Cells

This module takes you on a trip around the fundamental unit of life - the cell. With particular emphasis on its dynamic nature, and using examples from bacteria to plants to animals, you will learn how cells use membranes and proteins to organise themselves, and how they communicate both within and without their confines. It also considers the guiding principles that govern formation of a multicellular organism such as cell division and tissue development.

In order to take BIO1339 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

This module introduces core concepts in cell and developmental biology. The subject will be approached by considering what fundamental principles make the cell the unit of life, what separates the inside from the outside, how intracellular compartments ensure functional modulation and how neighbouring cells work together for the good of the organism. These principles are fundamental to any understanding of the biosciences and underpin any degree in the subject. In particular, this module aims to provide you with knowledge and understanding that will enable you to take second and final year modules in cell biology, developmental biology and molecular biology.

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CSC1010: Physiology I

This module will introduce you to some basic concepts of human physiology, including how the human body is organised into cells, tissues and systems. More specifically, this module will utilise the cardiovascular and respiratory systems to illustrate core concepts, such as homeostasis and neuronal and hormonal signalling, that will provide you with a solid foundation in physiology. This module will be taught through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops and consolidation & application sessions to promote active learning and engagement with the module content. This module provides the foundation from which you may progress to higher modules in Physiology II and Biology of Cancer.

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CSC1011: Introduction to Experimental Design and Ethics

This module explores the fundamental principles of experimental design and scientific research, including hypothesis development, evaluation, and testing. You will examine key study designs, understanding their strengths, limitations, and appropriate applications. Emphasis is placed on the role of controls, replication, randomisation, and confounding factors in ensuring research validity and reliability. Ethical and sustainability considerations in research design and dissemination are also explored. You will develop key skills in communicating scientific ideas, applying feedback for personal development, and working collaboratively in research settings. A strong focus on the data life cycle ensures readiness for further study and professional careers. This module provides the foundation for all future higher modules in the degree programme.

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CSC1012: Fundamentals of Pharmacology

This module will provide you with a broad introduction to pharmacology. You will be introduced to the physiology of selected cells, tissues, and organs in the body and how drugs modulate their function. The nature of common drug targets (receptors, enzymes, ion channels, and transporters) will be studied. You will cover the fundamental principles of pharmacokinetics (what the body does to the drug), pharmacodynamics (what the drug does to the body), and pharmacogenomics (individual gene-based responses to drugs). These concepts will be illustrated using cutting-edge examples of how drugs act on selected organ systems. This module provides the foundation from which you may progress to higher modules in Experimental Pharmacology, Pharmacogenomics and Rational Drug Design.

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CSC1013: Skills for Biomedical Sciences

This module is designed to introduce you to technical, professional and academic competencies essential for your academic journey and future success. Drawing from scientific practice, this module will introduce a comprehensive set of core skills for science and demonstrate how they are transferrable to other fields. These skills include laboratory techniques, digital and information literacy as well as skills linked to how we handle, communicate and analyse numerical data. Recognising the dynamic and public-facing nature of modern science, this module also places significant emphasis on developing your communication skills and reinforcing the need to practise science with integrity. This module provides the foundation for all future higher modules in the degree programme.

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CSC2032: Physiology II

This module will continue to develop your understanding of the mechanisms of human function and disease and will build on principles covered in relevant first year modules including CSC1010 Physiology I and CSC1012 Fundamentals of Pharmacology. You will explore homeostasis in the context of the endocrine, renal and gastrointestinal systems.

This module is suitable for you as a specialist student studying for an undergraduate BSc degree within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences.

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CSC2033: Research Skills and Data Analysis

In this module you will explore the core principles of research in biomedical and healthcare sciences. You will be introduced to the whole research processes, from formulating a hypothesis to scientific publication.  You will also build awareness of diversity of scientific literature, critical assessment of study designs and published studies, and evaluation of research outputs.  A core focus of the module is developing your skills in data analysis and interpretation of diverse biomedical and healthcare research data, through a series of hands-on workshops.  By developing a research proposal and presentation, the module will help you develop transferrable skills including teamwork, project management and scientific communication. This module provides the foundation for all future higher modules in the degree programme.

