Module Details

Module Code: BIOT7007
Title: Molecular Diagnostics
Long Title: Molecular Diagnostics
NFQ Level: Intermediate
Valid From: Semester 1 - 2017/18 ( September 2017 )
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits: 5
Field of Study: 4218 - Biotechnology
Module Delivered in: 1 programme(s)
Module Description: An Introduction to the principle and modern day applications of molecular diagnostics in a biotechnology based industry
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 List the key historical developments in the field of molecular diagnostics
LO2 Identify the role and importance of molecular diagnostics such as real-time PCR, modern spectroscopic methods, microfluidics, bio-imaging and sequencing technologies
LO3 Assess the benefit of research and development practices within a biotechnology company
LO4 Develop a capacity to troubleshoot and problem solve within the context of modern day biotechnology facility
LO5 Perform selected laboratory techniques, interpret results and prepare reports.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named MTU module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
620 BIOM6002 Introduction to Microbiology
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module. You may not earn additional credit for the same learning and therefore you may not enrol in this module if you have successfully completed any modules in the incompatible list.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed. You may not enrol on this module if you have not acquired the learning specified in this section.
No requirements listed
 
Indicative Content
Historical developments
A chronological view of the main developments and breakthroughs in the field of molecular diagnostics including cell biology, DNA discovery, enzymes, bio-imaging and PCR
Molecular tools
An overview of the enzymes, proteins and bio-markers within a cell which can be used, engineered and exploited for molecular diagnostics
Instrumentation
A comprehensive evaluation of the technologies and instrumentation that has revolutionised the field of diagnostics including, miniturisation, fluoresence, digital devices and bio-computing
Applied molecular techniques
A systematic analysis of specific techniques used in modern day molecular diagnostics including PCR, real-time PCR, genome sequencing, microarrays, genotyping strategies and bio-imaging
Case studies
An overview of specific examples where molecular diagnostics have benefited or impacted on biotechnology or society in general.
Bio-ethics
A description of the main challenges facing society as a consequence of developments in the field of molecular diagnostics such as stem cells, gene therapy and DNA databases
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Coursework
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 50
Timing Every Week Learning Outcomes 5
Assessment Description
Weekly laboratory based practicals
Assessment Type Short Answer Questions % of Total Mark 50
Timing Week 10 Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4
Assessment Description
relating to lecture materials
No End of Module Formal Examination
Reassessment Requirement
Repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.

The University reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Theory based material Every Week 2.00 2
Lab Contact laboratory based instruction Every Week 2.00 2
Independent & Directed Learning (Non-contact) Non Contact No Description Every Week 3.00 3
Total Hours 7.00
Total Weekly Learner Workload 7.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
This module has no Part Time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Truant A.L. (2016), Commercial Methods in Clinical Microbiology, 2. 3, 4 & 6, Wiley Blackwell, [ISBN: 9781119021872].
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Juluri R. Rao. (2006), Molecular Diagnostics - current technology and applications, Horizon, [ISBN: 1-904933-19-X].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
 
Module Delivered in
Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
CR_SPHBI_8 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 6 Mandatory