Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)

This module will provide students with the necessary skills to begin studying at level 4 in courses related to Optometry, Medical Science and Life Sciences. Students will be introduced to the core skills necessary to succeed in higher education, including thinking critically, researching and referencing appropriately, demonstrating appropriate numeracy and ICT skills, and communicating effectively verbally and in writing. In addition to these fundamental study skills, Students will be given an introduction to the various scientific disciplines underpinning the life sciences. Fundamental mathematical skills will be covered in order to support students’ other subjects and give them confidence in manipulating data. Students will be introduced to molecular and cellular biology, and how these fields are applied to real-world investigations. Students will also study the biology of micro and macro organisms, with reference to both human and animal structures. Students will be introduced to the core concepts of chemistry, with a particular focus on organic chemistry, and will also be given a grounding in the core principles of physics, applied to living organisms. The module is made up of the following eight constituent elements: Interactive Learning Skills and Communication (ILSC); Information Communication Technology (ICT); Critical Thinking; Maths for Scientists; Cellular Biology; Biology – Physiology; Chemistry; Physics for Life Sciences.

A knowledge and understanding of maths is essential to being a skilled scientist. This module provides you with the core mathematical tools required to perform tasks in experimental design, data collection and data interpretation. By the end of this module you will be able to apply the skills learnt to specific biomedical science case studies. Each mathematical concept is introduced in a lecture where you will gain an understanding of the key principles. Each lecture will be followed by interactive tutorial sessions where you will be able to apply these principles to relevant biomedical situations. This will develop your understanding of and ability to use the mathematic principles as well as allowing you to visualize how they can be used in an appropriate real-life setting. Drop-in tutorial sessions are also held, making the module accessible for students with all levels of mathematic ability.

Biology is an incredibly wide-ranging subject. While the focus of a biomedical science degree is human health and disease, the way in which our bodies work is determined by the fundamental laws of chemistry and physics which have to be obeyed in order for life to exist. As graduates, you should also have an appreciation of the wider context of biology, and the historical background and people who have contributed to our current knowledge and understanding of our world, which then creates a platform we can build on as we advance our knowledge even further. In the ‘Core Biology 1’ and ‘Core Biology 2’ modules we, therefore, cover the fundamental principles that underpin the study of biology. The content is wide-ranging, introducing the history and philosophy of science as well as key biological theories, knowledge and techniques. ‘Core Biology 1’ covers a range of topics including the scientific method, experimental design and ethics, basic chemistry for the biosciences, and an introduction to genetics, evolution and biodiversity. Students will also be inducted into the correct methods of working in a laboratory, including use of risk assessments and health and safety best practice. The module delivery is closely integrated with personal tutorial group meetings, which students will have with their personal tutor throughout the semester.

Core Biology 2 starts with an overview of the wider context of biology, with lectures on zoology, botany, biodiversity and ecology. You will look at how multicellular organisms develop, and the influence of changes in embryological development on evolution. Size of organisms is also hugely important in determining structure and function of organs and organisms. You will then move onto a history of medicine and an introduction to the biology of disease. We have a number of tools to help you learn to diagnose and treat diseases, including technologies incorporating medical physics. You will discover how drugs are used to treat diseases, and will learn how these are derived, often from plants. The causes of disease are varied, and we touch on a number of these, including diet, aging, neurological, infectious and vector borne and toxicological, in preparation for the pathology modules later in the course. Epidemiology of disease is discussed within these topics. The module aims to help you develop key scientific skills, such as the ability to design experiments and carry them out competently and to present and describe data effectively. Emphasis is also given to the development of good basic numeracy, IT and communication skills and to the ability to work independently and as part of a team. The module aims to help you develop key scientific skills, such as the ability to design experiments and carry them out competently and to present and describe data effectively. Emphasis is also given to the development of good basic numeracy, IT and communication skills and to the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Cells are the fundamental units of life. In this module, you will be introduced to the many different types of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, with their identifying characteristics, structures and properties. You will examine eukaryote cellular organelles, including the plasma membrane, nucleus, endomembrane system, lysosomes, mitochondria, chloroplasts and the cytoskeleton, together with the cell growth and division cycle, with particular emphasis on mitosis and meiosis. An overview of bacterial, viral and organelle diseases is given, which underpins the ‘General Microbiology’ and ‘Principles of Pathology’ modules, delivered later in the course. Laboratory skills, including microscopy, spectroscopy and sub-cellular fractionation techniques are developed throughout the module, as are key numerical skills in analysing and presenting data.

