Human Biology and Infectious Diseases with Foundation Year

Explore the characteristics of plant and animal cells which are the building blocks of all life forms; their interactions with micro and macro environments, and learn about the diversity of animal and plant life in a range of ecosystems.

You'll start to understand the significance of the structure of atoms, their classification in the periodic table, chemical reactions and bonding to form organic and inorganic molecules and the importance of pH.

Take a hands-on approach to develop biological and chemical laboratory skills, practise environmental and fieldwork techniques, and apply scientific knowledge in the interpretation of results of experiments and surveys.

Develop life-long learning skills including techniques for self-assessment and reflection, written and verbal communication skills for meetings, debates and presentations.

Develop skills for application of statistical and mathematical methods and practise using Information Technology for effective presentation and communication of data and ideas.

Understand key ecological concepts, explore biogeography, appraise conservation techniques and consider priorities and issues in management of habitats and wildlife.

Explore the interactions of earth processes, geological structures and environmental functions, the use of resources e.g. fossil fuels including fracking and consider the differential impacts of a range of geological hazards – earthquakes, volcanic activity and rising sea levels.

Evaluate a range of environmental and scientific factors that interact to influence health – e.g. pollution, nutrition, drug development and consider examples of environmental interventions and clinical trials.

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.

This module will help you develop an understanding of genes and genetics, and their influence on evolution and development. It looks at the basic principles of molecular genetics and the function and evolution of genes in organisms.

This module aims to provide you with a systems-led approach to understand basic human anatomy and embryology. You will gain an in-depth understanding of structure-function relationships of key systems in the human body through the study of gross anatomy and tissue histology.

This module will help you develop practical laboratory skills relevant to cell, organismal, micro and molecular biology which will form a basis for competence in biological and biochemical experimental work.

In this module you will learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement and will develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically during year one and beyond. You will also gain an appreciation of Personal Development Planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.     

This module will look at the multidisciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It will help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.

The aim of this module is to provide you with a cohesive lecture and laboratory programme to enable you to become aware of mammalian molecular biology and genetics and to develop an understanding of theoretical and practical knowledge in the application of clinical laboratory techniques used for diagnosis.

This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive lecture programme and directed reading, enabling you to gain knowledge and understanding of: the range of infectious diseases that impact on humans; the basic biology and life cycles of protozoa and helminths of medical importance; vectors that transmit infectious agents and the internal and external factors that affect transmission of infectious diseases.

This module is designed to help you develop an ability to understand the basics of scientific research in the following areas in order to prepare you for future research based activity:

• critical evaluation of research-based literature
• understanding experimental techniques and design
• data interpretation, analysis and presentation
• dissertation writing and presentation
   

This is a comprehensive lecture and practical course to emphasise the importance of microbial metabolic and genetic diversity. You will be able to describe the different ways in which microorganisms communicate and respond to their environments and will be introduced to concepts of pathogenicity and symbiosis and the virulence factors that contribute to disease.

Through this module you will develop an understanding of the pathophysiology of selected organ systems and of the principles of a range of diagnostic procedures, as well as allowing some diagnostic tests to be performed and others to be observed during hospital visits. It also provides the basis for understanding the pharmacological and complementary treatments of these conditions.

The aim of this module is to (1) provide knowledge of the fundamental physiological principles underlying the function required for life in humans, (2) provide fundamental knowledge of the function, control and regulation of each major human organ system from cell to whole-body level and (3) convey an understanding of what systems physiology is, and the systematic, practical and analytical approach required to understand and progress the field.

This module aims to provide you with a cohesive lecture programme and directed reading to enable you to gain a knowledge and understanding of: humans in evolutionary context, genetic markers and human migration; the Human Genome; genetic factors controlling development and epigenetic mechanisms of gene control; genetic diseases. You will also develop the skills required to write a substantive piece of academic writing on Human Genetics.

This module explores the ecology and transmission of human and animal infectious diseases and their management.  

This module looks at the importance of human and animal parasites, in relation to medical, veterinary or wildlife aspects, life-cycle biology, host response and the principles of parasite epidemiology and transmission. You will also study strategies for parasite detection, diagnosis and control. The module includes a unique field course to enable you to see parasites living in their natural environment.

This module looks at mammalian immunological mechanisms, and the roles played by T and B cells/Lymphokines in generating an immune response. It helps you develop an understanding of the genetics of antibody diversity, HIV pathogenesis and the current immunodiagnostic assays for infectious and non-infectious diseases.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is now widely recognised as one of the greatest threats to global health. This module focuses on the reasons underlying the emergence of AMR and investigates diverse often innovative solutions to the crisis.  

The aim of this module is to develop an advanced understanding of selected human physiological systems and to gain an understanding of how failure of these systems can contribute to disease.