Module manager: Gina Doody
Email: g.m.doody@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
As per parent programme specification
None
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module will provide students with a current knowledge of the fundamental principles of stem cell biology using the haematopoietic system as a leading model for exploring the molecular mechanism(s) by which stem cells can generate multiple cell lineages. These concepts will be integrated with discussions of contemporary experimental approaches (ChIP-seq, genome engineering) and emerging areas (cancer stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, regenerative medicine) in stem cell research.
On completion graduates will be able to demonstrate:
- advanced knowledge of cutting-edge advances and technologies related to cancer biology and therapy
- comprehensive skills in critical analysis, data evaluation and communication
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
LO1: Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of haematopoiesis and stem cell biology;
LO2: Critique the latest experimental approaches in stem cell research with examples of their use;
LO3: Provide evidence of an understanding of the novelty and potential of stem cells in biotechnology and human diseases;
LO4: Evaluate new and relevant advances in haematopoiesis, gene regulatory networks and stem cell biology.
SLO1 - Demonstrate proficient use on a range of digital tools including bibliographic databases to retrieve literature and software to analyse and present data. (working, academic, digital skills)
SLO2 - Demonstrate critical evaluation of experimental approaches and published literature relevant to biomedical research. (academic skills)
SLO3 - Demonstrate the ability to take a logical approach to understand, interpret, analyse and manipulate numerical data in biomedical research. (academic skills)
SLO4 - Demonstrate efficient time management skills in preparing and presenting academic work. (working, academic skills)
SLO5 - Demonstrate the ability to disseminate scientific information clearly, both in a verbal and written form. (working, enterprise and academic skills)
SLO6 - Demonstrate the ability to use the correct scientific language and good academic practice, including referencing. (academic skills)
This module will detail the fundamental principles of stem cell biology using the haematopoietic system as a leading model for exploring the molecular mechanisms by which stem cells can generate multiple lineages.
The following topics will be covered:
- The haematopoietic stem cell niche
- Leukemic cancer stem cells
- Transcription factors and miRNAs in normal and malignant haematopoiesis
- Epigenetic mechanisms regulating haematopoiesis
- Gene regulatory networks of the haematopoietic system
- Genomic approaches to study stem cell biology
- Plasticity, transdifferentiation and reprogramming
- Therapeutic uses of stem cells
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 8 | 2 | 16 |
| Practical | 7 | 1 | 7 |
| Seminar | 7 | 1 | 7 |
| Private study hours | 120 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 30 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
There are two scheduled sessions (2hrs each) that provide detailed feedback on how to prepare a journal club presentation and answer specific questions related to the assigned papers. There is also a 3hr practical session in which students can share their data analysis with staff and receive feedback in real time. Time for these has been allocated in the seminar and practical sessions.
It is expected that the student will take a proactive role in assembling their work and actively seeking feedback on specific aspects of their work from the module staff and engage in self-evaluation during the learning process.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Poster - 10 minute presentation of scientific conference-style poster showcasing student data analysis and interpretation | 50 |
| Coursework | Formative journal club group session | 0 |
| Coursework | Formative data analysis group session - Analysis of scientific data | 0 |
| Coursework | Journal Club - 20 minute oral presentation providing a critique of a published paper including an appraisal of methodologies, results and authors’ interpretations | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
The two types of assessments provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge through multiple measures, to give a holistic picture of their abilities to conceptualise and think critically. In particular, the presentations replicate two different types of real-world tasks that they may encounter as part of their professional lives. There is no compensation between assessment elements, students must pass each individual assessment to pass the module.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 20/05/2026
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