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BMOL40190

Academic Year 2025/2026

Multicellular Systems (BMOL40190)

Subject:
Biomolecular & Biomed Science
College:
Science
School:
Biomolecular & Biomed Science
Level:
4 (Masters)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Dr Gary Brennan
Trimester:
Spring
Mode of Delivery:
Blended
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

Nearly all life science research is based on the use of multicellular systems, the model used depending on the field of research and the type of question to be answered. However, there is no such thing as a “perfect” model. It is therefore essential to understand the potential as well as the limitations of each model system. In this module we will discuss the uses, benefits and limitations of major model systems as well as explore novel models including more personalised approaches to disease modelling through the use of patient-derived stem cells and organoids. We will discuss developmental biology models (e.g. Danio rerio), pharmacological models (e.g. Mus musculus) alongside 3D cell biological models (e.g organoids) and key ethical considerations associated with model-based biomedical research .

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the role of model organisms in biomedical research applications.
2. Understand the rational and importance of appropriate model organism selection for various applications.
3. Explore the molecular, cellular and systemic processes in multicellular organisms.
4. Critically evaluate the ethical implications of animal and human based model systems.
5. Gain knowledge of animal testing legislation, the principles of the 3Rs and alternative approaches and advances to animal testing.

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

15
Tutorial

2
Autonomous Student Learning

100
Total

117

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures
Open ended discussion on specific topic during lectures

Generative AI: You may use AI for planning, idea development, and research. Your engagement with AI stops when you begin to create your submission. Your submissions should therefore be authored entirely by yourself and should show how you have developed and refined these ideas. You should keep a comprehensive record of all outputs generated by AI, and may be required to document these as part of the activities, or present them on demand. An appropriate AI tool may be used to correct grammatical errors and improve the language of text you alone have authored. You must not allow the AI tool to alter the sense of any text, offer a critique of or modify any arguments.

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Assignment(Including Essay): Individual assignment based on scientific symposium held in week 8. Week 8 Graded No
60
 No
Exam (In-person): In person exam Week 15 Graded No
40
 No

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Summer Yes - 1 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Online automated feedback

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Name Role
Dr Tess McCann Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Craig Slattery Lecturer / Co-Lecturer

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 25, 29, 33 Fri 10:00 - 10:50
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 25, 29, 32 Mon 12:00 - 12:50
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 29 Tues 09:00 - 12:50
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 25, 33 Tues 12:00 - 12:50
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