BSc Biology with Science Communication (C1P9)

Course Code UNU1C1P9301
Duration 3 Years
Attendance Full Time
Award Degree of Bachelor of Science

Overview
Why Choose Us
Requirements
Course Profile
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Overview

The BSc Biology with Science Communication programme integrates specialised modules that focus on science communication and its role in society, with a wide range of biological science teaching. An important and exciting aspect of our degree programme is the close relationship of this degree with UEA’s status as a “Beacon” for Public Engagement work, a status awarded to only six other UK Universities.

The School of Biological Sciences is very active in both its school and public engagement programmes and many members of teaching staff are experienced in this area.

In the BSc Biology with Science Communication, students have the opportunity to experience a breadth of study in all areas of biology including genetics, biotechnology, biochemistry, cell biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, microbiology and plant sciences. In year 2 of the programme you may choose some modules that are relevant to the study of society and science communication. Throughout your degree programme you will have the opportunity to take part in science communication projects in schools or with the general public.

As students will be working with children, it is necessary to have a Criminal Records Bureau check (CRB). All offers are made subject to a satisfactory criminal records screening. As all of our teaching is research-led, Science Communication students benefit from the expertise of active research scientists and the incorporation of recent scientific advances in the course material. The programme has a strong practical element and all students have the opportunity to undertake research projects in their final year.

Course Organiser

Dr Kay Yeoman

Course Brochure

View Course Brochure

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 to include Biology.
International Baccalaureate 32 points with 3 HL subjects at Grade 5 including Biology.
Scottish Highers AABBB to include Biology and two other science subjects.
Scottish Advanced Highers ABB to include Biology. Other Sciences at Advanced Higher level would confer an advantage.
Irish Leaving Certificate AABBBB at Higher Level including Biology and at least two other science subjects.
Access Course Please contact University for information
HND Please contact University for information
European Baccalaureate 75% overall to include 7.5 in Biology.

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

A Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check is required for this course. All offers are made subject to a satisfactory CRB screening.

A2-level Biology 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.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C at GCSE level.

Disclaimer

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.

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3

Year 1

Compulsory Study (20 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Foundations for Physiology Through a series of lectures, tutorials and practicals, BIO-1A58 aims to provide the basic knowledge of physico-chemical, biochemical and system-related mechanisms essential for the functioning of tissues, organs and organisms. Physiological processes like vision, hearing, respiration or temperature regulation are amongst the examples used throughout the module to demonstrate the interplay of these mechanisms. more...	BIO-1A58	10	Semester 2
Introductory Chemistry for Life Sciences This module will give students of biology a basic knowledge of general chemistry, to include aspects of inorganic and organic chemistry that are most relevant to the life sciences. more...	BIO-1A61	10	Semester 1

Essential Study (100 credits)

Students will select 100 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biodiversity An introduction to the evolution of the major groups of microorganisms, plants and animals. The module considers structural, physiological and life-cycle characteristics of these organisms. It charts the development of life on land and interprets evolutionary responses to changing environments. Students on this module are strongly advised to also take BIO-1A4Y and BIO-1A6Y. more...	BIO-1A03	20	Semester 1
Evolution, Behaviour and Ecology This module introduces the main ideas in behavioural ecology, evolutionary biology and ecology. It concentrates on outlining concepts as well as describing examples. Specific topics to be covered include the genetical basis of evolution by natural selection, systematics and phylogeny, the adaptive interpretation of animal sexual and social behaviour, ecological processes and population biology. more...	BIO-1A04	20	Semester 2
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
Maths and Statistics for Biologists A combination of lectures and workshops will be used to introduce a range of topics in maths and statistics that are absolutely essential for a contemporary undergraduate studying the biological sciences. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A6Y	10	Year Period
Skills for Biologists This year-long module combines small-group seminars with supporting lecture-based sessions. Material will support modules BIO-1A13, 1A14, 1A03 and 1A04. Students will learn how to access scientific material and to use it critically in essays, oral presentations and posters. This module will explore how such scientific material is disseminated to scientists and to the general public. There will also be data handling exercises. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A4Y	10	Year Period

