BSc Biochemistry (C700)

Course Code UNU1C700301
Duration 3 Years
Attendance Full Time
Award Degree of Bachelor of Science

Overview
Why Choose Us
Requirements
Course Profile
Fees and Funding
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Overview

This is a single Honours programme run between the School of Biological Sciences, the School of Chemistry and the School of Pharmacy. In the early stages it provides a sound foundation in the chemical principles that underlie biochemistry and introduces aspects of cellular and molecular biology.

In the second year, a wide range of courses is offered by both Schools which provides you with the opportunity to bias your degree programme towards biology or chemistry as suits your interests. In the final year, specialist courses are available which deal with current developments in various biochemically-related fields, such as medicinal chemistry, plant or microbial biotechnology and protein engineering. Final year research projects in some of these fields may be carried out in either School or in the affiliated Institutes.

In both the second and third years you also have 20 credits of Free Choice which allows you to select from a huge range of units offered by BIO and other Schools within the University.

Course Organiser

Dr Nick Watmough

Course Brochure

View Course Brochure

Related Courses

BSc Biochemistry (with a Year in industry) (UNU1C720401)

Why Choose Us?

Biological Sciences now offer 20 different full-time undergraduate degree programmes (plus three part-time degrees) in a wide range of subjects. Approximately 150 new undergraduates join us each year to study Biological Sciences (including a range of specialised programmes), Biomedicine, Biochemistry and Ecology.

Our students also have the opportunity of studying abroad for a year in either Europe, North America or Australasia, or spending a year in industry. Indeed we are one of a very few departments in the UK able to offer such a comprehensive spectrum of biology-related degree programmes.

Two of the distinguishing features of the degree courses we offer are excellence and choice. You are able to choose from a large number of degree programmes composed of a wide range of teaching modules. Lectures and seminars introduce the latest ideas and understanding of biology, and you will gain a thorough training in modern experimental methodology through hands-on practical or fieldwork sessions.

Why Study Biology?

The biological sciences comprise a broad range of inter-linked disciplines which encompass the study of life from the molecular level, through cells, tissues and organisms, to populations and ecosystems.

As well as being intellectually interesting, advances in the Biological Sciences have direct relevance to our everyday lives. Examples of this are to be found in new medical treatments, increased agricultural output, the protection of endangered species and the development of new food products. These breakthroughs have improved the quality of life for millions of people over the past few decades, and led to a greater understanding of our impact on the environment and the need for better resource management and conservation.

Some examples of recent advances include:

The development of new vaccines
The development of rapid and accurate diagnostic tests for infectious diseases
The production of recombinant hormones in bacteria, e.g. insulin for the treatment of diabetes
The development of new techniques for the forensic detection of crimeThe development of disease and drought resistant strains of crop plants
The designation of thousands of wildlife reserves and national parks worldwide to protect and conserve endangered species and areas of special ecological interest
The development of biological control techniques to combat weeds and pests thereby reducing the use of herbicides and insecticides
The development of bioremediation – using naturally occurring plants or microbes to clean up pollution, e.g. oil spills

Continuing research into the biological sciences is essential if we are to overcome problems such as cancer, HIV and tuberculosis, find ways to treat or cure genetic diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Cystic Fibrosis, unlock the secrets encoded in the Human Genome Sequence, protect endangered species, conserve ‘at risk’ habitats, and combat threats such as bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases. Biological Scientists are at the forefront of biomedical, pharmaceutical, agricultural and ecological research, so if you are looking for an exciting, flexible field of study with excellent career prospects, both within science and in the wider employment market, then look no further than the biological sciences.

Entry Requirements

A Level ABB including Chemistry.
International Baccalaureate 32 points with 3 HL Subjects at Grade 5 including Chemistry.
Scottish Highers AABBB including Chemistry and one other science subject.
Scottish Advanced Highers ABB including Chemistry. Other Sciences at Advanced Higher level would confer an advantage.
Irish Leaving Certificate AABBBB at higher level including Chemistry and at least two other science subjects.
Access Course See below
HND Please contact university for further information.
European Baccalaureate 75% overall, including 7.5 in Chemistry.

