Entry requirements

150 credits including (1) 60 credits in biology and 30 credits in chemistry or 30 credits in earth science, or (2) 90 credits in biology.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• analyse and address scientific questions in molecular biology and biotechnology
• demonstrate an insight in current research and understand and evaluate techniques used in
• scientific articles
• implement standard techniques used in molecular and cell biology and
• apply "Good Laboratory Practice"
• communicate efficiently in a team, prepare and give a scientific presentation, organise the work according to an agreed time plan.

In the course, an introduction to Master's studies is included. After passing this module, the

student should be able to

• demonstrate awareness of ethical aspects of research and development, including questions

  of plagiarism and equal opportunities/equal treatment

• demonstrate insight into the potential and limitations of biology and its role in society
• demonstrate an ability to identify his/her need of further knowledge.

Content

Advanced knowledge of DNA and chromosomes. DNA-replication, recombination and repair. RNA transcription. Protein synthesis. Regulation of gene expression. Comparing these systems in bacteria and eukaryotes. Protein structure and function. Protein folding and degradation. Ahlzheimer's and prion diseases. Cells components. Protein sorting and transport. Application to molecular biology research and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).

Instruction

The teaching will be given in the form of lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, and project work. Students who do not participate in Introduction to Master Studies, which runs as a seminar series during the entire course, perform a literature project. Participation in seminars, laboratory sessions, and project work is mandatory.

Assessment

The following requirements apply to pass the modules:

For the theory module (5 credits) passing a written examination and active participation in seminars are required.

For the research affiliation module (6 credits) passing a written examination as well as completed lab reports and active participation in seminars are required.

For passing the group project module (2 credits) oral seminar presentation in group is required.

For the introduction to the Master's studies (2 credits) active participation in seminars, written report and study planning will be required. The alternative literature project requires a written report (2 credits).

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.

Other directives

The course has students from various backgrounds, and teaching will partially be given with individual approach.