BSc (Hons) or MSci (Hons) — 2027 entry Biomedical Science

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to microorganisms, to the main cellular processes they perform and to how their activities affect humans and the environment. The students learn about microorganisms that cause disease as well as those who have properties we exploit for the benefit of society. Finally through laboratory practical exercises, the students learn and practice a range of basic microbiological techniques, which are essential for the cultivation and study of microorganisms. This module provides students with key skills and a basic broad knowledge of microbiology; a fundamental discipline required for future endeavors in the fields of infectious disease, biotechnology, biomedical science, biological science and other medically-related fields.

The purpose of this module is to give a broad introduction to the essential concepts of molecular biology and genetics that are critical to any undergraduate programme in biosciences.   We will cover the central dogma of biology: how information is passed from DNA to RNA to protein, and how it is inherited throughout generations. We will examine how genomes are organized and the structure of a gene, initially focusing on prokaryotes. We will discuss the details of DNA replication, transcription and translation and examine some of the key concepts in gene regulation. Students will also be introduced to laboratory and bioinformatic techniques essential for the study of molecular biology. They will also hone their skills in scientific writing through the production of a laboratory report and short essay.

This module aims to introduce students from all backgrounds to the biological molecules that are essential to life. It provides a foundational knowledge of their structures and functions alongside when, where and how they are generated and broken down. The content builds up alongside content from Cell Biology and Physiology modules at this level to help you understand how these can be utilised at a cellular and organismal level and the conditions under which they are regulated. This provides an essential base upon which knowledge is utilised in multiple modules at levels 5 and 6. You will develop your awareness of the need for safety procedures, equipment and organisation in the laboratory, alongside the equipment that is needed to determine how processes in the module content occur and what conditions will affect these. You will learn to analyse data using appropriate software including a basic level of computer coding. Laboratory skills are build up throughout the module across both semesters, supporting you to become more independent, plan your experiments and be critical of your work and results, reflecting on how the results may change with refinements to the competency and type of experimental methods.

This Molecular biology/genetics module builds up on its first-year sister module BMS1047. The key difference from BMS1047 is that it focusses on eukaryotic molecular biology and techniques to evaluate various molecular biology processes, including more genome-wide aspects, and the significance of molecular biology mechanisms in the real world, for e.g., in cancer. Another key difference is that this module covers molecular biology in greater depth, in particular the regulatory aspects of molecular biology. Overall, you will develop oral and written communication skills in molecular biology and genetics and will be able to appreciate the differences between the eukaryotic and prokaryotic molecular systems. Lectures are covered in a block of the following six themes. Advanced human genetics/genomics à The lectures will cover the human genome, natural genetics variations, sequencing genes and genomes, the genotype-phenotype map to include Mendelian genetics/genetic diseases, the transmission of information, and the concept of recombination. Eukaryotic DNA replication à Packaging of DNA, its organization on chromosomes and alignment with the cell cycle (telomeres, crossing over/recombinant). Enzymes needed for DNA replication with a reflection of BMS1047, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, and techniques to study replication. Eukaryotic DNA transcription à Eukaryotic Cis and trans elements in transcription, post-transcription modifications of transcripts and molecular biology methods to study/quantify transcripts, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, enhancer/mediator complex, cDNA synthesis. control of transcription. Post-transcriptional regulation à  Molecular mechanisms of splicing, polyadenylation (mechanisms); Cytoplasmic events: RNA export, localization, regulation by lnc/miRNAs, RNA decay. Eukaryotic mRNA translation à Eukaryotic regulation, global and specific regulation of transcription. Techniques to study Eukaryotic translation. regulation of translation by the proteasome. Application of human genetic inheritance and gene expression in cancer, errors in DNA replication & their correction. Practical componentà RNA extraction & quantification, reverse transcription and RT-PCR followed by electrophoresis.