This module goes hand in hand with topics covered in 'Foundations of Cell Biology' and provides a sound basis for understanding the processes of life at the molecular level. Key aspects of biochemistry and molecular biology are considered, including the four major classes of biological macromolecules, enzyme structure, function and kinetics. An overview of the central, energy generating pathways of metabolism (Glycolysis, Krebs cycle and Oxidative phosphorylation) is provided to underpin more advanced material delivered in ‘Metabolism and its Control’, later in the course. Genetic material, its replication and the mechanisms and control of gene expression are also studied. Throughout the module a number of different biochemical techniques, including chromatography, measuring enzymatic reactions and protein purification will be discussed and then employed in laboratory practicals. The module concludes by looking at the basics of genetic engineering, focusing on the use of restriction enzymes and cloning vectors. Students will also be guided through some of the basic calculations which are used daily in working Biomedical Science laboratories.

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms - organisms that are too small to be seen without magnification. The taxonomic diversity of microorganisms is reflected in the huge diversity of their lifestyles. In this module you will explore the major groups of microorganism: bacteria, archaea, algae, fungi, protists and viruses. In so doing, you will learn the basic concepts of microbiology and apply them to a scientific understanding of the subject area. You will consider the diversity of microorganisms from many different perspectives including their cell structure (if present), function, taxonomy and ecology. Microorganisms have a long history of association - mostly negative - with humans, and the importance of microorganisms as human pathogens is explored, as are their actual and potential uses. Throughout this module you will be introduced to the latest advances in microbiology, whilst also learning a sound basic understanding. Furthermore, through a series of laboratory-based classes, you will be given training in handling microorganisms and the use of the aseptic technique as the basis for preparing cultures. You will also acquire the fundamental practical skills required by microbiologists and biomedical scientists, including performing a Gram stain, viable counts, subculturing techniques and maintaining safe and efficient working practices. The laboratory sessions are held within a well-equipped microbiology suite. The range of laboratory techniques experienced in this module coupled with the broad theoretical basis will be useful for a range of laboratory-based careers, particularly in the biomedical sciences.

On this module you will learn about how the human body works at various levels going from the underlying biochemistry, to basic cell biology and on to how cells form tissues. You will go on to study how organs function and interact in organ systems. The emphasis is on how structure at all these levels is related to function. All through the module you will find out how the body maintains a constant internal environment (homeostasis) and how this helps maintain health. You will also learn how disruptions to this homeostasis can lead to disease. The organs and systems covered in this module include the brain, nervous system and the special senses, the heart and cardiovascular physiology, the respiratory system and the lymphatic and immune systems. There will also be an introduction to haematology. There are lots of practicals in this module, including dissections, which will help you understand the concepts covered in class. On this module you will be introduced to concepts that have a strong medical relevance, focussing on how health is maintain.

This module goes hand in hand with Human Anatomy and Physiology 1. On this module you will gain an understanding of the following organ systems: the musculoskeletal system, the endocrine system, the urinary system and fluid and electrolyte balance, the integumentary system, the digestive system including the liver and biliary system, the endocrine and exocrine pancreas, and the reproductive system. You will also learn about embryonic development. You will learn about how health is maintained and also develop an understanding of how disease, disorder and dysfunction occur in the various systems. The module forms the foundations of knowledge about the functioning of the human body which is vital for studying many modules that come later on in the degree, including ‘The Physiology of Organ Systems’ and ‘Principles of Pathology’ in the second year and ‘Human Pathology’ and ‘Clinical Immunology’ in the third year.

