BSc Genetics & Biochemistry

You need only pick up a newspaper or switch on the television to appreciate the impact that genetics and biochemistry are having upon human society. The Human Genome Project, for example, has provided a treasure trove of biological information from which the function of genes and their products can be determined. This is indeed a valuable resource which has almost limitless potential in terms of understanding and treating genetic disease, and developing new pharmaceutical drugs. The development and use of genetically modified organisms also have the potential to benefit humankind, but come with the responsibility to consider carefully their release to the environment. Our understanding of the structure and behaviour of biochemically active molecules has opened up novel areas of pure and applied science, and has given us new insights into the form and function of living organisms as diverse as microbes and humans.

The interface between genetics and biochemistry is the exciting and rapidly growing area of science which has enabled many technological achievements, including those described above. This course reflects the dynamics of this interaction, and through comprehensive training in genetics and biochemistry equips the student to be a skilled practitioner of these sciences. It offers an avenue into employment in the growth areas of biomedicine, forensic science, DNA profiling (humans, animals, plants), clinical cytogenetics and genetic counselling, biotechnology and food production, and aspects of biodiversity and the conservation of genetic resources and endangered species. It also prepares students to embark on many of the careers mentioned previously in our introduction to the biological sciences.

After completing the first year, during which you will have developed a firm grounding in biological sciences, you will take a mixture of core and optional modules covering areas such as human genetics, gene expression, medical biochemistry, and data handling in biochemistry. Through the optional modules, and your final year research project, you can develop your own interest in genetics and biochemistry. The project in particular allows you to develop experimental skills in a genetics or biochemistry research area of your choice.