BMOL40400

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module, students should be able to
1. Generate a hypothesis related to a specified area of research
2. Design and execute experiments to test this hypothesis, employing a set of commonly used bimolecular techniques, typically including cloning and expression of reporter plasmids, growth and maintenance of mammalian cells (including induced pluripotent stem cells), Western blotting, next generation genomic approaches (eg single cell RNA-seq, single cell ATAC seq), gene expression analysis (Taqman), confocal imaging and bioinformatics.
3. Accurately and succinctly record and report experimental data
4. Communicate results in an intelligible, and scientifically meaningful manner

Indicative Module Content:

As per Module descriptor, this module provides training in a wide range of commonly used techniques in Biomolecular and Biomedical research. These typically include: cloning and expression of reporter plasmids, growth and maintenance of mammalian cells (including induced pluripotent stem cells), Western blotting, next generation genomic approaches (eg single cell RNA-seq, single cell ATAC seq), gene expression analysis (Taqman), confocal imaging and bioinformatics. These core skills will be used in the context of a Research Project which typically aims to investigate critical aspects of cell responses to drugs, in this instance dynamic regulation of gene accessibility and expression in stem cell derived neuronal assemblies (mini-brains) exposed to cocaine.

Student Effort Hours:

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:

An introductory class followed by a laboratory safety induction will take place towards the end of week 1 of the first Trimester, -the project beginning at the start of week 2. The laboratory will be supervised and accessible to students between the hours of 9 AM to 6 PM. It is expected that outside of timetabled lectures, students are present in the laboratory as required.

Additional materials, including a manual, recommended reading and video training guides will all be made available on Brightspace. It is expected that students familiarise themselves with the background of techniques prior to the beginning of practical training. Students are also required to maintain a lab book throughout the course of the project and this forms part of the grading process (15%). Students will also be assessed on performance and effort (15%) while a short thesis (5000 words) will form the majority of the grade (70%).

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.

Module Requisites and Incompatibles

Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy

 

Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.