school of biology - university of st andrews · 2019-09-03 · school of biology general degree...

Biology-HonoursLevel-2016/7-August2016

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SchoolofBiologyGeneraldegreestudentswishingtoenter3000-levelmodulesandnon-graduatingstudentswishingtoenter3000-levelor4000-levelmodulesmustconsultwiththerelevantHonoursAdviserwithintheSchooltoconfirmtheyareproperlyqualifiedtoenterthemodule.Biology(BL)modules

BL3000FieldCourse

SCOTCATCredits: 10 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1

Academicyear: 2016/7&2017/8

Plannedtimetable: 1-weekresidentialcourseinsummervacationnormallyjustpriortoOrientationweek.

Thismodule involves field-based exercises in a range of aquatic and/or terrestrial habitats. Students willexamineandmeasurebiodiversity,ecophysiologicaladaptation,andcommunitystructure,withbothplantand animalmaterial. Class exercises are used to develop good sampling techniques and to generate andanalyse large data sets. Students also work in small project groups to develop individual skills inexperimental design, practical manipulations, time-management and personal initiative, and inverbal/writtenpresentationofprojectresults.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,andZoology.IfBL3308orBL3309istakenthencompulsoryforallBiologydegreeprogrammes.OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,BiologyandGeology,Biology,BiologyandEconomics,BiologyandMathematicsorStatistics,BiologywithFrench/Arabic,Biologyand/withPsychology,BiologyandGeography,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2105orBL21062017/8-BL2300and(BL2307orBL2310)

Co-requisite(s): BL3308orBL3309 Anti-requisite(s): BL3321,BL3322

Learningandteachingmethodsanddelivery:

Weeklycontact:6-dayfieldcourse,8-hoursperday

Scheduledlearning:48hours Guidedindependentstudy:52hours

Assessmentpattern: AsdefinedbyQAA:WrittenExaminations=0%,PracticalExaminations=50%,Coursework=50%

AsusedbyStAndrews:Coursework=100%

Re-Assessmentpattern: Resubmissionoffaileditem(s)ofcoursework

ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfDPaterson

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfDPaterson,DrABlight,DrRAspden,DrShuker,DrJGraves,DrSHealy


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BL3301ProteinStructureandFunctionSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: Lectures:9.00amMon,TueandWedPracticals:tobearranged.

Thismodule builds on thematerial covered in BL1201 and BL2104 to provide an understanding ofmoreadvanced aspects of protein structure and enzymology. The module begins by considering the protein-folding problem. The energetics of protein folding and the dependence of structure on sequence areexamined.Proteinfoldingdiseaseslikespongiformencephalopathiesareusedasexamplestohighlightthesignificanceofproteinfolding.Themolecularbasisofpriondiseasesisdiscussedindetail.Thesecondpartofthemodule focuses on themechanisms of enzymes. This in turn leads into the phenomena of allostericregulation, signalling cascades and transporter systems and is followed by a consideration of enzymes aspharmacologicaltargets.Thethirdpartofthemoduleintroducesthemajortechniquesforproteinstructuredetermination that are at the heart of modern biochemistry, molecular biology and drug discovery.Strategies for obtaining three-dimensional images of macromolecules by electron microscopy, X-raycrystallographyandnuclearmagnetic resonancearediscussed.The laboratory courseassociatedwith thismodule introduces the fundamentals of safe laboratory practice. It provides grounding in the basiclaboratory techniques, including associated calculations, as well as those associated with the study ofproteinsandenzymes.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,MolecularBiology.OptionalforCellBiology,BehaviouralBiology,Biology,Neuroscience,andallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-BL2101orBL21042017/8-BL2302and(BL2306orBL2309)

Requiredfor: BL4212,BL4215,BL4223


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and3x6-hourpracticals,splitoverseveraldays,duringthesemester.



AsusedbyStAndrews:3-hourWrittenExamination=66%,Coursework=34%

Re-Assessmentpattern: 3-hourWrittenExamination=66%,ExistingCoursework=34%

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrUSchwarz-Linek

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrUSchwarz-Linek,DrJNairn,ProfTSmith,DrTGlosterandDrRGuimaraesdaSilva


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BL3302GeneRegulationSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: Lectures:10.00noonMon,TueandWedPracticals:tobearranged.

This module builds on material covered in BL1201 Molecular Biology and BL2104 Biochemistry andMolecular Biology. It first considers the structure of genes and the composition of genomes and thenexamines genetic activity in eukaryotes in relation to nuclear organisation, chromatin structure andepigeneticmechanisms.Regulationofexpressionat the levelsofgene transcription,RNAprocessing,RNAstability and translation are next covered in detail, drawing particular attention to the nature of protein-nucleic acid interactions. Specific control mechanisms in different prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems,inducedbyenvironmental,cellcycle,andmetabolicsignalsarehighlighted.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforBiochemistry,CellBiology,MolecularBiology.OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,Biology,EvolutionaryBiology,Neuroscience,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL21042017/8-BL2302and(BL2306orBL2309)

Requiredfor: BL4223,BL5421







ModuleCo-ordinator: DrSMacNeill

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrPCoote,DrHFerreira,DrSMacNeill,DrJSleeman,ProfMRyan,ProfMWhite


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BL3303MembranesandCellCommunicationSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2



Thismodulelooksatthevariouswaysinwhichcellscommunicatewitheachother.Cellsignallingnotonlyinvolves the creation and reception of signals but also themechanisms bywhich signals are transportedacrossbiologicalmembranes.Wewillthereforeconsiderthecentralrolethatbiologicalmembranesplayintheregulationofthemovementofmoleculesbetweendifferentextracellular,intracellularandtranscellularcompartments.Alsoproteinsortingandmembranetraffickingwillbestudied.Usingvariousexamplesofcellcommunication, the module will discuss both the molecular and the organismal implications of cellsignalling.Topicscoveredinclude:(i)Lipids;(ii)Proteintargetingandsorting;(iii)Membranetraffickingandtransport; (iv) Wnt, Notch and Hedgehog signalling; (v) Plant cell signalling; (vi) Hippo signalling (vii)UbiquitylationandSUMOylation.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforCellBiology.OptionalforBiochemistry,MolecularBiologyBiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL21012017/8-BL2301and(BL2305orBL2306orBL2309)



Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and3x7-hourpracticals,splitoverseveraldaysduringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMBischoff

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrRRamsay,DrGPrescott,DrMBischoff,ProfTSmith,ProfFGunn-Moore,ProfLTorrance,DrJTilsner


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BL3307EvolutionSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: Lectures:11amMon,TueandWedPracticals:tobearranged.

Topicsinthismodulewillinclude:molecularvariationandevolution,includingphylogenyreconstruction;theevolution and maintenance of sex; the genetics of continuous traits, and the relative importance ofcontinuous and discontinuous variation in evolution; evolutionary developmental biology; evolution ofpopulation genetic structure; the genetics of speciation, covering the evolution of pre- and post-zygoticisolation, and parapatric, sympatric and island speciation. Practicals will involve computer simulations toinvestigate a range of evolutionary phenomena, plus use of molecular markers to examine populationstructureandspeciation.

Programmemoduletype: Compulsoryfor,MarineBiology,EvolutionaryBiology.OptionalforEcologyandConservation,BehaviouralBiology,Biology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2105orBL21062017/8-BL2303


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and1x2-hourand1x3-hourpracticalduringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfTMeagher

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfTMeagher,DrDFerrier,DrNBailey,ProfMRitchie,DrMWebster


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BL3308AquaticEcologySCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: Lectures:10.00amMon,TueandWedPracticals:residentialfieldtrip.