Year 2

Compulsory Study (40 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biology in Society THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO ANY STUDENT THAT SATISFIES THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS. Alternative pre-requisites are BIO-1A03 and BIO-1A04, or BIO-1A13 and BIO-1A14. This module will provide an opportunity to discuss various aspects of biology in society. Students will be able to critically analyse the way biological sciences issues are represented in popular literature and the media and an idea of the current `hot topics' in biological ethics. Specific topics to be covered will involve aspects of contemporary biological science that have important ethical considerations for society, such as GM crops, DNA databases, designer babies, stem cell research etc. Being able to understand the difference between scientific fact and scientific fiction is not always straightforward. What was once viewed as science fiction has sometimes become a scientific fact or scientific reality as our scientific knowledge and technology has increased exponentially. Conversely, science fiction can sometimes be portrayed inaccurately as scientific fact. Students will research relevant scientific literature and discover the degree of scientific accuracy represented within the genre of science fiction. more...	BIO-2B1Y	20	Year Period
Science Communication Work Placement This module is reserved for students on the Biology with Science Communication degree programme (U1C1P9301). Students will spend one half day per week over a three month period working with the partner organisation on a specific project which has been agreed in advance between the partner organisation and UEA. more...	BIO-2B2Y	20	Year Period

Option A Study (80 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Analysing Film and Television The module is designed to provide students with core study skills and techniques and methods of textual analysis. The module will cover the analysis of a range of formal features and frameworks such as narrative, mise-en-scene, camera work, editing and sound used in the analysis of film and television. The study skills covered will include use of the library and internet for research, as well as note taking, essay planning and the conventions of academic writing. In the process the module will cover issues such as referencing and plagiarism. It will be taught by lecture, seminar and screening. more...	FTVF1F09	20	Semester 1
Behavioural Ecology In this module, the interrelationships between animal behaviour, ecology and evolution will be explored. Students will examine how behaviour has evolved to maximise survival and reproduction in the natural environment. Darwinian principles will provide the theoretical framework, within which the module will seek to explain the ultimate function of animal behaviours. Concepts and examples will be developed through the lecture series, exploring behaviours in the context of altruism, optimality, foraging, and particularly reproduction, the key currency of evolutionary success. In parallel with the lectures, students will design, conduct, analyse and present their own research project, collecting original data to answer a question about the adaptive significance of behaviour. more...	BIO-2B18	20	Semester 2
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
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
Community, Ecosystem and Macro-Ecology The module will introduce the main concepts in community, ecosystem and macro-ecology - patterns and processes related to species richness; diversity; stability; succession; primary and secondary productivity and energy flows. We will then examine how these concepts aid our understanding of the functioning of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. more...	BIO-2B26	20	Semester 2
Environmental Politics and Policy Making The most common obstacles to environmental problem solving are often not scientific or technological, but political. This module examines the theoretical and empirical development of environmental politics in modern society (mostly in Western Europe) including: the sources of modern environmentalism and its many manifestations in modern policy making systems; the environmental policies of the UK and the European Union; different theories of political power and public policy making; the role of environmental pressure groups and business; global environmental politics and policy making. The module encourages student-led learning by enabling students to develop their own theoretical interpretations of real world examples of politics. These are explored in seminar presentations and in an extended (4000 word) case study (i.e. essay). This module assumes no prior knowledge of politics/social sciences. more...	ENV-2A06	20	Semester 2
Evolutionary Biology The aim of this module is to provide a background in the concepts and principles of evolutionary biology. It includes discussion of genetic variation, population genetics, natural selection, population structure, ecological adaptation, life history characteristics, speciation, interactions among species, biological diversity, phylogeny and molecular ecology and biogeography. Workshop discussions are held weekly. more...	BIO-2B10	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 prokaryotic promoter sequence that will illustrate some important principles of the functional analysis of genes. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 (Molecular Biology). more...	BIO-2B17	20	Semester 1
Global Environmental Challenges What are the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today? How do we understand these problems through cutting-edge environmental science research? What are the possibilities for building sustainable solutions to address them in policy and society? In this module you will tackle these questions by taking an interdisciplinary approach to consider challenges relating to climate change, biodiversity, water resources, natural hazards, and technological risks. In doing so you will gain an insight into environmental science research `in action' and develop essential academic study skills needed to explore these issues. Please note this module is only available for ENV students and BIO Ecology students only. more...	ENV-1A29	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
Interactions and Populations In this module we will look closely at how interactions between individuals determine the structure and functioning of populations. We will consider both antagonistic interactions between members of different trophic levels, their evolution and their possible co-evolution. Consideration of competition will lead into the population consequences of both within trophic level and between trophic level interactions. We will then move on to consider spatially explicit population processes including meta population dynamics and possible ecological responses to climate change including range shifts. Students taking this module must have a background in basic statistics and have taken any Level 1 ecology module in ENV or BIO, or equivalent. more...	ENV-2A35	20	Semester 1
Introduction to British Sign Language I A beginners' course in British Sign Language assuming no prior or minimal knowledge of the language. It is designed to provide students with basic training in communication with deaf people and an awareness of life and culture in the deaf world. Teaching and learning strategies include the use of signed conversation, role play, games and exercises to embed vocabulary and principles unique to a visual language. Assessment is based on a Sign Language conversation and one short essay. The module can be taken in any year. Alternative groups may be available depending on student numbers. Students will have to attend one of the groups which will be taught on Mondays, 10.00 am - 12.30 pm (B2B3E4), 1.30 pm - 4.00 pm (C5C6C7), 5.00 pm - 7.30 pm ( A910EY) or Wednesdays, 14.30 pm - 17.00 pm (E6E7E8), subject to student enrolment/timetables. more...	LCSU1OB1	20	Semester 1
Medicine and Society in Modern Britain This module considers the practice of medicine in Britain from the eighteenth century to the establishment of the NHS. Themes include the impact of science and professions, the organisation and control aspects of medical and hospital services and healthcare as seen by sufferers and patients. These are seen in the context of broader topics in modern British social history. more...	HISH2B96	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 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
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
Research Skills for Social Scientists The study of society and its relationship to the natural environment poses distinct research challenges and social science presents a range of approaches and methods with which to address these problems. This module provides an introduction to the theory and practice of social science research. It covers research design, sampling, data collection, data analysis and interpretation, and presentation of results. It is recommended for any student intending to carry out a social science-based research project. Taught in the first half of the semester. more...	ENV-2A90	10	Semester 2
Sustainability and Society Striking a balance between societal development, economic growth and environmental protection has proven difficult and controversial. The terms `sustainability' and `sustainable development' have been used in attempts to reconcile these three areas. Yet the ill-defined and contradictory nature of these concepts has also hampered their implementation. This module considers sustainability in theory and practice by examining the relationships between environment and society, through the contributions of a variety of social science disciplines. Taught in the first half of semester. more...	ENV-1A28	10	Semester 2

