Undergraduate - UnitBTH3752 - Molecular biology and biotechnology

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Synopsis

This unit focuses on recombinant DNA methodology and genomics, which underpin commercial developments in the rapidly expanding biotechnology industry. Advanced techniques for gene manipulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, methods for genome mapping and sequencing, and techniques for investigating gene and protein function, including mutagenesis, RNA interference and expression profiling, will be considered. Industrial and research applications of these technologies, such as genetic manipulation of plants and animals, gene therapy, virus detection and typing, recombinant vaccine production and personalized medicine will be explored.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will understand the molecular basis of a wide range of techniques for gene manipulation, and genomic and proteomic analysis; apply their knowledge to the pursuit of current scientific problems in industry, medicine and research; be able to critically evaluate a variety of approaches to a particular scientific or industrial problem; demonstrate proficiency a wide range of techniques for gene manipulation and in the interpretation of data acquired by these techniques; and demonstrate advanced report writing skills.

Assessment

3-hour end of semester examination: 50%
Critical analysis of scientific literature: 10%
Assignment (2000 words): 10%
Practical performance and report writing: 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Phillip Brook-Carter

Contact hours

3 hours lectures per week and 36 hours practical work per semester.

Off-campus attendance requirements

A five day residential laboratory school.

Prerequisites

BTH2732

Prohibitions

BCH3031, BTH3757