Students for whom English is a foreign language

If English is not your first language you must have a recognised English Language qualification: Minimum IELTS 6.0 with a 5.5 in each sub-section, or TOEFL 550 (213 CBT / 80 IBT). Please contact us for more information about other qualifications that we may consider.

If you do not meet the academic and or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

International Foundation in the Sciences

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

A2-level Chemistry is required for this course. In addition to this, applicants are asked to have two other A2-level subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 credits in Chemistry

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English Language at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3

Year 1

Essential Study (110 credits)

Students will select 110 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Bonding, Structure & Periodicity The first six lectures of this module are integrated with CHE-1C1Y. The first half of the module brings together fundamental concepts associated with the bonding and structure of inorganic and organic materials, including atomic structure, electron configurations, ionic and covalent bonding, and intermolecular forces. The second half of the module builds on the bonding and structural ideas to explain the structure of the Periodic Table. Trends, comparisons and contrasts will be drawn between the elements of the s/p block metals, non-metals and the transition metals. more...	CHE-1C3Y	20	Year Period
Chemistry Laboratory (B) This 10-credit, laboratory-based module exposes the students to experimental and computational aspects of different areas of chemistry: organic, inorganic, analytical and physical. The experiments and simulations exemplify the content of lectures in other modules and provide practical chemistry skills. more...	CHE-1H0Y	10	Year Period
Chemistry of Carbon-Based Compounds Compatible with CHE 1C3Y, or a free-standing module with workload greater than average for 20 credits. The first six lectures of this module are integrated with CHE-1C3Y. The module then introduces bonding and hybridisation, conjugation and aromaticity, mechanism and functional groups; principles which are elucidated in topics: electrophilic substitution and addition, organometallic nucleophiles, polar multiple bonds, enolate, Claisen, and Mannich reactions, the Strecker synthesis, stereochemistry (enantiomers and diastereoisomers), SN1/SN2 and E1/E2 reactions, and epoxidation / 1,2-addition to alkenes. Finally, organic synthesis (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohols, alkyl halides, ethers, amines, ketones, carboxylic acids) and the identification of organic structures by spectroscopy are described. more...	CHE-1C1Y	20	Year Period
Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Biochemistry The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry and cell biology. Basic biochemical processes will be explored, as well as catalysis and enzymology. There will be an introduction to the nature of the living cell, its membranes, and organelles, how cells communicate and also how they are visualised. more...	BIO-1A14	20	Semester 2
Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. The module explores the fundamental properties of macromolecules, DNA structure, synthesis and replication, as well as the structure and function of proteins. The genetic code, genes and their expression will be covered as well as the rapidly expanding area of molecular biology. The module also covers chromosome structure, mechanisms of heredity, medical genetics and cytogenetics. more...	BIO-1A13	20	Semester 1
Physical Biochemistry THIS MODULE IS RUNNING IN 2012/3 ONLY. BIO-1A15 is open to students registered on Biochemistry, Biomedicine, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry, Science with a Foundation Year and Natural Science degree programmes. This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the physical principles that underpin understanding of biological systems, drugs and the interactions between them. Topics that are discussed include thermodynamics, kinetics, acid-base chemistry, electrochemistry and spectroscopy. Students must have A-Level chemistry or equivalent. more...	BIO-1A15	10	Semester 1
Seminars in Biochemistry This year-long module combines small-group seminars and lectures. Seminars will discuss biochemical aspects of material covered in Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics (BIO-1A13), Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Biochemistry (BIO-1A14) and Physical Biochemistry (PHAN1HE1). You will use a range of literature- and web-based methods to prepare for seminars on topics including: DNA biochemistry, amino acids, acid-base chemistry, protein structure, electronic absorbance spectroscopy, enzyme kinetics and thermodynamic aspects of respiration. Lectures on this module will emphasise how to access scientific material and use it critically in essays, oral presentations and posters. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A3Y	10	Year Period

Option A Study (10 credits)

