Biological Sciences (Genetics and Genomics)

How are our genes passed from one generation to the next? How does DNA play a role in our genetic makeup? And what is the science behind evolution on earth? All these questions and more will be answered in this encapsulating module exploring the field of genetics.

You’ll gain specialist knowledge on real-world biomedical applications and computational analyses techniques, which will provide the perfect foundation to your further studies. You’ll benefit from gaining specialist knowledge from experts in the field. Whether it’s healthcare, endangered species, or cancer research, as a graduate you can expect your skills to make a lasting impact on society.

In this module, you’ll learn essential training in professional career management skills, designed to assist you in actively planning and preparing for your future career. You’ll explore a career development cycle, starting with discovering your potential, considering opportunities within job roles, postgraduate study or training.

On completion of this module you’ll feel confident about competing in the graduate job market, whether you are applying for work placements or graduate jobs. You can expect to get hands-on with practical involvement from the university’s Career Consultants and employers.

After completion of this module you should have a clearer idea of where your career values lie, and a greater understanding of how you may realise your career aspirations.

You’ll learn to turn biological data into meaningful information in this module. Interpretation of data in the biological science world is more important than ever, and bioinformatics is an increasingly integral part of modern biological research. As part of your study, you’ll be introduced to computational thinking in biological sciences, enabling you to analyse, interpret, visualise and present data sets.

You’ll use your programming skills to tailor bespoke solutions to biological problems, make new discoveries, develop capacity for considering data-driven results, and reveal new insights from your findings. You’ll be introduced to the two most important molecules in cell biology, RNA and DNA, from a bioinformatics perspective.

On completion of this module, you’ll be well placed to forge a career with excellent employment prospects within life sciences, biotechnology, or the pharmaceutical industry.

In this module, you’ll learn how to manage ‘big data’ and machine learning techniques for drawing meaningful Biological Science conclusions.

You’ll get interactive and hands-on with the fundamentals of programming and analysis across biological, statistical and computer science elements. In addition, you’ll get up to speed on managing and communicating data from diverse biological disciplines using the R language for statistical computing.

On completion of this module you’ll gain highly transferable skills from across a range of disciplines, making you an asset for both research and employment.

A study of structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes at the molecular level with an overview on the experimental evidence that has contributed to current concepts, models and paradigms and practical experience of key molecular biology laboratory techniques. The module focuses on both biomedical and environmental applications of modern molecular tools, with emphasis on phylogeny to complement 'Genetics'.

The growth of an animal from a single embryonic egg is a fascinating notion that you'll explore in this module. Through a mixture of practice and theory, you’ll explore developmental themes based on animal development, including the different stages of embryonic growth, tissue specification, biological mechanisms, and gene regulation.

You’ll be encouraged to investigate deeper into biological development themes to draw fascinating insights about this subject. On completion of this module you'll have gained a broad overview of the development process and regulation in animals.

This module will present you with an in-depth introduction to the principles of developmental biology, and provide a broad overview of development processes and their regulation in animals.

You'll unravel key research ideas that are helping today’s biologists solve some of the world’s biggest biology questions. The fundamental concept of cell biology is the understanding of how organisms develop and how they interact and respond to their environment.

You’ll investigate molecular cell structures from animals, plants and fungi through a combination of practical experimental laboratory techniques and theoretical research. You'll be introduced to fascinating established methods such as fluorescent microscopy of living cells.

You’ll explore recent advances in cell biology such as novel treatments and therapies for diseases, cell processes such as cell division, and the impact of the environment on biological systems. You’ll also take a closer look at the composition of a cell – its’ components and intrinsic functions. By the end of this module, you'll have an excellent grasp of cell biology, which will allow you to progress to more advanced and specialised topics.

This fascinating applied science module will introduce you to the study of bacteria, yeasts, viruses and protozoa, from a protein and molecular gene level. You’ll be exploring the structures, metabolism, regulatory signals, replication and growth exhibited by microorganisms.