Thismoduleintroducestheecologyofaquaticsystemsbeginningwithadescriptionoftheproblemsoflifeina fluid medium. The module then considers the contrasting conditions that are inherent in freshwater,estuarineandmarinesystems.Theinfluenceofglobalclimatevariationandtheclosecouplingbetweenlandandseawillbeemphasised.Casestudieswillthenbeusedtointroducetheecologyofavarietyofaquaticsystems including tropical, temperate and polar systems. This module involves a residential field trip toKindroganfieldstationintheScottishHighlands.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforMarineBiology.OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EcologyandConservation,Biology,BiologyandGeology,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2105orBL21062017/8-BL2307

Co-requisite(s): BL3000 Requiredfor: BL4301


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and1x3-dayresidentialfieldcourse



AsusedbyStAndrews:3-hourWrittenExaminations=66%,Coursework=34%


ModuleCo-ordinator: DrIMatthews

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrIMatthews,ProfCTodd,DrPMiller,DrABlight


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BL3309EcosystemsandConservationSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2



Thismodulewillexaminehowecosystemsfunctionandhowtheyprovideservicesforhumans:informationwhichisessentialforecologists,conservationistsandlandmanagers.Themodulewillconsiderexamplesofnatural systemsbeingalteredbyman todemonstratehowecosystems functionand theconsequencesofanthropogenicchange.Disturbanceandregulationinecosystems,atmosphericandhydrologicalregulation,(includingthegreenhouseeffectandacidification),soilecology,conservationandmanagementofnaturalresources, agricultural and grazed ecosystems (including GMOs), urban ecosystems and aspects ofsustainabledevelopmentwillalsobediscussed.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,andBehaviouralBiology.OptionalforBiology,BiologyandGeology,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopmentZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2105orSD20012017/8-BL2307and(BL2303orBL2304orBL2308)

Co-requisite(s): BL3000 Requiredfor: BL4254,BL4266,BL4268


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and2x3-hourpracticalsduringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfWCresswell

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfWCresswell,DrSNorthridge,DrIMatthews,ProfTMeagher,DrABlight,DrVDietrich-Bischoff


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BL3310BioenergeticsSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2



Theconversionofoneformofenergyintoanotherbyabiochemicalprocessisatthecentreofalllife.Thismodule studies the biological systems for conserving energy from food oxidation and light absorption(photosynthesis) and the conversion of the resulting redox energy into chemical energy in thepyrophosphate bonds of ATP. The module also considers electron transfer processes in biology and theenergeticsoftrasportprocesses.Chemiosmotictheoryandtheprinciplesareconsideredindetailasarethestructure and function of electron and proton transfer systems of energy tranducing systems. Practicalclasses will introduce the student to the methods used in this field of study. The module will comprisetwentylectures,eighthourstutorials/seminarsintotal,andtwelvehoursinpracticalclasses.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience.OptionalforMolecularBiologyCellBiologyBiology,NeuroscienceandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-BL21042017/8-BL2302orBL2306

Requiredfor: BL4222


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and2x6-hourpracticals,splitover2days,and2x3-hourstudentpresentationseminars,duringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrJNairn

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrJNairn,DrRRamsay,ProfPHeathcote,DrRGuimaraesdaSilva,DrGPrescott,ProfFGunn-Moore,DrJLucocq


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BL3311InfectionandDiseaseSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2



Thismodulehas lectures inthreecomponentareas:parasite infections,viraldisease,andpathogenicityofcommonbacterialinfections,andwillincludeconsiderationofhostdefencesandeffectivetreatment.Inallthreecomponentareastheemphasiswillbeonunderstandingatthemolecularlevel.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforMolecularBiology.OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiology,Biology,Neuroscience,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2101andBL21042017/8-BL2301andBL2309



Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks)and2x9-hourpracticalsand1x12-hourpractical,splitoverseveraldays,duringthesemester





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrPCoote

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrPCoote,ProfTSmith,DrDJackson,ProfMRyan,DrCAdamson,DrPKerry,DrRRandall


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BL3315DevelopmentalBiologySCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2



ThismoduledealswiththefascinatingandrapidlychangingfieldofDevelopmentalBiology.Itexamineshowanorganismdevelopsfromaneggtoanadult(includinginstancesofmetamorphosis),aswellashowlostordamaged body parts can be regenerated. Also the interactions between development and ecology andevolution will be considered. There will be a focus on some of the typical model species used indevelopmentalbiology,includingfruitflies,nematodes,miceandfrogs,butthiswillbeexpandedtoincludeothervaluablecomparativemodels,suchasseasquirts,annelids,cnidariansandflatworms.Thecoursewillencompassmultiplebiological levels, frommolecules, throughcellsandembryos, to theenvironmentandtheorganism’sevolutionaryhistory.Assuchthismoduleisofwiderelevancetoarangeofotherbiologicaldisciplines.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforNeuroscience,CellBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2101orBL21022017/8-2of(BL2301,BL2302,BL2304,BL2308)







ModuleCo-ordinator: DrDFerrier

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrDFerrier,DrGMiles,DrISomorjai,ProfCTodd


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BL3316AnimalPlantInteractionsSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2



This module concerns the coevolution of plants and animals, including the ecological, behavioural andphysiologicalaspectsoftheirinteractions.Pollinationbiologyandtheconstraintsonparticipatingplantsandanimalsaredealtwithindepth,includingappliedaspectsofcroppollination,andthisisfollowedbyareviewof seed dispersal. Then patterns of herbivory by insects, vertebrates and other animals are considered,illustratingthe interactionsofplantphysicalandchemicaldefencesandherbivores' reciprocaladaptationsfrom feeding specialisations and host plant selection through to detoxification systems and life historyadaptations.Interactionswiththirdpartiesarealsoexplained,especiallyplant-fungus-insectsystems.Thereisanintroductiontoothertritrophicinteractions(wherebyplantscanrecruitherbivores'enemiesaspartoftheir defences, or recruit ants as biotic plant guards), to insects as plant pests, and to integrated andsustainableapproachestocontrolmeasuresandplantprotection.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EcologyandConservation,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2102orBL21062017/8-BL2304orBL2307orBL2310


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks),1x3-hourpracticaland1x3-hourstudentpresentationseminarduringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfPWillmer

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfPWillmer,ProfGRuxton,DrAKarley,DrSHealy,DrGBallantyne


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BL3318BiologyofMarineOrganismsSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2


Plannedtimetable: Lectures:12noonMon,TueandWedPracticals:tobearranged.

Thismodulewillincludelecturesontherangeofmicrobialandmetazoanorganismsandecologicalsystemsinthemarineenvironment.Thecoveragewillrangefrombacteria,toalgae, invertebratesandvertebrates(fish, birds, reptiles andmammals). Thebiologyofmarineorganisms is considered in the contextof bothadaptations at the level of the individual and its expression in terms of large-scale latitudinal and depth-relatedvariationsinproductivityandfoodwebstructure.Examplesfromthepolestothetropicsandfromshallowwater to the deep ocean will be included. Practicals will be field- and laboratory-based and willprovideanexperimentalintroductiontobothecologicalandphysiologicalproblemsinmarinebiology.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforBehaviouralBiology,EcologyandConservation,MarineBiology.OptionalforEvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL2102orBL21052017/8-3ofBL2304orBL2307orBL2308orBL2310

Requiredfor: BL4257,BL4259,BL4260,BL4301


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks),2x3-hourpracticalsand1x1-hourMuseumquizduringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrVSmith

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrVSmith,ProfCTodd,ProfABrierley,ProfPHammond,DrLRendell,DrCSmith,DrABlight,ProfPTyack,DrLBoehme,DrBMcConnell,DrDThompson


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BL3319AnimalBehaviour:AQuantitativeApproachSCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2


Plannedtimetable: Lectures:9.00amamMon,TueandWedPracticals:tobearranged.

Thismoduleisdesignedtoprovideabroadandmultifacetedperspectiveonanimalbehaviour,emphasisingcontemporary theoretical, mathematical and statistical approaches to the discipline. Nobel-Prize-winningethologist,NikoTinbergen,pointedoutthattounderstandbehaviourfullyresearchershadtoanswerfourtypesofquestions,about itscausation,function,developmentandevolution.Allfourareasarecoveredinthe course, which includes lectures on the genetic, neural, physiological and experiential (i.e. learning)influencesonbehaviour; behavioural development; foraging; sexual behaviour, sexual selection andmatechoice; communication, cooperation and culture. The course contains extensive material of a formaltheoretical nature, and emphasises quantitative skills throughout. Students will be introduced to newmathematicalandstatisticalapproacheswithinthefield.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforEcologyandConservationandBehaviouralBiology.OptionalforEvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,Zoology,andallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-NormallyBL21022017/8-BL2303orBL2307



Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlectures(x11weeks),3x1-hourmini-projectgroupmeetingsduringthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMWebster

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMWebsterDrWHoppitt,DrMWebster,DrLRendell,DrCTempleton,DrSHealy,ProfMRitchie,ProfVJanik,DrWHeitler


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BL3320StatisticalandQuantitativeSkillsforBiologistsSCOTCATCredits: 10 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: Tobearranged.

