Requisites: Pre-requisite: You will require level 9 equivalent knowledge of molecular biology, basic molecular biological techniques, level 8 physiology/pathophysiology, and level 8/9 scientific writing and researching skills.

You will learn about the main methods employed in biomedical sciences laboratory research targeted towards investigating disease processes, unravelling underpinning mechanisms that result in a disease, and how understanding of such can then pave the way to novel therapeutic approach development. Three main approaches will be discussed: 1. in vivo modelling; 2. in vitro models and3. in silico molecular approaches. In each case you will consider the applicability of each paradigm, where complementarity exists, and how experimental studies are designed and executed, including pertinent downstream analytical investigations. By the end of this module you will have a deeper appreciation of how each of the above routes plays its own unique role in the modelling of disease. In each case, exemplars of published work that illustrates the utility of each approach will be provided, to engender confidence in and understanding of strengths and limitations of each.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Work with a detailed knowledge and understanding of strengths and limitations of a number of research paradigms.

LO2: Demonstrate a critical understanding of study design utilising one or more of the three routes of investigation under discussion.

LO3: Use published work to inform design of future experimental studies.

LO4: Understand how work from any of the three approaches discussed can be translated to human relevant outcomes.