Year 3

Compulsory Study (20 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Science Communication This module aims to bring an understanding of how science is disseminated to the public. Students on the module will be made aware of the theories surrounding learning and communication. They will investigate science as a culture and how this culture interfaces with the public. Students will examine case studies in a variety of different scientific areas. They will look at how information is released in scientific literature and how this is subsequently picked up by the public press. They will gain an appreciation of how science information can be used to change public perception and how it can sometimes be misinterpreted. Students will also learn practical skills by designing, running and evaluating a public outreach event at a school or in a public area. OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCIENCE FACULTY. more...	BIO-3C6Y	20	Year Period

Option A Study (80 credits)

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

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biodiversity Conservation and Human Society This is an inter-disciplinary module focusing on the interaction between ecology, biodiversity and human societies. It examines the human drivers of biodiversity loss, the importance of biodiversity to human society, conflicts between human society and conservation and how these can be resolved, and institutions for biodiversity conservation and environmental management. It is designed for students of Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Environmental Geography and International Development and Development Studies. This inter-disciplinary module does not require previous detailed knowledge of ecological mechanisms; where a simple understanding of key ecological processes is important, this will be reviewed and taught in class. Key principles, issues and theory are covered in lectures by UEA faculty. These are supported by case studies from external speakers working in conservation, environmental and resource management agencies and NGOs. The module will comprise 2 core lectures plus one workshop / seminar / outside speaker each week. The module will be assessed by a spring semester exam and coursework designed to develop skills in reviewing and interpreting evidence to non-scientists. This will comprise a briefing paper written for non-specialist policy makers, reviewing scientific evidence and areas of uncertainty on a conservation topic, and providing recommendations for UK government policy and identifying research needed, involving both group (written report max 1500 words, conducted in pairs) and individual (powerpoint slideshow: a summary presentation for policy makers) elements. There are no formal prerequisites, but the module complements and builds on a number of 200 level module including: ENV / BIO 200 level core ecology modules (ie, populations, processes), ENV2A8Y Economics of the Environment, ENV-2A06 Environmental Politics and Policy Making, DEV-2C63 Natural Resources for Development II, DEV-2D64 Natural Resources for Development III. more...	ENV-3A17	20	Semester 1
Cancer Biology This module deals with the concepts and principles of genetic analysis of cancer. The various roles of genes in development, apoptosis, the cell cycle, metastasis and angiogenesis are covered for example. A discussion on the potential of novel therapies concludes the module. This module takes advantage of several experts from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. Students will thus gain an in-depth appreciation of cancer as a disease process from both the scientific and clinical viewpoints. It is highly advantageous to have taken BIO-2B02 as well as BIO-2B06. more...	BIO-3C27	20	Semester 1
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 disease related topics. Topics to be covered include: intracellular trafficking, 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
Environmental Politics and Policy Making The most common obstacles to environmental problem solving are often not scientific or technological, but political. This module examines the theoretical and empirical development of environmental politics in modern society (mostly in Western Europe) including: the sources of modern environmentalism and its many manifestations in modern policy making systems; the environmental policies of the UK and the European Union; different theories of political power and public policy making; the role of environmental pressure groups and business; global environmental politics and policy making. The module encourages student-led learning by enabling students to develop their own theoretical interpretations of real world examples of politics. These are explored in seminar presentations and in an extended (4000 word) case study (i.e. essay). This module assumes no prior knowledge of politics/social sciences. more...	ENV-2A06	20	Semester 2
