Introductory description

'This module aims to increase the practical laboratory skills, data handling, and problem-solving skills of BioMedical 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 Biomedical Science students (Human and Animal Physiology, Immunology and Epidemiology Laboratory and an Infection Laboratory). 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 web page

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.

Laboratories covering:
Bioinformatics
Molecular Biology
Immunology
Infection
Physiology

Learning outcomes

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

• Improving laboratory, data-handling and problem-solving skills. Carry out experiments following GLP (Good Laboratory Practice)Understand the links between nucleic acid amplification/ cloning and collating/building a genomeUnderstand the structure and antigen-binding ability of an IgG antibody, and the relationship between the two; estimate the size of proteins on SDS-PAGE; have improved problem-solving skills.Know how to culture mammalian cells using aseptic techniques; understand viral growth assays, infectious yield and titre; understand the basis of proportionality in calculations; have improved problem-solving skills.Understand basic haematological techniques: obtaining blood samples, determining cell counts, and measuring coagulation parameters.Understand nerve and muscle function and recording of electrophysiological data

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 the structure and antigen-binding ability of an IgG antibody, and the relationship between the two; estimate the size of proteins on SDS-PAGE; have improved problem-solving skills.

Know how to culture mammalian cells using aseptic techniques; understand viral growth assays, infectious yield and titre; understand the basis of proportionality in calculations; have improved problem-solving skills.

Understand basic haematological techniques: obtaining blood samples, determining cell counts, and measuring coagulation parameters.

Understand nerve and muscle function and recording of electrophysiological data

Transferable skills

Lab skills, self directed learning, team work, group work, report writing, adult learning