Stem Cells 4D option BIOL4123

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: School of Molecular Biosciences
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

The course will summarise interdisciplinary approaches to science, cell biology and molecular biology/biochemistry. The focus is stem cells and control (molecular and environmental mechanism) of stem cells. Embryonic, induced pluripotent, mesenchymal, cancer and plant stem cells are considered.

Timetable

This option is assigned to block S2-D. There are normally 3 hours of contact on Fridays, as arranged.

Requirements of Entry

Normally, only available to final-year students in a Life Sciences programme. Visiting students may be allowed to enrol, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Chief Adviser and the Course Coordinator. 

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

The course will be assessed by a 3-hour examination (100%). 

Main Assessment In: April/May

Are reassessment opportunities available for all summative assessments? Not applicable for Honours courses

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non-Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

Course Aims

The course aims to inform students about the latest developments in stem cell technology related to medicine. The student will be introduced to stem cells, stem cell biochemistry, regenerative medicine and then engage with issues surrounding stem cells (ethics and regulations). 

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course, students will be able to: 

■ Discuss up-to-date stem cell technology and biology; 

■ Appraise current stem cell literature; 

■ Discuss and engage with ethical stem cell debate; 

■ Discuss the regulatory framework that scientists and clinicians must operate within when using stem cells. 

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.