Students will select 10 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Mathematical Principles The module provides students without A-level Mathematics with the basic skills necessary for the appreciation of the more mathematical and quantitative aspects of chemistry. It includes an introduction to differential and integral calculus. It is not available to students with A-level Mathematics. more...	CHE-1H61	10	Semester 1
Physical Principles This module provides students without A-level Physics with an introduction to the basic physical principles necessary for a more complete understanding of chemistry and related subjects. It is not available to students with an A-level of grade C or above in Physics. more...	CHE-1H63	10	Semester 1

Year 2

Essential Study (80 credits)

Students will select 80 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biochemistry This module builds on the principles of biochemistry taught in BIO-1A14. Selected topics in intermediary metabolism are covered in greater depth and extended to include the specific roles of coenzymes in metabolic pathways. In turn this leads to a discussion of the roles of hormone-receptor interactions and signal transduction in metabolic regulation. The recent contributions of structural biology to cellular biochemistry are acknowledged in both the lecture series and associated practical classes, whilst ATP utilization is illustrated by consideration of the active transport of molecules across membranes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. more...	BIO-2B01	20	Semester 1
Biophysical Chemistry This module explores the structural, kinetic and thermodynamic properties of biological systems and the methodologies used to define them. Using predominantly examples from protein biochemistry, these topics will be discussed within three major themes: 1) Binding, activation and transfer in biological systems, 2) Enzyme catalysis, and 3) Macromolecular size, shape and structure determination. The concluding lectures will explore protein disorder, folding and structure to illustrate how biophysicists integrate concepts and methods from each of these themes when addressing a specific research topic. more...	CHE-2F7Y	20	Year Period
Medicinal Chemistry This module is concerned with the broad aspects of medicinal chemistry, from the discovery of lead compounds and the recognition of biological activity, to the production of pharmaceuticals. Biological activity is discussed in terms of metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and structure-activity relationships (SAR). Drug targets and their exploitation in drug therapies are also discussed. The medicinal chemistry content of this module contains aspects of both chemistry and biology. Therefore the course is started with a series of 'introductory' seminars relevant to BIO and CHEM students on underlying principles. more...	CHE-2F8Y	20	Year Period
Molecular Biology The module provides an introduction to the principles of molecular biology. The programme starts with the structure of DNA, genes and genomes, followed by the characterisation of the information flow including the mechanisms and regulation of transcription and translation. Protein folding, modification and turnover are described together with reactions concerning DNA (replication, recombination and repair). The module ends with a detailed description of methods used for the experimental manipulation of genetic material (gene isolation, DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction, molecular cloning, transgenic plants and animals and global functional genomics). Practical work includes an introduction to molecular biology techniques together with computer assisted DNA and protein sequence analysis. more...	BIO-2B02	20	Semester 2

Option A Study (40 credits)

Students will select 40 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Cell Biology This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of dynamic cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell membranes, cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (nuclear organisation and information flow, cell growth, division and motility), the relationship of the cell to its extracellular matrix and the determination of cell phenotype. Aspects of cell death, the ageing process, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 or BIO-2B17. more...	BIO-2B06	20	Semester 2
Genetics This module will describe the basis of heredity, describing both the functions and the structures of genes and whole genomes. Examples will be taken from bacterial, animal and plant systems and will be considered from both functional and molecular points of view. The influence of the "new genetics" on medicine, agriculture and society will also be covered. Practical work will involve a molecular genetic analysis of a symbiotic, nitrogen-fixing bacterium and a molecular mapping exercise of traits that confer disease resistance in plants. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 (Molecular Biology). more...	BIO-2B17	20	Semester 1
Human Physiology The module aims to provide an understanding of the physiology of several organ systems found within the human body. Learning Outcomes: On completion of the module it is expected the student will have gained an understanding of: - Information transmission within the body by the nervous system and the integrative processes within the spinal cord and brain. - Reaction to the environment through reception of external stimuli by sensory receptors, such as the eye. - Effector systems, including muscle contraction and its control. - Respiration, gas transport, blood circulation and heart function. - Kidney function in excretion and in water and mineral ion homeostasis - The digestive system and nutrition, including patterns of health and sickness. - Endocrine regulation and integration, including reproduction cycles in the female. The module is backed up with a comprehensive programme of practical work involving human physiological experiments. more...	BIO-2B05	20	Semester 1
Inorganic Chemistry The central theme of the module is the chemistry of the p and d block elements: structure and bonding, coordination complexes and the organometallic chemistry of main group and transition metals. The module includes laboratory work. more...	CHE-2C32	20	Semester 2
Organic Chemistry The topics covered in the module include an introduction to organic synthesis, carbon-carbon bond forming reactions, aromaticity, heterocyclic chemistry, and stereochemistry and mechanism. The module includes laboratory work. more...	CHE-2C11	20	Semester 1

