Much of our understanding of molecular biology is due to the study of non-human model organisms. These provide faster and more reproducible ways to investigate research questions leading to the understanding of human disease, development of biomarkers and treatments, along with production of biological and chemical agents with impacts on the environment and society. Genomic organisation, genetics and gene expression in model prokaryotes, such as bacteria and archaea, and model eukaryotes, such as unicellular yeast, algae, plants, insects, nematodes and mammals, and also viruses will be covered. The differences in genomic organisation, genetics and gene expression in these model organisms makes them ideal for different applications, including gene identification, mutational analysis, drug screening, development and bioproduction. You will understand how genetic modifications in these model organisms can be achieved and the applications of these currently and their potential for the future.

The module will be assessed by a 2-hour examination, comprising a selection of diverse short answer questions from across the module content.¿ Links to learning outcomes 1-3.

The Masters in Molecular Biology by blended learning has been specifically designed for those that require ultimate flexibility with their learning. The module will be hosted on Blackboard and you will have access to asynchronous lecture material and self-directed workshop material.


Content will be delivered as discrete topics involving self-directed workshop activities based around suggested resources. Each topic will involve the completion of one or more tasks to test your understanding of the material. The tasks will support your preparation for the online assessment.

1. Demonstrate comprehensive understanding and critical evaluation for the study of whole genomes at high resolution.¿

Application,¿Analysis,¿¿Learning, Enquiry¿

2. Demonstrate systematic understanding of the role of non-human model organisms and their applications in the understanding of human disease.¿

Communication, Enquiry, Learning, Reflection, Knowledge & Understanding¿

3. Demonstrate critical awareness and evaluation of genomic organisation and gene expression of model organisms and their use in current and future applications.¿

Analysis, Knowledge & understanding, Problem Solving¿

You will need access to a computer with access to the internet.

Note that the module will mainly use current material from e-journals available through the University Library or via online sources.¿

Pierce, B., Genetics, 7th edition, (2020), MacMillan Learning, ISBN 9781319325466¿


Varshney R., Pandey, M., Chitikineni A., Plant Genetics and Molecular Biology, (2018) Springer, ISBN 9783319913131¿


Henkin, T., Molecular Genetics of Bacteria, 5th edition (2020) Wiley and Sons, ISBN 9781555819750¿


Lohstroh P., Molecular and Cellular Biology of Viruses (2019), Routledge, ISBN 9780815345237

This module will focus on genetics in organisms used in molecular biology research that benefit understanding of biology for biotechnology or biomedical purposes. Genomic organisation, gene inheritance and gene expression in viruses, prokaryotes, plants, unicellular eukaryotes and animals will be covered using examples of current applications. The manipulation of the genomes of these organisms will also be covered to explore how genetically modified organisms can be generated and used and their application to improving human health, the environment and society.