The importance of microbiology spans medicine and communities, as we attempt to control microbials in hospitals, yet also seek to employ microbes to benefit us as human beings through live cultures and biotechnological advances.

Through this module you'll explore the interaction and impact of microbes on humans along with an introduction to the challenges facing medical interventions against pathogenic microbes in different parts of the world. Your study will involve practical aseptic laboratory techniques designed to train you in working safely with microbiological organisms and will give you the opportunity to plan and execute simple experimental procedures.

Want to make your stamp on eradicating some of the world’s major diseases? In this module you’ll discover how the biochemistry of eukaryotic cells plays an intrinsic role in the function of cell biology, with a special focus on mammalian tissues. You’ll be introduced to a number of key experimental procedures and laboratory techniques which will enable you to explore the chemical nature of the compounds in these highly fascinating cells, enlightening your knowledge on cellular processes.

You’ll develop an in-depth understanding of the biochemical events that occur when these cellular processes fail and give rise to diseases. You’ll also deepen your knowledge on both a cellular and systemic level, and absorb yourself within the enthralling biomedical diagnostic techniques delivered by leading experts in the field, equipping you with vital skills for the world of work.

Study the biological realms of our global plight to rescue our world’s critically endangered species from extinction. You’ll be introduced to the challenges of saving endangered species, most importantly, the role of the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), and captive populations. You'll investigate conservation genetics and how these specific environments are managed, while exploring in-situ versus ex-situ conservation.

You’ll create a research project about a specific threatened species of your choice and consider how climate change increasingly impacts how populations use landscapes. You’ll draw links between biodiversity and key approaches to conservation landscapes.

You’ll interact with species reintroduction programmes, managing island flora and fauna, and you'll explore the ethical and educational aspects surrounding ex-situ collections.

You will gain an in-depth understanding of how biologists play an integral part in saving today’s endangered species.

A study that is relevant to the student's programme that is offered in exceptional circumstances at the discretion and instigation of the module leader. Typically, those circumstances will be limited to (a) providing a student planning to study abroad during semester 2 with the opportunity to take the first semester of a double credit module that runs throughout the year, and (b) providing the opportunity for a student to gain an extra credit to allow them to graduate normally. Where possible, a learning contract is agreed between the student and a supervising member of staff in the semester prior to the one in which the study is to be undertaken. In all cases, a learning contract must be approved by the Subject Examination Committee. Only once the learning contract has been formally approved will the module be registered on the student's programme of study.

You can extend your course by taking a sandwich year in a relevant professional role, during which you’ll remain registered as a student. We’ll support your continued academic development in the workplace (e.g. a research, pharmaceutical or hospital laboratory). You’ll gain insight from working in a professional setting and develop new practical and career skills, whilst contributing to the work of the professional team hosting you. You’ll organise the placement yourself, with our help and advice, e.g. by applying for advertised placements or finding suitable hosts.

You’ll need to fund associated expenses during your sandwich year, usually your placement will be salaried. For a career as an NHS Biomedical Scientist, as well as your BSc Hons in Biomedical Science, you must register with the Health and Care Professions Council via an Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Certificate of Competence Registration Portfolio. A placement in an IBMS laboratory can give you this opportunity.

This is the culmination of your degree, and your chance to delve into the world of research to pioneer your own breakthrough. As part of this module you’ll have the opportunity to create an individual piece of research related to your degree subject, working alongside a supervisor from the Department of Biological Sciences at Oxford Brookes University. You’ll be encouraged to explore opportunities to develop your project outside of the University, under the guidance of your tutor. You’ll participate in formal sessions that are designed to help you consider possible project choices and provide you with the necessary knowledge to search for outside project opportunities.

You’ll focus on the development of your professional skills and personalise your career ambitions. You’ll select your study elements, which will allow you flexibility and draw upon your research expertise and links with external partners. Some of the wide range of topics you’ll cover will be relevant to your degree, such as advanced microscopy, protein biochemistry, species identification, geographic information systems, entrepreneurship or science communication.