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CSC2034: Statistics for Biomedical Sciences

Scientific research is constantly evolving and generating vast quantities of data. By asking and answering scientific questions, data allow us to make robust conclusions, and importantly, ask new questions. It is important that we have a strong understanding of how this information is generated and what it means. This module provides the foundation for all future higher modules in the BSc Biomedical Sciences programme.

In this module, you will explore statistical analysis of biomedical science data, and its use in establishing conclusions and building upon existing knowledge. The module aim is to familiarise you with various data analysis skills that can be used with biomedical science data. You will explore how to match appropriate statistical analyses to different study designs, and methods to control for biases. You will learn about the advantages and limitations of different statistical methods, how to identify potential biases in data, and how to apply equitable methodologies to ensure inclusive and representative findings. At the end of this module, you will be able to make informed decision on applying statistical analyses to interpret.

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BIO2101: Advanced Microbiology

Microorganisms are ubiquitous, covering all the surfaces of our body and occurring in every natural habitat. They have an enormous impact on our lives - both positive and negative. Infectious diseases remain a leading cause of death worldwide, particularly in low-income countries. On the other hand, microorganisms that inhabit the human body play a key role in maintaining human health, including shaping the immune system and providing essential vitamins and metabolic pathways. In addition, we can harness the power of microorganisms for numerous industrial applications, including the production of biofuels and drugs.
This module aims to develop an advanced understanding of major topics in the field of microbiology and infectious diseases. It will address the major processes that underpin the interaction between microbes and the human host - both in the context of infection, and in the context of the human microbiome. In doing so, we will also explore a range of microbial processes at a molecular level and discuss how such knowledge can assist with the identification of novel strategies for the prevention and/or treatment of disease. In addition, this module will develop knowledge of how we use microorganisms to our advantage in research, clinical or industrial contexts.

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CSC2035: Immunology of Infectious Diseases

This module introduces the complex yet fascinating field of science known as Immunology. In this module, you will learn about the key cells and proteins that constitute the immune system, and how they work together to fight pathogens and other threats to keep us healthy. You will learn about the key pathways that result in either activation or inhibition to mount an effective immune response. The molecular mechanisms will be discussed in the context of future global challenges and historical events. This knowledge will then be applied to a variety of pathogenic organisms to see the varied and powerful mechanisms that keep us healthy and disease-free. This module provides the foundation from which you may progress to higher modules in Immunopathology, Introduction to Tropical Medicine and Global Health and Rational Drug Design.

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BIO2088: Advanced Cell Biology

In this module, you will encounter the cell as the fundamental, yet dynamic, unit of life. We will explore the spatio-temporal organisation of processes that define cell function, and you will develop a detailed and in-depth understanding of why and how cells behave as they do, both on their own, and as part of a living organism. Topics covered include cell signalling, intracellular transport, cell division and the regulation of cell shape.

The content of this module is delivered via lectures, two recap sessions and two preparation sessions for the summative assessments as well as by challenging laboratory work in which you will visualise and manipulate individual parts of a cell.

This module aims to develop an advanced understanding of cell biology. It will address the major processes that occur within cells, including principles of cell signalling, regulation of cell shape, cell division, apoptosis and the functions of the endomembrane system. The aim is to first understand the fundamental molecular principles which underpin how cells function and to link this to specific scenarios and contexts such as cell communication and disease. The module also aims to develop specific laboratory skills, focusing on microscopy, and includes data and image analysis.

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CSC2026: The Biology of Cancer

Despite intense research in the last 30-40 years, cancer remains a relatively frequent and debilitating disease. There are many un-answered questions on how cancers appear, evolve, and spread in the organism. As such, understanding cancer biology should be one of the priorities of the next generation of medical scientists. This module intends to take you through the basics of cancer biology, both at molecular and cellular levels.
This is an optional module if you are a student on BSc Medical Sciences, Biosciences and Flexible Honours, provided the prerequisites have been met.

The aim of the module is to gain in-depth knowledge on advances in molecular understanding of cancer cells properties. The module will be divided into two main parts: one following the concept of hallmarks of cancer (e.g inhibiting angiogenesis, blocking invasion and metastasis, reactivating apoptosis); the second part will be looking from a different angle at levels of gene expression and regulation (e.g epigenetics, circulating DNA, RNAi, miRs, splicing).

