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Cell & Developmental Biology - BIO00011C

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  • Department: Biology
  • Module co-ordinator: Prof. Paul Genever
  • Credit value: 10 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23
    • See module specification for other years: 2021-22

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Spring Term 2022-23 to Summer Term 2022-23

Module aims

This module examines the biology of the eukaryotic cell. The student is introduced to the complex internal organisation and evolution of the eukaryotic cell and looks at the properties of eukaryotes that have allowed the evolution and development of complex multicellular life. The module advances to look at the behaviour of cells within the context of multi­cellular organisms. The important roles of cell signalling and differential gene expression in the regulation of cell growth, cell fate, differentiation and the patterning of structures within multicellular organisms are introduced. During the module the importance of understanding key experiments that underpin our present knowledge will be emphasised. Supporting practical sessions and workshops will allow students to examine developing embryos, develop models based on experimental evidence and explore quantitative aspects of cell biology.

Module learning outcomes

  • Describe the organisation and key features of eukaryotic cells.
  • Explain how the properties of eukaryotic cells have allowed the evolution and development of multi­cellular organisms.
  • Describe the mechanisms regulating eukaryotic gene expression
  • Explain and illustrate with specific examples the general principles that underpin cell signalling in multicellular organisms.
  • Describe and illustrate with specific examples the mechanisms regulating cell growth, cell death and cell-type specification in multicellular organisms.
  • Discuss experimental evidence that supports the key concepts presented in the module.
  • Interpret experimental evidence and devise simple, testable models based upon this evidence.

 

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Cell & Developmental Biology		 6 hours 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Cell & Developmental Biology		 6 hours 100

Module feedback

Cohort-level feedback will be provided on performance in closed exams and made available via the VLE. Histograms of module marks will be posted on the notice boards outside the Biology Student Services office. Individual marks will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Exam scripts will be made available at the end of either the Spring or Summer terms. You should take the opportunity to discuss your marks and feedback with your supervisor.

During the teaching of the module you will receive feedback that may be at a whole class or individual level. Forms of feedback may include: model answers and discussion of workshop questions, summaries of performance in practicals, VLE-based quizzes, individual spoken comments during workshops, individual written comments on formative work.  

Indicative reading

These are available through the VLE module site.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.