Diagnostic Techniques in Pathology introduces the biomedical science diagnostic disciplines of medical microbiology, clinical chemistry, cellular pathology, haematology and immunology. This will include the day to day workings of an NHS pathology department as well as the scientific background of the diagnostic procedures performed. In this module you will learn to describe and discuss basic sample handling, storage and screening within the various pathology laboratories. There is a firm grounding in the legal requirements for safe working practice, ethical issues and quality assurance procedures and you will study legislation governing these, which will enable them to identify potential risks and hazards within pathology laboratories. You will explore the concepts of reference ranges and the use, analysis and evaluation of quality control data, as well as a range of separation techniques and the principles behind some of the major analytical methods. Finally you will learn the fundamental principles used in obtaining results and how results are communicated to service users. Assessment is based on a series of linked assignments, some of which can also be used as supporting evidence for the construction of the IBMS registration portfolio. Teaching is delivered by appropriately qualified academic/biomedical scientists.

This module is designed to develop your experience and understanding of techniques that are used in the Biomedical Sciences in both clinical and research settings. You will be provided with experience in a variety of laboratory skills appropriate to the key subjects of Molecular Biology, Cellular Pathology, Haematology and Medical Microbiology. In addition to equipping you with essential laboratory skills, you will have continued engagement with good laboratory practice and health and safety practices that are required of biomedical scientists in research and clinical laboratories. You will also be provided with further experience in the analysis of experimental data. Additionally, this module will introduce you to techniques and experimental skills that could be employed during your final year research project. The majority of the teaching will be through practical classes where you will gain hands on experience of the techniques taught. Lectures will be used to provide further theoretical background to the techniques used and the processes required for the analysis, interpretation and presentation of results. Lectures and feedback sessions will take place during practical classes where appropriate. Teaching will be predominantly delivered by our lecturers but where appropriate, external lecturers will be employed to provide expert tuition, professional support and assistance. These will include biomedical and research scientists.

Building on the knowledge you will gain in the first year, you will further examine a range of metabolic pathways with a view to gaining a detailed understanding of the overall strategy of metabolism and the internal logic of key metabolic pathways. You will also discuss the effects of drugs and inhibitors and the role of allosteric enzymes in the feedback control of metabolism. Attention is also paid to the organisation of the genome and how genetic material is transcribed and translated. This leads to an understanding of the significance of inborn errors of metabolism and the effects of therapeutic drugs on individual reactions of metabolism. Finally there is more examination of cellular specialisation and the structure and biological functions of the major cellular organelles, as well as intracellular trafficking and hormonal signalling. While providing you with detailed subject specific knowledge, this module will help you to develop a number of transferable skills including practical (laboratory) techniques and skills relevant to general employment including report writing, data collection, handling and presentation.

This module builds upon the first year Human Anatomy and Physiology modules and develops a detailed knowledge of major theories of physiological principles, extending and broadening the skill base, whilst fostering increasing autonomy. Centred around the concepts of homeostasis and the biology of disease, the module starts with an introduction to the role of drugs and drug action, and their role in physiology and pathophysiology. The module then examines circulatory function in detail, looking at normal functioning and control of the heart and circulatory system, and differential supply of blood to the tissues. Respiration and its control are examined, in relation to gas exchange in the lungs and the tissues. The response of the body to physiological perturbations including altitude, diving, exercise and pregnancy are discussed. Additional aspects covered include a detailed discussion of the brain and neurotransmitters, liver metabolism, and relationships between diet and risk of disease. There is a detailed examination of blood as a tissue, closely surveying both the cellular and plasma fractions, and the physiological responses to haemorrhage. Students receive an overview of normal integrated physiological processes which is then contrasted with changes resulting from disease conditions, thus preparing them for more detailed analysis of systemic disease at level 6. Case studies are investigated and discussed for each topic. The students participate in practical sessions, with collection of physiological data using themselves as subjects. The assessment in this module includes an essay, a practical report with data handling and an end-of-semester exam.

