2022/23 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
BIOL2111 Genetic Engineering
10 creditsClass Size: 165
Module manager: Dr Ryan Seipke
Email: R.Seipke@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2022/23
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Module summary
This module will build on students knowledge and understanding of gene structure, expression and regulation. In the first part of the module, the focus of study will be individual genes, the tools and techniques used to clone, mutate, sequence and express genes, and how gene expression in cells can be studied. Students will apply this knowledge to experimental problem solving during in-course exercise sessions.Objectives
On completion of this module, students will have developed an understanding of the principal tools for genetic engineering and will understand how genes are cloned, studied, modified and expressed, and how gene expression is studied. They will also be capable of applying this knowledge to experimental problem solving.Learning outcomes
Students will engage with the major concepts and principles of gene cloning and manipulation, recombinant protein production and approaches for investigating gene expression and protein production in organisms. In particular they will be able to:
- review and understand the architecture of genes and processes of transcription and translation and the differences in these regards between prokaryotes and eukaryotes;
- describe ways in which genes can be cloned, their DNA sequences determined and how they can be mutated, engineered and used for the production of recombinant proteins;
- describe the methods used to measure gene expression and its regulation, including quantitative PCR, RNAi tools and the use of reporter genes; (added text)
- become familiar with the terminology associated with molecular biology and be able to apply it appropriately;
- become familiar with some of the current developments in the field of genetic engineering and their applications;
- determine the most appropriate approaches to experimental design and solve experimental problems.
Skills outcomes
Students will gain a deeper knowledge of molecular biology methodology and be able to apply this to experimental scenarios.
Syllabus
Students will study a range of techniques used to study individual genes and their expression, including cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, methods for expressing and purifying proteins, and methods (e.g. RNAi, CRISPR) for analysing and altering gene expression.
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Revision Class | 1 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| Lecture | 14 | 1.00 | 14.00 |
| Private study hours | 85.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 15.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100.00 | ||
Private study
Students should note that the following information is for guidance only. The actual time required for the various elements will vary between students.- 2 hours of self-study per lecture including reading books and articles (36 hours)
- 19 hours answering formative problems and reviewing online answers to problems
- 30 hours of examination and in course assessment revision.
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
- Students will be provided with problems during in-course exercises.- Feedback will be provided by the lecturer during the exercises.
- Students will be provided with examples of short-answer questions in order to practice answering this format of question and students are advised to ensure they are familiar with the full range of materials covered.
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| In-course Assessment | MCQ test | 20.00 |
| In-course Assessment | Formative molecular biology questions and short answer questions | 0.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 20.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 2 hr 00 mins | 80.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 14/11/2022
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