MSci Biological Sciences

BIO1331: Animals

Animals represent the most enigmatic groups of eukaryotic organisms. This module will introduce you to the structure and function of various animal groups. Specifically, it will explore the relationships between anatomy, physiology, lifestyle and habitat/ecological niches. Physiology is the study of how an organism (and its constituent parts) functions, and it aims to understand the mechanisms that operate at all levels from genes and their molecular products, to cells, organs and ultimately the integrated whole animal processes. This module will use the structure-function relationships to also consider the evolutionary linkages of the different groups of animals from invertebrates to vertebrates, and from aquatic to terrestrial. In structured exercises, you will explore structure-functional similarities and differences across groups and understand how to carry out physiological measurements on invertebrates to demonstrate the relationships between animal function and environmental variables (such as temperature that helps us also understand climate change effects). Consideration of animal evolution and the chordate phylogeny are also at the core of this module.

In order to take BIO1331 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology. An A Level (or equivalent) in Chemistry is also very useful.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO1333: Fundamental Principles for Bioscientists

As bioscientists you need to be equipped with skills that allow you to work in a safe, competent and confident manner. You will be trained in basic laboratory skills and safety issues and given guidance on experimental design, data handling and basic statistical analysis. In this module you will be introduced to a range of practical and transferable skills in areas including scientific writing, teamwork, good research practice, and the use of subject specific software and Artificial Intelligence. Aspects of personal development will be discussed that will aim to build your personal resilience in a scientific context through reflection on personal practices. Personal goals and employment/career options will also be examined, and you will be introduced to our Biosciences Graduate Skills & Attributes Framework and how it can be used to map your skills attainment over the course of your degree.

In order to take BIO1333 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO1336: Ecology

Ecology is fundamental to understanding the interactions between organisms and their environments. In this module you will study the key concepts, knowledge and unanswered questions in the ecology of populations, communities and ecosystems. We will look at key theories, how they were tested experimentally, and how they can be applied to understand the natural world and our impact on the environment. We will consider the various approaches to ecological science, including observations, experiments and theoretical models. Wherever feasible, we will look at how a general predictive theory can emerge and how it can be applied to explain patterns and processes. In laboratory practicals, you will use key research tools in ecology and act as a professional ecologist undertaking field research. The assignment will develop your digital competency and scientific writing skills.

In order to take BIO1336 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

The module aims to introduce you to key concepts and research approaches in ecology and how they can be applied to current global challenges and the conservation of biological diversity. Practical investigations will introduce you to study design, ecological data analysis, visualisation and interpretation and field skills. This module will provide you with knowledge and understanding that will enable you to take second and final year modules in organismal biology, ecology and evolution.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO1338: Plants

This module aims to introduce you to the important concepts, techniques and applications of modern plant science, and to explore the evolutionary history and impact of plants on the biosphere, agriculture and society.

In order to take BIO1338 you should normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

As primary producers, plants are fundamental to life on Earth. Stage 1 'Plants' aims to provide you with a fundamental understanding of important topics in plant science including the evolution of plant cells, the basic morphology of different plant groups, the physical constraints that influence the diversity of plant forms, the environmental and endogenous regulators of plant growth and plant reproduction. The importance of light, CO2 and water for plant life, evolution and morphology will be discussed against the background of environmental change. Light sensing, photosynthesis, and the strategies that plants employ to maximise carbon capture and water use efficiency will be explored. Using pertinent case-studies and research, we will also investigate the molecular and physiological basis for human exploitation of the plant world through agriculture, plant breeding and molecular technologies.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO2071: Research Skills and Bioethics

This module will help you develop key transferable skills that will assist you with your studies and career development. You will receive training in scientific writing skills, encouraging you to argue your case in a logical and coherent manner. You will also participate in a group 'Dragons' Den' style exercise that will develop your entrepreneurial, problem-solving, team working and presentation skills through the preparation and presentation of a research project proposal. As research is typically quantitative in approach, you will also receive training in experimental design and statistics, including experience of programming languages such as R, through a combination of lectures and workshops. You will also be introduced to bioethics, so that current progress in biology can be appreciated in a broader, societal and ethical context. In addition, you will receive guidance on employability and how skills attainment across your programmes can be identified and evidenced using the Biosciences Skills Framework.

