Compulsory modules

The aims of this module are to further the understanding of:

  • The different mechanisms by which cells respond to external stimuli. Thus, understanding the steps involved in cellular signal transduction mechanisms, from arrival of signal at the cell membrane to alterations in cell structure with or without concomitant changes in gene expression.
  • Comparative aspects of signalling processes in organisms from different kingdoms with the major emphasis on contemporary eukaryotic cell signal transduction.
  • The development of immunity in multicellular organisms and how this works to mediate health.

The aim of this module is to build on basic research design and statistical skills learnt in PSA701, to understand basic quantitative research design and statistical analysis principles for human biologists, bio-scientists and sports scientists.

The aims of the module is:

  • To develop competency in a wide range of advanced practical research techniques for the study of biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, genetics and molecular biology.
  • To advance students knowledge and understanding of the laboratory practices associated with biological research and to apply this knowledge to practical biological experiments.
  • To rapidly and efficiently organise their own critical evaluation of the biological/scientific approach and alter experimental procedures if required.
  • To enable students to critically evaluate modern laboratory techniques and experiments. Thus facilitating a broad understanding of how techniques and experiments have driven knowledge construction in key biological areas and how this leads to strengths and weaknesses in data and conclusions generated.
  • To implement a working knowledge of the scientific method and philosophy by deploying experimental design and advanced skills in the collection, processing and interpretation of biological information.
  • To prepare students to undertake independent laboratory-based research in these areas.

The aim of this module is to develop knowledge of a range of molecular biology, genetic analysis and bioinformatic techniques and illustrate how these can be, and have been, applied and adapted to answer major questions in the biological sciences.

The aim of this module is to understand human growth, development and ageing using a biocultural approach. This includes learning about the physiological changes that occur throughout the lifecourse: conception, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and the ageing process.

This module also focus on human variations in patterns of growth development and ageing, across populations, taking into account intergenerational, epigenetic, endocrine and environmental effects.

Optional modules

The aims of this module are:

  • To introduce students to concepts of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary working.
  • To introduce students to the issues involved in the conception, design and execution of research projects.
  • To develop essential science communication skills for interdisciplinary working.
  • To develop students' skills to define and interrogate scientific problems within a multidisciplinary team.
  • To present students to cutting edge research across the physical sciences.

The aims of this module are for the student to:

  • Acquire knowledge on the principles of human nutrition, including the the concept of energy (calorie) requirements and energy balance, and the main functions of macronutrients and their metabolic and physiological roles.
  • Appraise human nutrient requirements, including the use of dietary reference values and government recommendations for population health.
  • Acquire knowledge on the effects of macronutrients on cellular and whole-body metabolism.
  • Understand how exercise affects metabolism from a whole-body level to a tissue, cellular and molecular level.

More information to follow.

The aim of this module is to further students' understanding of the acute physiological responses to exercise and chronic physiological adaptations to exercise and training in humans and how these responses are regulated. The influence of environmental factors and fatigue on physiological processes are also examined. A further aim is to develop students' practical laboratory/experimental skills in human and exercise physiology.