Year 3

Compulsory Study (60 credits)

Students will select 60 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Data Analysis An alternative to the laboratory or field based project (BIO-3D1Y). The module involves the student undertaking their own rigorous analysis of existing biological data (either from the literature or from biological databases). The source of the data for analysis is provided by the project supervisor. The project report is usually submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Projects may also be available for suitably qualified year long visiting students registered in BIO. more...	BIO-3D2Y	40	Year Period
Molecular Enzymology The module sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes in biological systems. Covered are the underlying principles of enzyme catalysis and techniques for the study of enzyme mechanism and structure. These provide a foundation for discussions of the catalytic and cellular mechanisms of proteinase families such as the serine and metalloproteinases as well as mechanism-based drug design for the retroviral aspartic proteinase, HIV-1pr. Covered also are molecular motors , complex nanomachines involved in vesicle transport, ATP synthesis and DNA replication. Finally, the biosynthesis of the signalling molecule nitric oxide and the P450s involved in the metabolism of drugs and other xenobiotics are presented. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the module. more...	BIO-3C01	20	Semester 1
Research Project Open to all BIO finalists (or BIO-3D2Y, Data Analysis, or BIO-3C40, Scientific Research Skills) except those on C180/2/3/4 (who take BIO-3C9Y). Projects involve extensive data collection, either in the laboratory or field, of a particular topic supervised by a member of staff of BIO or an affiliated institute. Topics are chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The project report is submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Projects may also be available for suitably qualified year long visiting students registered in BIO. more...	BIO-3D1Y	40	Year Period

Option A Study (40 credits)