View an example full module specification

BIO2074: Marine Biology

This module will introduce you to the field of marine biology. Major marine ecosystems will be examined as will special adaptations of their dominant species groups. The module will also focus on the planetary functions our oceans play in supporting a wide diversity of plants and animals, the regulation of the earth's climate, and in providing ecosystem goods and services. Ecological principles controlling species distributions and interactions in estuaries, rocky shores, coral reefs and the deep sea will be considered. Over several practical sessions you will be trained in the use of QGIS and R, which are important in the broader field of biological sciences. Practical sessions will be centred upon real-world scenarios in marine biodiversity research.

View an example full module specification

BIO2082: Animal Ecophysiology

In this module lectures will cover some of the major physiological processes in animals, including but not limited to cardiorespiratory physiology, thermal relations, ion, osmotic and acid-base regulation, reproduction, and neuroendocrine physiology. Throughout, these physiological principles will be discussed using examples from animals adapted to living in very different environmental niches that present very different physiological challenges, and how anthropogenic influences may impact individuals and populations. The lectures will be complemented by practical classes which use experimental approaches to explore some of these physiological principles. Practical classes will also be accompanied by data analysis sessions that demonstrate principles of how to analyse and interpret data derived from practical classes which form the basis of questions in some of the assessments.

This module aims to build on the background provided in Stage 1 (BIO1331 Animals) by exploring various aspects and the integration of major physiological processes in animals (metabolism, respiration, endocrinology, reproduction, osmo-, ion- and acid-base regulation, neurophysiology) and how these relate to adaptation to ecological niches.

View an example full module specification

BIO2096: Practical Skills in Field Ecology

Do you hope to work in the field of ecology or want to understand how ecological data is gathered in the field? This module, run as a non-residential field course, will introduce you to a range of skills for environmental monitoring and ecological assessment.

We will visit study sites across Devon, Dorset and Cornwall (including marine, freshwater, woodland and heathland habitats) and discuss real-life case studies of habitat and species management, getting hands on with our learning. There will be a strong focus on employability in the environmental job sector, and we will introduce you to a range of species found in the United Kingdom. These species are of particular interest to conservation organisations, government departments and professional ecologists. You will learn practical skills difficult to gather in individual work placements, such as field sampling, species monitoring and habitat surveying techniques for both terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitats and a range of analytical techniques for data interpretation. Many wildlife management decisions are complex and may compete with human activities and other interests (for example the need for new housing). This module will help you develop transferable skills in effective communication using a variety of media, ranging from photography, habitat mapping or written reports.

View an example full module specification

BIO2108: International Field Course

Do you hope to work in ecology in an international, collaborative context? In this module you will learn concepts of marine ecology through lectures at Exeter and field-based learning at a tropical field station. The module will cover a range of research approaches that are routinely used in the region to answer scientific and sustainability-focused questions. You are likely to work in different habitats whilst in the field – coral reef, tropical lagoon, a tropical island ecosystem and potentially in the wet laboratory – depending on the current projects ongoing at the field station. During approximately eight days in the field, you will have the opportunity to snorkel on coral reefs and conduct boat-based research and potentially consider sustainable approaches to the future of food in tropical systems. Off-shore sites are reached by boat, and you may encounter a variety of tropical and pelagic fish, cetaceans, turtles, sharks and rays.

View an example full module specification

PSY2214: Observations and Experiments in Animal Behaviour

In this module we will explore the ways in which to pose and answer scientific questions by making observations and carrying out experiments, focusing on animal behavior. This module will enable you to run a series of observational investigations and experiments in both the laboratory and field (largely on the University campus) to test key hypotheses in animal behaviour. We will take you through the scientific method of designing, running, analysing and reporting scientific results.

Given the wide applicability of the scientific method, this module would be suitable for both specialist and non-specialist students and those following an interdisciplinary pathway.

We recommend that you have also taken PSY1105.

This module will provide you with a critical understanding of, and practical training in, the detailed objectives, strengths and weaknesses of good research techniques in animal behaviour research, both in the laboratory and field. You will be introduced to the cyclical and additive nature of scientific research and exposed to a range of study systems, research methods and questions. The practical sessions will cover key areas of current research in animal behaviour such as mate choice, foraging behaviour and social behaviour. At the end of this module you should be capable of designing, conducting, and discussing the results of your original research projects in the third year.