This second year module is designed to prepare the student for their third year research project; the third year project can be based around practical laboratory research, a meta-analysis of a literature topic or bioinformatics. This module will introduce the concept of independent, student-directed research, giving them the opportunity to design and propose their own research project. During the process, each student will be assigned a supervisor to help and guide them through the process, from the initial concept to the final research proposal. The module will deliver a range of lectures, workshops and practical work designed to introduce information, skills and requirements necessary for preparing a successful research proposal. These include defining and developing a conceptual framework, finding and reviewing relevant literature, identifying and understanding appropriate materials and methods for analyses, understanding the potential outcomes and impact of the research, ethical considerations, and health and safety considerations. The module will contain a laboratory-based practical/theoretical assessment designed to test the student’s ability to undertake essential research techniques; this mark will be used to help determine the student’s suitability for the types of third year project available. In addition, the student will attend small group/individual sessions with their assigned supervisor to give research- and project-specific guidance. The module will culminate in the production of a written proposal outlining and justifying the research topic the student would like to undertake.

In this second year module you will learn about the structure, function and inheritance of genes. You will learn how genes give a biological explanation for how organisms look, function and even behave. You will develop your understanding of how variation in genes provides the raw material for evolution. You will start by learning the classical patterns of inheritance, building on concepts covered in the first year module Core Biology 1. You will go on to learn how these classical patterns may be more complicated as two or more genes interact. You will learn how chromosomes may be mutated and the effects of these mutations on the body. Also in this module you will find out about the genetics not only of individuals but also of whole populations. You will learn about the genetics of cancer and epigenetics and about current methods of genetic analysis. The concepts you learn in class will be backed up by practicals you will carry out in the laboratory where you will work in groups to conduct breeding experiments, stain chromosomes to view under a microscope and use various techniques to carry out genetic analysis of DNA. Lectures covering concepts are followed by genetic problems or case studies to work on in class. As well as gaining specific subject knowledge, this module will help you to develop a number of transferable skills including practical laboratory techniques and other skills relevant to general employment including data collection, handling and presentation and report writing.

This 15 credit module builds on the principles introduced in Human Anatomy and Physiology II, Foundations of Cell Biology and Diagnostic Techniques in Pathology. As such, it is the second module in the series that develops student knowledge and understanding of the main pathology disciplines. The module is also intended to provide a detailed knowledge of the processes of general pathology for the Level 6 module Human Pathology. By developing the concept of the biology of disease from the molecular level to the whole organism, it allows consideration of the causes of cellular injury and further develops how these lead to a failure of cellular homeostasis and function. In this context, students will also be expected to be able to identify and/or classify particular diseases with respect to their aetiology, pathogenesis, complications and sequelae and prognosis. Other concepts which are considered comprehensively include acute and chronic inflammation, the immune response to disease, and aetiological agents of disease (e.g. genetic, environmental factors and infective agents). With respect to the latter, emphasis will be placed on understanding the structure, classification, biochemistry and control of significant pathogenic agents. The basic principles of the biology of disease also provide an unifying theme to the module, which is developed through further consideration of genomics and the implications of age, gender, ethnic origin and epidemiology. Key to understanding disease diagnosis and progression is a comprehension of the range of diagnostic techniques currently used in pathology laboratories. Students are required to demonstrate specific knowledge and understanding of these techniques by deciphering case studies. As a corollary, modern-day ethical considerations of biomedical research, and disease diagnosis and treatment are also discussed. Resources include current textbooks, web-based information and image files as well as lecturer-prepared visual aids to assist conceptual understanding. Assessments range from a 1 hour written exam to examine the student's level of comprehension to written essay assignments and group-based poster presentations. As well as providing students with subject specific knowledge, this module helps develop a number of transferable skills including an appreciation of the basis of laboratory techniques and skills relevant to employment including group problem-solving, literacy and numerical skills.

