Biomedical Science

Genetics has become a central topic not only in biological science, but also for topics such as data science, art and culture. Genetics is revolutionising all spheres of life at an unprecedented speed. It is central to all areas of biology, from cellular development and reproduction to conservation and biodiversity. In this core module, we will provide you with the framework of this diverse area, covering areas from DNA fingerprinting and DNA/RNA editing, to ethics and conservation biology. We will expose you to the latest research in the area of molecular genetics and provide the foundation for your future. 

This module focuses on the basic principles involved in the build-up of molecules from atoms: the formation, properties and importance of bio-organic molecules, the diverse nature of micro-organisms and their structure, function and importance.

In the first trimester, this module is intended to provide a systems-led approach to understand basic human anatomy, embryology and the structure function relationships therein. In the second trimester, this is further explored at a microscopic level through studying the histology of human tissues. 

This practical based module will allow the development of key laboratory skills in the context of working as a biomedical scientist. Hands on practical lab experience and skills assessment are supported by tutorials, virtual laboratory simulation, topical discussion and reflection, in relation to the HCPC standards of proficiency.

This module provides students with an introduction to professional conduct required for life at university and beyond. Students will gain skills in academic writing, career management, group work and resolving ethical dilemmas.  

This module provides a broad cell biology knowledge base, building a solid foundation of key scientific content relevant to subsequent modules within several bioscience degrees.

Clinical and Molecular Genetics will enable students to gain practical skills in molecular biology and bioinformatics, through linked laboratory and computer sessions. The lecture programme is delivered by three academics, each an expert in their specific area of clinical and molecular genetics. Topics covered include, current molecular biology and bioinformatics techniques, the control of bacterial and eukaryotic gene expression and the effect of mutations on gene expression and how this can lead to human genetic diseases.

You will be introduced to the concepts of chemical and biochemical testing and their relevance to clinical diagnostics. The module will develop your knowledge and understanding of biochemical changes in disease, and you will learn practical techniques used in clinical chemistry laboratory.

Biomedical scientists collect and analyse blood samples for the diagnosis of diseases or ensure blood for patient transfusion is available and safe. In this module you will investigate the formation, composition, function and diseases of blood and how it is identified, separated and stored for donation.

In this module you will learn the inter-related nature of human disease and major diagnostic approaches.  Assessment is via a series of case studies to develop awareness of disease processes on a cellular level and their manifestation into localised and systemic clinical symptoms.  Students gain insight into clinical diagnostic techniques and their underpinning principles.

This module will help you to develop a range of subject-specific and generic research skills appropriate to the biomedical science discipline. These include: ethics, governance, audit, experimental techniques, design, statistical analysis of data, literature searching and critical evaluation, scientific communication, and making preparations in advance for your final year project.

This highly interactive core 2nd year module enables students to gain understanding of the physiological systems of the human body. The module includes content at molecular and cellular levels, for example from how cells communicate and protect us from infection, and how we feel pain to protect us from danger, to how our hormones regulate our heartbeat. Anatomical and histological structures of our systems are studied and related to how they determine the functions of our organs to culminate the beautiful body which we occupy. Clinical testing methods are learned during controlled investigations of environment change and physical activity. Assessment of the module uses real lab data to enable students to develop both their analytical and critical narrative skills. Special features of the module include cardiovascular investigations in the Health School human performance lab, and a feature guest lecture from a clinical expert at the North West Lung Centre. 

In this module you will be introduced to microbes that cause disease both in a clinical and public setting.  You will learn essential microbiology practical diagnostics skills, methods of bacterial isolation, identification and typing of bacteria from various sources.

Biomedical scientists collect and analyse samples of tissue for the diagnosis of diseases. In this module you will investigate the features and changes that occur in cells and tissues, which can be used as markers of disease and gain understanding of the techniques used to obtain, prepare and examine them.

This module will help you develop an understanding of important analytical and diagnostic methods used in a clinical setting and on completion you will be able to critically compare different analytical methods and explain the principles of therapeutic drug monitoring applied to selected diseases.

Immunology is the study of the immune system. It is now a well-developed basic science, which is useful for the diagnosis and management of a great number and variety of human diseases. This module is designed to give an in-depth view of the basic components of the immune system and how these influence human diseases. Research-based discussion will be part of this module in understanding immune mechanisms in defense against human diseases and how these mechanisms can be dysregulated. Understanding the immune system leads to better clinical diagnostic and monitoring possibilities. Towards the end of the module you will also be given an overview of how the immune system can protect the body from developing cancers.  

You will have the opportunity to conduct an in-depth, independent piece of research aligned to your degree. You will develop skills in research design, project management, organisational and time management, creative ideas and problem solving.

Students will learn the critical biological capabilities that enable tumour cancer initiation, maintenance and progression, and how some of these hold promise as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. The module contains an overview of the basic biology of cancer and applicable therapeutic strategies, with attention paid to relevant current technologies and future directions in cancer biology. Lectures will be complemented with tutorials where students will be involved in critical reading of scientific papers, while learning to evaluate scientific data and familiarise themselves with a variety of modern techniques.

The role of genetics and genomics has now become mainstream and is at the forefront of healthcare and disease management strategies. In your final year, the human genetics module will expose you to the recent developments in the field, together with the foundations of human genetics. The rapid advancement of genomics has also enabled data-based discovery of genetic information. In view of that, you will have a dedicated part of the content focused on data science and analysis strategies including the R statistical package.