View an example full module specification

PSY2217: Wild Behaviour

What methods can we deploy to explore why humans and other animals behave as they do in natural settings? In this module you learn about different observational, experimental and analytical approaches in a completely 'hands-on' and applied manner. First, you will learn how to address questions scientifically, through a series of problem-based learning exercises in small groups. You'll then employ your skills in a series of group practicals, culminating in you devising your own research question (e.g. Do social networks arise from sexual harassment? Why follow a leader?), that you will tackle with data and analyses.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO2092: Genomics and Introductory Bioinformatics

Genomics has revolutionised biological research in recent years. Determining the complete genome sequence of almost any organism is now within the reach of most research bioscientists. Recent technological advances in next-generation sequencing make it possible to study gene expression and epigenetic modifications on a genome-wide scale. Reaping the benefits from these advances requires new approaches to biological and biomedical research and an increasing role for computational analysis of biological sequence data (bioinformatics). In this module, you will learn about the technologies that are driving advances in our understanding of genomes. You will study cutting-edge research that uses these methods to address health and disease as well as fundamental biology of animals, plants and microbes. During the computer-based practical exercises and coursework task, you will explore some of the freely available sequence data and computational tools on which modern genomics research relies and make new discoveries. This module provides an exciting learning opportunity at the forefront of modern biology and will lay some of the foundations for more advanced bioinformatics studies in Stage 3.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

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).

View an example full module specification

BIO3096: Biosciences Research Project

This module allows you to develop and undertake a research project with supervision.

A variety of types of project will be offered including research laboratory-based, field-based, bioinformatics, meta-analysis, and scientific literature-based (scientific critique, analysis and synthesis of material including data). Increasing independence in the work/research environment and in time management is encouraged and supported. Both group and individual projects may be offered.

This research project aims to develop your ability to conduct and report scientific research within the broad discipline of Biosciences, and develop your employability skills for future careers. You will choose a project from a list provided by academic staff. Self-designed projects are also welcomed but must be agreed with a suitable member of academic staff who will then act as primary supervisor for the project.

This module will develop your ability to think critically, analyse, challenge, and problem solve. You will develop your skills in reviewing the literature relevant to your project, in undertaking scientific critique, project planning, scientific methods, working collaboratively, problem solving, analysis and synthesis of material including data, and in writing a scientific report and giving an oral presentation. This module will also develop and enhance your employability skills for future careers through both generic and biosciences-related skills.

View an example full module specification

BIO3047: Advanced Applications of Physiology

In this module you will further develop your understanding of major physiological mechanisms in a range of animal systems and how these enable adaptation to environmental perturbation, building on the fundamental principles delivered in Stage 1 and 2 (BIO1331 and BIO2082). You will cover a number of familiar topics (including ion, osmo and acid-base regulation; respiratory physiology and neuroendocrine physiology) in greater detail, as well as cover a range of new systems (including topics such as calcification; evolutionary physiology and sexual differentiation). Using these physiological systems as exemplars, we will evaluate the physiological methods widely applied in a real-world context, and discuss the advances these have enabled for our understanding of global challenges (e.g. climate change), or the innovations these have enabled in other fields (e.g. aquaculture; elite animal performance). The module takes a research-led approach, covering the very latest advances in the field. Interactive skills sessions across the module will develop skills in pitching research ideas, critical evaluation of research and research dissemination.

View an example full module specification

BIO3067: Ecotoxicology

This module offers you the opportunity to study the impacts of chemicals on animals (including humans and plants in the environment). Ecotoxicology is highly interdisciplinary, and this module will cover aspects of environmental biology and chemistry, animal physiology, behaviour, molecular biology, and chemical risk assessment. The module is taught by world leading researchers in ecotoxicology with specialisms in areas including endocrine disruption, pesticides, plastic pollution and the effects of human drugs on wildlife.

