BIO4053 - Microbiology and Genetics

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

LO1 - Describe the structure and life cycle of microorganisms including the transmission of genetic material between them.

LO2 - Perform a range of practical microbiological skills.

LO3 - Discuss the factors concerned with the growth, survival, and death of microorganisms.

LO4 - Explain the mechanisms by which microorganisms cause disease.

LO5 - Describe the mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription and translation.

LO6 - Explain the mechanisms of inheritance including transmission genetics, population genetics and evolution.

Content:

This module will explore the structural and functional aspects of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses. The mechanisms governing gene transfer, microbial growth, and survival will be covered, in addition to the pivotal role of microorganisms in disease, strategies for treatments and bacterial responses to antibiotics. The central dogma of DNA transcription, translation and replication will be considered as will the mechanisms of inheritance and evolution. Laboratory practical sessions will include techniques for the growth, differentiation and identification of microorganisms. Furthermore, techniques identifying the types of microorganisms by their growth characteristics, and responses to various chemicals including anti-microbial agents will be taught.

The content of this module has been mapped to the IBMS QAA Benchmark requirements for:
- Microbiology, including structure, physiology and biochemistry of microorganisms; identification and classification of microorganisms; control of microorganisms, including the roles of normal flora.

- Clinical Laboratory Specialisms for Medical Microbiology are introduced in the module.

Learning and Teaching Information:

You will have 2 x 2 hr lectures of contact time per week which will cover key concepts of microbiology and genetics.
A total of 10 x 2 hr laboratory practical sessions will be given to introduce you to key laboratory skills in microbiology and genetics.
A total of 10 x 1 hr tutorials per week (max 20 students), will be used to introduce you to the application of the concepts introduced in the lecture sessions, as well as to support you in your assessments for the module.

Lectures
Hours: 40
Intended Group Size: Full Cohort (40)

Practical sessions
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: Full Cohort (40)

Tutorials
Hours: 10
Intended Group Size: Max 20

Guided independent study
Hours: 230

Further details relating to assessment

Post lecture, tutorial and practical session activities submitted through Moodle will facilitate ongoing formative assessment opportunities via lecturer or peer feedback.

The integrated Practical Portfolio will include data generated in the Molecular Biochemistry and the Microbiology and Genetics modules. With the skills acquired from the Professional Skills module, you will be expected to analyse, interpret and present your laboratory data for assessment.

The Written Exam will involve a variety of question styles and encompass multiple topics, addressing all theoretical aspects of the module.

The Data Analysis assessment will enable you to put into practice the knowledge and skills you have learnt throughout the module, to addressing a series of applied questions.

You should refer to the Module Handbook for full details of marking criteria.

Assessment:

001 Practical portfolio; 1500 words; End of semester 2 25%
002 Data Analysis; 1500 words; Mid semester 2 25%
003 Written exam; 60 mins; End of semester 2 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Margarita Gomez Escalada
Level - 4
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 4S2

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