Few biologists are statisticians or mathematicians, but all biologists use statistics and mathematics. Thisseriesofworkshops isdesigned tobuild confidence inorganisingandanalyzingdata toaddressbiologicalquestionsefficiently.Themodulewillhelpyoulearnhowtoidentifystatisticalandquantitativeapproaches,and how tomanage and analyse data in a code driven statistical programming package. An introductoryworkshopwillcoverbasicconceptsandpracticaltrainingthatwillbeusedinachoiceofspecificworkshopsthatcoverapplicationsacrosstherangeofBiology.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforallBiologydegrees.OptionalforSustainableDevelopment.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-2fromBL2101-BL21062017/8-BL2300

Requiredfor: BL4273


Weeklycontact:Variedweeklycontact,buttoinclude1full-dayoflecturesinPre-sessionalweek(8-hours),plus2x3-hourintroductoryworkshopsand5x3-hourpracticalworkshopsduringthesemester






Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfWCresswell,DrGRuxton,DrASmith,DrRRamsay,DrJNairn


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BL3321AdvancedCriticalAnalysisReadingPartySCOTCATCredits: 10 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: 1weekinsummervacationjustpriortoOrientationweek

An introductoryresidentialmodule toHonoursstudy forstudentsstudyingCellBiology,NeuroscienceandBiologydegreesheldattheBurnbetweentheresitdietandthestartofsemester1.Thismoduleintroducesstudents to the skill of critically analysing scientific literature and the methodology behind preparingresearchproposals. Studentswillwork ingroups todevelopagrantproposalandpresent their ideas toamock research grant panel. In response to detailed feedback students can improve their skills and finallysubmitanextendedrefereesreportonarealgrantproposal.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforCellBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,NeuroscienceandallBiologyJointandMajor/Minordegreeprogrammes

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-2fromBL2101-BL21062017/8-4of(BL2300-BL2310)

Anti-requisite(s): BL3000,BL3322

Co-requisite(s): Any3000-levelBLmodule


Weeklycontact:5-dayresidentialcourse,8-hoursperday




Re-Assessmentpattern: Resubmissionoffaileditem(s)ofcoursework

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrJSleeman

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfDEvans,DrJSleeman,ProfFGunn-Moore,DrGMiles,DrSPulver


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BL3322BasicBiochemistryLaboratorySCOTCATCredits: 10 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1

Academicyear: 2016/7

Plannedtimetable: 1weekinsummervacationjustpriortoOrientationweek

This module aims to provide students with the basic skills for independent laboratory work and anopportunitytodevelopacademicskillssuchas:thedesignofexperiments;logisticplanning;thegatheringandassessmentofdata;andthepresentationofresults.Inaddition,transferableskillssuchasgroupwork,workingtodeadlines,numeracy,criticalreadingofpeer-reviewedliterature,andpresentingmaterial(oralandwritten)willbedeveloped.Importantly,thecoursewillalsobeanopportunitytomeetandworkwithothersinthehonourscohort.Thepracticalelementwillemphasisetechniquesinproteinbiochemistry.

Programmemoduletype-UGCompulsory:

CompulsoryforBiochemistry,MolecularBiologysinglehonoursdegreesandMBiochemintregatedmastersdegree

Programmemoduletype-UGOptional:

OptionalforCellBiology,Biologyandjointhonoursdegrees

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-BL2101andBL21042017/8-BL2301orBL2302orBL2306

Anti-requisite(s): BL3000,BL3321


Weeklycontact:5-daylaboratorycourse,8-hoursperday





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrRRRamsay

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrRRRamsay,DrCAdamson,DrCBotting.ProfMWhite,ProfMRyan,ProfRRandall


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BL3323TerrestrialZoologySCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable: 9.00amMon,Tue,Wed.Practicals:tobearranged.

Thismodulecoversthebiologyoflandanimals,includingtheirearlyevolution,theirstrategiestocopewithunusual terrestrial habitats (extremes of hot, arid and cold, urban life, island life, etc, including climatechange effects), and their special problems with reproduction and locomotion. It then looks at insightsgainedfrommoderntechniques,includingmolecular,bioinformaticsandbar-codingapproaches,bio-loggingand tracking, and developmental adaptations. It concludes with special topics on particular animals orgroups that have improved our understanding of terrestrial peculiarities, whether behavioural, sensory,physiological,mechanical,metabolicorecological;andofthreatstoterrestrialdiversityforcertaingroups.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforZoologyOptionalforBScHonsBehaviouralBiology,Biology,EvolutionaryBiology,Ecology&ConservationandNeurosciencedegrees,MBioldegreeandallBiologyjointhonoursdegrees.

Pre-requisite(s): 2016/7-BL2102orBL21062017/8-BL2304andBL2308


Weeklycontact:3x1-hourlecturesperweek;6-hourpracticals(x2weeks),and4hoursofseminarsoverthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfPGWillmer

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): Teamtaught


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BL3400TropicalResearchandFieldStudySCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel9 Semester: 2


Plannedtimetable: 4weeksinfieldlocationsinsummervacation.

ThemoduleallowsisforstudentsstudyingwithOperationWallaceainterrestrialandmarineenvironmentsfor aminimumof fourweeksduring the summervacation. Studentswill gainexperience in researchingavariety of habitats and investigate the species in locations such as Indonesia,Honduras, SouthAfrica andMozambique. Studentswill be introduced to tropical ecology, sustainabledevelopment and conservation,fieldworkandnovel researchmethodsunder the supervisionofexperts in those researchareas. Studentswillbeexpectedtomaintainajournaloftheirfieldstudies,inadditiontobeingassessedontheapplicationof field techniques and knowledge. The module will culminate in the production of a detailed researchproposal.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,Biology,EcologyandConservation,EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,Zoology,andallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.OptionalforSustainableDevelopment.


Weeklycontact:Lectures,practicalsandoccasionalseminars.




Re-Assessmentpattern: Resubmissionoffaileditem(s)ofCoursework

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrCPeddie


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BL4200Literature-basedResearchProjectSCOTCATCredits: 30 SCQFLevel10 Semester: WholeYear



Thisprojectwillinvolveanextensiveliteraturereviewtoinvestigateadefinedhypothesisorproblemwithinthefieldofbiology,appropriatetothedegreeprogrammebeingstudiedbyeachstudent.Theprojectwillinvolvediligence,initiativeandindependenceinpursuingtheliterature,andtheproductionofahigh-qualitydissertation that demonstrates a deep understanding of the chosen area of research. Students will beallocated to a member of staff who will guide and advise them in research activities throughout theacademicyear.Theprojectwillbewrittenupintheformofaresearchdissertation.

Programmemoduletype: EitherBL4200orPS4050compulsoryforBiologyandPsychology.BL4200orBL4201orPN4299compulsoryforNeuroscience.OptionalforBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): PermissionofBiologyHonoursAdviserrequired

Anti-requisite(s): BL4201,PN4299


Weeklycontact:1dedicatedmeetingwithsupervisorperweek,studentsshouldexpecttospendtheequivalentof8weeksfull-timeonthisresearchproject.



AsusedbyStAndrews:Coursework=100%(10%-Thesisoutlineandresourcelist1,000words70%-Writtenthesis15,000words20%-Viva(20minutes))


ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfOGaggiotti

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): IndividualSupervisorsacrosstheSchoolofBiology


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BL4201ExperimentalResearchProjectSCOTCATCredits: 60 SCQFLevel10 Semester: WholeYear



This project will involve extensive laboratory or field research to investigate a defined problem withinbiology, appropriate to the degree programme being studied by each student. The project will involvediligence, initiative and independence in pursuing the literature, good experimental design, goodexperimentaland/oranalyticaltechniqueeitherinthefieldorthelaboratory,andexcellentrecordkeeping.The project will culminate in the production of a high-quality report that demonstrates a deepunderstandingof the chosenareaof research. Studentswill beallocated toamemberof staffwithin theSchoolofBiologywhowillguideandadvisetheminresearchactivitiesthroughouttheacademicyear.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.MaybetakenforBiomolecularScience(conditionsapply


Anti-requisite(s): BL4200,PN4299


Weeklycontact:1dedicatedmeetingwithsupervisorperweek.Studentsshouldexpecttospendtheequivalentof1semesterfull-timeconductingsupervisedresearchandcompletingtheassociatedassessments.Thistimeiseithercondensedinto1semesterorspreadoutoverthewholeyear.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfOGaggiotti



Page5.21

BL4210PracticalSkillsforMolecularBiologyandBiochemistrySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Practical skills are thecoreof research inbiochemistryandmolecularbiology.Thismodule isdesigned toprepare students for laboratory research projects in internationally competitive research. The module isdesignedtofosterskillssuchasexperimentaldesign,corepracticalskills,dataanalysisandexcellentrecordkeeping. Each practical requires some prior theoretical familiarity. Emphasis is placed upon experimentaldesign-notablyanticipationofexperimentaloutcomesandthechoiceofappropriateexperimentalcontrols.Thisplanningphaseisfollowedbyexecutionoftheexperimentandanalysesofthedata.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,MolecularBiologyOptionalforCellBiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:Occasionalseminarsand3blocksofpracticalsconductedoverseveraldays.




