Molecular Biology and Genetics, 7.5 credits

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding
Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to

• explain the structure and regulation of genetic material,
• describe how information flow occurs within a cell and its regulation,
• understand genetic principles of inheritance and factors influencing it, and
• comprehend the principles of modern molecular biological methods and their applications.

Skills and Abilities
Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to

• solve basic molecular biology and genetic problems,
• demonstrate proficiency in molecular biology laboratory techniques, and
• evaluate and present their own laboratory results in a scientific manner in writing.

Critical Thinking and Attitude
Upon completion of the course, the student should have the ability to

• demonstrate a scientific approach and effectively communicate it, and
• assess the significance of biological knowledge in societal development.

Content

This course provides an introduction to the storage and expression of information within cells and its significance for the development and adaptability of organisms. The course covers processes such as DNA and DNA replication, transcription, translation, protein synthesis, mutations, DNA repair, and gene regulation. It explains the connection between molecular biology and classical genetics while also addressing the fundamentals of heredity. In addition, the course provides an introduction to hands-on work with basic molecular biological methods.

Examinations and grades

Theory, 5 credits (Code: A001)
Grades used are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Laboratory Work and Seminars, 2.5 credits (Code: A002)
Grades used are Fail (U) or Pass (G).

According to the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 18, a grade is to be awarded on the completion of a course, unless otherwise prescribed by the university. The university may determine which grading system is to be used. The grade must be determined by a teacher specifically nominated by the university (the examiner).

In accordance with university regulations on grading systems for first and second-cycle courses and study programmes (Vice-Chancellor’s decision ORU 2018/00929), one of the following grades is to be used: fail (U), pass (G) or pass with distinction (VG). For courses included in an international master’s programme (60 or 120 credits) or offered to the university’s incoming exchange students, the A to F grading scale is to be used. The vice-chancellor, or a person appointed by them, may decide on exceptions from this provision for a specific course, if there are special grounds for doing so.

The grades used on this course are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Modes of assessment

• Theory (code A001): Written exam
• Laboratory Work and Seminars (code A002): Oral examination, practical examination and written assignment

Absence from Mandatory Course Component
If a student is absent from a mandatory course component, the examiner determines if the student will be able to make up for the component during another scheduled class of the same kind. Otherwise, the student is referred to the next time the course is offered. As an exception the examiner may decide on substitute assignments. These shall then be carried out before or shortly after the end of the course.

For students with a documented disability, the university may approve applications for adapted or other modes of assessment.

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations.

Specific entry requirements

General entry requirements + Biology 2, Physics 1a or 1b1+1b2, Chemistry 2 and Mathematics 3b or Mathematics 3c or Mathematics C.

For further information, see the university's admission regulations.

Other provisions

Language of instruction: Swedish and English. The course is given in English if there are exchange students registered

Students who have been admitted to and registered on a course have the right to receive tuition and/or supervision for the duration of the time period specified for the particular course to which they were accepted (see, the university's admission regulations (in Swedish)). After that, the right to receive tuition and/or supervision expires.

Reading list and other learning resources

Required Reading

Alberts, Bruce, Bray, Dennis, Hopkin, Karen, Johnson, Alexander, Lewis, Julian, Raff, Martin, Roberts, Keith & Walter, Peter (Latest Edition)
Essential Cell Biology
London: Garland Publishing Company

Additional Reading

Cambpell, Neil A., Reece Jane B., Urry, Lisa A., Cain, Michael L., Wasserman, Steven A., Peter V. Minorsky, Peter V. & Jackson, Robert B. (Latest Edition)
A Global Approach
New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc

Additions and Comments on the Reading List

Laboratory instructions and other compendiums are added.