Cell Biology of Human Disease

This course will offer experience and training in contemporary topics in the cell biology of human disease that are relevant to intercalating medical students.

There are core modules in genetic engineering and the cell biology of disease. These lecture-based modules will be complemented with

• practical training in fundamental molecular biology techniques through the completion of a PCR
• gene cloning and protein expression mini-project
• research skills training in experimental design, data analysis, abstract writing and scientific communication to both expert and non-expert groups.

In addition, you'll be exposed to cutting edge research developments in cell biology topics relating to human disease through the study of two Advanced Topic Modules (ATUs). ATUs covered include

• cancer biology and therapy
• stem cell biology
• tissue replacement
• RNA biology and therapy
• protein folding, and
• diseases.

You'll also complete a literature-based research project enabling you to focus on, and research in depth, a topic relating to the cell biology of human disease that is of interest to you.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Genetic Engineering 10 credits
• Advanced Topics for Biological Sciences 2 20 credits
• Biological Sciences Research Project 40 credits
• Skills in the Cell Biology of Human Disease 20 credits
• Cell Biology of Disease 10 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Cell Biology of Human Disease BSc in the course catalogue

Assessment

Teaching will be through lectures, practical classes, seminars, small group teaching, tutorials and a research project. Assessment is similarly varied, including in-course assessment (formative and summative) and written examinations. The in-course assessment exercises include tests of practical skills, essay writing, data manipulation and problem solving. The research project will be assessed throughout the project and on the final written report. Degree classifications will be based upon the marks obtained in each of the component modules, with the appropriate credit weighting applied.