Introductory description

This module aims to increase the practical laboratory skills, data handling, and problem-solving skills of Biological Science students and to reinforce the need to use Good Laboratory Practice. It covers core labs taken by all students (bioinformatics and molecular cell biology) and labs specific for Biological Science students (Multicellular Systems, Genetics and Evolution and an Environmental Field Trip). The core labs introduce students to the techniques of PCR and cloning, and to sequence –handling i.e. from clone to genome. The specific labs are strongly linked to lecture modules, with the aim of co-ordinating theory with practical skills.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Bioinformatics
Molecular Biology
Multicellular Systems
Genetics and Evolution
Plus:
Environmental Field Trip

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Carry out experiments following GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) Understand the links between nucleic acid amplification/ cloning and collating/building a genome Understand responses to light in plants and animals Demonstrate keen observational skills Develop skills in recording phenotypes Apply predictive modelling Use and understand phylogenetic techniques Use SPSS Identify organisms using keys Understand ecological principles such as zonation, succession and population estimation

Indicative reading list

Not applicable.
Students are provided with comprehensive laboratory manuals before each laboratory class or block of classes.

Subject specific skills

Carry out experiments following GLP (Good Laboratory Practice)

Understand the links between nucleic acid amplification/ cloning and collating/building a genome

Understand responses to light in plants and animals

Demonstrate keen observational skills
Develop skills in recording phenotypes
Apply predictive modelling
Use and understand phylogenetic techniques

Use SPSS
Identify organisms using keys
Understand ecological principles such as zonation, succession and population estimation

Transferable skills

Adult learning, self directed learning, group work, quantitative skills, field work