This module aims to develop your awareness of the major current theories and concepts in the field of ecotoxicology. The intention is to give you a critical understanding of the responses of organisms to pollutants, with a particular emphasis on the aquatic environment, and how this can impact individuals, populations and ecosystems. The module also aims to develop your understanding of some of the legislation aimed at minimising pollution as well as some of the methods used assessing the potential impacts.

Through lectures, seminars, directed reading and self-study, you will develop skills in interpreting, debating, reviewing, and summarising concepts and data relating to the impact of pollutants in the environment.

Accessibility Statement:

View an example full module specification

BIO3083: Current Issues in Marine Biology

With the ever-growing human population, the marine environment is increasingly under threat from a range of anthropogenic and natural disturbances. Some major threats include habitat loss due to coastal development, noise and plastic pollution, and increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, resulting in ocean acidification and global warming. This module will build on the fundamental principles taught in the second year Marine Biology module and focuses on the current research issues in the field of Marine Biology. You will discuss these global ocean challenges and their impacts on marine wildlife, as well as evaluating the methods that are currently used to study these effects, how these methods are changing with digital innovation and proposed solutions to these challenges with the aim of better managing and protecting the biodiversity in our oceans.

This module aims to develop a critical awareness of current issues in marine biology. You will develop skills in sourcing and interpreting scientific literature, designing and analysing experimental methodologies, evaluating results and communicating facets of marine science.

View an example full module specification

BIO3058: Beyond the Frontiers of Medical Mycology

Fungi pose a significant threat to human health, with fungal diseases remaining a leading cause of death and morbidity worldwide. In this module students will review research in four major selected fields of medical mycology and will explore how new hypotheses are made that can inspire future research. The course will focus on very recent advances in our understanding of fungal pathogen biology, fungal immune recognition and avoidance, mycobiomes and co-infections, and vaccines, diagnostics and antifungal drug resistance. You will dissect key research papers to understand the advances that have been made and explore how emerging insights might be tested.

The course title 'Beyond the Frontiers' alludes to thinking beyond current paradigms to conceive of methodologies and testable hypotheses that could advance the field of medical mycology. A major objective will be to get you to 'think like a researcher' and to look beyond information as a collection of facts and consider them as inspiration to generate testable ideas using the 'scientific method'.

View an example full module specification

BIO3059: Molecular Biology of Bacterial Infection

Bacterial pathogens pose a significant threat to human health, with infectious diseases remaining a leading cause of death worldwide. This, coupled with the growing antimicrobial resistance crisis, requires research into how these pathogens cause disease. In this module we will explore the strategies adopted by bacterial pathogens that allow them to gain entry into a host and subsequently survive within the host environment. In addition, we will explore the role of microbial effectors that subvert host functions and cause symptoms of disease. You will gain insight into how knowledge of the molecular basis of pathogenicity can enable strategies for the control of infectious diseases, including vaccines and novel antimicrobials. The module will also include talks from scientists involved in both public health and biodefence, providing a perspective from both of these environments towards bacterial pathogens.

The aim of the module is to provide you with a grounding in the molecular basis of infection, looking at the process of bacterial pathogenesis from the perspective of the pathogen. The topics presented will increase your understanding of the molecular basis of microbial entry and survival within mammalian hosts, as well as how microbes cause damage to the host through the actions of toxins and secretion systems. The module content is research-led, drawing on the research experiences of the module contributors and the wider developments in the research field.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO3097: Living in a Microbial World

To a first approximation, life on Earth is microbial, and the transformation of Earth from a barren ball of rock to the oxygen-rich environment that supports us is a direct result of microbial metabolism. Even the human body contains more microbial than human cells. From global biogeochemical cycles to the interactions between individual organisms and their retinue of beneficial and detrimental microorganisms, understanding microbial ecology - the interactions between microbes and their environment - is key to understanding the functioning of Planet Earth. We will study carbon and nutrient cycling in the oceans, how terrestrial ecosystems are formed and controlled by microbes, the impact of plant-microbe interactions on forests and food production, and the applications of microbial biotechnology.

Pre-lecture content will be delivered online and followed with interactive student-staff sessions, where we will improve your core data science skills: how to analyse and present data in R; how to deal with Big Data; how to interpret statistical results in the light of the scientific literature - all while learning about the roles that microbes play in natural and managed ecosystems.

