Module manager: Jurgen Denecke
Email: j.denecke@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
BLGY1326
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces and develops core practical research and scientific skills that students will use throughout their degree programme. A series of lectures will first lead to a theoretical familiarisation with a broad range of standard laboratory practices including routine calculations, analytical methods to quantify biological processes and study bio-molecular and genetic interactions. This also includes concepts of evolution, physiology, and morphology. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific experimentation design and process, to the extent that they appreciate the value of suitable controls and critical thinking. Practicals introduce manual skills and safe working practices in a laboratory environment, trouble-shooting, the importance of independent replicates and maintenance of accurate records of findings. Practicals will cover processes at the molecular-, cellular-, tissue and whole organism level within the broader remit of biology and genetics.
This module introduces core lab skills for students within a biological sciences field. Teaching will be practical-based and supported by introductory lectures that provide the concepts and preparatory material. The major objectives include development of routine laboratory techniques and experience of a range of analytical methods to monitor biochemical reactions in a quantitative or qualitative manner. Students will be provided training in microscopy and the observation of single cells and tissues as well as subcellular structures.
Core concepts include an understanding of scientific principles such as the difference between experimental science and pure observation, data recording, the difference between accuracy and precision as well as distinguishing technical replicates from biological replicates. These will be covered in the context of the laboratory experiments.
On completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Develop a range of skills for working with different biological materials within a laboratory environment.
2. Demonstrate knowledge, practical experience and competency of basic and intermediate laboratory techniques.
3. Demonstrate the use of mathematical calculations (e.g. percentages, molarities and dilution factors) and apply appropriately during laboratory work.
4. Apply relevant theoretical knowledge of fundamental molecular, cellular and whole organism biology to laboratory work.
Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate Good Laboratory Practice, ethical consideration and adherence to health & safety guidelines when working in laboratory environments.
2. Collect, analyse, interpret and communicate the results of laboratory work appropriately.
This module will provide core practical skills to support programmes within the biological sciences. This will include an introduction to good laboratory practice, including working with solutions, record keeping and health and safety considerations. Core skills training will be provided for the use of essential lab equipment, including balances, incubators, centrifuges and microscopes. Laboratory techniques will be covered which will include the development of skills in analytical biochemistry, protein purification and analysis enzyme activity assays, restriction analysis, PCR, cloning and agarose gel electrophoresis.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 16 | 1 | 16 |
| Practical | 14 | 3 | 42 |
| Private study hours | 142 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 58 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Semester 1: Practicals in Semester 1 will be accompanied by a specific feedback session at the end of each week to highlight class weaknesses and strengths and methods to improve performance in the future. Feedback is also provided by staff and demonstrators during the practicals.
Semester 2: Feedback will be given during the practicals by staff and demonstrators, with activities during the class providing students with an opportunity to evaluate their learning.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Practical Exam (in course) | 50 |
| Coursework | Lab report - 1000 words | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 03/03/2025
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