1. Apply core genetic and molecular techniques to generate, analyse and interpret data relevant to gene expression and genetic variation.

Application & Problem Solving

2. Evaluate genetic evidence and molecular models to understand their implications for biological processes, working collaboratively where appropriate.

Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

3. Use digital tools to handle, visualise and evaluate genetic and genomic data.

Digital Literacy

1) The recorded presentation will focus on how the mechanisms of genetics, and the associated molecular techniques can be understood and applied in health science. Time will be given for preparatory work for this presentation in timetabled sessions as part of workshops where peer and academic feedback will be available.

2) The digital genetic analysis report on the process and outcome of genetic analysis using digital tool/s. The format of the report must be audience appropriate, but the nature of the report is flexible and could be a digital format.

Students will be supported through practice with relevant digital tools, reflection on data handling and presentation choices, and informal peer exchange of outputs, together with the opportunity for tutor-reviewed formative submission.

In this module, you will explore how DNA encodes, regulates and transmits the instructions that define life. You will examine the molecular events controlling cell division, gene expression and development, gaining insight into how variation and mutation influence health and disease. Including:

Structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, including genome organisation and gene expression.

Inheritance and variation: Mendelian principles, patterns of inheritance, and human genetic diseases.

Cell division and specialisation, including mitosis, meiosis, stem cells and developmental processes.

Molecular regulation of cellular behaviour, with reference to signalling pathways, epigenetics and chromatin structure.

Introduction to molecular and genomic methodologies, alongside core laboratory skills for nucleic acid handling and genetic analysis.

How does genetic information shape every structure and process within the organism?

In this module, you will explore how DNA encodes, regulates and transmits the instructions that define life. You will examine the molecular events controlling cell division, gene expression and development, gaining insight into how variation and mutation influence health and disease. By connecting fundamental genetic principles with modern genomic approaches, you will build the foundations for understanding advanced biomedical science and the molecular mechanisms you will investigate throughout your degree.

Sessions will include lectures, workshop activities, discussions, groupwork, drop-in support sessions. There will also be laboratory practical sessions.

Scott, J. (2022) Biological science: exploring the science of life. Biomedical edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Available at: https://app.kortext.com/borrow/2114845.

Volpi, E.V. (2025) Medical genetics and genomics. Edited by E.V. Volpi and L. Tinworth. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Orchard, G. and Nation, B. (2015) Cell structure and function. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Suitable rooming for group work and discussion

Scientific laboratory for practical block

IT suite space with access to PCs