6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Organisational Unit
Chief examiner(s)
Coordinator(s)
Unit guides
Synopsis
This unit introduces the role of plant breeding and its significance in plant biotechnology, plant genomes and organisation, the regulation of gene expression, plant cell and tissue culture methodologies, gene transformation techniques, the application of transgenic technology for crop improvement (including the production of transgenic plants resistant to abiotic and biotic stresses and crops with prolonged shelf life and enhanced nutritional value) and the use of transgenic plants as bioreactors for the production of novel proteins in medicine and industry.
Outcomes
On completion of this unit students will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of current issues and technologies in plant biotechnology;
- Demonstrate clear understanding of the techniques involved in plant tissue culture;
- Design constructs to alter the expression of specific genes;
- Demonstrate understanding of the various strategies involved in the creation of existing plant transgenic crops;
- Appreciate the potential role of genetic manipulation to produce novel plant products of potential economic importance;
- Exhibit skills in analysis, interpretation and presentation of scientific data.
Assessment
NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Practical reports (including assignments): 40%
Mid-semester test: 20%
Examination (2 hours): 40%
Workload requirements
Three hours of lectures and three hours of practical per week (most weeks)
See also Unit timetable information