Students will select 40 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Cell Biology and Mechanisms of Disease This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells in health and disease. It includes demonstrations of some of the imaging techniques used in the study of Cell Biology and workshops focused on how to design experiments and analyse research papers. Topics to be covered include: ubiquitination, the cytoskeleton and mechanics of cell division, signalling and cell migration, differentiation and apoptosis. more...	BIO-3C18	20	Semester 2
Cellular Signalling The module deals with signal transduction mechanisms, particularly in mammalian cells and with emphasis on human disease. Topics include the molecular basis of cell surface receptor activation, G-protein coupled receptors, kinases/phosphatases, 2nd messengers such as calcium and inositol lipids, and ion channels. The module then goes on to consider signalling mechanisms important for cell growth, differentiation and survival. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.) more...	BIO-3C03	20	Semester 1
Communication and Transport Across Biological Membranes The biological activity of cellular membranes is mediated by an array of fascinating and highly specialised proteins embedded within the lipid bilayer. These proteins support essential functions such as sensing, signalling, transport and energy transduction and form the focus of this module. An introduction to the principles that govern the structure of these proteins is followed by a series of case studies that explore the link between protein structure, location and function that includes the following; aquaporins and water transport, bacteriorhodopsin and light driven proton movements and hypoxia signalling by mitochondrial proteins. NB students who do not have the pre-requisite module (BIO-2B01), but who have taken and passed BIO-1A13, BIO-1A61 and either BIO-2B06 or BIO-2B28 can take this module if they obtain the agreement of the module organiser. more...	BIO-3C02	20	Semester 2
Genomes, Genes and Genomics This module will provide a description of contemporary biological studies of genomes. There will be a focus on a molecular understanding of gene expression within organisms, with a particular emphasis on regulatory processes that affect expression at the genome level. Topics to be covered include comparative and functional genomics, organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, global regulation of genome expression and mechanisms involved in maintaining genome integrity. Lectures and the associated practical will also provide a thorough grounding in technologies that analyse genomes and their gene products. more...	BIO-3C41	20	Semester 1
Infection and Immunity This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host and responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of microbiological pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are used to illustrate major virulence strategies. The impact of genomics on the study of infection, and on mechanisms used by pathogens to evade host responses will be discussed. The module's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface. more...	BIO-3C28	20	Semester 2
Microbial Cell Biology This module will cover recent developments in several areas of microbial cell biology, including the cell envelope, cell division, differentiation, secretion, gene expression and cell signalling. The material will be taught in seminar-type sessions by scientists from across the Norwich Research Park, all of whom are experts in their chosen subjects. This exciting module will bring you the most cutting edge research in microbial cell biology. more...	BIO-3C10	20	Semester 2
Molecular and Cellular Principles of Development This module will discuss the molecular and cellular principles that drive embryonic development, including the signals and signalling pathways that lead to the establishment of the body plan, pattern formation and differentiation/organogenesis. Lectures will cover a number of different model organism used in the study of development including plants and Drosophila, however there is a focus on vertebrate systems. The relevance of embryonic development to our understanding of human development and disease is a recurring theme throughout the module. more...	BIO-3C39	20	Semester 1
Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions Plants interact with a whole range of microbes with effects that are both beneficial (e.g. nitrogen-fixing symbioses between legumes with Rhizobium, and the wide ranging mycorrhizal interactions between plants and fungi) and harmful, with many diseases being caused by viruses, fungi and oomycetes. The module will encompass examples of all these interactions, addressing them mainly from a molecular level, both in the ways in which the microbes recognise and invade their specific hosts and in the responses and mechanisms used by the host plant to encourage the good microbes and fight off the bad ones. The Norwich Research Park is a world centre for this subject, and the module will be taught by researchers from the John Innes Centre and the Sainsbury Laboratory, as well as from UEA. There is no pre-requisite for this module, but knowledge of both plant and molecular biology would be advantageous. more...	BIO-3C20	20	Semester 2
Natural Products and Drugs A The module examines examples of biogenesis, chemical synthesis and biological action of selected products and pharmaceutical chemicals. Specifically fatty acids, prostaglandins, polyketides and alkaloids are introduced. Students enrolled on this module will benefit from a number of complementary lectures delivered by guest lecturers from both academia and industry. Even though CHE-2F8Y is listed as a Pre-requisite it can be alternatively taken at the same time as this module. THIS MODULE ALTERNATES WITH CHE-3H18 and will run in Spring Semester 2012/13. more...	CHE-3H16	10	Semester 2
Organic Compounds: Synthesis and Properties This module starts by considering the concept of retrosynthetic analysis. Strategies for the disconnection and synthesis of complex molecular targets will be considered. An introduction to Asymmetric Synthesis follows, which covers nomenclature, synthesis using 'chiral pool' starting materials, chiral auxiliaries and catalytic asymmetric synthesis. Organometallic chemistry is covered next, giving particular emphasis to transition metal catalysis and mediated processes. This part of the course surveys new methods for bond formation and provides practice in the skills detailed in the planning and execution of syntheses of complex organic target molecules. The course is completed by looking at the application of sulfur, selenium and silicon to modern organic chemistry. more...	CHE-3C11	20	Semester 1
Protein Engineering This module builds on CHE-3H81 Protein Structure and Chemistry, and covers how protein structures can be altered by biological and chemical procedures, and the principles underlying the design of proteins for specific tasks. Topics include the creation of artificial enzymes though the use of peptide dendrimers and of artificial metallo-enzymes by non-covalent insertion of a metallocomplexes into protein scaffolds. Examples of engineered proteins designed for a range of industrial and medical uses are considered. more...	CHE-3H84	10	Semester 2
Protein Structure and Chemistry This module provides an introduction to the diversity of protein structures, their properties and to interactions between proteins and metal ions. Lectures cover protein structure, protein stability and folding, molecular modelling, the chemical principles of protein-metal interactions, spectroscopic techniques for studying protein metal centres, and the techniques employed in protein structure determination by X-ray crystallography. more...	CHE-3H81	10	Semester 1

