Entry requirements

180 credits in biology, bio-/medicine, biotechnology, pharmaceutical biosciences, medical science or equivalent education providing relevant knowledge in cell biology, genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

On completing the course, the student shall demonstrate the ability to:

• describe the principles of different types of microscopy techniques and their applications.
• account for different types of image analysis techniques and their applications.
• explain the concept of fluorescence and how it is applied in the context of microscopy.

Competence and skills

On completing the course, the student shall demonstrate the ability to:

• compile, evaluate and analyse research results and present these both orally and in writing.  
• carry out basic image analysis tasks.

Judgement and approach

On completing the course, the student shall demonstrate the ability to:

• critically evaluate obtained results and explain reasons for deviations.
• account for and evaluate current microscopy methods and techniques, including their practical execution and application.

Content

The course gives an introduction to the widely used bioimaging methods as analytical and diagnostic tools in research and health care.

Principles and applications of various microscopy methods will be covered, including fluorescence, confocal, multiphoton and electron microscopy. Medical imaging methods used in clinical research and diagnostics will also be discussed.

Digital image analysis approaches will be discussed and illustrated both theoretically and in practical exercises.

Instruction

The teaching is given in English in form of lectures, compulsory seminars, demonstrations, presentations as well as theoretical and practical microscopy and computational laboratory sessions. Teaching methods other than those specified may be used on the course.

Assessment

Modes of assessment

There is a written assignment and an oral presentation. In addition, active participation is required, to pass the compulsory course components. The course concludes with a written examination.

Exceptions to modes of assessment

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 University's disability coordinator.

Requirements for a passing grade

To achieve a passing grade for the course, the student requires a passing grade for the written examination and assignment, plus a pass for active participation in all compulsory course elements.