FORS07017 2019 Molecular Biology

Demonstrate intellectual knowledge by explaining the basic principles underpinning modern molecular biology.

Demonstrate professional/practical skills by being able to perform and interpret selected practical applications of Gene Cloning and PCR.

Analyse, collate and report on experimental data generated in practical sessions and/or data presented in problem solving exercises.

Communicate scientific data in an appropriate format.

This module will be delivered full‑time. Lecture delivery will be the primary mode of dissemination for module theory while practical applications will be explored during laboratory sessions. 

Critical and reflective thinking will be developed through the assessment of laboratories which will involve report writing, data analysis, calculations and problem solving

Moodle will be used as a repository for educational resources and as a means of assessment (e.g. quizzes, uploading assignments and laboratory reports).

Assessment of the Molecular Biology module will include both continuous assessment (50%) and a terminal exam (50%). The students must reach an assigned gate (30%) in the final exam and achieve 40% overall to pass the subject. Students are required to attend a minimum of 75% of laboratory sessions.

Formative assessments will be conducted periodically during the term to monitor the progress of the theory. The final exam will examine the students knowledge of the module and assess the ability of the student to communicate that knowledge in a suitable manner (50%).

Continuous assessment of laboratories will involve report writing, data analysis, calculations and problem solving (50%).

If a student fails to achieve 40% in the module they will be required to resit the repeat exam and/or resubmit laboratory reports plus other continuous assessment.

 LO1 Demonstrate intellectual knowledge by explaining the basic principles underpinning modern molecular biology.

Describe DNA replication in vivo

Describe DNA replication in vitro i.e. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

Explain gene transcription, the genetic code and translation.

Explain the basic principles and applications of Gene Cloning.

LO2 Demonstrate professional/practical skills by being able to perform and interpret selected practical applications of Gene Cloning and PCR.

Demonstrate competence in;

DNA extractions and quantification.,

Agarose gel electrophoresis.

PCR.

Restriction digestion.

Gene Cloning.

Adherence to contamination avoidance procedures by using suitable PPE and utilisation of sterile consumables and experimental controls (negatives and positives where appropriate).

LO3 Analyse, collate and report on experimental data generated in practical sessions and/or data presented in problem solving exercises.

Plasmid Mapping problems.

Molecular Biology calculations.

Elucidation of the genetic code.

Primer Design.

Data analytics; interpret and analyse bioinformatic data.

Analyse, collate and report on experimental data generated in practical sessions.

LO4 Communicate scientific data in an appropriate format

Communicate scientific data in an appropriate format.