This module aims to build upon the principles of feedback and basic systems covered at level 4. In this module we go into greater depth about the homeostatic control through the use of nervous, endocrine and other control mechanisms. Students will build upon biochemical principles of receptors and second messengers as key components of feedback mechanisms, applying this to whole-body regulation. Investigation and integration of multiple systems and their response to the same mediator is an essential part of this module.   Students will develop their oral and written communication skills within a scientific discipline, enabling them to explain & extrapolate both theoretical knowledge & perform data analysis.

The purpose of this module is to provide a conceptual understanding of the key principles of human immunology, including the immune response to infection and foreign antigens. Such an understanding is crucial in many other parts of the programme, including the pathogenicity of infectious disease, oncology and pharmacology. It is a prerequisite for modules at FHEQ level 6 including BMS3054 (Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology), BMS3102 (Advanced Topics in Cellular and Molecular Immunology) and BMS3104 (Applied Immunology).

The purpose of the module is to introduce the subject of Pharmacology.  They will apply their knowledge of Biochemistry and Physiology to understand the mechanism of action of key current drugs.  With a particular focus on the following systems: cardiovascular, neurological, anti-inflammatory, -infectives and -cancer.  Students will also consider how the body deals with drugs, namely absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME).   

Microbes can be categorised and studied according to a number of characteristics such as their physiology; pathogenicity, and cellular interaction with hosts. This module builds on those themes already covered on the bioscience programmes in dealing with the spread of microbes through populations, and features of host and vector populations that influence this spread.

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to microorganisms, to the main cellular processes they perform and to how their activities affect humans and the environment. The students learn about microorganisms that cause disease as well as those who have properties we exploit for the benefit of society. Finally through laboratory practical exercises, the students learn and practice a range of basic microbiological techniques, which are essential for the cultivation and study of microorganisms. This module provides students with key skills and a basic broad knowledge of microbiology; a fundamental discipline required for future endeavors in the fields of infectious disease, biotechnology, biomedical science, biological science and other medically-related fields.

The purpose of this module is to give a broad introduction to the essential concepts of molecular biology and genetics that are critical to any undergraduate programme in biosciences.   We will cover the central dogma of biology: how information is passed from DNA to RNA to protein, and how it is inherited throughout generations. We will examine how genomes are organized and the structure of a gene, initially focusing on prokaryotes. We will discuss the details of DNA replication, transcription and translation and examine some of the key concepts in gene regulation. Students will also be introduced to laboratory and bioinformatic techniques essential for the study of molecular biology. They will also hone their skills in scientific writing through the production of a laboratory report and short essay.

This module aims to introduce students from all backgrounds to the biological molecules that are essential to life. It provides a foundational knowledge of their structures and functions alongside when, where and how they are generated and broken down. The content builds up alongside content from Cell Biology and Physiology modules at this level to help you understand how these can be utilised at a cellular and organismal level and the conditions under which they are regulated. This provides an essential base upon which knowledge is utilised in multiple modules at levels 5 and 6. You will develop your awareness of the need for safety procedures, equipment and organisation in the laboratory, alongside the equipment that is needed to determine how processes in the module content occur and what conditions will affect these. You will learn to analyse data using appropriate software including a basic level of computer coding. Laboratory skills are build up throughout the module across both semesters, supporting you to become more independent, plan your experiments and be critical of your work and results, reflecting on how the results may change with refinements to the competency and type of experimental methods.

