Cell Biology and Disease module (BS51007)

​​Cell biology underpins our understanding of virtually every human disease. In this module, you will examine the structure and function of cells in both healthy and pathogenic contexts, exploring how cellular processes can be disrupted to cause conditions ranging from cancer and autoimmunity to diabetes and Parkinson's disease.  Working through a series of lectures, workshops and tutorials, you will develop your skills in critically analysing scientific data and solving problems. Topics covered include pathogenic micro-organisms, cell signalling pathways, stem cells and differentiation, and the role of organelles in disease. The workshops focus on seminal research papers, giving you the opportunity to engage directly with primary literature.

​What you will learn 

​In this module, you will: 

• ​Examine key topics in cell biology with a focus on their relevance to human disease 
• ​Analyse cell signalling pathways and understand how their dysregulation leads to conditions such as cancer and diabetes 
• ​Explore stem cell biology and the processes of differentiation and development 

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

• ​Critically evaluate experimental evidence supporting central concepts in cell biology 
• ​Objectively analyse and evaluate the mis-regulation of cellular processes in human diseases 
• ​Demonstrate a critical awareness of key concepts and technologies in cell biology 
• ​Apply problem-solving and critical reasoning skills to the analysis of scientific data​

Assignments / assessments

​​In-course assessment (40%) 

• ​Formative assessments provided beforehand so you are familiar with the format. 
• ​The in-course assessment will be a detailed analysis and discussion of a relevant scientific paper. 

​Exam (60%) 

• ​In the final exam you will be asked to answer 2 out of 3 questions (in form of ~750 word answers for each question) that each cover topics of several lectures. A tutorial will be held to explain the final exam and provide examples from previous years so you can familiarise yourselves with the format.​

Teaching methods / timetable

• ​​The main delivery format are 1-hour and 2-hour lectures. 
• ​The module also includes two 1-hour workshops (i.e., explaining the in-course assessment; debrief of the in-course assessment) 
• ​Two additional tutorials of 1-hour will also be held (i.e., introduction to the module; explaining the final exam) 

​A blended learning approach is used, with an emphasis on giving you responsibility for your own learning. Teaching is delivered at City Campus.​