Module manager: Victoria Easton
Email: v.easton@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module will introduce students to the concepts of modern virology. Specifically, the module will describe the structure of viruses and provide a detailed understanding of the critical stages of the virus life cycle, using examples from each of the major virus classes. All stages of the virus life cycle will be covered in molecular detail, ranging from virus entry, virus genome amplification, gene expression, virus release, and essential interactions with the host cell. This module will also explore core molecular virology concepts and how these are applied in research to advance our knowledge and understanding of the field.
Objectives:
1. Develop a detailed understanding of viruses and their differing life cycles
2. Contextualise knowledge within modern virology research practices
3. Build proficiency with virology research tools and technologies
Delivery:
Through research led lectures, students will develop molecular level understanding of virus replication and explore the practicalities of the research environment which led to our current understanding of molecular virology. This research focus will be expanded upon further in workshops, where students will be introduced to software used in professional virology research practices, including the use of AI and generation of specialist images.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1. Describe virus life-cycles and structures at a molecular level using specific examples from major virus families.
2. Critically evaluate current knowledge in molecular virology, contextualising it within modern research practices and advancements.
3. Using relevant digital tools and technologies, design and present visual and written materials that effectively communicate concepts in molecular virology.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 16 | 1 | 16 |
| Practical | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Seminar | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Private study hours | 82 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 18 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
This module will provide continual formative feedback via in-class active learning from in-person teaching. Students will be asked to submit a draft figure generated using an appropriate digital tool and short explanatory text (250 words) to support the figure. The scientific writing and image will receive both peer-feedback and academic feedback prior to full coursework submission. Both the generated figure and supporting text should be fully supported by a mixture of reviews and primary literature.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | A 2000 word mini-review including at least 2 figures – one of which must be generated by the student using an appropriate digital tool | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
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