This Molecular biology/genetics module builds up on its first-year sister module BMS1047. The key difference from BMS1047 is that it focusses on eukaryotic molecular biology and techniques to evaluate various molecular biology processes, including more genome-wide aspects, and the significance of molecular biology mechanisms in the real world, for e.g., in cancer. Another key difference is that this module covers molecular biology in greater depth, in particular the regulatory aspects of molecular biology. Overall, you will develop oral and written communication skills in molecular biology and genetics and will be able to appreciate the differences between the eukaryotic and prokaryotic molecular systems. Lectures are covered in a block of the following six themes. Advanced human genetics/genomics à The lectures will cover the human genome, natural genetics variations, sequencing genes and genomes, the genotype-phenotype map to include Mendelian genetics/genetic diseases, the transmission of information, and the concept of recombination. Eukaryotic DNA replication à Packaging of DNA, its organization on chromosomes and alignment with the cell cycle (telomeres, crossing over/recombinant). Enzymes needed for DNA replication with a reflection of BMS1047, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, and techniques to study replication. Eukaryotic DNA transcription à Eukaryotic Cis and trans elements in transcription, post-transcription modifications of transcripts and molecular biology methods to study/quantify transcripts, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, enhancer/mediator complex, cDNA synthesis. control of transcription. Post-transcriptional regulation à  Molecular mechanisms of splicing, polyadenylation (mechanisms); Cytoplasmic events: RNA export, localization, regulation by lnc/miRNAs, RNA decay. Eukaryotic mRNA translation à Eukaryotic regulation, global and specific regulation of transcription. Techniques to study Eukaryotic translation. regulation of translation by the proteasome. Application of human genetic inheritance and gene expression in cancer, errors in DNA replication & their correction. Practical componentà RNA extraction & quantification, reverse transcription and RT-PCR followed by electrophoresis.

This module aims to build upon the principles of feedback and basic systems covered at level 4. In this module we go into greater depth about the homeostatic control through the use of nervous, endocrine and other control mechanisms. Students will build upon biochemical principles of receptors and second messengers as key components of feedback mechanisms, applying this to whole-body regulation. Investigation and integration of multiple systems and their response to the same mediator is an essential part of this module.   Students will develop their oral and written communication skills within a scientific discipline, enabling them to explain & extrapolate both theoretical knowledge & perform data analysis.

The purpose of this module is to provide a conceptual understanding of the key principles of human immunology, including the immune response to infection and foreign antigens. Such an understanding is crucial in many other parts of the programme, including the pathogenicity of infectious disease, oncology and pharmacology. It is a prerequisite for modules at FHEQ level 6 including BMS3054 (Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology), BMS3102 (Advanced Topics in Cellular and Molecular Immunology) and BMS3104 (Applied Immunology).

The purpose of the module is to introduce the subject of Pharmacology.  They will apply their knowledge of Biochemistry and Physiology to understand the mechanism of action of key current drugs.  With a particular focus on the following systems: cardiovascular, neurological, anti-inflammatory, -infectives and -cancer.  Students will also consider how the body deals with drugs, namely absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME).   

Microbes can be categorised and studied according to a number of characteristics such as their physiology; pathogenicity, and cellular interaction with hosts. This module builds on those themes already covered on the bioscience programmes in dealing with the spread of microbes through populations, and features of host and vector populations that influence this spread.

This year-long module is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and capabilities that students will require to succeed during undergraduate study. During the foundation year, students will explore fascinating processes of life, from evolutionary genetics and cells to organ systems, through to human impact on ecosystems. Students will also study topics in chemistry and mathematics, the principles that underpin biological sciences. Students will have many opportunities to put theory into practice through laboratory sessions and fieldwork. Students will enhance their digital fluency by engaging with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and methodologies relevant to the Biosciences. They will be equipped to practically apply AI-driven approaches in modern biological research, while critically evaluating the ethical implications, limitations, and reliability of AI-generated data in scientific inquiry and professional practice. Academic skills development is embedded throughout the strands and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning. In addition to lectures and tutorials, learning takes place in the format of debates, lab and field work, problem-based scenarios, and skills-based workshops. Subject-specific content is designed to integrate, such that students apply chemistry skills in biological contexts, for example. Employability skills are coordinated through portfolio activities and reflective tasks, students will interrogate their future discipline and explore academic literature in their field of interest. The module aims to broaden students' perceived scope of the biosciences.Resilience is built into this module through the strong formative challenges that are present for all coursework. Challenges are set that allow students to make mistakes and learn from them. This feeds into reflective activities that invite students to develop their academic processes, so they are best able to cope with the challenges ahead. Finally, the module takes a strong approach to team-working; learners regularly work with the same small group of peers and this work is directly assessed. Learning about their various peers and how to adapt to working effectively develops students' cultural awareness and is a key employability skill.

