Example courses

• Biology of Animals

  An introduction to animal structure and function. This course is largely based on the biology of mammals with a strong emphasis on human biology but comparison is made throughout with other animals.

• Cell and Developmental Biology

  Have you ever wanted to become a “parent” of sea urchin embryos or transform stem cells? In this course we build on topics introduced in first year cell biology, you will explore the structure and behaviour of cells in terms of underlying molecular events, and the role of cells in the physiology and development of the whole organism. You will refine your skills in data analysis and reporting, communication, critical and creative thinking, alongside creating sea urchin embryos in your first lab!

• Genes and Genomes

  Recombinant DNA technology, biotechnology, gene organisation, expression, chemical genetics and evolution in higher organisms, bioinformatics and comparative genomics.

• Medical Microbiology

  This course charts the development of the microbiology field up to the present day. The course features an in-depth investigation of microorganisms at the genetic and phenotypic levels and examines their role in infectious diseases. Students will acquire practical experience in the characterisation and identification of microbes using both classical and modern techniques. This course includes six 4-hour laboratory classes. Students are advised to check the laboratory class times before course enrolment.

• Physiology and Pathology 1

  The functioning and roles of the peripheral nervous system and endocrine/neuroendocrine systems in the control of activity of the cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney and reproductive systems. The emphasis is on human physiology. For these systems, mechanisms of disease (pathological processes) will be presented alongside normal and abnormal physiology.

• The Biology of Disease

  The nature and origin of disease. Bacteria and viruses: structure, identification and classification. Mechanisms of infection, pathogenesis, virulence, host susceptibility, immunity, epidemiology.Control strategies, new technologies. New organisms. Invertebrate and fungal parasites. Ecological and cultural aspects of disease.