The immune system is regarded as second only to the brain in complexity, and is what allows us to survive the onslaught from external hazards. However, at times our immune system can be our own worst enemy. This module builds on aspects introduced in ‘Principles of Pathology’, and allows you to develop a comprehensive and detailed knowledge of clinical immunology at a molecular, cellular, tissue, and whole patient level. You will build a thorough understanding of the normal and pathological operation of the immune system, consider the role and significance of immunity to infection, and the positive and negative roles of inflammation in health and in disease. We will start with the origins, development and properties of lymphoid cells and look closely at antibody structure and function. Other topics include antigen-presenting cells and lymphocyte activation, humoral and cell-mediated immunity, innate and acquired immunity to pathogens, autoimmunity, hypersensitivity, immunodeficiency and immunisation, through to transplantation immunology and vaccine design. Tissue typing and novel cellular approaches to cancer therapy are also included in the course

This module aims to cover some of the most topical and exciting recent developments in biomedical science, focussing particularly on those advances which are likely to become key elements of biomedical careers in the near future. You will learn about next generation DNA sequencing, the gut microbiota, metabolomics, proteomics, stem cell therapy and CRISPR/CAS9 gene editing. This module is taught in a variety of ways; as well as going to lectures, you will learn through going to journal clubs, workshops, a ‘Dragon’s Den’-style group exercise, and by attending three conference days. The first conference day offers insight into the different career paths that are open to graduates of Biomedical Science, through presentations by speakers at various stages of diverse careers. The second conference day focusses specifically on routes of entry into research-centred careers. The third day aims to develop your skills of critical analysis, by presenting a poster and attending a series of presentations by eminent guest researchers. This module places emphasis on self-directed learning, you are encouraged to rely more on current journal articles than standard texts.

This module will help develop your knowledge of clinical human pathology at a molecular, cellular, tissue, and whole patient level, and provide you with a detailed understanding of the pathological processes at the biochemical, histological and anatomical levels. The module builds on the key concepts of disease introduced in ‘Principles of Pathology’. A wide survey of these processes as they are found in diseases of the main organ discussed in ‘Human Anatomy and Physiology’ and ‘The Physiology of Organ Systems’ will follow, with an emphasis on clinically important areas. You will use case studies to develop a critical evaluation of evidence to support synthesis of conclusions/recommendations and investigation of contradictory information. Building on your knowledge and understanding will reinforce the relevance of the pathological processes that underpin clinical manifestations of the biology of disease. While pathology is a vast field, particular emphasis is put on the causes, progression, side effects and complications, diagnosis and treatment of the major diseases including a special emphasis on diseases of the vascular system (including the cerebrovascular system), blood, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and digestive tract. Students are encouraged to explore further topics of interest on their own to develop their autonomy and independent learning.

Our increased understanding of genetics has had a profound impact on human affairs. Much of our food and clothing and increasingly, therapeutic agents, come from genetically improved organisms. An increasing proportion of human illnesses have been shown to have a genetic component. Genetic knowledge and research have provoked new insights into the way we see ourselves, particularly in relation to the rest of the biological world. Building from the concepts introduced in ‘Core Biology’, ‘Principles of Genetics’ and ‘Metabolism and its Control’, you will focus on the enormous input genetics has had into our understanding of, and developing treatments for, human disease. Topics such as epigenetic and chromosomal changes, genetics of inborn errors of metabolism, pharmacogenetics and the advent of personalised medicine, developmental genetics, and genetics of cancer are discussed, among others. There will also be an opportunity for you to put your views forward with regards to the ethical dilemmas presented by our greater understanding of and ability to manipulate the genome.