This year-long module is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and capabilities that students will require to succeed during undergraduate study. During the foundation year, students will explore fascinating processes of life, from evolutionary genetics and cells to organ systems, through to human impact on ecosystems. Students will also study topics in chemistry and mathematics, the principles that underpin biological sciences. Students will have many opportunities to put theory into practice through laboratory sessions and fieldwork. Students will enhance their digital fluency by engaging with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and methodologies relevant to the Biosciences. They will be equipped to practically apply AI-driven approaches in modern biological research, while critically evaluating the ethical implications, limitations, and reliability of AI-generated data in scientific inquiry and professional practice. Academic skills development is embedded throughout the strands and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning. In addition to lectures and tutorials, learning takes place in the format of debates, lab and field work, problem-based scenarios, and skills-based workshops. Subject-specific content is designed to integrate, such that students apply chemistry skills in biological contexts, for example. Employability skills are coordinated through portfolio activities and reflective tasks, students will interrogate their future discipline and explore academic literature in their field of interest. The module aims to broaden students' perceived scope of the biosciences.Resilience is built into this module through the strong formative challenges that are present for all coursework. Challenges are set that allow students to make mistakes and learn from them. This feeds into reflective activities that invite students to develop their academic processes, so they are best able to cope with the challenges ahead. Finally, the module takes a strong approach to team-working; learners regularly work with the same small group of peers and this work is directly assessed. Learning about their various peers and how to adapt to working effectively develops students' cultural awareness and is a key employability skill.

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to microorganisms, to the main cellular processes they perform and to how their activities affect humans and the environment. The students learn about microorganisms that cause disease as well as those who have properties we exploit for the benefit of society. Finally through laboratory practical exercises, the students learn and practice a range of basic microbiological techniques, which are essential for the cultivation and study of microorganisms. This module provides students with key skills and a basic broad knowledge of microbiology; a fundamental discipline required for future endeavors in the fields of infectious disease, biotechnology, biomedical science, biological science and other medically-related fields.

The purpose of this module is to give a broad introduction to the essential concepts of molecular biology and genetics that are critical to any undergraduate programme in biosciences.   We will cover the central dogma of biology: how information is passed from DNA to RNA to protein, and how it is inherited throughout generations. We will examine how genomes are organized and the structure of a gene, initially focusing on prokaryotes. We will discuss the details of DNA replication, transcription and translation and examine some of the key concepts in gene regulation. Students will also be introduced to laboratory and bioinformatic techniques essential for the study of molecular biology. They will also hone their skills in scientific writing through the production of a laboratory report and short essay.

This module aims to introduce students from all backgrounds to the biological molecules that are essential to life. It provides a foundational knowledge of their structures and functions alongside when, where and how they are generated and broken down. The content builds up alongside content from Cell Biology and Physiology modules at this level to help you understand how these can be utilised at a cellular and organismal level and the conditions under which they are regulated. This provides an essential base upon which knowledge is utilised in multiple modules at levels 5 and 6. You will develop your awareness of the need for safety procedures, equipment and organisation in the laboratory, alongside the equipment that is needed to determine how processes in the module content occur and what conditions will affect these. You will learn to analyse data using appropriate software including a basic level of computer coding. Laboratory skills are build up throughout the module across both semesters, supporting you to become more independent, plan your experiments and be critical of your work and results, reflecting on how the results may change with refinements to the competency and type of experimental methods.