Re-Assessmentpattern: hourWrittenExamination=30%,ExistingCoursework=70%

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMNevels

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMNevels,ProfMWhite


Page5.22

BL4211Antimicrobials-ModesofActionandResistanceSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



This module will commence by establishing the fundamental basis of antimicrobial efficacy in terms ofselectivetoxicity,withabriefhistoryofantimicrobialsandfactorsthatmaketheidealantimicrobial.Thiswillbefollowedbystudyoftheknown inhibitoryactionofantibacterialandantifungaldrugsatthemolecularlevel,andstudyofthemolecularbasisofmicrobialresistancetothesedrugs.Lastly,potentialnewsourcesofantimicrobialswillbeconsidered,particularlyantimicrobialpeptidesand'natural'antimicrobials.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiology,MolecularBiology,BiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): BL3311


Weeklycontact:2x1-hourseminars(x11weeks).





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMNevels

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMNevels,ProfMWhite

BL4212HowEnzymesWork




All cells depend on enzymes to catalyse the reactions that produce the energy required for life and thatmakeandrepairDNA,proteinsandlipids.Understandingenzymesandtheirregulationunderpinsresearchon, forexample,drugdevelopment.Thismodulewillstudyhowthestructuresandmolecular functionsofselectedexamplesenablethebiologicalroles.Topicswill includeflavoproteins,DNArepairenzymes,nitricoxides synthases and other enzymes depending on the research interests of the academic staff. It willdevelop deductive skills, literature research, and communication of specific knowledge from reviews andprimary research articles, and will encourage integration of previous basic knowledge of bioenergetics,proteinstructureandfunction,geneexpressionandmetabolicregulationintotheexplorationofthecellularrolesofenzymes.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiology,MolecularBiology,BiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminars(x10weeks).





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrRRRamsay

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrRRRamsay,ProfMWhite


Page5.23

BL4213MolecularVirologySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Viruses as a group include many important human and veterinary pathogens such as influenza virus,hepatitis C virus, foot andmouthdisease virus aswell as emerging viruses like Ebola virus, and remain acontinuingthreattohumanandanimalwelfare.Thismodulewillconsistofamixtureof lectures,tutorialsand personal-based learning on aspects of RNA virus host interactions. The topics covered will includecomparisonofthemolecularmechanismsemployedbyenvelopedandnon-envelopedvirusestoenterandexit from cells, discussion of how small RNA viruses maximise their coding capacity, comparison of thereplicationofpositiveandnegative strandRNAviruses,discussionofhowselectedviruses reprogram thehost cell to ensure their own replication, description of how RNA viruses intercede with innate immuneresponses,andunderstandingofhowselectedvirusesinteractwiththeirvectors.Inaddition,discussionofvirus-relatedtopicsthathavemadeheadlinenewsinrecentyearswillbeaddressed,andanunderstandingofthemorecommonlyusedmoleculartechniquestostudyviruseswillbeexpected.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,CellBiology,MolecularBiology,BiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:2x1-hourseminars(x6weeks),studentdebate





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfRRandall

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfRRandall,DrDJackson,DrCAdamson,DrJTilsner


Page5.24

BL4215BacterialVirulenceFactorsSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Inordertoestablishaninfectioninahost,pathogenicbacteriarelyonmechanismstoadheretohosttissue,gainentryintocells,escapethehost'simmuneresponseandspreadandsurvivewithinoronthehost.Theseprocessesaremediatedbybacterialvirulencefactors,i.e.proteinsandotherbacterialproductsthatutiliseand subvert diverse host cellular processes for the benefit of the pathogen. In thismodule studentswillexplorehowstructuralbiologyhasledtosignificantbreakthroughsinunderstandingthemolecularbasesofsomeimportantbacterialinfections.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,CellBiology,MolecularBiologyBiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourlecture(x4weeks),3x3-hourstudenttalks



AsusedbyStAndrews:1.5-hourWrittenExamination=40%,Coursework=60%

Re-Assessmentpattern: 1.5-hourWrittenExamination=40%,ExistingCoursework=60%

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrUSchwarz-Linek

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrUSchwarz-Linek

BL4216Structure-basedDrugDiscoverySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Theprocessofdevelopinganewdrugfromconceptiontotheclinictakesonaverage15yearsandcostsover$800M.Therearenowmanyexamplesofdrugsdevelopedbasedonaknowledgeofthethreedimensionalstructureofthetarget,andallmajorpharmaceuticalcompanieshavestructuralbiologyaspartoftheircoredrug discovery programmes.Many drugs currently used to combatAIDSwere developed froma detailedknowledge of key HIV proteins, as were the two drugs used for influenza. Most major pharmaceuticalcompaniesaretargetingkinasesinthesearchfornewcancertherapies,withinternationaleffortsfocusingonproducingstructuraldetailsofhugenumbersofhumankinases.Thismodulewillexaminecasestudiesofdrugsthathavebeendevelopedwiththeaidofstructure-basedmethods.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,CellBiology,MolecularBiologyBiologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar(x4weeks)and1x2-hourstudentpresentationsinteamsrepresentingimaginarydrugcompanies(x3weeks).






Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrTGloster,ProfGTaylor,DrJNairn


Page5.25

BL4222MetabolicandClinicalBiochemistrySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



This module extends the students' knowledge of human metabolism and applies it to pathologies. Thesyllabus includes: a studyof the integrationofwhole bodymetabolic processes, discussionof the role ofbiochemistryininvestigatingandmonitoringhumandisease,themethodsofdiagnosingandtreatingsomecommondiseases.Topicswillcover integrationofwholebodymetabolism,starvationprocesses,diabetes,metabolicvariability,inbornerrorsofmetabolism,endocrinology,homeostasis,plasmaproteinmetabolism,muscle and hepatic metabolism, drug disposition and metabolism, and defects in glucose and lipidmetabolism.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,andallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:2x1-hourseminars(x10weeks),1x3-hourstudentspresentationsfor1week





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrGPrescott

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrGPrescott,DrRRamsayandinvitedNHSstaff

BL4223EukaryoticChromosomeReplicationandGenomeStability




Highly-efficientlychromosomalDNAreplicationisessentialforallformsofcellularlifeandrequiresthecomplexinterplayofalargerangeofproteinfactorsinatemporally-andspatially-coordinatedmanner.Inhumans,defectsinthereplicationprocessmayleadtogeneticdiseaseorcancer.ThismodulewillsummarisecurrentknowledgeoftheenzymesandmechanismsofchromosomalDNAreplication ineukaryoticcellswithparticularemphasisonexploringthediverserangeofexperimentalsystemsandtechniquesusedinthelaboratorytoprobethestructure,functionandregulationofthereplicationapparatus.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,BiomolecularScience,CellBiology,MolecularBiology,andallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): NormallyBL3301andBL3302


Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar(x11weeks)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrSAMacNeill

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrSAMacNeill


Page5.26

BL4224MolecularMechanismsofMembraneTraffickingSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 2



Membrane traffickingmediates the transport of substances betweendifferent cellular organelles and thesecretionofsubstancesfromcells.Assuch,regulationofmembranetraffickingisapplicabletoallcelltypes,butespeciallytospecialisedsecretorycellssuchasneurons,whichsecreteneurotransmittersandpancreaticbeta-cells which secrete insulin. This module will consider how molecules control the movement ofsubstances through the secretory pathway, but will focus on how cells regulate the release of contents.Within the module you will look at the proteins involved, the different experiments used to study theprocessandhowmodelorganismsareenhancingourunderstanding.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiology,MolecularBiology,NeuroscienceandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.








