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 is delivered on campus through a combination of lectures workshops and practical classes alongside directed self-study. For this module, each week a workshop task associated with the topic to underpin the area covered will be set. Exercises may include quizzes facility and peer-to-peer discussions.

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 Solvingż

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.