This Molecular biology/genetics module builds up on its first-year sister module BMS1047. The key difference from BMS1047 is that it focusses on eukaryotic molecular biology and techniques to evaluate various molecular biology processes, including more genome-wide aspects, and the significance of molecular biology mechanisms in the real world, for e.g., in cancer. Another key difference is that this module covers molecular biology in greater depth, in particular the regulatory aspects of molecular biology. Overall, you will develop oral and written communication skills in molecular biology and genetics and will be able to appreciate the differences between the eukaryotic and prokaryotic molecular systems. Lectures are covered in a block of the following six themes. Advanced human genetics/genomics à The lectures will cover the human genome, natural genetics variations, sequencing genes and genomes, the genotype-phenotype map to include Mendelian genetics/genetic diseases, the transmission of information, and the concept of recombination. Eukaryotic DNA replication à Packaging of DNA, its organization on chromosomes and alignment with the cell cycle (telomeres, crossing over/recombinant). Enzymes needed for DNA replication with a reflection of BMS1047, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, and techniques to study replication. Eukaryotic DNA transcription à Eukaryotic Cis and trans elements in transcription, post-transcription modifications of transcripts and molecular biology methods to study/quantify transcripts, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, enhancer/mediator complex, cDNA synthesis. control of transcription. Post-transcriptional regulation à  Molecular mechanisms of splicing, polyadenylation (mechanisms); Cytoplasmic events: RNA export, localization, regulation by lnc/miRNAs, RNA decay. Eukaryotic mRNA translation à Eukaryotic regulation, global and specific regulation of transcription. Techniques to study Eukaryotic translation. regulation of translation by the proteasome. Application of human genetic inheritance and gene expression in cancer, errors in DNA replication & their correction. Practical componentà RNA extraction & quantification, reverse transcription and RT-PCR followed by electrophoresis.

This module aims to build upon the principles of feedback and basic systems covered at level 4. In this module we go into greater depth about the homeostatic control through the use of nervous, endocrine and other control mechanisms. Students will build upon biochemical principles of receptors and second messengers as key components of feedback mechanisms, applying this to whole-body regulation. Investigation and integration of multiple systems and their response to the same mediator is an essential part of this module.   Students will develop their oral and written communication skills within a scientific discipline, enabling them to explain & extrapolate both theoretical knowledge & perform data analysis.

The purpose of this module is to provide a conceptual understanding of the key principles of human immunology, including the immune response to infection and foreign antigens. Such an understanding is crucial in many other parts of the programme, including the pathogenicity of infectious disease, oncology and pharmacology. It is a prerequisite for modules at FHEQ level 6 including BMS3054 (Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology), BMS3102 (Advanced Topics in Cellular and Molecular Immunology) and BMS3104 (Applied Immunology).

The purpose of the module is to introduce the subject of Pharmacology.  They will apply their knowledge of Biochemistry and Physiology to understand the mechanism of action of key current drugs.  With a particular focus on the following systems: cardiovascular, neurological, anti-inflammatory, -infectives and -cancer.  Students will also consider how the body deals with drugs, namely absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME).   

Microbes can be categorised and studied according to a number of characteristics such as their physiology; pathogenicity, and cellular interaction with hosts. This module builds on those themes already covered on the bioscience programmes in dealing with the spread of microbes through populations, and features of host and vector populations that influence this spread.

In this module, students will work in teams and individually to evaluate and propose approaches to authentic, real-world, scenarios in biomedical research. The students will work with the academic facilitator to understand the basis of the research problem. The students will propose a critical experimental plan, incorporating a range of appropriate biochemical techniques. It is expected that the work will include details of cell lines or experimental models used, how experiments will be controlled, replicated, and evaluated, and which statistical models would be appropriate for the methods under discussion. We will keep a critical and evaluative research record of both team and individual efforts and students will have consolidation weeks to reflect on their experimental proposals and critically improve their work with our feedback. This module will require integration of knowledge you developed in the first 3 years of your program. In general, the module will help build valuable skills towards the Research Dissertation or Advanced Research Project Modules in this final year, as well as help you navigate challenges and scientific problems in your future workplace.

