Module manager: Elizabeth Valleley
Email: e.m.a.valleley@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
See Programme entry requirements
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module will provide insights into the role of animal models and non-animal models in biomedical research, including the contribution that they have made to our understanding of human disease. Particular areas covered will include an overview of the types of models used for human disease modelling for translational research, their advantages and disadvantages, ethics, the legislation underpinning animal research in the UK and the guiding principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Refinement and Reduction). Alternatives to animal models will be described including cell lines, organoids and organ-on-a-chip, etc. and their contribution to research will be discussed, particularly in the context of the 3Rs and the work of the NC3Rs in the UK. The aim is for students to gain an insight into the pros, cons and complexity of using animal models and alternative models for the study of human disease.
.To develop graduates who have knowledge and understanding of:
· The roles and limitations of animal models in investigating human diseases or genetic disorders, and for development of novel therapies.
· Ethical considerations associated with conducting animal research · The legislation underpinning animal research in the UK and the Principles of the 3Rs in animal research.
· The advantages and limitations of alternative models and experimental approaches; particularly in relation to the 3Rs and including the work of the NC3Rs in the UK.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
LO1 Demonstrate in depth knowledge of the use of animalmodels and/or alternative models, as well as an understanding of the ethics and complexities involved in their use for biomedical and translational research.
· LO2 Critically evaluate methods used for creating animal models or alternative models of human disease, the importance of selecting appropriate models for biomedical and translational research, their benefits and limitations.
· LO3 Critically appraise, assemble and evaluate scientific information from a range of sources relating to the use of animal models and/or alternative models of human disease, to explain ideas, develop and defend personal interpretation of research.
· LO4 Communicate knowledge and findings related to animal and alternative models of human disease accurately and effectively through developing and creating own work.
SLO1 Demonstrate proficiency using various search engines to gather relevant data and information related to biomedical research, as well as using software to analyse data and produce diagrams illustrating concepts for inclusion in written reports and oral presentations. (working, academic, digital skills)
SLO2 Demonstrate critical evaluation of literature relevant to biomedical research and the ability appraise key concepts related to experimental approaches in biomedical research. (academic skills)
SLO3 Demonstrate efficient time management in the preparation for tutorials, reading and critique of primary research papers, analysis of data, synthesising written work, generating digital presentations, and adhering to deadlines to submit the assessments. (working, academic skills)
SLO4 Demonstrate the ability to present information in a clear, concise, and structured manner, both in a verbal and written form, and the ability to use visual aids appropriately to support written work and oral presentations. (working, enterprise and academic skills)
SLO5 Demonstrate the ability to use the correct scientific language appropriate to their level of studies and good academic practice, including referencing and using their own language instead of plagiarizing. (academic skills
Models of human disease (including rodents, zebrafish, amphibians, higher mammals) and alternative, non-animal models (including cell lines, organoids, organ-on-chip).
Strengths/weaknesses of specific animal models and alternative models
Generating genetically altered models
Techniques used in animal model research
Disease-specific models
Experimental design and reporting of animal studies
The Principles of the 3Rs and ethics
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drop-in Session | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Lectures | 16 | 20 | 20 |
| Seminar | 6 | 14 | 14 |
| Private study hours | 115 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 35 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
1 x Draft plan of the essay
1 x Study design exercise
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | 2000 words | 60 |
| Presentation | 1x 15minutes (12minutes plus questions) | 40 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Students will be required to submit a draft essay plan during the module, on which students will be given written, formative feedback. In person tutorials with background reading, formative tasks and group discussions will support both assessments. There is no compensation between assessments for this module, students must pass each individual assessment in order to pass the module.
There is no reading list for this module
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team