You’ll gain hands-on experience on how to competently perform techniques, and you’ll hear from professionals working in the sector, who will provide an insight into their career. You will learn how you can make a difference in the world and existing job market with the new knowledge and skills you’ll gain. Self-reflection is encouraged on this module, and you’ll get the chance to demonstrate your learning through a written report, talk, poster, leaflet, protocol, or oral viva.

You'll learn about major theoretical and technological advances in Genetics and Genomics, and their significance in addressing challenges in biological and medical research. You’ll focus on the variation of population history, selection inference, and analysing variation in complex traits. You’ll also explore the use of comparative genomics and the evolutionary relatedness among groups of organisms (phylogenetics) to make connections between evolutionary relationships, and investigate genome evolution.

Your learning journey will encompass microbiomes in human health and ecosystems, and the study of gene function. You’ll get hands on with key techniques such as retrieval of data from public resources, population statistics, genome-wide association studies, gene annotation, transcriptome analysis, transcription factor binding prediction and characterisation of epigenetic modifications. You’ll devise a research programme addressing a current challenge in biological and medical science.

You'll have the opportunity to choose a topic that is relevant to your programme. Building upon your knowledge from your previous year of study, for those on the MBiol programme, you'll get the chance to immerse yourself in the production of a detailed project plan for your Masters year project/dissertation. For all other study programmes, you’ll pick a project in agreement with your supervisor, which will be submitted for approval by end of week 1 in the semester in which the study is to be undertaken. You’ll start planning your work six weeks before the start of the semester to give you ample time for submission. You’ll have access to Moodle where you’ll be able to view your module learning contract template and find all the information you need to successfully complete your independent study.

Explore how new traits, known as evolutionary novelties, arise and shape the diversity of animal life. In this module, you’ll investigate how development and evolution interact to produce variation in animal form and function.

Through lab and computer workshops, you’ll work with real-world data and modern analytical tools to explore how animals adapt to changing environments. You’ll apply your learning to an evolutionary novelty of your choice, developing your skills in analysing and communicating scientific ideas.

Investigating DNA and molecular concepts has never been so encapsulating. Learn about the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes alongside top scientists in the field, helping to address the world’s biggest challenges. Secure knowledge on the latest experimental evidence supporting cutting-edge concepts and laboratory techniques.

You’ll gain a solid insight into the most up-to-date biomedical applications and modern molecular tools used to implement recombinant DNA techniques and DNA sequencing, complementing the Genetics Module. Your learning journey will be supported into the Biomedical Science and Medical Science employability routes, for which there is a growing demand, and you’ll be thoroughly guided by leading specialists on making successful job applications for those who embark on placement work experience.

Immerse yourself in the most exciting research and developmental topics surrounding microscopic cell biology and bio-imaging analysis. In this module, you'll gain an in-depth insight and appreciation of the molecular mechanisms at play in the cell biology of mammals, yeast and plants. You’ll investigate some of the techniques underpinning the latest associated research in the field, and dive into an exploration of fundamental biological processes in topics such as cell signalling and interacting proteins, the endomembrane system, and the cell cycle. Innovative advanced experimental bio-imaging has opened up new avenues to implement highly powerful experimental methods for investigation of cell biology. Light microscopy techniques will allow you to probe important biological questions, observe living cells of animals and plants, and measure intracellular processes including protein interactions in different biological situations.

If you’ve ever been interested in the strategies behind conserving wildlife, this module is for you. You’ll study and identify key concepts which will support your ability to formulate solutions for protecting biodiversity at the local and landscape scale. You’ll focus your learning on core conservation issues, with consideration of controversies and alternative approaches to the practical issues involved in land management for successful conservation. You’ll build on your foundational knowledge from previous modules. As your study progresses you will gain a practical and theoretical understanding of wildlife conservation and the environmental issues that threaten species.

