Genetics

Programme Structure & Content

First Year
Students take courses in Chemistry and Biology plus additional courses selected from the wide range available from science and other areas.

Second Year
Courses introduce Animal, Plant and Microbial Genetics. The basic principles of gene action and expression are dealt with at the molecular, cellular and population levels, including Population Genetics and Evolution. The study of Human Genetics is included, together with the Genetic Basis of Modern Biotechnology. The second year curriculum also includes two courses devoted to development of Foundation and Research Skills in the Life Sciences. Students have a choice of other science courses, and are encouraged to include Biochemistry and Cell Biology courses among them.

Third Year
Topics covered include the Mechanisms of Gene and Chromosome Mutation and the Origins of Spontaneous Mutations; Molecular and Microscopic Study of Chromosomes; the Behaviour of Genes in Populations; Developmental Genetics; Molecular Genetics in Bacteria, Viruses and Eukaryotes; Molecular Biology of Plants; Modern, DNA-Based Genetic Analysis, Diagnosis, Therapy and Ecological Genetics; Environmental Impacts on Genetic Stability and Health and The Evolution of Immune and Defence Mechanisms Against Environmental Insult.

Fourth Year (Honours)
All students begin their Honours year by attending a 3-day reading party. An important feature of the Honours course is a 10-week research project, carried out in research laboratories within the School of Medical Sciences or in local research institutes. This project provides the opportunity to carry out original research, using state-of-the-art technology alongside postgraduate and postdoctoral staff.

Variations
For degrees with Industrial Placement the year in industry is taken between third and fourth year in an appropriate industrial laboratory.

Teaching & Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of the students' time is taken up in private study, laboratory or library work.