Evolution in Health and Disease The module aims to provide an up-to-date and thought-provoking discussion about evolutionary medicine and the evolution of disease. The module will examine how evolutionary principles illuminate and provide fresh insight into a broad range of contemporary health problems including infectious, chronic and nutritional diseases and disorders. Topics are introduced in a multidisciplinary approach that takes into account the relationship between biology and society as it relates to understanding, treating, and preventing disease. Evidence will be presented that all aspects of the human condition have an evolutionary basis. The course will cover 4 broad areas: (i) principles of evolutionary medicine - humans in their evolutionary context, and discussion of the factors that drive evolutionary change; (ii) evolution and non-infectious diseases (cancer, lifestyles, ageing); (iii) evolution and infection (vaccines, antibiotics, pathogens, emerging diseases); (iv) personalised medicine and social context of evolutionary medicine. more...	BIO-3C57	20	Semester 1
Evolutionary Biology and Conservation Genetics This module takes students from the fundamental tools of the molecular ecologist through to their use to address issues in the modern era of both evolutionary biology and conservation. Population genetic and phylogenetic theory and methodology are examined to provide the student with the critical means to both carry out and assess the use of modern molecular techniques in such areas as evolutionary biology, conservation genetics, behavioural ecology, and phylogeography. more...	BIO-3C24	20	Semester 2
Food Domestication and Sustainability Scientists have recently been delivered with the challenge to double food production over the next 40 years in order to feed the population, without greatly increasing the area of land farmed, and with reduced input from fossil fuel energy. This provides challenges that include food safety (ensuring a sufficient food supply for a nation) and the challenge of food sustainability (ensuring there is sufficient energy to produce the food that is needed). The module addresses these challenges. An important starting point is the history and mechanism of food domestication, current practice, and the prospects and challenges for the future. In the practical element of the module, students will develop an energy, cost and productivity audit of different agricultural systems. more...	BIO-3C44	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
Host-Parasite Interactions The object of the module is to examine, from a evolutionary and ecological perspective, the complex interactions between parasites/diseases and their hosts and to show how the selection pressures that each side of these interactions impose lead to coevolutionary processes. We will take an overview of the role that such parasitic interactions may have played in the development of key biological traits, such as the evolution of sexual reproduction, and their current role in sexual selection. The module will include traditional parasitology (to set the scene and understand the complexity of the interactions), introducing the major groups of parasites and their hosts. We will examine the role of parasites and host-parasite interactions in evolution, drawing examples from conservation, behaviour, current research, theoretical predictions and models. more...	BIO-3C47	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
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 Biotechnology This module provides a training in the culture techniques, microbial physiology and genetics that underpin the production of bioproducts such as biofuels, bioplastics, antibiotics and food products, and the use of micro-organisms in wastewater treatment and bioremediation. more...	BIO-3C09	20	Semester 1
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 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
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
Organisms and Environment This module examines responses to the individual plants and animals, and their populations, to important aspects of terrestrial and aquatic environments that are determinants of distribution and abundance. It investigates in depth the extent to which physiological, metabolic and morphological responses may confer evolutionary fitness, particularly in extreme environments. Some of the environmental constraints covered act by imposing deficiencies of essential resources or conditions (e.g. water, essential ions, oxygen, carbon, light and temperature), whereas others are the result of toxicity, either natural or resulting from human activity (e.g. metal ions, salinity, acidity and organic industrial pollutants). The module will lead you through more fundamental aspects of ecology to consider their application in seeking to meet the multiple challenges of pollution and climate change. more...	BIO-3C45	20	Semester 1
Scientific Research Skills This module is restricted to students registered in the School of Biological Sciences. It aims to provide an insight into experimental design, using a supported laboratory research project which will establish crucial research and work skills. It will extend, deepen and apply knowledge gained from other modules. The module will develop critical thinking, leadership skills, judgement, team working and time management, all of which are essential skills for the future. Scientific writing and presentation skills will be taught, as well as the application of suitable statistics to the experimental data gathered during the research programme. more...	BIO-3C40	20	Semester 2

Free Choice Study (20 credits)

Students can select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School.

UEA

Biological Sciences Courses

Biological Sciences

BSc Biology with Science Communication (C1P9)

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