This module is designed to cover the pathogenesis aspects of a broad range of diseases that affect cells; tissues, and organs. Emphasis is placed on pathological conditions (both cancer and non-cancer disease) which are prevalent in various societies and cultures, and different genders, how these diseases emerge at molecular levels and what type of anomalies they cause together with the clinical challenge to detect and treat them. You will familiarise themselves with various clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques, together with research that aims to improve your understanding of these diseases at the cellular and molecular level and their diagnoses. This will be vital in developing critical thinking about disease aetiology, their progression and how they can be targeted through novel therapies. A range of transferrable and professional skills are included in the module, including pathological evaluation, and the use of reference ranges in identifying abnormal results. Expert lecturers (both clinically trained and basic scientists) will cover detailed case studies of different diseases, with assessments designed to encourage independent further study of diseases not covered in the main lecture Programme. This blend of lectures from expert clinicians/non-clinicians supplemented by highly focused tutorials will ensure that you not only develop an advanced understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the emergence of diseases but are able to assess, appraise, criticize, and formulate hypotheses on how to develop next generation of highly effective precision medicine-based treatment approaches for disease diagnosis and treatment. This module complements other modules at level 7, namely Molecular Medicine and Infectious diseases and provides an excellent synergy in developing critical thinking on disease diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutics.

The ability to appraise scientific literature and to communicate ideas is an academic and professional skill  required across many areas of the biosciences. Journal clubs are convened in research and clinical environments and are used by professionals to continue to update knowledge of their disciplines and to maintain competencies as scientists; educators, and clinicians. The ability to distil and critique literature into a short review is also an important skill for the ongoing development of professionals in this area. By Level 7, students will already have a sound understanding of the importance of valid scientific information, and the role of the peer-review process in assuring rigour and integrity. This module develops skills in critical appraisal of scientific literature through a journal club whereby recent publications across a representative range of biomedical science disciplines are discussed in regular sessions facilitated by research students; post-doctoral, and academic staff. A literature review of an appropriate biomedical topic will further develop approaches to using online databases and selecting appropriate publications, together with writing skills. The progress of this piece of work is supported by one-to-one tutorials.

This is an introductory course on bioinformatics and data science aimed at medical and life sciences undergraduate and postgraduade students that did not have previous exposure to quantitative methodologies. There are no pre-requisites in terms of advanced algebra, calculus, probability theory, statistics or computer programming. Computer programming (coding) and data science are salient skills needed for securing academic and industry jobs. Worldwide, the bioinformatics job market has experienced robust growth over the last decade.  In the UK, there is chronic deficit of bioinformaticians as documented by the government's "Full review of the Shortage Occupation List" Bioinformatics and Data Science underlies many academic disciplines and score highly among the most useful skills you will learn in your degree. In the Life and Health Sciences, Bioinformatics and Data Science is essential for epidemiologists, geneticists, biologists, and biomedical scientists to convert research questions into testable statistical models, and to produce interpretable, reproducible, and valid results. This module introduces both facets of study design and data analysis with the aim of enabling graduate students to independently make scientific investigations in a coherent and reproducible way, and to apply notions of causality, statistical inference, and artificial intelligence. It also provides practical hands-on experience conducting computational genomics and gene expression analyses, two bioinformatics skills in high demand worldwide

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to microorganisms, to the main cellular processes they perform and to how their activities affect humans and the environment. The students learn about microorganisms that cause disease as well as those who have properties we exploit for the benefit of society. Finally through laboratory practical exercises, the students learn and practice a range of basic microbiological techniques, which are essential for the cultivation and study of microorganisms. This module provides students with key skills and a basic broad knowledge of microbiology; a fundamental discipline required for future endeavors in the fields of infectious disease, biotechnology, biomedical science, biological science and other medically-related fields.

The purpose of this module is to give a broad introduction to the essential concepts of molecular biology and genetics that are critical to any undergraduate programme in biosciences.   We will cover the central dogma of biology: how information is passed from DNA to RNA to protein, and how it is inherited throughout generations. We will examine how genomes are organized and the structure of a gene, initially focusing on prokaryotes. We will discuss the details of DNA replication, transcription and translation and examine some of the key concepts in gene regulation. Students will also be introduced to laboratory and bioinformatic techniques essential for the study of molecular biology. They will also hone their skills in scientific writing through the production of a laboratory report and short essay.