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BIO2089: Molecular Biology of the Gene

The molecular machinery inside a cell conducts the fundamental processes required for life. In this module you will focus on the central dogma of molecular biology: how the information stored in the genome of an organism is expressed. You will first focus on the forms of information within the genome and how these are maintained, before exploring the molecular detail of how the information is expressed. Following on from this you will concentrate on how these processes can be regulated such that a cell can respond to its environment.

This module aims to develop a core understanding of molecular biology and genetics. It will cover a range of topics including: genome structure, organisation and packaging; genome replication and repair; the process of gene expression through transcription, RNA processing and translation; protein targeting; regulation of gene expression. Molecular detail and examples will be drawn from both bacteria and eukaryotes.

This module will give you a sound understanding of molecular biology, essential for laboratory-based jobs in this area. You will develop your critical thinking and data analysis skills.

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CSC2004: Medical Genetics

Genetics influences every aspect of our growth, reproduction and health. A deep understanding of how our genes are inherited and regulated, and how genetic variants or epigenetic factors affect gene function, is crucial for understanding normal human development, and the basis of genetic diseases. Knowing how molecular pathways function and are altered by genetic variants is important to identify molecular biomarkers to monitor disease onset and progression, and define new therapies to treat disease. For example, research studies have detailed how breast cancer risk is greatly increased by the inheritance of specific BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 variants, and how some of these variants are more common in certain ethnic groups. Research has also shown that some patients with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) may transfer from insulin injections onto sulphonylurea tablets taken orally. Thus medical genetics, as practiced today, involves close scientific, clinical and patient interaction. In this module you will explore how genomic research and clinical genetic services work in close synergy to deliver modern diagnostic and clinical genetics services, and discuss some of the ethical challenges and considerations as well as patient perspectives associated with this increasingly important discipline. Genetic diseases are individually rare but in total 1 in 15 people have a rare diseases, making them vital to understand.

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BIO2090: Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry

The distinctive features of this module are that you will learn about the 'state of the art' techniques that are used to look at the structure and properties of proteins and their complexes. You will gain 'hands on' experience in data handling and writing of scientific practical reports. This will be invaluable to you for carrying out a practical project in your final year and if you wish to continue with postgraduate studies such as a Masters or PhD. The module will also be a route to interdisciplinary studies since a general understanding of the chemistry involved in protein mechanism and the physical principles behind some methods of analysis will be acquired as part of this module.

The module will introduce you to the main experimental techniques used in the purification and characterisation of biological macromolecules, with the main emphasis on protein methodologies. It will provide you with important skills of analysis of experimental data and scientific report writing. It will involve research-enriched learning in the area of protein structural and biochemical analysis, and it will provide important skills required for any future laboratory-based employment opportunities.

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CSC2027: Experimental Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of drugs and how they work. In this module, you will apply fundamental pharmacology concepts to a range of experiments designed to teach core laboratory techniques, data handling & analysis, and working practices in the field of pharmacology and drug development. You will explore the properties of drugs and their effects on living systems using a variety of pharmacology techniques in the lab and computational tools. This module provides the foundation from which you may progress to higher modules related to pharmacology, drug design and therapeutics.

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NEU1006: Introduction to Neuroscience

The human brain is the most complex object in the known universe. Through its function, and that of the wider nervous system, we can respond to environmental stimuli and construct hypotheses about the world around us. These hypotheses, and many other aspects of our conscious experience, may then be shared through external communication. To begin your detailed exploration of these processes, this module will introduce functional neuroanatomy, considers key features of molecular cell biology, describes synaptic transmission and plasticity, and addresses the modern methods for the exploration of cognition.

This module is mandatory for students on the BSc Neuroscience programme and optional for students on the BSc Medical Sciences and other related programmes.

