BIO4104 Methods in Molecular Biology
- Number of credits7,5
- Teaching semester2025 Spring
- Language of instructionEnglish
- CampusHamar
- Required prerequisite knowledge
Molecular biology and biochemistry at the BSc level.
This course introduces the theoretical basis of key experimental techniques that are used in molecular biology to study DNA and RNA structure and function. The course also focuses on the applications of these methods to promote sustainable living, and examples of ethical issues related to the use of selected technologies will be raised and discussed. The lectures will provide theoretical information of the methodologies, and accompanying tutorials based on real life-science questions will be given and discussed. The students will be trained to independently design and plan molecular biology experiments using case studies. Finally, seminars will allow students to practice language 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
- Genetic engineering and genome editing, including CRISPR/Cas technology
- DNA sequence analysis, genomics, epigenomics and metagenomics
- Gene expression analysis including transcriptomics and RT-qPCR
- Genotyping techniques
- Recombinant protein production
Learning Outcome
Upon passing the course, students have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Students:
- have thorough knowledge about central molecular biology methods for the study of DNA and RNA structure and function, including the theoretical basis and principles of these methods (see content of the course).
- have thorough knowledge about the pros and cons of the molecular techniques introduced.
- have advanced knowledge concerning ethical concerns related to selected technologies.
- have thorough knowledge about how these methods can be used for sustainable product development.
Students:
- can reliably demonstrate how to select the appropriate molecular biology method to answer specific research questions.
- can design relevant molecular biology experiments.
- can practice critical evaluation of data and conclusions.
Students:
- can analyze relevant academic, professional and research ethical problems.
- can apply his/her knowledge and skills in new areas in order to carry out advanced assignments and projects.
- Lectures
- Case studies
- Seminars and oral student presentation
- In-class activities
Normally, evaluation of all courses must be carried out. Time/date and method are decided in consultation with student representatives. The course coordinator is responsible for ensuring that the evaluation is carried out.
- 4-hour individual written school exam
Performance is assessed using a grading scale from A-F, where E is the lowest passing grade.
| Form of assessment | Grading scale | Grouping | Duration of assessment | Support materials | Proportion | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Written examination with invigilation | ECTS - A-F | Individual | 4 Hour(s) | 100 |