Our understanding of the genome is constantly growing. In this module, you’ll be introduced to the fundamental elements of genomics, human genetics and genetic variation. You’ll explore genetics in connection to disease and how genomic medicine can be utilised in relation to disease mechanisms. You’ll get the chance to investigate the effects of gene mutations and variations in DNA sequences (gene polymorphisms) in human health, with an opportunity to join in on an in-depth discussion on linkage. In addition, you’ll learn all about personalised medicine and the role of a key enzyme in the liver (cytochrome P450) in the metabolism of drugs and toxicity.

Science has had an impact on all aspects of our lives, and overall, you’ll learn how to set that influence in its social and historical context, in this module. You’ll address alternative views of the world, how they have been developed or replaced in the context of science, and have a clear look at the strengths and weaknesses of a scientific world view. You’ll explore ideas about the value of other life forms and consider environmental philosophy. You’ll take a refreshing perspective on modern contentious ideas and possibilities such as Genetic Modification, organic farming, fracking, stem cell research, manipulation of the human genome and designer babies. In addition, you’ll turn your focus to the political, economic, and moral context of the current environmental crisis.

This is a great addition to your CV and helps you to stand out from the crowd when looking for a graduate job.

You can sign up for work experience in your first year and you’ll complete the work experience preparation module in Year 2. You'll be supported with your search for work experience and develop techniques and skills useful at interviews and assessment centres. Additional support is also available from dedicated work experience staff members. During your work experience you will receive regular support from your own Work Experience Tutor.

Your work experience must be full time and be for a minimum number of weeks. The salary must be commensurate with the role and not less than the minimum wage for the country in which the placement is taking place.

We have a number of links with local and regional employers including the NHS and local NGOs/Charities that can support you in your search for relevant work experience.

The module is a period of research practice in a professional working environment. The objective is to augment and develop the skills and competencies delivered by the degree programme, and to practice science in a working context. The period of research practice will allow the student to apply the knowledge and learning gained in their academic training while carrying out their own supervised research in an active research environment. The research will be related to, and draw on, the theoretical knowledge and skills already acquired during the first three years of their degree programme. It is expected that the student will gain scientific and interpersonal skills which complement the learning experience delivered by taught modules. The research practiced carried out as a team member within an active research environment will therefore contribute to the training of talented students interested in careers as practising scientists.

Our understanding of basic concepts in molecular biology has given rise to the different ‘omics’ areas of modern research and application (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc.). This module will begin by refreshing your understanding of topics such as DNA structure, replication, mutation and repair, and gene expression. We will also explore how the biological concepts have been exploited by scientists to derive and apply the wide array of methodologies that have come to be known collectively by the term “molecular biology”, such as DNA cloning, PCR, quantitative PCR, microarrays and RNA interference. This expanding collection of technologies provides scientists with a fundamental basis for studying biological processes and various aspects of human disease. You'll use several of these techniques, through laboratory-based practical work, to deepen your understanding and illustrate potential applications.

This module develops taxonomic skills by asking you to focus on the processes of identification of species and recognition of key characteristics of selected taxonomic groups. Skills are learned through practical studies in the field and the use of collections and appropriate taxonomic tools.

he independent study is a module that provides students with an opportunity to address a discipline area is not formally offered as part of the taught programme or the student has a desire to expand on a topic area that was superficially covered. In this module we encourage students to create a product output that is potentially useful for the industry of interest. The type of product though is chosen within consultation with the module leader and their chosen supervisor for the activity. There are no formal teaching components for this course but instead students are expected to conduct the work independently with some supervisory/stakeholder guidance. The module requires a learning contract which is agreed between the student and a supervising member of staff in the semester prior to the one in which the study is to be undertaken, and this must be approved by the Subject Examination Committee. Only once the learning contract has been formally approved will the module be registered on the student's programme of study.