Option B Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Cell Biology and Mechanisms of Disease This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells in health and disease. It includes demonstrations of some of the imaging techniques used in the study of Cell Biology and workshops focused on how to design experiments and analyse research papers. Topics to be covered include: ubiquitination, the cytoskeleton and mechanics of cell division, signalling and cell migration, differentiation and apoptosis. more...	BIO-3C18	20	Semester 2
Cellular Signalling The module deals with signal transduction mechanisms, particularly in mammalian cells and with emphasis on human disease. Topics include the molecular basis of cell surface receptor activation, G-protein coupled receptors, kinases/phosphatases, 2nd messengers such as calcium and inositol lipids, and ion channels. The module then goes on to consider signalling mechanisms important for cell growth, differentiation and survival. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.) more...	BIO-3C03	20	Semester 1
Communication and Transport Across Biological Membranes The biological activity of cellular membranes is mediated by an array of fascinating and highly specialised proteins embedded within the lipid bilayer. These proteins support essential functions such as sensing, signalling, transport and energy transduction and form the focus of this module. An introduction to the principles that govern the structure of these proteins is followed by a series of case studies that explore the link between protein structure, location and function that includes the following; aquaporins and water transport, bacteriorhodopsin and light driven proton movements and hypoxia signalling by mitochondrial proteins. NB students who do not have the pre-requisite module (BIO-2B01), but who have taken and passed BIO-1A13, BIO-1A61 and either BIO-2B06 or BIO-2B28 can take this module if they obtain the agreement of the module organiser. more...	BIO-3C02	20	Semester 2
Genomes, Genes and Genomics This module will provide a description of contemporary biological studies of genomes. There will be a focus on a molecular understanding of gene expression within organisms, with a particular emphasis on regulatory processes that affect expression at the genome level. Topics to be covered include comparative and functional genomics, organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, global regulation of genome expression and mechanisms involved in maintaining genome integrity. Lectures and the associated practical will also provide a thorough grounding in technologies that analyse genomes and their gene products. more...	BIO-3C41	20	Semester 1
Human Physiology The module aims to provide an understanding of the physiology of several organ systems found within the human body. Learning Outcomes: On completion of the module it is expected the student will have gained an understanding of: - Information transmission within the body by the nervous system and the integrative processes within the spinal cord and brain. - Reaction to the environment through reception of external stimuli by sensory receptors, such as the eye. - Effector systems, including muscle contraction and its control. - Respiration, gas transport, blood circulation and heart function. - Kidney function in excretion and in water and mineral ion homeostasis - The digestive system and nutrition, including patterns of health and sickness. - Endocrine regulation and integration, including reproduction cycles in the female. The module is backed up with a comprehensive programme of practical work involving human physiological experiments. more...	BIO-2B05	20	Semester 1
Infection and Immunity This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host and responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of microbiological pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are used to illustrate major virulence strategies. The impact of genomics on the study of infection, and on mechanisms used by pathogens to evade host responses will be discussed. The module's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface. more...	BIO-3C28	20	Semester 2
Inorganic Chemistry The central theme of the module is the chemistry of the p and d block elements: structure and bonding, coordination complexes and the organometallic chemistry of main group and transition metals. The module includes laboratory work. more...	CHE-2C32	20	Semester 2
Microbial Cell Biology This module will cover recent developments in several areas of microbial cell biology, including the cell envelope, cell division, differentiation, secretion, gene expression and cell signalling. The material will be taught in seminar-type sessions by scientists from across the Norwich Research Park, all of whom are experts in their chosen subjects. This exciting module will bring you the most cutting edge research in microbial cell biology. more...	BIO-3C10	20	Semester 2