ModuleCo-ordinator: DrGPrescott

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrGPrescott,DrJTilsner

BL4232NeuroethologySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Neuroethologyisthestudyoftheneuralcontrolofnaturalanimalbehaviourfromacomparativebiologicalperspective.Inthismodulewefocusmainlyonbehavioursarisingfromtheinteractionsbetweenpredatorsandtheirprey.Predatorsandpreyarelockedinanevolutionaryarmsracewhichcontinuouslyrefinesandimprovestheabilitiesofpredatorsto locateandcaptureprey,andofpreytodetectandevadepredators.Thisstrongselectivepressurehasproducedsomespectacularadaptationsinboththenervoussystemsandtheoverallanatomyoftheanimalsconcerned.This,combinedwiththeusuallyunambiguousmotivationofthe animals involved in predator-prey interactions (eat or starve, escape or be eaten) has made suchadaptationsfavouredtargetsforstudybyneuroscientists,behaviouralscientists,andbiomechanicists.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,CellBiology,Neuroscience,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): BL2101(orequivalent)







ModuleCo-ordinator: DrWJHeitler

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrWHeitler,ProfKSillar


Page5.27

BL4248HumanPhysiologyofDivingSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Thismodulewillprovideanunderstandingofdivingphysicsandhowpressurechangesaffectthephysiologyofthehumandiver. Itwillusebothtutorialsandself-studysessionstocovertheoreticaltopicssuchasoxygentoxicity,nitrogennarcosisandthesymptomsandtreatmentofdecompressionillness.Thermalconsiderationsof diving, long-term effects and the physiology of technical mixed gas and rebreather diving will also beinvestigated.Studentswillalsoexploreapplied topics suchas themanagementofdivingcasualtiesand the treatmentofdiving-associatedillnesses.ThefinalemphasiswillbeonhowourunderstandingofdivingphysiologydirectscurrentpracticeintheUKonsafedivingpractices.Thereareadditionalcostsattachedtothismodulewhichthestudentwillbeexpectedtomeet.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforMarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar(x11weeks).






Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrCPeddie,DrGPrescott


Page5.28

BL4249ScientificDivingSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 2


Availabilityrestrictions: subjecttoavailability

Plannedtimetable: FullTime2-3weeksinMarch/April

This module will provide both theoretical and practical experience of the techniques used by scientificdivers.Themoduleisrestrictedtostudentswhohaveanexistingdivingqualification(PADIAdvancedOpenWaterDiverorBSACSportsDiverorequivalent).Seminarsduringthefieldtripwillcoverdivingsafety,diveproject planning,management, risk assessment and the theory behind underwater surveying techniques.Abroad,studentswillreceivetraininginunderwatermarineidentification,constructionanddeploymentofunderwater surveys and sampling techniques, gaining practical experience of recording, analysing andinterpreting surveydata. Then they conduct amini-researchproject using suitable survey techniques andpresent their findings through a report and a presentation. There are additional costs attached to thismodulewhichthestudentwillbeexpectedtomeet.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): BL4251,PADIAdvancedOpenWaterDiverorBSACSportsDiver(orequivalent)


Weeklycontact:8hoursperdayfor2weeks.






Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrCPeddie,DrSWhiten


Page5.29

BL4251TropicalMarineBiologySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Thegoalofthismoduleistoexaminetheecologicalandbiologicalprinciplesunderpinningthemajortropicalmarineecosystems.Themoduleprovidesanunderstandingoftheecologicalprocessesthatcontroltropicalmarine ecosystems, and considers the organisms that are characteristic of each. All the major tropicalmarinehabitatswillbeconsidered,butwithafocusoncoralreef,seagrassandmangroveecosystems.Themodule also tackles topical research areas on the subject through student-led seminars, which will varydependingonthelatestscientificresearchandthespecificinterestsofparticipants.On completion of themodule, studentswill have an understanding of coral reef,mangrove and seagrassecology.Theywillunderstandthebiologyandphysiologyofcoralsandbeableto identifythemajorphylaassociatedwithtropicalmarineecosystems.Themodulewillalsoprovideanunderstandingofthethreatstotropicalmarinehabitats,currentresearchtrendsontropicalmarinesystems,andthescientificapproachesandtechniquesusedtacklescientificquestionsrelatingtotropicalmarinebiology.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.OptionalforSustainableDevelopment.

Requiredfor: BL4249-unlessotherpre-requisite(s)forthatmoduleheld.


Weeklycontact:Lecturesandseminars.






BL4254FisheriesResearch




Thismodulewillprovideanintroductiontotheutilisationoffishstocksinasustainableway.Itwillfocusonhowthestatusofthesestockscanbeassessed,theproblemsassociatedwithdeterminingcatchlimits,andhowadvicefromfisheriesscientists iscommunicatedtomanagers.Therewillbeamixtureofdedicated lectures(includingtalksfromoutsideexperts),student-ledseminars,tutorialsandpracticalcomputersessions.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopmentandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes








ModuleCo-ordinator: DrCPaxton

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrCPaxton


Page5.30

BL4255MarineandEnvironmentalBiotechnologySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



This module will examine the diversity of useful natural products from the sea, consider the ways in whichgenomic and other approaches are being used to bioprospect for new substances (especially from micro-organisms), learn how genomic approaches are overcoming the problem of unculturability of many marineprokaryotes to findsuchcompounds,andexploresomeof themoreunusualapplicationsofmaterialsderivedfrommarine invertebrates. Itwill also considerhowmarinebiotechnology is contributing to improveddiseasecontrolinaquaculture,howitcanhelpthe'greening'ofmoreconventional'dirty'industriesandmayenableustomeetourfutureenergyneedsviarenewablebiofuels.Thesocietal,ethicalandenvironmentalissuesassociatedwiththedevelopmentofenvironmentalbiotechnologyarealsoconsidered.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,EcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,MolecularBiology,SustainableDevelopmentandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.






AsusedbyStAndrews:WrittenExamination=40%(openbookessay),PracticalExaminations=30%,Coursework=30%

Re-Assessmentpattern: WrittenExamination=40%,ExistingCoursework=60%

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrVJSmith

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrVJSmith

BL4256MarineBioacoustics




Thismodulewillprovideseminar-andpractical-basedinstructiononsoundpropagationintheocean,useofsound bymarinemammals for communication, orientation, and foraging (asmonitored by humans usingtechniques to record sound). It will also examine sound-based conflicts between humans and marineorganisms.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes



Weeklycontact:7x2-hourseminars,8x1-hourseminarsand2x3-hourpracticalovera4weekperiod





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfPTyack

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfPTyack,ProfVJanik


Page5.31

BL4258ForaginginMarineMammalsSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Thismodulewillprovideprimarilyseminarandpractical-basedanalysisofthelife-historyrequirementsofforaginginmarinemammals,geographicalandphysiologicalconstraintsonfindingfood,foodandfeedingwithafocusontypesofpreyandadaptationsbytheprey,adaptationsformarinemammalsfeedinginthemarineenvironment,optimalforagingtheory,andoptimaldivingtheory.Initiallectureswillfocusontheoreticalissuesanddescriptionofmethodstostudyforaging.Studentswillthenconductcase-studiesofmarine-mammalforaging,whichwillbepresentedinaseminarformatasagroup.Somepracticalworkwillalsobeincluded.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:Introductorylectureplus3x1-hourlectures(x3weeks),2x2-hourstudent-ledseminars(x4weeks)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrPMiller

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrPMiller,DrSSmout,DrDThompson

BL4259MarineMammalsandMan




Marinemammalsinteractwithhumanactivitiesinavarietyofwaysandarefrequentlythefocusofmoregeneralconcerns about the health and exploitation ofmarine ecosystems. Thismodule explores the impact of theseactivitiesonindividualsandpopulationsofsealsandcetaceans,andviceversa.Mostmarinemammalsspeciesarelong-lived and slow reproducing and the impacts of unmanagedhuman activities canbe severe; a number ofspecies or populations are threatened as a result. Themodule explores how best to provide robust scientificadvicetoinformconservationandmanagementatlocal,nationalandinternationallevel.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes



Weeklycontact:12x2-hourseminarsovertwoweeksfollowedby4x3-hourpresentationassessmentsessionsattheendofthesemester.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfPSHammond

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfPSHammond,DrSNorthridge,DrAHall,DrGordon


