Course content

The course teaches methods in modern cell and molecular biology. The course provides an introduction to theory and practice in the use of experimental techniques, quantitative methods and instrumentation with areas of application in functional genomics, biotechnology and molecular biology. The choice of methods may vary from year to year, and is based on demonstrations and exercises related to activities within the research groups at the department / section. Data analyzes and statistical methods will also be important parts of the course. The course also includes a literature study in which students write a short review article focusing on a method or technique used in cell and molecular biology.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

After completing the course, students should have advanced knowledge of and be able to:

• understand and describe experimental techniques, quantitative methods and instrumentation used in functional genome research, biotechnology and know how to use them to solve molecular biological problems.
• explain how genome editing is used as a tool in molecular biological research.
• describe how advanced microscopy techniques are used in cell studies.
• understand and describe how analyzes of mRNA transcription are performed in the lab.

Skills:

• Students will have advanced insight into the use of selected methods that are central to cell and molecular biology, including advanced microscopy techniques, gene expression, transformation and genome editing. This includes the proper use of statistical methods to process data produced by these methods.
• Students should be able to use relevant methods lectured on the course and apply them independently.
• Students will be able to present results from the laboratory experiments in a report that uses a format used in the publication of scientific research articles.

General competence:

• The student should have advanced knowledge of work in a cell and molecular biology laboratory and be able to present results from the work produced there as a research report or publication.
• The student will have the skills to translate a biological question into the design of an experiment.
• The student should be able to obtain information from scientific publications and reference works and use this to write a short review article.

Learning methods and activities

• Laboratory course/demonstrations: 30 hours, mandatory
• Lectures: 20 timer, mandatory
• Literature study: 10 hours, compulsory

Admission to this course is restricted

Taught in the period September - November

Compulsory assignments

• Approved laboratory course/demostrations
• Approved report

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

The student should have basic background knowledge from lower degree / bachelor's courses in cell and molecular biology or biochemistry.

Course materials

In addition to lectures, the syllabus is based on research and review articles.

Credit reductions