View an example full module specification

BIO3077: Frontiers in Molecular Cell Biology

Science textbooks can sometimes give the impression that we know all there is to know. In Frontiers in Molecular Cell Biology, you will move away from this idea and examine how and why scientific research in molecular cell biology is carried out. You will study four fast-moving areas and ask such questions as: How do cells carry out fundamental processes such as cell motility and cell communication? What is their relevance to biotechnology and medicine? How and why are discoveries linked to advances in scientific techniques? Other than introductory and summary lectures for each topic, learning is based on student-led analysis of published papers in journal club presentations. You will learn how to analyse and present a research paper, individually and in groups. You will use your presentation skills to individually present a research paper to the entire class for discussion. You will have the opportunity for a tutorial on your paper where feedback can be given before you present to the class.

View an example full module specification

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.

View an example full module specification

BIO3092: Bioinformatics

Research in the biological sciences is increasingly dependent on large datasets such as those generated by DNA sequencing. This is also true for medical diagnosis and prognosis. Analysis of these datasets requires a range of skills and knowledge drawn from computer science, physical sciences and mathematics and statistics as well as biological sciences. Bioinformatics is the discipline that integrates algorithms and methods from these disciplines to model biological systems and infer patterns hidden in complex data.

You will learn a working knowledge of bioinformatics methods and concepts in order for you to understand and critically evaluate the computational methods used in cutting-edge genomics and other biomedical sciences. You will be shown the application of these bioinformatics methods illustrated with biological or biomedical examples from recent peer-reviewed scientific literature.

You will learn to effectively communicate and collaborate with specialist bioinformaticians in handling and analysing large scale biological data, providing a foundation for postgraduate study in bioinformatics and related fields.

You will be given tuition in Linux, bash and R during the workshops, although prior knowledge of these languages will be of considerable help.

View an example full module specification

BIOM527: Research Grant Proposal

This module introduces you to the processes required for undertaking an independent, but supervised, research project at postgraduate level. Specifically, this module prepares you for your project by first supporting your own research into the background literature, allowing you to formulate hypotheses relating to your research project. You will then develop a research proposal, through which you will plan your MSci research project (BIOM518) identifying achievable aims and considering aspects such as experimental design, data handling and time management.

This module aims to develop your ability to identify and review the literature of relevance to your project area, develop a research question and decide which methods and approaches are needed. The current landscape for funding research projects in the UK and how to write a competitive research grant proposal will be examined. The practicalities of managing a research project, including time management and the collection and storing of data, will also be covered.

As part of this module you will further develop the following academic and professional skills:

View an example full module specification

BIOM569: Research Project

Learning to conduct original scientific research is essential for your scientific training, employability potential and future career. In this module, you will gain hands-on experience of conducting cutting-edge scientific research under the guidance of professional researchers. This involves conducting an independent research project that is of personal interest to you. You will be supervised by a member of staff and be expected to take responsibility for designing, planning and implementing the study, as well as analysing the data and reporting on the research project. It is hoped that the project will lead to a scientific conference presentation and/or publication in an academic journal. As such, this project provides valuable experience of managing an original scientific research project, from its inception through to completion.

The aims of this module are:

• To familiarise you with the existing scientific literature in your study area and teach you to assimilate this knowledge succinctly and critically.
• To give you experience in undertaking a substantial research project and to put into practice the knowledge you have acquired from your previous undergraduate stages and the taught elements of the programme.

By the end of the module, you will have reviewed and assimilated a substantial portion of the existing literature on your study area and carried out a piece of original research (or research which extends our knowledge on a topic), analysed the results using appropriate methods and learned how to disseminate the results in an appropriate manner.

In addition the module will allow you to further develop the following academic and professional skills:

• Problem solving: linking theory to practice, developing your own ideas with confidence, being able to respond to novel and unfamiliar problems
• Managing structure: identifying key demands of the project, setting clearly defined goals, responding flexibly to changing priorities
• Time management: managing time effectively individually and within a research group
• Collaboration: taking initiative and leading others, potentially maintaining group cohesiveness and purpose.

Some students may select and/or be allocated projects that involve off-site fieldwork or work in a laboratory that is off campus. This will be in consultation with the module lead and Programme Director

View an example full module specification