The knowledge and skills of biomedical science and pathology are being applied to an ever increasing number of specialist fields. In this module you will develop a deeper understanding of these advanced specialisms. It will build upon your knowledge of routine diagnostic pathology disciplines gained in the ‘Diagnostic Techniques in Pathology’ module and you will learn to apply these to a range of specialist fields in the clinical, pharmaceutical and forensic pathology sectors, ranging from reproduction and fertility, through paediatrics and neonatology to gerontology, and from pharmacology and neurology to drug monitoring and forensic pathology. You will consider the theoretical and practical aspects of pathology through the application of knowledge and practical skills in each discipline. Additionally, you will gain an appreciation of the governance and legislations involved in these specialisms. This module is designed to impart a systematic knowledge of the theory, skills and techniques required of a graduate biomedical scientist and additionally, prepare you for careers in a variety of specialist fields.

You are required to undertake a final year research project, as a key component of your degree, focused on a topic relevant to your degree field. Your project may be based on current Anglia Ruskin University research interests, something of interest to you or, if suitable work-place supervision is available, related to the research of your previous, or current, employer. Your project must show evidence of appropriate academic challenge, technical expertise, and progress. You will be required to identify and formulate problems and issues, conduct a literature review, evaluate information, investigate and adopt suitable research methods, and use appropriate methods for data collection, analysis and processing. You will demonstrate that you have fulfilled these criteria via regular meetings with your project supervisor where you will show evidence of project development via discussion and the presentation of spoken, written and other appropriate evidence. A substantial dissertation will form the bulk of the assessment for this module, supported by a presentation and/or other supporting evidence and including an assessed PDP component. In the course of your studies with us you may generate intellectual property, which is defined as an idea, invention, or creation which can be protected by law from being copied by someone else. By registering with us on your course you automatically assign any such intellectual property to us unless we agree with the organisation covering the cost of your course that this is retained by them. In consideration of you making this assignment you will be entitled to benefit from a share in any income generated in accordance with our Revenue Sharing Policy in operation at that time. Details of our Intellectual Property Policy and Guidelines can be found on My.Anglia under Research, Development and Commercial Services or by contacting this Office for a hard copy.

This module is designed to you integrate your knowledge of biomedical sciences across a range of disciplines. The module will be taught using a case-based approach and is designed to you experience of disease diagnosis, medical testing, treatment options and potential patient outcomes. Also, this module will look at the biological basis that underlies the case histories, which biological processes are defective, how the defect(s) leads to the symptoms observed and the molecular basis of any treatment options.

This module looks at the breadth of microbial pathogenicity. As such it considers, bacterial, fungal and viral diseases of humans and animals. You will explore the deeper concepts of virulence, the molecular genetics and regulation of virulence whilst also considering the key issues relating to global epidemiology of new and emerging infections. In addition, we will study the complexity of the host-parasite relationship from both sides and critically appraise the broad range of pathogenic mechanisms exhibited by selected microorganisms through case studies and critical review of journal articles. Practical sessions underpin lecture and seminar content, to enable a thorough ability to understand topics in a theoretical and practical sense. Attention is also given to the challenges faced with selection and management of appropriate treatment strategies, including mechanisms of antibiosis and the various causes and effects of treatment failure. You will thus be able to interpret and contextualise microbial pathogenicity by demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the subject and the challenges faced to public health.

Cambridge is regarded as the ‘home’ of molecular cell biology, and is the hub of the UK biotechnology industry. This module will extend your knowledge and understanding of cell structure, function and disease at the molecular level, with particular emphasis on the evaluation and discussion of the experimental evidence that has contributed to current concepts, models and treatments. Processes such as signal transduction, protein sorting, protein targeting, phagocytosis and receptor-mediated endocytosis are discussed as part of your overall consideration of the relationship between molecular structure and biological function in cells and their substructures. Viral infection of eukaryotic cells will also be given detailed consideration, as will the role of viruses in oncogenesis and other factors that contribute to the molecular basis of cancer. Case studies are used to extend your ability to critically analyse data derived from the increasingly sophisticated techniques used to study biology at the molecular and cellular level. This module is recommended for those undertaking their research project in allied subjects.