You may find the following texts useful:

Diagnostic Molecular Pathology (2003) Lenoard, D. ISBN 0721600476
Introduction to Molecular Medicine (2002) Ross, D. W. ISBN 0387953728
Molecular Diagnostics: A training and Study Guide (2002) ISBN 189088376X
Also:
The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics available at:
www.jmd.amjpath.org/

Formative feedback will be given over the portfolio of tasks associated with the module topics. Discussion between students will be encouraged allowing peer and tutor feedback to be given.
Summative: Assessment of theoretical knowledge or practical methods and techniques covered in module - 25% (1,2)
Laboratory portfolio - a coherent, reliable record of the weeks activities, including reflection, data analysis and research - 50% (1,2,3,4,5)
Plan or report about the application of molecular diagnostic techniques in a specific context - 25% (4,5)

PASS CRITERIA
Evidence of understanding of fundamental concepts. Demonstration of competence and adequate familiarity with molecular diagnostic techniques. Acceptable level of result interpretation. Working beyond tutor given material with appropriate use of relevant procedures and examples.

MERIT CRITERIA
Showing breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding. Demonstration of high level practicals skills. Accurate, incisive data interpretation and analysis. Good synthesis and evaluation. Extensive use of additional information sources.

DISTINCTION CRITERIA
Substantial evidence of independent and critical thinking. Demonstration of professional level of practical skills. Data interpretation skills of very high level. Clear evidence of ability to resolve problems, draw conclusions and incorporate extensive and appropriate primary literature.

This practical module will be delivered by a team of University tutors, technicians and external clinical experts providing hands-on guidance and support. It will run over six full days at the University. Participants can reside at the University or travel daily if appropriate. Each day will include introductory and demonstration sessions and may also include workshop activities and group work.
Preparation for the practical week takes place via distance learning activities that develop the theoretical background to the laboratory work. After the practical week a set of activities in a Blackboard will deal with data analysis, interpretation and presentation.
Assessment formally assesses practical and theoretical knowledge, skills of interpretation and data analysis.

Advances in genomics and proteomics are leading to changes in diagnostic methods in all areas. New and sophisticated diagnostic products are expected to appear at an accelerated rate. Molecular diagnostic tests are used in predictive screening, prognostics, monitoring, pharmacogenomics and theranostics. This module offers you a short course in the current application of molecular techniques in the clinical diagnostic laboratory. It will provide you with instruction, skills development and hands-on experience. Not all techniques will be covered in hands-on practical, some will be studied in theory only. The module is focused on molecular diagnostic methods in five main areas namely; Cytology (Light and fluorescence microscopy, chromosome analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunocytochemistry techniques), Haematopathology including cardiology (Cardiac molecular profiling, gene probe, allelotyping, predisposition molecular genetics), Infectious disease diagnostics (detection, quantification and typing of pathogens), Inherited diseases (molecular methods for determination of inherited disorders e.g. Fragile X, Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin etc. Screening for gene abnormalities and predisposition) and Oncology (Molecular diagnostics in oncology; methylation specific PCR for detection to tumour suppressor gene function, microsatellite analysis for patients at high risk, Serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE)). Other techniques may also form part of the above topics such as; PCR, Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Fluorescence immunoassays (IFA and FIA), western blotting analysis. Practical sessions will be supported by external clinical experts.

Adequately equipped molecular biology laboratory
Full-time support of molecular biology technical support
Appropriate molecular consumables
Suitable workshop and other rooms for the duration of the course
Access to library
Access to computers
Support in the preparation of Health & Safety and ethical documentation for the course