Module aims:

In this module, you will be introduced to four main aspects of contemporary Neuroscience:

1. Neuroanatomy

Structure of the Nervous system

Cells of the Nervous System

Development of the Nervous System

2. Neurophysiology

Membranes

The action potential

3. Neuropharmacology

Neurotransmitter and receptor signalling

4. Synaptic function and memory

Synaptic function: pre and postsynaptic

Synaptic plasticity

Learning, memory, and behaviour

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CSC2029: Biomedical Innovation and Entrepreneurship

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of biomedical enterprise, innovation, and entrepreneurship. You will engage in real-life case studies and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset to solve problems to create impactful solutions. This includes market validation, pitching of solutions, and preparing a business case. By working collaborative and applying design thinking, playful learning and storytelling you will gain key skills to identify problems, explore disruptions, and overcome obstacles with confidence. Whether you aspire to drive innovation within established organizations or launch your own venture, this module will prepare you to apply innovation and entrepreneurship within your future career.

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CSC2030: Coding for Biomedical Scientists

In this practical module, we will introduce you to Matlab, a programme commonly used among the biomedical scientists and neuroscientists who are invested in research for carrying out analyses of complex data sets. Once you have grasped basic Matlab skills, you will learn how to apply these to specific analytical problems in science.

We assume NO prior knowledge in computer coding: we will be teaching ‘from the ground up’. Matlab will be provided and is available to download free-of-charge. This module is not suitable for students who have already taken other university modules in computer coding.  Admission from non-Clinical and Biomedical Sciences-degree programmes is at the discretion of the module lead. This module is part of the Proficiency in Data Science.

Analysing large dataset is increasingly common within research in biomedical sciences and neuroscience and to do so, programming skills are essential. For example, modern recording techniques allow scientists to record the activity of hundreds of cells (e.g. neurons) at once, and the only way to fully understand and integrate these complex dataset is to write ad-hoc code to extract relevant information.

The overall aim of this module is to develop some of the fundamental skills required to analyse and model complex data sets using a straightforward programming language.  You will learn basic practical coding skills in a package commonly used in Medical Sciences: Matlab. 

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CSC2031: Diabetes: From Pathophysiology to Public Health

This module aims to provide you with specialised knowledge and critical understanding of one of the most pressing global health challenges - Diabetes. You will explore the genetic and environmental factors influencing the onset and progression of diabetes, along with the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the disease. You will learn about the genetic basis of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the impact of environmental factors such as diet, physical activity, obesity, viral infections and socioeconomic status. You will also explore public health strategies for diabetes prevention and management, bridging evidence-based practices with real-world applications.

The module adopts a research-inspired and inquiry-led approach to learning, encouraging you to engage with the latest scientific discoveries and advancements in diabetes research. It includes innovative assessments designed to develop both academic and professional skills, including a graphical abstract and a case study. This module will equip you with the skills for careers in biomedical research, healthcare, public health and policymaking, preparing graduates to tackle chronic diseases and improve global health outcomes.

Graduate attributes: as part of this module, you will develop the key employability skills of evidence-based decision-making and professionalism & Translational Thinking .

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HLS2901: Preparing for Professional Placements

Employers are looking for graduates who can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills, independence and enthusiasm to succeed, and will therefore typically favour those who have obtained relevant work experience during their degree. This module will further develop your knowledge and skills to help you to secure a placement within a lab, organisation or business as part of the HLS one-year professional placement programme and will prepare you to adequately carry out your placement in a professional manner. You will also be supported to develop skills to refine your applications for placements, including interview techniques.

This 2nd year non-credit bearing module forms the second part of the ‘with Professional Placement Year’ pathway and follows on from HLS1903.

This module is required for undergraduate students in any HLS department enrolled on or expecting to enrol on the HLS One-year professional placement module.

Enrolling on this module does not guarantee that you will be able to transition onto the HLS One-year professional placement module as there may be programme progression requirements. While this module aims to provide guidance and support, it does not guarantee that you will be successful in securing a placement.

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CSC3003: Professional Training Year

The Professional Training Year (PTY) is an integral and assessed part of the 4-year undergraduate BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences with Professional Training Year, BSc Biomedical Sciences with Professional Training Year, BSc (Hons) Neuroscience with Professional Training Year and BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Medical Sciences programme. It takes place in Year 3 of the programme. During your PTY you will remain a student of the University and retain access to all University of Exeter resources.
The Professional Placement Year (PTY) provides you with an excellent opportunity to gain invaluable experience in a working environment, enhancing your career prospects.

