Course: MCB3026F

36 NQF credits at NQF level 7

Convener:
Associate Professor C 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.