This module aims to introduce students from all backgrounds to the biological molecules that are essential to life. It provides a foundational knowledge of their structures and functions alongside when, where and how they are generated and broken down. The content builds up alongside content from Cell Biology and Physiology modules at this level to help you understand how these can be utilised at a cellular and organismal level and the conditions under which they are regulated. This provides an essential base upon which knowledge is utilised in multiple modules at levels 5 and 6. You will develop your awareness of the need for safety procedures, equipment and organisation in the laboratory, alongside the equipment that is needed to determine how processes in the module content occur and what conditions will affect these. You will learn to analyse data using appropriate software including a basic level of computer coding. Laboratory skills are build up throughout the module across both semesters, supporting you to become more independent, plan your experiments and be critical of your work and results, reflecting on how the results may change with refinements to the competency and type of experimental methods.

This Molecular biology/genetics module builds up on its first-year sister module BMS1047. The key difference from BMS1047 is that it focusses on eukaryotic molecular biology and techniques to evaluate various molecular biology processes, including more genome-wide aspects, and the significance of molecular biology mechanisms in the real world, for e.g., in cancer. Another key difference is that this module covers molecular biology in greater depth, in particular the regulatory aspects of molecular biology. Overall, you will develop oral and written communication skills in molecular biology and genetics and will be able to appreciate the differences between the eukaryotic and prokaryotic molecular systems. Lectures are covered in a block of the following six themes. Advanced human genetics/genomics à The lectures will cover the human genome, natural genetics variations, sequencing genes and genomes, the genotype-phenotype map to include Mendelian genetics/genetic diseases, the transmission of information, and the concept of recombination. Eukaryotic DNA replication à Packaging of DNA, its organization on chromosomes and alignment with the cell cycle (telomeres, crossing over/recombinant). Enzymes needed for DNA replication with a reflection of BMS1047, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, and techniques to study replication. Eukaryotic DNA transcription à Eukaryotic Cis and trans elements in transcription, post-transcription modifications of transcripts and molecular biology methods to study/quantify transcripts, key differences between Pro- and Eukaryotes, enhancer/mediator complex, cDNA synthesis. control of transcription. Post-transcriptional regulation à  Molecular mechanisms of splicing, polyadenylation (mechanisms); Cytoplasmic events: RNA export, localization, regulation by lnc/miRNAs, RNA decay. Eukaryotic mRNA translation à Eukaryotic regulation, global and specific regulation of transcription. Techniques to study Eukaryotic translation. regulation of translation by the proteasome. Application of human genetic inheritance and gene expression in cancer, errors in DNA replication & their correction. Practical componentà RNA extraction & quantification, reverse transcription and RT-PCR followed by electrophoresis.

This module aims to build upon the principles of feedback and basic systems covered at level 4. In this module we go into greater depth about the homeostatic control through the use of nervous, endocrine and other control mechanisms. Students will build upon biochemical principles of receptors and second messengers as key components of feedback mechanisms, applying this to whole-body regulation. Investigation and integration of multiple systems and their response to the same mediator is an essential part of this module.   Students will develop their oral and written communication skills within a scientific discipline, enabling them to explain & extrapolate both theoretical knowledge & perform data analysis.

The purpose of this module is to provide a conceptual understanding of the key principles of human immunology, including the immune response to infection and foreign antigens. Such an understanding is crucial in many other parts of the programme, including the pathogenicity of infectious disease, oncology and pharmacology. It is a prerequisite for modules at FHEQ level 6 including BMS3054 (Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology), BMS3102 (Advanced Topics in Cellular and Molecular Immunology) and BMS3104 (Applied Immunology).

The purpose of the module is to introduce the subject of Pharmacology.  They will apply their knowledge of Biochemistry and Physiology to understand the mechanism of action of key current drugs.  With a particular focus on the following systems: cardiovascular, neurological, anti-inflammatory, -infectives and -cancer.  Students will also consider how the body deals with drugs, namely absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME).   

Microbes can be categorised and studied according to a number of characteristics such as their physiology; pathogenicity, and cellular interaction with hosts. This module builds on those themes already covered on the bioscience programmes in dealing with the spread of microbes through populations, and features of host and vector populations that influence this spread.

