Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy BIOL5417

  • Academic Session: 2024-25
  • School: School of Cancer Sciences
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

Students will learn how advances in the field of immuno-oncology are allowing researchers to harness the power of the immune system to combat cancer, including cutting edge therapeutic strategies such as CAR-T cell therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Timetable

Lectures and tutorials over 3 weeks in semester 2.

Requirements of Entry

None

Assessment

Poster on current topic in cancer immunology and immunotherapy (50% weighting) ILO 1 - 3

 

Poster presentation (3minutes) (50% weighting) ILO 1 - 3

Course Aims

This course aims to introduce students to principles of cancer immunotherapy, focusing on mechanisms of action and role in precision treatment, including advantages over traditional cancer treatments. Students will become familiar with the clinical applications of cancer immunotherapeutic agents, including efficacy, and safety as well as their role in combination treatment and will develop skills in engaging with lay audiences.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

 

1. Apply a comprehensive understanding of cancer immunology to critically discuss the application of personalized cancer immunotherapy strategies and implications for patient journey;

2. Critically evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of different cancer immunotherapies;

3. Demonstrate skill in communicating complex scientific topics impactfully to lay audiences.

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.