Undertaking a PTY placement will enhance your professionalism, independence and confidence; increase your subject knowledge and research skills; improve your problem-solving, team-working, leadership, communication and project management skills; and prepare you for working in a professional work environment.

This module aims to:

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HLS3000: Study Abroad (HLS)

The Study Abroad programme enables you to undertake a year-long study placement at a partner university outside of the UK, as part of your degree programme. This module serves as the administrative mechanism for recording the Study Abroad assessment results of students within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences (HLS). Students opting for the Study Abroad programme from participating undergraduate programmes will be registered on this module during their Study Abroad placement year.

To be eligible for the Study Abroad year, you must attain an average threshold mark as detailed in your programme specifications (normally 60%) across both Stages 1 and 2 to progress to this year. Assessment of the Study Abroad year. You will take all necessary assignments as required for the completion of the modules/classes at your host university. The Study Abroad year will count towards one seventh of your final degree score (the combined average ratio for years 2, 3 and 4 being weighted at 2:1:4).

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CSC3038: Translating Biomedical Technologies into Practice

Implementation of biomedical technologies and interventions in healthcare requires careful consideration from a variety of perspectives. In this module, you will engage with experts and participate in collaborative group learning to examine global healthcare challenges. You will critically assess technological solutions through biomedical, clinical, economic, ethical, legal, sustainable and social perspectives, including their alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through the analysis of primary literature, you will refine your scientific writing and critical appraisal skills, while collaborative group learning will enhance your communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities. The knowledge and competencies acquired in this module will support your final year project research and contribute to your professional development, whether within or beyond the field of biomedical science.

This module will critically examine real-world case studies on integrating biomedical technologies into healthcare practice. From a scientific perspective, it aims to deepen your understanding of key biomedical technologies, including their design, adaptation, and evaluation in addressing significant healthcare challenges.

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CSC3036: Capstone Project

This module offers you the chance to combine, enhance, and utilise the knowledge, comprehension, and abilities acquired in previous years of your program to address a problem associated with the field of Biomedical Sciences. You will produce a specific outcome that can serve as evidence of your expertise and skills to prospective employers in the graduate job market. This module represents the apex of your degree program, serving as the culmination or Capstone experience that consolidates all your learning. It provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge to a real-world problem, thereby fostering reflection, concentration, and a sense of purpose of your degree journey.

As part of your capstone experience, you will undertake a research or enquiry-based project in an area relevant to Biomedical Sciences. Your project can take many forms, including laboratory, critical and systematic reviews, grant proposals, innovation, commercial or technical research, service-learning, educational development, science communication, and public engagement. This is your opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills you’ve developed throughout your programme to a real-world problem, contributing to new knowledge and expanding your skill set.

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CSC3037: Research Project in Biomedical Sciences

***This module is under development***

The final year research project module builds on the skills you have learnt in the previous years. It will stimulate your interest and knowledge in biomedical/clinical science or applied health research with the main component of the module being an independent research project. To complete this module, you will conduct one of the types of research project illustrated below:

The module will consolidate your developing skills in collection, analysis, interpretation, formulation, and presentation of evidence; and enhance your organisational, communication and personal reflective behaviours skills. As such, success in this module provides an important opportunity to showcase your knowledge and ability, thereby preparing for future employment or further study.

You may collect data first-hand in a laboratory, work with an existing dataset, or draw your information exclusively from published literature to synthesise new knowledge. In every case, success depends upon your critical appraisal and ability to communicate your insights to a range of audiences.

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BIO3078: Cellular Basis of Immunity

In this module you will explore the science of immunology, and how the major cellular and humoral (soluble) components of the innate and adaptive immune systems work together to deliver immunity to infectious diseases. You will develop an understanding of how monoclonal antibodies are generated and engineered in vitro for use in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases, and the various ways antibodies are used as research tools in the Life Sciences. Lecture content is supported by animations and movies that illustrate key concepts of immunity including cellular interactions during the inflammatory response, and the role of cytokines and chemokines as chemical messengers.

You cannot take this module if you have already taken CSC2008 Immunopathology.