Page5.32

BL4260BiologicalOceanographySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Thismodulewill provide primarily seminar-based instruction on the fundamentals of BiologicalOceanography(BO).A few introductory lectureswill focusonbasicprinciples inBOandoceanography, includingphysicalandgeochemical principles as they apply to biological oceanography. Studentswill present seminars on particularfocusareaswithineachlecturetopic,baseduponreadingprimaryliterature.BOisabroadfield,sothemodulewillprovideanoverviewofthefieldwithdepthinafewchosenareas.Atleastonepracticalwillbeofferedontheuseofremote-sensingdataforoceanobservation,andwehopetodevelopapracticalofzooplanktonsampling.Thismoduleshouldcoordinateespeciallywellwithmarineacousticsandscientificdiving.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes



Weeklycontact:10x2-hourseminars(x6weeks)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrPMiller

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrPMiller

BL4262PhysicalOceanography




This module aims to give a broad overview of the concepts and fundamental achievements of physicaloceanography.Physicaloceanographyisthestudyofphysicalconditionsandphysicalprocesseswithintheocean,especiallythemotionsandphysicalpropertiesofoceanwaters.Aseriesoflectureswillbeprovidedtoassurethatstudents have the broad background required to tackle primary literature in this field. Students will presentseminarsonparticularfocusareaswithineachlecturetopic,baseduponreadingprimaryliterature.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopmentandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:2x2-hourseminarorlecture(x5weeks)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrLBoehme

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrLBoehme


Page5.33

BL4263TheQuestionofCultureinCetaceansSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 2



Theexistenceandextentofsociallearningandculturaltransmissioninnon-humansisaveryactiveareaofcurrentresearch, as well as of controversy, with an active ongoing debate. The aim of this module is to provide anintroductiontothisareathroughconsideringtheconceptualissuesanddirectandindirectevidenceforculturaltransmissionincetaceans,thewhalesanddolphins.Wewillconsiderwhatismeantbytheterm'culture',howitcan be studied in non-humans, and the evidence for and against such processes being present in cetaceansocieties.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes



Weeklycontact:10x2-hourseminarsover6weeks





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrLRendell

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrLRendell

BL4266ConservationResearchMethods




Theconservationofanimalandplantpopulations relies initiallyon informationofpopulationsizesandtrends.Thisinformationcanonlybecollectedbyfieldwork.Thismoduleteachesthebasicfieldtechniquesthatunderpinthe monitoring of populations. Each week the theory behind a different technique is introduced, then thetechnique ispracticed in the field, and finallydata collectedby the techniqueareanalysedanddiscussed inaworkshopattheendoftheweek,sothatafullunderstandingofatechniqueanditsproperapplicationisgained.Themoduleendswithstudentscarryingoutaprojectapplyingandintegratingthetechniquestheyhavelearnt.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopment,Zoology,andallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:Variablecombinationoflectures,fieldpracticals,datacollectioninthefieldandanalysisworkshopsperweekfor11weeks






Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfWCresswell


Page5.34

BL4268ScientificCommunicationinBiodiversityandConservationSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 2



Thismodulewillfocusonthescientificproblemsassociatedwiththeconservationandsustainableuseofanimalsand plants, and on the way in which scientific advice on these issues is provided. Initial lectures will coversustainable development and the precautionary principle; the causes of extinction; the economics ofconservation;managementofexploitation;andestimatingspeciesrichness.Afterthisstudent-ledseminarswillcover a range of more specialist issues of current concern. Practical work on population viability analysis,classifyingpopulationsusingtheIUCNcriteria,andspeciesrichnessestimationmaybeincluded.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar(x11weeks)plus6additional2-hourlecturesduringthesememster





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMDornelas

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMDornelas

BL4270Plant-environmentInteractions




This module will provide an analysis of the ways in which plants interact with their physical, chemical andbiological environments. This is a wide-ranging course which will bring together current knowledge of thephysiological and molecular responses of plants within the wider context of how whole organisms andcommunitiesrespondtotheenvironment.Topicsinclude:parasitism,plantpathogensanddiseases,symbioses,plantstressresponses,andhumaninfluencessuchaspollution,bioremediationandgeneticmodification.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforCellBiology,EcologyandConservation,SustainableDevelopmentandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar(x11weeks),plus1xadditionalseminar





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrJJones

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrJJones


Page5.35

BL4273BioinformaticsforBiologistsSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



ThismoduleisaboutusingcomputerstosearchandstudyproteinandDNAsequences,andrelateddatasuchasmRNAexpressionlevels.Vastquantitiesofsuchdataarepubliclyavailable,and, ifviewedintherightway,canprovidestrongevidenceconcerningfunction,structure,andevolutionofDNA,RNA,proteinsandgenes.Becauseof this, computational analysis has become a crucial component of modern biology, including biochemistry,molecularbiology,ecology,evolutionarybiologyandbiomedicalresearch.Withhundredsofgenomesequencesandvastquantitiesofexpressiondataavailable,theapproachhasgreaterpotentialthaneverbefore.Thismodulewillgiveanoverviewofthedata,softwareandmethodsofanalysis,and in-depthpractical training inapplyingbioinformaticstechniquestoquestionsofbiologyandbiomedicalresearch.Casestudieswhereresearchersusegenomes toaskquestionsaboutdivergence,adaptationandspeciationwillbediscussed.Theemphasisof themodule is not mathematical, but rather concerns data, the general features of methods, use of software,applications relevant to biology, and results. Themodulewill involve use of computers and simple computerprogramming,forwhichtrainingwillbeprovidedaspartofthemodule.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,MolecularBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes

Pre-requisite(s): NormallyBL3320


Weeklycontact:1x2-hourcomputer-basedpractical(x8weeks)plus6x1-hourlecturesplus1x1-hourseminar





ModuleCo-ordinator: TBC


Page5.36

BL4274EvolutionaryDevelopmentalBiologySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Evolution of newmorphologies involves changes to the development of organisms. The field of evolutionarydevelopmentalbiologyisthusbecomingestablishedasamajorandessentialcomponentofanycomprehensiveunderstanding of evolutionary biology. This module aims to cover some of the main, current themes inevolutionarydevelopmentalbiology.Sinceanimallifeevolvedinthesea,muchofwhatwecanlearnaboutthemajor events in animal evolution can be obtained from studying marine invertebrates. Consequently theexamplescoveredinthismodulewilltendtobedrawnfromtheseorganisms.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforCellBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.








ModuleCo-ordinator: DrDFerrier

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrDFerrier,DrISomorjai

BL4275EvolutioninActionSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Thismodulewill focusonrecentdevelopmentsrelatingtoevolutionarybiology,placingparticularemphasisonresearch related tomedical or societal application or public policy. Examples of topics to be covered include:emergent diseases, biodiversity policy, conservation management, biological impacts of climate change, andpublicunderstandingofscience.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforCellBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar(x11weeks)plusanadditional2x2-hourseminars.





ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfTRMeagher

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfTRMeagher


Page5.37

BL4278BiologyofDinosaursandOtherExtinctVertebratesSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Itseemsnaturaltouseourunderstandingofextantbiologytomakeinferencesaboutthepast.Thisallowsustotest ideas about evolution and biodiversity in a wider context. Additionally, "rewilding" is an active butcontroversialstrandofconservationbiologythatsuggeststhatwhere"keystone"specieshavegoneextinct,weshould introduce an analogous species. Vertebrates fossilise well, and so offer a good foundation of sourcematerial.Theyaregenerallylargeandcomplexorganisms,andweparticularlyfocusonthelargerepresentativesofeachtaxonomicgroup;thisallowsustoexplorethephysicalconstraintsonthefunctioningoforganisms.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.








ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfGRuxton

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfGRuxton

BL4280EvolutionandHumanBehaviour




Evolutionarybiologists,anthropologistsandpsychologistshave takenevolutionaryprinciplesandused themtoexplain a range of human characteristics, such as homicide, religion and sex differences in behaviour. Otherresearchersarescepticaloftheseinterpretations,andcriticalofthemethods.Moreover,researchersdisagreeastothebestwaystouseevolutiontoexplorehumanity,andanumberofschoolsofthoughthaveemerged.Thismodulewill introduceandcriticallyevaluate themainevolutionaryapproachescurrentlybeingused, includingsocio-biology,evolutionarypsychology,behaviouralecologyandgene-cultureco-evolution.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.







