Human and Molecular Genetics MSc

Core modules:

Advanced Scientific Skills

This module builds on existing, and further develops, generic scientific skills to equip postgraduate taught students with strong competences in presenting and reporting their research work using written and oral formats, in analysing data and the scientific literature, and in acquiring and extending their critical analysis skills. Teaching will be delivered using a blended approach with a combination of lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminars together with independent study and on-line teaching.

Taught throughout the academic year, the module will be articulated around three units addressing: 

Unit 1) Scientific presentation skills. In this unit, students will explore how to develop their academic (writing and oral) presentation skills. Some of the topics taught may include how to formulate a research question and hypothesis, how to find information, and how to structure a scientific essay or report. Students will learn how to communicate effectively their research to a scientific, as well as lay, audience. Emphasis will be placed on short oral communications and poster preparation and presentation.  The learning objectives will be acquired through lectures, workshops, tutorials and independent study.

Unit 2) Critical analysis skills. This unit prepares students to develop their ability to analyse and appraise the scientific value of the published and unpublished literature. Workshops and lectures will introduce students to the process of critical appraisal of scientific work. 

Unit 3) Statistics and data analysis skills. In this unit, students will learn methods to gather and analyse large datasets. In particular, workshops and lectures will teach students the basics of R coding and statistics for application in biosciences. The unit may also deliver other forms of data analysis relevant to the programme of study. Teaching within this unit will be delivered mainly through on-line material, lectures and workshops. Independent study will be essential to complete the acquisition of skills.

15 credits

Literature Review in Molecular Genetics

This unit involves an in-depth survey of the current literature relevant to the student's Research Project. It is carried out before laboratory work on the project commences in order to prepare the student with a comprehensive understanding of the relevant subject knowledge, approaches and techniques. Students will carry out an exhaustive search of the literature relevant to their project using the resources of the University, including appropriate databases and specialist search engines, as well as paper-based resources in the University Library. Based on primary research articles, review articles and textbooks, students will work independently under the supervision of the project supervisor to produce a document reporting on the background literature underpinning their research project. The literature review should demonstrate an ability to comprehend and synthesise the experimental evidence presented in the literature, to critically appraise previous studies and identify gaps in the knowledge. The unit involves primarily private study by the student under the direction of the project supervisor who will meet the student at regular intervals to discuss progress.

15 credits

Clinical Genomics of Cancer and Rare Genetic Diseases

This module will address the ways in which genetic factors influence our lifetime health. The module will focus on classic examples of leukaemia, lymphoma, solid tumours, rare inherited diseases and those commonly identified in prenatal diagnostic studies using real patient scenarios.  The molecular and cytogenetic technologies and the underlying clinical diagnostic strategies will be discussed to provide students with a thorough understanding of clinical genomic diagnostics across the breadth of human acquired and inherited diseases. This module will be delivered by a combination of academic staff from the university, and clinical geneticists from the NHS.

15 credits

Advanced Molecular diagnostics and cell culture techniques

This module delivers specialist training in advanced laboratory techniques that are used across molecular genetics, healthcare diagnostics and research. Here students will undertake intensive training in the laboratory, supported by digital training packages to develop high-level skills in techniques such as, but not limited to, human cell culture, cytogenetics, fluorescence microscopy and qPCR. Students will learn through lectures, digital training resources and hands-on practical experience in the laboratory. This module builds upon practical training received in semester one and will prepare students for their BIS484 research projects.

15 credits

Laboratory Techniques in Molecular Bioscience

This module will provide background knowledge, technical training and extensive practical laboratory experience in molecular bioscience techniques. In particular, the module is designed to develop and practice core genetic and biochemical techniques to enable students to be technically confident and prepared for a research project and career in the field of genetics and molecular bioscience. Students will receive training in a number of commonly used and cutting-edge techniques. For instance, students may be trained in CRISPR genome editing technology in addition to other molecular biology techniques, including; protein and DNA manipulation, protein gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, plasmid construction, restriction mapping and PCR. Students will also develop skills in experimental planning and project management during this module.

30 credits