Genome Dynamics (20 credits)
This module aims to consider critical aspects of how genomes, particularly the human genome, are organised, regulated, maintained and copied. This module will go into the detail required to understand and study how a genome functions as a physical, dynamic package of information and the vulnerabilities that it is prone to. We will introduce students to a variety of experimental model systems and techniques used in cutting edge genome research being carried out by researchers at the University. Finally, we will encourage critical assessment of published literature and creative thinking around experimental design in genome biology. This module will build on previous learning anticipated from students’ BSc-level learning.
Introduction to BioInformatics (20 credits)
This module aims to develop an understanding of how bioinformatics is at the core of modern biomedical science. It will deliver a practical grounding in how computing, maths and statistics underpin the modern analytical approaches of “Big Data” generated using 'omic technologies. The module underpins and complements the other taught modules in the programme and will provide both understanding and practical skills to students to enable them to use appropriate bioinformatics tools in their research projects, while also facilitating effective communication with bioinformaticians.
Application of Genomic Approaches to Biomedical Research (20 credits)
This module aims to explore how functional genome biology informs advances in biomedicine. The module will deliver a firm grounding in the way that modern analytical approaches of Big Data generated using cutting edge ‘omic technologies have influenced advances in our understanding of human disease and its management. It will consider ‘omic technologies that can capture genetic, epigenetic, and expression changes in different biological sample types in the lab and clinic and the computational approaches utilised to process and analyse the generated data. It will also explore the types of patient cohorts and samples needed to generate the most fruitful data sets and examine how ‘omic data provides novel means to manage specific diseases risk, progression, and treatments.
Research Project (120 credits)
This module provides students with an opportunity to take the knowledge acquired during the taught elements of the course in ‘Introduction to Bioinformatics’, ‘Genome approaches’ and ‘Genome Dynamics’ to develop their research skills in laboratories that use functional genomic approaches to address fundamental questions in genome biology. Therefore, projects will have both ‘wet’ lab and ‘dry’ lab elements to ensure that the students acquire a broad range of experimental skills relevant to the study of genome biology. To cater for individual student needs, exclusively ‘wet’ lab and ‘dry’ lab projects will also be offered. Projects will typically be offered in the areas of cancer genetics, developmental genetics, DNA damage, replication and segregation, translational biology, and drug development, all of which are research strengths at UoB, and all utilise omic technologies and informatics approaches for large dataset analyses.
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