Molecular Biology - MRes

Research Methods and Bioethics (20 credit points) - This module encourages you to think beyond your own subject, and interact accordingly. You'll gain a solid foundation in literature review, research design and planning, data analysis and a poster presentation by focusing your studies on a related ethical issue. Ethical issues in research will also be explored, as you discover when and how to obtain ethical clearance in accordance with ethical governance at NTU.

Research Project (120 credit points) - In consultation with a supervisor at NTU, you'll select a research topic comprising an original, defined research question (or series of such questions), and develop a written research proposal for the Project. You'll then present this proposal as part of the Research Methods and Bioethics module. Working individually with the guidance of supervisors, you'll design your experiments and computer-based approaches to address the research questions. A diary-style record of protocols or methods will be used to generate entries for your skills portfolio. You'll communicate your findings through a written thesis, and a poster presentation. For the MRes course, an interim written report and oral presentation will be assessed after six to eight months of work, in order to review your progress.

Molecular Biology (20 credit points) - During this module, you'll consolidate your knowledge of the molecular biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and how to prove hoe genomes are mutated, analysed and manipulated in the detection, study and therapy of disease. You'll study the control of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and the control at transcriptional, post-transcriptional (RNAi, microRNA) and translational levels.

Techniques in Macromolecular Analysis (20 credit points) - The aims of this module are to provide an advanced knowledge and understanding of the techniques that can be used to isolate and purify macromolecules, and the approaches that can be used to track, study and predict macromolecular structure and function. You'll explore a range of current topics, and their application to macromolecular analysis. These topics will include the macromolecular analysis of proteins, protein purification programs and simulations, and protein bioinformatics.