Teaching and assessment for Mathematical Biology BSc (Hons)

This module addresses the structures and biochemical properties of key biological molecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates and proteins. You will discover how enzymes work and look at their importance in the catalysis of biological reactions. The module also considers the origin of cells, and examines their main components.

You will continue to develop the research skills introduced during the previous semester. Undertaking a short independent research project will help you practice and extend your technical capabilities. You will gain understanding and practical experience of techniques such as PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis for DNA analysis.

The module addresses the cell cycle and cell replication, and the transfer of information from DNA to protein. It considers physiological systems and the specialisation and organisation of cells into the major organ systems. It develops an evolutionary perspective by considering the above processes and structures in diverse organisms.

Mathematics 1A is an introductory mathematics module.

It covers fundamental concepts such as algebra, calculus, and geometry.

The topics covered provide a solid foundation for more advanced studies. Skills covered include:

• learning to solve equations
• understand functions
• analyse graphs

Mathematics 1B builds on the foundational concepts introduced in Mathematics 1A. You will be introduced to matrices. You will learn about the use of vectors in 3D geometry, integral calculus, and basic differential equations. It ensures you are well-prepared for future studies in a maths or other numerate degree courses.

Starting university is a big step and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

No matter what subject you’re studying, there are important life and study skills that will help you succeed now and in the future.

How do cells talk to each other, and what happens when those conversations go wrong?

You will explore the key mechanisms of inter- and intra-cellular communication. You will study topics like the action of hormones and neurotransmitters to signalling in plants and the regulation of the cell cycle.

The module is grounded in both biological and biomedical contexts.

You will explore the fundamental biochemical and biological processes that regulate life.

The module covers key metabolic pathways and the workings of the innate and adaptive immune systems.

You will also be introduced to specialist topics, such as the microbial world and microbiomes, virology, plant development and health, and genomics.

You will learn about a key structure called a vector space.

Some of the simplest vector spaces are subsets of the 3-dimensional space in which we live. There are many other sets that share this structure.

You will learn more about solving differential equations.

Previously seen concepts such as linear independence, basis and null spaces are explored. This will be in the context of matrix algebra.

Concepts such as determinants and eigenvalues will be introduced.

Learn about partial derivatives and their properties.

Study integration of multi-variable functions including techniques such as change of variables.

You will learn to use data from a sample of a population to deduce information about the average properties of the whole population.

You will also learn how to use the software package RStudio to do calculations with data.

Master programming in Python and MATLAB through hands-on labs. Gain real skills used by scientists and engineers in industry every day. 

Now that you’ve settled into university life, it’s time to build on the foundations you set in your first year.

This second-year module is all about helping you take your development to the next level. This module will cover this from a personal, academic, and professional perspective.

In this module you'll learn about objective experimentation in scientific research. This is a research method designed to minimise personal bias and subjective influences. You'll also explore how statistical techniques drive hypothesis-led enquiry and observation. 

This module explores an area of calculus involving derivatives of functions. Derivatives give the rate of change of a function. For example, speed is the rate of change of distance, while acceleration is the rate of change of speed. Differential equations are equations that involve functions and their derivatives.

Model real-world systems using numerical methods. Learn to solve equations, simulate dynamics, and code like a computational scientist.

Study how systems evolve over time. Learn how to model and analyse physical and biological systems using differential equations and qualitative methods.

You will gain hands-on experience applying your mathematical knowledge in a professional environment. You'll work with an organisation in an industry such as finance, technology, research, or engineering. This will allow you to tackling real-world problems. You will make use of analytical and computational skills that you have previously gained.

Mathematical Statistics is the application of probability theory to statistics. This is an important area, providing useful connections to other areas of Mathematics. Mathematical Statistics has applications across the sciences, business, government, and more. It is a core topic in the growing area of Data Science.

Expand your understanding of stem cell biology to a research level.

You will examine the molecular mechanisms controlling stem cell identity and differentiation. You will engage critically with primary literature.

You will also explore stem cells both in vitro and in the context of living organisms.