This module aims to introduce you to the science of immunology. Key components of the immune system are explored in the context of infectious diseases (viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections) and allergy, and current research topics used to illustrate how monoclonal antibodies are generated and engineered for use in the detection and treatment of diseases in medicine, and their deployment in the Life Sciences. Much of the content is research-led, based on the research expertise of the contributors.

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BIO3086: Cell Biology of Disease

This module will provide insight into the molecular basis of diseases in humans and other eukaryotic organisms. The emphasis is on the underlying cell biology and molecular defects of various disorders which are linked to alterations of the cytoskeleton and intracellular motility, neurodegeneration such as in Alzheimer's disease, pathogen/parasite invasion, cancer, protein sorting, organelle biogenesis, metabolism and organelle cooperation.

The module is suited for students interested in molecular cell biology with a link to biomedicine.

This module which builds on the content delivered within BIO2088 Advanced Cell Biology, aims to elucidate the underlying molecular and cellular alterations in various forms of disease with particular emphasis on cellular dynamics, the cytoskeleton and organelle function. This will allow you a more integrative view and understanding of important research subjects.

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CSC3009: Pharmacogenomics

Pharmacogenomics and individualised therapy are exciting areas of medicine and scientific research. It has been known for many years that genetic variation can affect the efficacy of some drugs which may also result in adverse side effects. Recently, however, there have been developments in the treatment of diseases such as cancer and cystic fibrosis on the basis of patients' genetic information and are having a real impact on their survival and quality of life. In this module you will cover the basic concepts of pharmacogenomics and relate these to current clinical practice where appropriate. Additionally you will have the opportunity to study in depth examples of individualised therapy in diseases such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and diabetes. You will also consider the introduction of genetic testing for new pharmacogenomic discoveries taking into account analytical and clinical validity, clinical utility and ethical aspects.

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CSC3010: Rational Drug Design

This module explores how the biological basis of rational drug design, the deliberate targeting of a particular biological pathway for the treatment of disease, translates to the production of modern medicines. This approach is based on understanding the biological basis of the disease in question, identification of a suitable molecular target, and also has implications for the personalisation of medicine through selection of appropriate drugs/therapies for a particular patient based on the molecular signature of their disease or individual patient needs. You will follow the journey of drug discovery from identification of a potential new drug target to the clinical use of a medication from the perspective of the pharmaceutical industry. Module content will examine the spectrum of drug discovery methods and tools available to modern industry, ranging from pure chance to specifically targeted interventions and also consider aspects linked to how medicinal products can be modified, repurposed and refined.

You will explore how scientists, alongside professionals from other disciplines, work together to leverage our rapidly-expanding biomedical knowledge to permit a progressive shift towards intended, rather than serendipitous, drug discovery and as a result, how medicine makes the transition from concept-to-clinic. You will also have the opportunity to explore the full lifecycle of medicinal products (including aspects linked to regulation, clinical development, safety and monitoring) as well as some of the influences on all stages of the drug discovery journey which arise from the perspectives of modern industry and interaction with allied sectors.

As you progress through this module, you will be supported by us to to explore your own interests in the context of the concepts we cover. You will have the opportunity from the outset to apply some of these core themes to meet a challenge in an area of your choosing as you work towards the preparation and presentation of a research proposal.

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CSC3018: Health Economics

The module will introduce the basic principles of economics analysis in health care and the tools used in health economics. It will provide information on the underlying concepts of scarcity and choice, opportunity cost, demand and supply for health care, supplier-induced demand, efficiency and equity; will consider the processes of health care financing and health insurance. It will emphasize the use of different approaches to economic evaluation and valuation of health benefits for assessing health care interventions as a way of making informed decisions in terms of costs and benefits. Finally it will describe priority setting and equity on health.

This is an optional module for third year students of BSc Medical Sciences. It is also available to third year students from Biosciences.

The aim of the module is to introduce students to economic thinking and economic techniques which are used for understanding the health care setting.

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CSC3030: New Therapeutic Targets in Cancer

In the last 10-20 years there has been an explosion of novel therapeutic ideas on how to tackle cancer, some already applied in the clinic, others currently in advance trials. Aside from the classical chemo and radiotherapies, a plethora of targeted treatments have appeared. This module explores the new advances in understanding the pathogenesis of cancer and how novel, rational approaches are used to design new therapies.

