Entrance is limited to 90 students.
36 NQF credits at HEQSF level 7
Convener
Dr Colleen O'Ryan
Course entry requirements
MCB2020F, MCB2021F and MCB2022S or MCB2023S
Course outline
This course explores various topics in molecular genetics covering humans, plants, bacteria, viruses and mobile genetic elements (MGEs). Focus is given to understanding genetic mechanisms by studying genes, proteins, antisense RNA, sRNA and the role they play in regulatory and biochemical processes. Topics include plasmid biology, regulation of viral lifecycles, bacterial biosynthetic pathways, human genetic disorders, transgenic plants and metagenomics among others. Different and cutting-edge tools in modern day molecular biology are taught with an emphasis on data analyses and interpretation and these include bioinformatics (DNA sequence analysis, assembly, annotation, databases, BLAST, primer design), phylogenetics, Next generation sequencing, RNA sequencing and genome projects.
Lecture times
Monday - Friday, 4th period
DP requirements
50% average for assignments and practical reports; attendance at all practicals and tutorials.
Assessment
Tests count 40%; practicals, tutorials, essays and assignments count 10%; one 3-hour examination written in June counts 50%. A subminimum of 40% in the examination is required.