Module manager: John Huntriss
Email: j.huntriss@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
See Programme Entry Requirements
This module is not approved as an Elective
In this online module you will addresses the molecular biology, genetic and epigenetic concepts related to Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) and reproduction. This module provides you with a theoretical understanding of the techniques used in preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) that are used for the screening, diagnosis and avoidance of inherited genetic disease. You will learn about the developmental, genetic and epigenetic themes that are relevant to reproduction and early development, infertility, and ARTs and look to the emerging developments in these areas that are informed by the latest research. Key features are the exploration of scenarios in genetics, epigenetics and associated research areas related to ART. Students will have Synchronous (online, live) seminars.
This online module aims to equip students with an in-depth understanding of areas of genetic testing and molecular biology in the context of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs).
The specific focus areas include:
1. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): You will be able demonstrate a thorough understanding of techniques involved in embryo biopsy, and other ART procedures related to obtaining cells and/or genetic material from embryos and gametes. You will be able to demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of the theories and practices underpinning PGT for the purpose of diagnosis of inherited genetic disease and for screening embryos for the avoidance of genetic/chromosomal abnormality.
2. Advanced molecular embryology: In-depth examination of the molecular biology of preimplantation development and gametogenesis informed by the latest research papers and the use of technologies including single cell analysis, stem cell technology and in vitro gametogenesis.
3. Epigenetics, Infertility and ART: Critical examination of the potential ramifications of ART methods, as well as infertility itself, on embryo growth and health and development in the short and long term, emphasising the role and importance of developmental epigenetic processes.
Teaching:
You will access the online learning material for this module in addition to other university resources using Minerva which is the University’s portal and virtual learning environment. This module will be delivered via a combination of online module materials that you will work through, including interactive learning material, online media, self-test questions and other forms of interactive online content relevant to the module learning objectives. Your learning journey on this module is supported by the module manager in addition to other module tutors with whom you will interact with during a series of synchronous online sessions. You will also engage with asynchronous formative learning tasks within the module material that can be performed at a time that suits you.
How It Achieves the Objective: The online resources offer multiple avenues for in-depth explanation and demonstration and will provide a foundational understanding of key concepts and techniques for the module objectives, allowing you to study in an engaging way. Students are expected to engage in self-directed learning by utilising online materials to build their knowledge.
Synchronous online sessions offer a time for real-time interactions with the module tutors and also with your fellow students. These sessions are used to consolidate learning, answer questions, identify matters for immediate clarification or discuss specific points in detail, reinforcing your learning with activity-based approaches.
Asynchronous tasks drive engagement via formative tasks that can be performed at a time that is suitable for you.
During self-directed independent study time you will engage in wider reading in preparation for assessed course work assignments.
UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE MODULE, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
1. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT): Comprehend and discuss methods used for cellular biopsy and molecular genetic diagnosis in PGT, critically evaluating the use of PGT for the diagnosis and screening of human genetic and chromosomal disorders across past, present, and future ART practices.
2. Advanced Molecular Embryology: Critically evaluate and assess the advanced molecular biological methods and technologies that are used in the study of preimplantation embryos, stem cells and gametes and analyse the value of these technologies in researching early embryo development and in developing novel fertility treatments, such as in vitro gametogenesis.
3. Epigenetics, Infertility, and ART: Explain the role and significance of epigenetic processes in gametogenesis, preimplantation development, pregnancy, and later life stages and evaluate the implications for ART practice.
Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Academic Skills: Demonstrate mastery of structured, clear, concise, evidence based academic writing using precise academic language, and critical evaluation of the literature related to preimplantation genetic testing, advanced molecular embryology concepts and epigenetics mechanisms
2. Work Ready Skills: Develop a comprehensive understanding of the theory behind advanced laboratory approaches that are used in research laboratories and in ART laboratories to study the molecular biology of the embryo and achieve genetic screening and diagnosis.
This module examines the molecular, genetic, and epigenetic foundations of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Students will explore preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), including techniques for embryo biopsy and molecular diagnostics for inherited genetic and chromosomal disorders. The curriculum also covers advanced molecular embryology, focusing on gametogenesis and preimplantation development, informed by cutting-edge technologies such as single-cell analysis, stem cell research, and in vitro gametogenesis. The role of epigenetic processes in reproduction, infertility, and ART is critically analysed, with emphasis on their implications for embryo health and development.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-line Learning | 10 | 3.5 | 35 |
| Drop-in Session | 2 | 1.5 | 3 |
| Seminar | 2 | 1.5 | 3 |
| Independent online learning hours | 59 | ||
| Private study hours | 50 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 41 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
A variety of formative feedback methods will be used to support your learning throughout the module providing you with continuous insights into your progress and helping to identify any areas for improvement. Each student is assigned an academic personal tutor, who in conjunction with the module manager will review progress on completed tasks in the online module material, the synchronous tasks, asynchronous tasks and coursework in order to identify cases where additional support is required.
1. Formative tasks in online module material: Formative assessment is included on the module via in-built questions, such as short answer questions (SAQs) or multiple-choice questions (MCQs) that are built into the online module material. These are a way of assessing your progress and development on the module. Formative MCQs and SAQs and other question types support the development of your understanding of the wider module content and are used for scaffolding your development towards the summative assessment by driving learning across the breadth of the module.
2. Formative tasks and feedback in asynchronous activities: These include interaction with Minerva tools such as asynchronous discussion board tasks, debates, blogs, and forms of questioning and quizzes, which will be used to drive learning in specific areas of the module and to drive engagement with the online learning material. During these asynchronous tasks, your contributions will be reviewed by module tutors who will provide comments, ideas and feedback to help drive learning. Your module tutors will use these asynchronous tasks to assess your comprehension, identify learning needs, and track academic progress during the progression of the module. Collectively, these tasks provide formative support and development towards the summative assessed course work essay.
3. Formative tasks and feedback in synchronous (live, online) sessions: Formative assessment and feedback is also included during synchronous online live sessions to cover the subjects within the module objectives. These sessions will be delivered via real-time communication software applications. In these tutor-led sessions, you will analyse and discuss various scenarios and questions related to the module content, and undertake formative tasks, providing an opportunity to assess and deepen your understanding via structured online discussions. Students will be encouraged to raise questions and participate in interactive discussions on the module content. Your contributions to online discussions will be noted for the purpose of encouraging regular engagement with the module material. These sessions provide formative support by consolidating academic skills in preparation for the summative assessed course work.
4. Formative assessment scaffolding for preparation of written assessed course work
Formative support and feedback will be provided during written coursework preparation in addition to the comprehensive feedback after submission. A key formative feedback opportunity in the module involves scaffolding the assessment process through early-stage guidance. This opportunity for formative feedback during written coursework preparation will be provided via methods including online whiteboard sessions on Minerva and/or feedback on a draft/outline of the essay as examples. This allows you to discuss the essay topics, to aid preparation, to contextualise the essay and for you to ask questions related to preparation. This early engagement allows tutors to offer advice on the relevant literature and areas of relevance, helping students align their work with module assessment expectations from the outset.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Examine theoretical competence and understanding of module material | 100 |
| Coursework | Formative tasks for preparation of coursework | 0 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Format: Students will sit a 2,000 word coursework essay.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 31/03/2025
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