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Advanced Techniques in Molecular Science (BCMB30010)
Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
Contact information
Semester 1
Subject Coordinator
Dr Izabela Orval
izabelas@unimelb.edu.au
Dr Alexander Rey
Administrative Coordination
Past Students, Future Students and General Enquiries
Semester 2
Subject Coordinator
Dr Izabela Orval
izabelas@unimelb.edu.au
Dr Alexander Rey
Administrative Coordination
Past Students, Future Students and General Enquiries
Overview
| Availability(Quotas apply) | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
To participate in the rapidly expanding fields of genome research and protein structure-function analysis, it is necessary to have an understanding of the techniques used in these areas.
This subject provides training in the use of molecular biology technologies of, protein analyses and cell biology. Students will learn how experiments are designed, performed and the resulting data analysed.
Experiments in the subject will explore (a) the use of recombinant DNA analyses, (b) bacterial expression systems to produce and characterise recombinant protein, (c) identification of proteins by mass spectrometry; and (d) mammalian cell culture.
Students will learn practical skills of how to record data and maintain experimental observations in laboratory notebooks, to search bioinformatic databases, and to construct and concisely write a scientific research paper based on their findings. Students will also further develop their skills in performing biochemical calculations and solving problems by applying knowledge attained from practicals.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of the subject students should be able to:
- Describe the importance of key features in the design of experimental protocols used in biochemistry and molecular biology
- Demonstrate competence and skill in performing fundamental techniques used in biochemistry and molecular biology
- Record data and experimental observations in laboratory notebooks
- Design simple experiments and solve problems dealing with scientific information
- Use bioinformatics programs to analyse of DNA sequences and protein data derived by mass spectrometry
- Use concise written communication to present experiment findings in a scientific report
- Critically evaluate scientific literature using database searches.
Generic skills
On completion of this subject, students should have developed the following generic skills
- Generic laboratory skills.
- Familiarisation with spreadsheets and databases.
- The ability to keep complete and accurate records and to use these in preparation for written reports.
- The ability to interpret scientific literature and interpret data from electronic databases.
- The capacity to integrate knowledge across disciplines.
- The ability to comprehend a question, evaluate the relevant information and communicate an answer.
Last updated: 13 August 2024