Module manager: Erica Di Martino
Email: E.DiMartino@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
While studying on this module you will apply biological and chemical concepts to the understanding of disease treatment. We will look at both infectious and non-infectious conditions and at how recent advances in medicine and technology can bring about significant changes in disease outcomes.
The aim of this module is to enable students to develop a theoretical and practical understanding of selected topics of biology, such as disease and treatment, as well as inspiring and enable them to apply their biological knowledge to solve real world problems as the next generation of scientists, doctors and healthcare workers.
1. Describe a number of inherited and acquired health conditions using precise language and scientific terminology
2. Discuss approaches to treatment of both infectious and non-infectious conditions
3. Understand how infectious and inherited conditions are transmitted
4. Understand the chemical and biological basis of how new treatments are developed and trialled
5. Be familiar with a range of molecular biology techniques and their applications in science and medicine.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Communicate biological information using precise language, and scientific terminology and notation
2. Present and interpret data to support biological concepts
3. Apply biological knowledge to problem solving
4. Choose reputable sources of scientific information and use critical thinking to interpret their content
This module will introduce, provide opportunities to practice, and assess the following skills:
- Communication of biological information using precise language, and scientific terminology and notation
- Presentation and interpretation of data to support biological concepts
- Problem solving and critical thinking
The content will be delivered through lectures and workshops and will cover areas such as…
- Approaches to infection control in the community and in healthcare
- Immune system and its therapeutic applications
- Antibiotics and the problem of resistance
- Drug discovery and clinical trials
- Cancer biology and treatment
- Genetic conditions and gene therapy
- Molecular biology in science and healthcare
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 10 | 3 | 30 |
| Independent online learning hours | 20 | ||
| Private study hours | 50 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 30 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
In-class interactive activities will allow tutor to monitor student’s progress and provide feedback on their understanding of lesson content. Students will be given the opportunity to submit answers to a set of formative questions for individual feedback. They will also be able to submit a draft of the essay for formative feedback.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Problem Sheet | A set of questions spanning the topics covered in the module. | 50 |
| Essay | An essay of approximately 750-1000 words | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
If a student fails the module coursework, the resit opportunity will be an equivalent problem-based learning assessment in July. Students who miss any of these learning opportunities can apply for mitigating circumstances and potentially could be given consideration at the exam board.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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