The aim of the module is to gain in-depth knowledge on advances in molecular understanding of cancer cells properties and how this knowledge is used to design new treatments. The module will be divided into two main parts: one following the therapeutic targeting of hallmarks of cancer (e.g inhibiting angiogenesis, blocking invasion and metastasis, reactivating apoptosis); the second part will be looking from a different angle at ideas of diagnosis, prognostic or therapies based on different levels of gene expression and regulation (e.g epigenetics, circulating DNA, RNAi, miRs, splicing).

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CSC3033: Diabetes - Insights into Current Research

Over 5 million people in the UK have diabetes and 10% of the NHS budget is spent on diabetes. Exeter is one of the world’s leading centres for diabetes research and this module will be taught by Exeter’s world-leading experts in diabetes research. The module will explore how new technologies in cell biology, genetics and data science are enabling researchers to answer the big questions in diabetes research and the impact this can have on patients. Through workshops and interactive discussions of cutting-edge scientific papers you will improve your ability to critically analyse research and identify future directions for research. The content of this module is intended to build on learning in other modules, such as Diabetes: From Pathophysiology to Public Health and Physiology 2.

This module aims to give you a broad understanding of cutting-edge research practices that apply across many diseases, using diabetes as a key example. You'll explore different research methods, from preclinical studies to clinical trials, and learn how data is analysed to improve disease understanding and treatment. By focusing on diabetes, you'll see how research translates into real-world healthcare solutions, but the skills you gain will be relevant to many other conditions. You will demonstrate your learning though a recorded PowerPoint presentation and a grant proposal on a diabetes research topic of your choosing.

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CSC3034: Immunopathology

Our immune system has evolved into a highly regulated and sophisticated system that can identify and eliminate almost any microbe and aberrant self. Imbalance in this tightly regulated system results in unwanted immune responses that can cause immune-mediated pathologies. These pathologies affect an increasing number of people and lead to societal burden.

In Immunopathology you will explore key concepts of immunology. You will also gain in-depth knowledge of selected immune-mediated pathologies by appraising their pathophysiology at the molecular and cellular level. Exploring therapeutic approaches to modify unwanted immune response will highlight how immunology research translates into clinical application. The content of this module is intended to build on learning in other modules, such as Microbiology and Immunology of Infectious Disease.

In this module you will establish the key concepts that underpin the core functions of the immune system. You will explore how unregulated immune responses in essential immune pathways can lead to development of diverse immune-mediated pathologies. Finally, you will evaluate the impact of cutting-edge biomedical research into development for clinical application for therapy and diagnostics.

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CSC3035: Tropical Medicine and Global Health

In an era marked by unprecedented migration due to violent conflicts, climate hazards and the ease of international travel, diseases that were once confined to specific regions can now rapidly cross borders, causing widespread morbidity and challenging public health systems. In this module you will explore the molecular biology and control of infections, focusing on those prevalent in tropical regions but less known in Western contexts. Through an in-depth examination of parasitic infections, vector biology, and the immune responses elicited in the human host, this module aims to prepare you as future scientists to contribute to the prevention, diagnosis, and management of infectious diseases worldwide. The content of this module is intended to build on learning in other modules, such as Microbiology and The Immunology of Infectious Disease.

Drawing on past, current and future plague contexts, this module aims to cover the molecular biology of globally significant infectious agents and the vectors that transmit them. Using historical case studies, you will unpack how factors beyond disease biology such as policymaking, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic conditions can shape both the successful and unsuccessful control of infectious diseases.

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HLS3001: Science Communication

“The best scientists are always the best communicators” – Stephen J Gould.

This module examines how scientific knowledge is communicated, interpreted, and sometimes distorted across various audiences, including the public, the media, governments, policymakers, and specialist sectors. Content is delivered by experienced communicators spanning academia, industry, press offices, and policy.

You will investigate strong and poor strategies for science communication, the influence of information and misinformation, and the complex relationship between science, society, and the media.

This highly interactive module requires both group and individual work.

You will collaborate to develop and deliver a short film tailored to a defined audience and independently produce a written article on a topical scientific issue. Throughout, you will develop advanced skills in clearly and accurately communicating complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.

Module Aims

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