2025/26 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
MEDM5211M Stem Cell Biology: A Genomics and Systems Biology Approach to Haematopoiesis
15 creditsClass Size: 50
Module manager: Gina Doody
Email: g.m.doody@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
Pre-requisite qualifications
As per parent programme specificationThis module is not approved as an Elective
Module summary
This module will provide students with a current knowledge of the fundamental principles of stem cell biology using the haematopoietic system as a leading model for exploring the molecular mechanism(s) by which stem cells can generate multiple cell lineages. These concepts will be integrated with discussions of contemporary experimental approaches (ChIP-seq, genome engineering) and emerging areas (cancer stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, regenerative medicine) in stem cell research.Objectives
On completion graduates will be able to demonstrate:- advanced knowledge of cutting-edge advances and technologies related to cancer biology and therapy
- comprehensive skills in critical analysis, data evaluation and communication
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
LO1: Demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of haematopoiesis and stem cell biology;
LO2: Critique the latest experimental approaches in stem cell research with examples of their use;
LO3: Provide evidence of an understanding of the novelty and potential of stem cells in biotechnology and human diseases;
LO4: Evaluate new and relevant advances in haematopoiesis, gene regulatory networks and stem cell biology.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
SLO1 Demonstrate proficiency using various search engines to gather relevant data and information related to biomedical research, as well as using software to analyse data and produce diagrams illustrating concepts for inclusion in written reports and oral presentations. (working, academic, digital skills)
SLO2 Demonstrate critical evaluation of literature relevant to biomedical research and the ability appraise key concepts related to experimental approaches in biomedical research. (academic skills)
SLO3 Demonstrate the ability to take a logical approach to understand, interpret, analyse and manipulate numerical data in biomedical research. (academic skills)
SLO4 Demonstrate efficient time management in the preparation for tutorials, reading and critique of primary research papers, analysis of data, synthesising written work, generating digital presentations, and adhering to deadlines to submit the assessments. (working, academic skills)
SLO5 Demonstrate the ability to present information in a clear, concise, and structured manner, both in a verbal and written form, and the ability to use visual aids appropriately to support written work and oral presentations. (working, enterprise and academic skills)
SLO6 Demonstrate the ability to use the correct scientific language appropriate to their level of studies and good academic practice, including referencing and using their own language instead of plagiarizing. (academic skills)
Syllabus
This module will detail the fundamental principles of stem cell biology using the haematopoietic system as a leading model for exploring the molecular mechanisms by which stem cells can generate multiple lineages.
The following topics will be covered:
- The haematopoietic stem cell niche
- Leukemic cancer stem cells
- Transcription factors and miRNAs in normal and malignant haematopoiesis
- Epigenetic mechanisms regulating haematopoiesis
- Gene regulatory networks of the haematopoietic system
- Genomic approaches to study stem cell biology
- Plasticity, transdifferentiation and reprogramming
- Therapeutic uses of stem cells
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Lecture | 8 | 2.00 | 16.00 |
| Practical | 7 | 1.00 | 7.00 |
| Seminar | 7 | 1.00 | 7.00 |
| Private study hours | 120.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 30.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
There are two scheduled sessions (2hrs each) that provide detailed feedback on how to prepare a journal club presentation and answer specific questions related to the assigned papers. There is also a 3hr practical session in which students can share their data analysis with staff and receive feedback in real time. Time for these has been allocated in the seminar and practical sessions.It is expected that the student will take a proactive role in assembling their work and actively seeking feedback on specific aspects of their work from the module staff and engage in self-evaluation during the learning process.
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Group Discussion | Formative journal club group session | 0.00 |
| Group Project | Formative data analysis group session - Analysis of scientific data | 0.00 |
| Coursework | Journal Club - 20 minute oral presentation providing a critique of a published paper including an appraisal of methodologies, results and authors’ interpretations | 50.00 |
| Coursework | Poster - 10 minute presentation of scientific conference-style poster showcasing student data analysis and interpretation | 50.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100.00 | |
The two types of assessments provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge through multiple measures, to give a holistic picture of their abilities to conceptualise and think critically. In particular, the presentations replicate two different types of real-world tasks that they may encounter as part of their professional lives. There is no compensation between assessment elements, students must pass each individual assessment to pass the module.
Reading list
There is no reading list for this moduleLast updated: 20/01/2025
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