Parasitology module (BS42012)

Learn about the molecular, cellular and biochemical study of parasitic protozoa. This will cover life cycles, immune evasion, and drug and vaccine development

Credits

Module code

BS42012

Level

Semester

Semester 2

School

School of Life Sciences

Discipline

DArcy Thompson Unit

In this module you will examine selected parasitic protozoa at a molecular and cellular level.

You will study topics like:

their life cycles and transmission mechanisms
evolutionary history
the distinct strategies they use to evade host immunity

The module also covers the divergent aspects of parasite cell biology and gene expression. You will also look at the approaches being taken to develop chemotherapies and vaccines.

You will engage with primary research literature throughout the module. This will allow you to develop your skills in critical analysis alongside your core scientific knowledge.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

explore the life cycles, transmission mechanisms and evolutionary history of selected parasitic protozoa
examine immune evasion strategies, drug targets and approaches to vaccine and drug development
develop skills in critically analysing research papers and presenting scientific material

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

understand the biology of diseases caused by selected parasites. You will be able to understand common approaches to their study and drug development against them
critically analyse research material in molecular parasitology
communicate scientific content effectively through oral presentation