Microbiology A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist Level 3 modules. Detailed description is given about the cell biology of bacteria, fungi and protists together with microbial physiology, genetics and environmental and applied microbiology. The biology of disease-causing microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) and prions is also covered. Practical work provides hands-on experience of important microbiological techniques, and expands on concepts introduced in lectures. The module should appeal to biology students across a wide range of disciplines and interests. more...	BIO-2B28	20	Semester 2
Molecular and Cellular Principles of Development This module will discuss the molecular and cellular principles that drive embryonic development, including the signals and signalling pathways that lead to the establishment of the body plan, pattern formation and differentiation/organogenesis. Lectures will cover a number of different model organism used in the study of development including plants and Drosophila, however there is a focus on vertebrate systems. The relevance of embryonic development to our understanding of human development and disease is a recurring theme throughout the module. more...	BIO-3C39	20	Semester 1
Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions Plants interact with a whole range of microbes with effects that are both beneficial (e.g. nitrogen-fixing symbioses between legumes with Rhizobium, and the wide ranging mycorrhizal interactions between plants and fungi) and harmful, with many diseases being caused by viruses, fungi and oomycetes. The module will encompass examples of all these interactions, addressing them mainly from a molecular level, both in the ways in which the microbes recognise and invade their specific hosts and in the responses and mechanisms used by the host plant to encourage the good microbes and fight off the bad ones. The Norwich Research Park is a world centre for this subject, and the module will be taught by researchers from the John Innes Centre and the Sainsbury Laboratory, as well as from UEA. There is no pre-requisite for this module, but knowledge of both plant and molecular biology would be advantageous. more...	BIO-3C20	20	Semester 2
Natural Products and Drugs A The module examines examples of biogenesis, chemical synthesis and biological action of selected products and pharmaceutical chemicals. Specifically fatty acids, prostaglandins, polyketides and alkaloids are introduced. Students enrolled on this module will benefit from a number of complementary lectures delivered by guest lecturers from both academia and industry. Even though CHE-2F8Y is listed as a Pre-requisite it can be alternatively taken at the same time as this module. THIS MODULE ALTERNATES WITH CHE-3H18 and will run in Spring Semester 2012/13. more...	CHE-3H16	10	Semester 2
Organic Compounds: Synthesis and Properties This module starts by considering the concept of retrosynthetic analysis. Strategies for the disconnection and synthesis of complex molecular targets will be considered. An introduction to Asymmetric Synthesis follows, which covers nomenclature, synthesis using 'chiral pool' starting materials, chiral auxiliaries and catalytic asymmetric synthesis. Organometallic chemistry is covered next, giving particular emphasis to transition metal catalysis and mediated processes. This part of the course surveys new methods for bond formation and provides practice in the skills detailed in the planning and execution of syntheses of complex organic target molecules. The course is completed by looking at the application of sulfur, selenium and silicon to modern organic chemistry. more...	CHE-3C11	20	Semester 1
Plant Biology This module aims to provide an appreciation of modern plant biology with an emphasis on development, signalling and response to the environment. It consists of practical classes and lectures. It encompasses molecular genetics, molecular, biochemical and physiological perspectives, and affords an understanding of aspects of plant and plant cell function including photosynthesis and the mechanisms by which plants perceive and respond to biotic and abiotic environments. more...	BIO-2B07	20	Semester 1
Protein Engineering This module builds on CHE-3H81 Protein Structure and Chemistry, and covers how protein structures can be altered by biological and chemical procedures, and the principles underlying the design of proteins for specific tasks. Topics include the creation of artificial enzymes though the use of peptide dendrimers and of artificial metallo-enzymes by non-covalent insertion of a metallocomplexes into protein scaffolds. Examples of engineered proteins designed for a range of industrial and medical uses are considered. more...	CHE-3H84	10	Semester 2
Protein Structure and Chemistry This module provides an introduction to the diversity of protein structures, their properties and to interactions between proteins and metal ions. Lectures cover protein structure, protein stability and folding, molecular modelling, the chemical principles of protein-metal interactions, spectroscopic techniques for studying protein metal centres, and the techniques employed in protein structure determination by X-ray crystallography. more...	CHE-3H81	10	Semester 1

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Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.

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Biological Sciences

BSc Biochemistry (C700)

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