Re-Assessmentpattern: hourWrittenExamination=40%,ExistingCoursework=60%

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMWebster

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMWebster.DrKCross,DrLDean,DrCEvans,DrANavarrete


Page5.38

BL4281AnimalCommunicationandCognitionSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



Learningtoproducesoundsisaparticularlyinterestingsubjectasfarashumansareconcernedbecauseitissuchanotablefeatureofourownspecies.Whydoweshowit,andhowdiditevolve?Asthereislittleevidenceofitinanyotherprimatesweneedtolookfurtherafieldforclues.Itisfoundinseveralothermammalianordersandinthreeordersofbirds,andtheevidenceforitandnatureofitwillbeexaminedintheseexamples.Wewilldiscusswhyselectionmayhavefavoureditineachcase.Wewillalsoconsidervocallearninginabroadersense,includingitsuseinanimalsthatdonotthemselvesproducesounds.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.








ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfVJanik

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfVJanik,DrTGotz

BL4282BiologyandBehaviourofSocialInsects




Thismodulewillexamineandcomparethebiologyofthefourmaingroupsofsocialinsects:termites,ants,waspsand bees. Sociality in other groups (aphids, beetles) will also be considered briefly. Topics will include theevolution of sociality, social organisation and social control systems, reproductive strategies, and diversecommunicationmodes includingpheromonal systems, acoustic systems, and 'beedances'.Aspectsof foragingbehaviourand learningabilitieswillalsobeconsidered,particularly forants (leafcutterants,armyants, slave-making ants) and for bees both eusocial and semi-social. There will be strong evolutionary, ecological andbehaviouralthemes,andrelevancealsotoconservationissues.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EcologyandConservation,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.







ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfPWillmer

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): ProfPWillmer,DrAGardner,DrGBallantyne


Page5.39

BL4284BreedingSystemsandSexualConflictSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 2



Studiesofmatingsystemsinanimalsareprimarilyconcernedwithhowanimalsocietiesarestructuredinrelationtosexualbehaviour.Inplants,wheremanyorganismsdonothaveseparatemalesandfemales,thetermreferstothe degree towhich individuals are self-compatible or the amount of out-crossing that occurs. The effects ofbreedingsystemonsexualselectionandsexualconflict,togetherwiththecostsofinbreedingandtheevolutionofmatingsystems,arecentralconcernsofthismodule.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EvolutionaryBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyorEnvironmentalBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.








ModuleCo-ordinator: DrCSmith

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrCSmith,DrJGraves,ProfTRMeagher,ProfMRitchie

BL4285ComplexSystemsinAnimalBehaviour




Behavinganimalsformcomplexsystems,andcancreatecomplicatedandbeautifulphenomena,suchasflocksofbirds, termitenests, andpatternsof armyant swarms.This coursewill lookat research thatexaminesanimalbehaviourfromacomplexsystemsperspective,whereanalysesrangefromcaptivehousingofentirebirdflocks,computer simulation,anduseof robots to interactwith theanimals. Introductory lectureswillbe followedbyseminar-stylediscussionoftheprimary literature,computerpracticals,andhands-onpracticalswherestudentswillidentifycomplexsystemsinanimalbehaviouraroundStAndrews.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,BehaviouralBiology,SustainableDevelopment,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:14x1-hourseminarsplus4x2-hourcomputer-basedpracticalclassesover8weeks





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrVASmith

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrVASmith


Page5.40

BL4286AdvancedTopicsinEvolutionSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: 1



In thismodule, wewill consider outstanding questions inmodern Evolutionary Biology to develop a detailedunderstandingofresearchissuesinthisfield.Bothmolecularandwholeorganismalapproacheswillbeaddressed.Topicswillbebasedonclassicpapers inthe literatureraisingtheoreticalquestionsabouttheoriginofspecies,adaptation, geneticdrift andnatural and sexual selection.Each classicpaperwill be combinedwitha recentlypublished study addressing one of these theoretical topics.Wewill use tutorials and student-led seminars toaddressthetopicsindetail.Theresultwillbeanexcitingopportunitytotackleclassictopicsinevolutionandlearnhowtheverylatestresearchaddressestheseissues.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBehaviouralBiology,EcologyandConservation,EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,ZoologyandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes







ModuleCo-ordinator: ProfMRitchie

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrNBailey,ProfMRitchie


Page5.41

BL4301PolarEcology:AfieldcourseinAntarcticaSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel10 Semester: WholeYear


Plannedtimetable: Tobearranged.This module will provide a theoretical and practical introduction to the marine ecology of Antarctica withemphasisonmarinetoppredators (seabirdsandmarinemammals),ecosystemfunctionalityandconservationissues.Studentswillparticipateinatwo-weekvessel-basedexpeditiontoAntarcticaduringtheaustralsummer(northernwinter).This field trip involves traveling to southernArgentina, conductingat-sea surveysofwhales,seals and sea birds during transit to/from the Antarctic Peninsula, participating in shore-based activities (e.g.observations at penguin colonies, visit to active research station), and exploringAntarctic coastalwaters fromsmallboatsandtheice-strengthenedvessel.Throughaseriesoflectures,workshops,on-boardpracticalsandfieldexcursions, students will gain appreciation of and insights into the diversity, complexity, scientific andmanagementchallengesoftheAntarcticecoregion.Participatingstudentswillneedtocoveralllogisticexpensesviapaymentofasubstantialexpeditionfee.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforEcologyandConservation,MarineBiology,SustainableDevelopmentandallBiologyJointorMajor/MinorDegreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): BL2105,BL3308,BL3318orequivalentpreferredbutnotessential;MedicalcertificatedocumentingfitfortraveltoremoteAntarctica


Weeklycontact:2.5-weekfieldtripinvolvingextensivetraveland100hoursofcontacttimeontheship





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrSHeinrich

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrSHeinrich,DrLBoehme


Page5.42

BL4601ResearchProjectDevelopmentandMethodologySCOTCATCredits: 20 SCQFLevel10 Semester: WholeYear


Availabilityrestrictions: AvailableonlytostudentsontheMBiochem,MBiolandMMarBioldegreeprogrammes

Plannedtimetable: DistancelearningduringExternalPlacement

Thisdistancelearningmodulewilllookindetailattheprocessesinvolvedincreatingascientificresearchproject.The aimof themodule is for the students to develop independent thought in experimental design.While onplacement,a seriesofonlineassessmentswill test the students’ability to criticallyanalyse research literature,identifycoreandspecialised techniques in thebiosciences,designexperiments for specific researchquestions,quantitativelyandstatisticallyanalysedataandpublishresearchintheappropriatemanner.Thestudentsshouldultimatelygainvaluableskillsnecessaryforsuccessfulindependentresearchcareers.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryfortheMBiochem,MBiol,MMarBiol.

Pre-requisite(s): ApprovedentryontotheMBiochem,MBiolorMMarBioldegreeprogrammes

Requiredfor: BL5410


ThisisaStudyAbroadorWorkPlacementmodule.Weeklycontact:1tutorialeachweekfor5weeks.





Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrJNairn,DrGPrescott,DrASmith,ProfMRyan,DrUSchwarz-Linek


Page5.43

BL4602ExternalResearchPlacementSCOTCATCredits: 100 SCQFLevel10 Semester: WholeYear


Availabilityrestrictions: AvailableonlytostudentsontheMBiochem,MBiolandMMarBioldegreeprogrammes

Plannedtimetable: Externalplacement

Themodule constitutes an independent 7-12month external research placement hosted by an independentinstitute/company.Theprojectwillbefullysupervisedatthehost institute/companyandstudentperformancewillbeassessedjointlybytheimmediatesupervisorandamemberofstaffintheSchoolofBiology.Duringthemodulestudentswillhavetheopportunitytopracticeandlearnarangeofscientificandgenericskills,includinganelementofindependentworking,inaworkingenvironmentoutsideStAndrews.Ultimately,themodulewillallowstudentstogainsubstantialresearchexperienceandworkexperiencethusenhancingtheirfutureemployability.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryfortheMBiochem,MBiolandMMarBioldegreeprogrammes

Pre-requisite(s): ApprovedentryontotheMBiochem,MBiolorMMarBioldegreeprogrammes

Requiredfor: BL5410


ThisisaStudyAbroadorWorkPlacementmodule.Weeklycontact:ExternalPlacement







Page5.44

BL5410AdvancedTopicsinBiomolecularSciencesSCOTCATCredits: 30 SCQFLevel11 Semester: WholeYear


