BSc (Hons) Biochemistry Bachelor's degree at Huddersfield

Gives a basic account of the structure and function of biological macromolecules, particularly proteins illustrated by reference to haemoglobin. Covers enzyme action, the relationship between genes and proteins and the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology, and a foundation in metabolism. Delivered by formal lectures and laboratory classes supported by tutorial classes, web-based material and individual tuition.

Considers genetic analyses in several systems including Mendelian genetics, linkage and pedigree analysis. Covers genetic systems of microbes, allele inheritance at population level, evolution and the Tree of Life. Includes introduction to basic cytology, comparison of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, compartmentalisation, cell culture techniques and DNA packaging in eukaryotic chromosomes.

Introduces students to the range of skills required in modern analytical science and illustrates how analytical methodology underpins scientific investigation. Builds on prior knowledge of analysis and develops numerical, IT and communication skills. Teaches ability to obtain and interpret spectroscopic data systematically. Taught primarily by lectures and tutorials with illustrative practical work.

Teaches recognition of functional groups and systematic naming of compounds. Covers structure and bonding in organic compounds, the octet rule, orbital hybridisation, formal charge, bond polarisation and resonance. Introduces molecular geometry, molecular conformation and stereochemistry. Covers mechanism and reaction intermediates and the chemistry of principal functional groups. Reinforced by regular tutorials and continuously assessed practical course in preparative organic chemistry.

Assessment: continuously assessed practical course

Provides requisite background skills for successful completion of an Honours Degree in Biology. Covers basic generic skills involving literacy, numeracy and use of IT applied to summarising, understanding, interpreting and presenting data. Includes learning peer-reviewed scientific literature, basic statistics using spreadsheet and statistics programs, and opportunity to build portfolio for Personal Development Planning.

Covers all the major organs of the body together with models of normal and abnormal bodily function. Emphasises the concept of homeostasis and the integration of dynamic processes involved in the maintenance of health.

Further develops general research skills including writing, presentations and statistical analysis. Promotes teamwork skills in group data analysis project. Includes opportunity to research a biological topic in depth and write an essay. Covers research ethics and health and safety in preparation for final year capstone project.

Assessment: group data analysis project with group presentation; essay

Provides understanding of essential processes involved in information storage and use in living cells and modern methods of molecular biology used to analyse genes and their expression. Covers DNA and RNA replication, transcription and translation. Introduces methods for identification, isolation and characterisation of genes. Discusses major enzymes for DNA manipulation and strategies for cloning. Covers DNA sequencing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Addresses gene expression control. Incl

Assessment: major practical element involving isolation of DNA from bacteria, analysis by gel electrophoresis and bacterial transformation

Considers protein structure in relation to function, particularly enzyme action and membrane mediated metabolic processes. Covers post-translational modifications of proteins and protein folding. Discusses protein mis-folding, aggregation and intrinsic disorder using prion proteins, amyloid and FnBPA as examples. Illustrates regulatory strategies using globular and fibrous proteins and higher levels of protein organisation through channels, pumps and cytoskeletal components. Introduces technique