In this module, students will work in teams and individually to evaluate and propose approaches to authentic, real-world, scenarios in biomedical research. The students will work with the academic facilitator to understand the basis of the research problem. The students will propose a critical experimental plan, incorporating a range of appropriate biochemical techniques. It is expected that the work will include details of cell lines or experimental models used, how experiments will be controlled, replicated, and evaluated, and which statistical models would be appropriate for the methods under discussion. We will keep a critical and evaluative research record of both team and individual efforts and students will have consolidation weeks to reflect on their experimental proposals and critically improve their work with our feedback. This module will require integration of knowledge you developed in the first 3 years of your program. In general, the module will help build valuable skills towards the Research Dissertation or Advanced Research Project Modules in this final year, as well as help you navigate challenges and scientific problems in your future workplace.

This module is designed to cover the pathogenesis aspects of a broad range of diseases that affect cells; tissues, and organs. Emphasis is placed on pathological conditions (both cancer and non-cancer disease) which are prevalent in various societies and cultures, and different genders, how these diseases emerge at molecular levels and what type of anomalies they cause together with the clinical challenge to detect and treat them. You will familiarise themselves with various clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques, together with research that aims to improve your understanding of these diseases at the cellular and molecular level and their diagnoses. This will be vital in developing critical thinking about disease aetiology, their progression and how they can be targeted through novel therapies. A range of transferrable and professional skills are included in the module, including pathological evaluation, and the use of reference ranges in identifying abnormal results. Expert lecturers (both clinically trained and basic scientists) will cover detailed case studies of different diseases, with assessments designed to encourage independent further study of diseases not covered in the main lecture Programme. This blend of lectures from expert clinicians/non-clinicians supplemented by highly focused tutorials will ensure that you not only develop an advanced understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the emergence of diseases but are able to assess, appraise, criticize, and formulate hypotheses on how to develop next generation of highly effective precision medicine-based treatment approaches for disease diagnosis and treatment. This module complements other modules at level 7, namely Molecular Medicine and Infectious diseases and provides an excellent synergy in developing critical thinking on disease diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutics.

The ability to appraise scientific literature and to communicate ideas is an academic and professional skill  required across many areas of the biosciences. Journal clubs are convened in research and clinical environments and are used by professionals to continue to update knowledge of their disciplines and to maintain competencies as scientists; educators, and clinicians. The ability to distil and critique literature into a short review is also an important skill for the ongoing development of professionals in this area. By Level 7, students will already have a sound understanding of the importance of valid scientific information, and the role of the peer-review process in assuring rigour and integrity. This module develops skills in critical appraisal of scientific literature through a journal club whereby recent publications across a representative range of biomedical science disciplines are discussed in regular sessions facilitated by research students; post-doctoral, and academic staff. A literature review of an appropriate biomedical topic will further develop approaches to using online databases and selecting appropriate publications, together with writing skills. The progress of this piece of work is supported by one-to-one tutorials.

This is an introductory course on bioinformatics and data science aimed at medical and life sciences undergraduate and postgraduade students that did not have previous exposure to quantitative methodologies. There are no pre-requisites in terms of advanced algebra, calculus, probability theory, statistics or computer programming. Computer programming (coding) and data science are salient skills needed for securing academic and industry jobs. Worldwide, the bioinformatics job market has experienced robust growth over the last decade.  In the UK, there is chronic deficit of bioinformaticians as documented by the government's "Full review of the Shortage Occupation List" Bioinformatics and Data Science underlies many academic disciplines and score highly among the most useful skills you will learn in your degree. In the Life and Health Sciences, Bioinformatics and Data Science is essential for epidemiologists, geneticists, biologists, and biomedical scientists to convert research questions into testable statistical models, and to produce interpretable, reproducible, and valid results. This module introduces both facets of study design and data analysis with the aim of enabling graduate students to independently make scientific investigations in a coherent and reproducible way, and to apply notions of causality, statistical inference, and artificial intelligence. It also provides practical hands-on experience conducting computational genomics and gene expression analyses, two bioinformatics skills in high demand worldwide