BL2309 Applied Molecular Biology
(BL2309 online module handbook version 122)
image: Applied Molecular Biology â ¬ A Powerful Box of Tools†
Techniques in molecular biology represent a powerful box of tools that are used to address a wide variety of modern research questions across a broad range of biological disciplines including; ecology, biotechnology, cell biology, medicine, conservation biology, infectious disease, evolution, genetics and synthetic biology. Key molecular biology techniques will be introduced in the context of case studies that will provide examples of how molecular biology techniques are being used in cutting edge research to address real-life questions and problems that impact health, food security, the environment and the economy.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 2†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL1101 and pass BL1102*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2309: Assessment
2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL2309: Contributing Staff †
BL2309: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL2309 successfully should be able to:
- Identify a range of key techniques that are commonly used in molecular biology.
- Describe the concepts behind key molecular biology techniques, which generally require the manipulation of DNA, RNA, protein or lipid.
- Discuss examples of how molecular biology techniques are used to address current questions and problems across a broad range of biological disciplines.
- Learn about the large scale omic approaches in biology with the integrated experimental design and data analysis
- Gain an understanding of molecular evolution and the application of comparative genomics
- Understand the molecular basis of evolution in ecology
- Describe the appplication of molecular tools to the detection, control and treatment of viral diseases
- Understand the molecular tools and techniques utilised in synthetic biology
- Be aware of the fundamental techniques used to genetically modify crops
BL2309: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Database interogation
- Mendelian genetics
Transferable Skills
- Group discussion - participating
- Short group presentation on given topic (up to 15 min)
- Short group presentation on project idea (up to 15 min)
- Short individual presentation on given topic (up to 15 min)
- Short informal presentation (using PowerPoint or not)
- "Short" practical write-up (e.g. completed worksheet)
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Searching databases
- Ethical considerations
- Online learning
- Problem-solving questions
- Biodiversity analysis
- Calculations/equations
- Concentrations
- Data analysis
- Data analysis (depending on project)
- Data presentation
- Descriptive statistics
- Draw a line of best fit
- Genetic Drift
- Linear regression
- Logarithms
- Phylogenetic analysis
- Powers of ten
- Produce graphs/figures
- Produce tables
- Use Excel
- Use other data analysis software
- Sustainability Related Skills
- Generate class dataset
- Working in large groups
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
