Advanced Molecular Biology Techniques (BTCH90005)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
This subject is focussed on the use of molecular techniques to study gene and protein functions in a range of organisms. It aims to provide students with an advanced understanding of the strategies and techniques used in molecular biology of relevance both to the biotechnology industry and to advanced molecular biology research. Topics will be drawn from the current literature and ongoing research in molecular biology.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon completion of this subject students should have:
- a detailed understanding of advanced tools, resources and techniques in molecular biology;
- an understanding of how these techniques are used to study gene and protein functions in cells and organisms;
- an appreciation of how these techniques may be applied both in biotechnology and in advanced research;
- an appreciation of the information resources available to assess the usefulness of a particular technique; and
- acquired the knowledge to enable them to critically appraise new data arising from the use of these techniques and to interpret the implications of such data.
Generic skills
Completion of this subject is expected to enhance the generic skills of a student in:
- the ability to understand how useful experimental tools are built upon an understanding of basic principles of molecular and cellular biology;
- the ability to understand how complex new scientific data is acquired and how it is appropriately interpreted;
- the ability to understand the connections between research and the biotechnology industry;
- the ability to read and interpret complex literature in order to answer detailed questions on both theory and methodology;
- appreciating how modern science is informed by cross-disciplinary studies leading to technological advances;
- the ability to use information technology to acquire relevant knowledge for understanding the current status of the field and its relevance to society.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Recommended background knowledge
This subject assumes a basic understanding of gene and protein function and molecular biology techniques.
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Four practical assignments due at the end of weeks 3, 5, 7 and 9 (10% each)
| From Week 3 to Week 9 | 40% |
One oral presentation, delivered in pairs
| End of semester | 15% |
Examination
| During the examination period | 45% |
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Dates & times
- Semester 2
Coordinator Lara Grollo Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 18 hours comprising one 2-hour lecture per week (first 9 weeks), 6 hours comprising attendance at oral presentations (final 3 weeks) and four 3-hour practical classes. Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 28 July 2025 to 26 October 2025 Last self-enrol date 8 August 2025 Census date 1 September 2025 Last date to withdraw without fail 26 September 2025 Assessment period ends 21 November 2025 Semester 2 contact information
Time commitment details
170 hours
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Master of Biotechnology Informal specialisation BioSciences Informal specialisation BioSciences - Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 4 March 2025