Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Molecular Medicine
SCQF level: 09:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: BMS09110
Module leader: Amy Poole
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Life Sciences
Prerequisites

Requisites: AND Pre-requisite: Appropriate background knowledge at level 8 of genetics. AND AND Pre-requisite: [Module BMS08103] Genes and Inheritance AND
Description of module content:

Following the sequencing of the human genome, molecular medicine has become a rapidly advancing field where diseases are studied at the molecular level. In this module, you will learn the advanced principles of genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics in the context of furthering our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning the detection, diagnosis and treatment of disease. You will explore the concepts of precision medicine, including, pharmacogenomics and predictive medicine, and study techniques involving manipulation and measurement of DNA, RNA and proteins. You will also be introduced to in silico analysis and manipulation of RNA, DNA and protein sequence information (bioinformatics) and tutored in the use of online databases and tools for identification and comparison of DNA and protein sequences. Bioinformatics will form the basis of one of the summative assessments. You will take part in a series of laboratory sessions based on molecular analysis of clinical samples.Through lectures and tutorials, you will study current developments taking place in molecular medicine and appreciate the application of techniques to areas of interest in biomedical sciences, microbiology and biotechnology. Practical laboratory sessions will help you gain experience in commonly employed practical techniques relating to the lecture material and will further hone your data analysis and presentation skills.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Apply knowledge of a range of ‘omics’ technologies and their applications in the field of molecular medicine.

LO2: Illustrate an understanding of how to interpret data from a wide range of techniques including; genome-wide association studies, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments, DNA methylation studies, RNA interference work and protein analysis studies.

LO3: Draw on a range of bioinformatics skills and apply in-depth knowledge to analyse genomic and proteomic sequence data.

LO4: Develop analytical and experimental laboratory skills using common molecular biology procedures.

LO5: Accurately analyse, interpret and evaluate experimentally derived data and demonstrate accurate scientific record keeping and writing skills.
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Amy Poole
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Online Guided independent study 159 Considerable, bespoke online resources (on the module VLE) are used to support teaching and reinforce your learning. You will be able to access a large repository of useful and relevant information to consolidate your learning and gauge your progress through the module.
Face To Face Lecture 16 Lectures (2 hours) most weeks, will provide you with key concepts and knowledge. Slides will be available a week prior to each session, via the module VLE.
Face To Face Tutorial 12 Tutorials are interactive, containing data handling and interpretation exercises to reinforce your knowledge and understanding of the topic. Questioning and discussion are encouraged during tutorials. You are expected to engage with formative activities, which will help support your assessments.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 4 You will have two (x2h) dedicated computer workshops based around bioinformatics to equip you with the required skills and knowledge for your assessments. These form a key part of your formative activities.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 9 A series of laboratory sessions (3 x 3h) will complement the lecture/tutorial material and will enable you to become proficient in a range of new practical skills, as well as increase your confidence and proficiency in a molecular laboratory environment.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Report 50 1~2~3 Week 7 , WORDS= 1500 words This a detailed report based on extensive analysis of genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic sequence data, using a variety of bioinformatics tools.
Report 50 2~3~4~5 Week 12 , WORDS= 2000 words Through detailed analysis of a variety of molecular data, some generated in the laboratory, you will write a report, justifying a genetic diagnosis of three Cystic Fibrosis patients.
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
BMS09110 Molecular Medicine
 

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