Plannedtimetable: Weeks1-3:2x2-hourseminarsperweek,Weeks3-11:7x1.5-hourSchoolofBiologyseminarsanddiscussionplus2x1-hourtutorialsoverthe9-weeks

This module will allow you to develop in-depth knowledge of research that is at the forefront of modernbiomolecularsciences.YouwillhearaboutanddiscusscurrentresearchtakingplacewithintheSchoolofBiologythrough tailored seminars andbyattending the School seminar series. Youwill thenhave theopportunity tostudyoneoftheseareasindepthasyouwriteareviewarticleonthesubjectarea.Youwillthenconsiderhowtodevelop your research area into a funding application and into an industrial business plan. Your learningthroughoutthemodulewillbesupportedby1:1tutorialsthatwillguidethedevelopmentofyourreviewarticleandresearchproposals.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforMBiochemprogramme

Pre-requisite(s): BL4601andBL4602


Weeklycontact:2x2-hourseminars(x7weeks),1-hourtutorial(x7week),1.5-hourseminar/discussionsession(x22weeks)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrJTilsner(Semester1)andDrRGuimaraesdaSilva(Semester2)

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): Teamtaught

BL5420AdvancedMicroscopyandImageAnalysis–SeeingisBelieving




Thismodulewill introduce you to advanced imaging techniques, such as Confocal, Super-resolution, TIRF andElectronMicroscopyandhowthesetechniqueshavebeenutilisedtoaddressfundamentalquestionsinCellandDevelopmentalBiology.YouwillgettheopportunitytoresearchtechniquesthatareattheforefrontofmodernBiologyandtodevelopskillsinImageJanalysisofimagingdata,askillthatwillbecentraltotheadvancementofbioscienceinthecomingyears.Activitieswillbesupplementedwithresearchtalksfromacademicsatthecuttingedgeoftheirfieldandtheopportunitytoseeadvancedimagingtechniquesinpractice.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalfortheMBiochem.OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiologyandMolecularBiologyBSc(Hons)Degreeprogrammes.

Pre-requisite(s): BL3303and/orBL3315


Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMBischoff

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMBischoff,ProfFGunn-Moore,DrJSleeman


Page5.45

BL5421ChromatinandGenomeStabilitySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel11 Semester: 2



Thismodulewill introduceyoutothefundamentalconceptsofchromatinstructureandfunctionandhowthisaffectsgenomestability.DNArepairandtelomeremaintenanceareperhapsthemostsignificantfactorsaffectinggenomestabilityandtheseprocessesarecentraltotheunderstandingofcancercellbiology.Indeed,mostexistinganti-cancer agents induce DNA damage and current efforts to target chromatin factors therapeutically areshowingpromise.YouwillhavetheopportunitytoindependentlyresearchandpresentseminarsontheappliedbiologyofchromatinandDNArepairwithinmodelorganismssuchasbuddingyeast,CaenorhabditiselegansandDrosophilamelanogaster.Theseminarsandstudentpresentationswillbesupplementedwithguestlecturesfromscientists at the cutting edge of chromatin research and studentswill also have the opportunity to engage inresearchdebatesontopicsattheforefrontofmoderncancerbiology.Importantly,youwillbeexpectedtodesignanddefendaresearchproposalthataddressesanunsolvedquestionofyourchoicewithinthefieldofgenomestability.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalfortheMBiochem.OptionalforBiochemistry,CellBiologyandMolecularBiologyBSc(Hons)Degreeprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:1x2-hourseminar.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrHFerreira

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrHFerreira

BL5440MajorReviewPaperinEvolutionaryBiologySCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel11 Semester: 1


Plannedtimetable:

Studentswillprepareamajorreviewpaper,reviewingacurrenttopicinevolutionarybiology.Extensiveone-to-oneworkwithstaffwillaffordstudentstheopportunitytoproduceahighlypolishedarticle.Thepaperwillbesubmitted forpeer (classmate) review,andwill receiveeditorialguidanceonchanges fromstaffbeforea finalversionissubmitted.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforallBiologydegrees

Pre-requisite(s): BL2105andBL3307,possibleexceptionsondiscretionofinstructors


Weeklycontact:2-hourseminar(x5weeks),1-hourtutorial(week3,4,6)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrMMorrissey

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrMMorrissey,DrAGardner,ProfOGaggiotti


Page5.46

BL5441AnimalCognitionSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel11 Semester: 1



Inthismodulewewillinvestigatethecognitiveabilitiesofanimals,withparticularinterestinunderstandingtheadaptivevalueofthoseabilities.Thismeansthatalthoughwewilldevelopanunderstandingofanimalcognitionbased on standard animal models (typically rats and pigeons), we will extend those principles to addressingcognitiveabilitiesin‘real’animalsbehavinginthe‘real’world.WewilluseShettleworth’sbook,alreadythekeyanimalcognitiontext,asourstartingpointwithstudent-ledseminarsprovidingbreadthbypresentingexamplesfromtherecentburgeoningofliteratureonnon-modelanimals.Theresultwillbeastimulatingopportunitytodevelopacriticalunderstandingofhowanimalsperceivetheirworld,howtheircognitiveabilitiesareshapedbythatworldandhowthoseabilitiesleadtoreproductivesuccess.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiology,BehaviouralBiology,Biology&Psychology,Ecology&Conservation,EnvironmentalScience(&assoc’d),EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,andZoologyHonoursProgrammes.



Weeklycontact:3-hourseminar(x10weeks),3-hourlecture(x1week)



AsusedbyStAndrews:2-hourWrittenExamination=50%,Presentation=50%

Re-Assessmentpattern: 3-hourWrittenExamination=100%

ModuleCo-ordinator: DrSHealy

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrSHealy


Page5.47

BL5442AdvancedBiologicalStatisticsSCOTCATCredits: 15 SCQFLevel11 Semester: 1



Thepurposeofthemoduleistogivestudentsanappreciationofrecentdevelopmentsinstatisticalanalysisandtoprovidethemwithastrategyforapproachingadataanalysis.Themodulewillintroducetheconceptofthe"new"statistics and will highlight recent developments in statistics and the common problems associated with theanalysis of ecological and evolutionary data. Data explorationwill be discussed and alternative approaches tomodel selectionwillbeconsidered.Considerationwillbegiven toGLMs,GLMMs,GAMsandGAMMsand theanalysis of count data and zero-inflated data will be considered. The concept of Bayesian inference will beintroduced, including MCMC estimation methods, and a detailed consideration of its application in ecologypresented.Themodulewill includeguidanceonunderstandingand interpretingreportedstatisticsthroughtheuseofspecificcasestudies.

Programmemoduletype: OptionalforBiology,Ecology&Conservation,EnvironmentalScience(&assoc’d),EvolutionaryBiology,MarineBiology,andZoologyBScHonoursProgrammesandMBiolandMMarBiolIntegratedMastersprogrammes.



Weeklycontact:2hoursoflectures(x6weeks),2hoursofseminars(x5weeks)





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrCSmith

Lecturer(s)/Tutor(s): DrCSmith,DrRSpence


Page5.48

BL5499AdvancedLaboratoryResearchProjectSCOTCATCredits: 60 SCQFLevel11 Semester: WholeYear


Plannedtimetable: variable,asneeded

This project will involve extensive and advanced laboratory work to investigate a defined problem withinbiochemistry, appropriate to the MBiochem degree. The project will involve initiative and independence inexperimentaldesignandinpursuingtheliterature,excellentexperimentalandanalyticaltechniques.Theprojectwillbeginwithanassessedprojectproposalandculminate intheproductionofahigh-qualitydissertationthatintegratesanawarenessof theprojectsubjectandacritical,extensiveanddetailedknowledgeof therelevanttheories,conceptsandprincipals.StudentswillbeallocatedtoamemberofstaffwithintheSchoolofBiologywhowillguideandadvisetheminresearchactivitiesthroughouttheacademicyear.Theprojectwillbepresentedintheformofaproposal,aresearchdissertation,anoralpresentationandaviva.

Programmemoduletype: CompulsoryforMBiochem

Pre-requisite(s): BL4601andBL4602


Weeklycontact:1dedicatedmeetingwithsupervisorperweek.





ModuleCo-ordinator: DrCAdamson


school of biology - university of st andrews · 2019-09-03 · school of biology general degree...

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