2BIO034 Methods in Molecular Biology
- Course code2BIO034
- Number of credits10
- Teaching semester2027 Spring
- Language of instruction and examinationEnglish
- CampusHamar
- Required prerequisite knowledge
BSc level courses in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (may be taken concurrently)
This course introduces the theoretical basis of key experimental techniques used in molecular biology to study DNA and RNA structure and function. Selected applications of these methods to promote sustainable living, will be explored. Students will also critically examine ethical considerations related to the use of some of these technologies. Lectures deliver the theoretical foundation, and tutorials using real-life case studies give students the opportunity to discuss and apply these concepts. The laboratory component includes both wet-lab and dry-lab exercises, giving students hands-on experience with selected molecular biology techniques. Students will be trained to independently design and plan experiments. Finally, group work and presentations will help students refine their scientific communication and presentation skills.
The actual content of the course is updated every year to accommodate the most recent methods. Some examples of the covered techniques are:
- Methods in molecular cloning and their applications
- Genetic engineering and genome editing, including CRISPR/Cas technology, with selected applications
- DNA sequence analysis and applications in genomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics
- Quantitative and digital PCR methods
- Recombinant protein production in E. coli and eukaryotic systems
Learning outcome
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Students:
- understand the principles of selected molecular biology techniques
- comprehend the applications of these techniques in genomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and biotechnology
- recognize the ethical and environmental implications of modern molecular biology technologies
- understand the design and planning of molecular biology experiments, including appropriate controls, reproducibility, and data interpretation.
Students:
- can reliably demonstrate how to select the appropriate molecular biology method to answer specific research questions
- should be able to analyze and interpret experimental and computational data related to DNA and RNA
- should be able to design, plan, and troubleshoot molecular biology experiments
- should be able to communicate scientific information effectively, both orally and in writing.
- should be able to evaluate the ethical and sustainability implications of molecular biology techniques
Students:
- can analyze relevant academic, professional and research ethical problems
- should be able to think critically and solve problems in molecular biology and related scientific contexts.
- Practical laboratory work
- Group work/Case studies
- Lectures
- Writing assignments and/or presentations
- Use of Canvas learning platform
- Self-study
- Attendance of at least 90% for scheduled laboratory exercises, group work and presentation activities
- Written and/or oral assignment must be passed
| Vurderingsordning | Karakterskala | Gruppe/individuell | Varighet | Hjelpemidler | Andel | Kommentarer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Written examination with supervision | ECTS - A-F | Individual | 4 Hour(s) |