Molecular Services in Health Care
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| LIFE4036 | Life Sciences | 4 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- LIFE4036
- School
- Life Sciences
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This course will provide the student with knowledge and understanding of the application of molecular techniques in the health service including genetic counselling, molecular clinical genetics, cytogenetics, population screening, and cellular pathology. The combination of the completion of the Human Genome Project along with advancements in genomic technologies such as real time native long read DNA/RNA ONT sequencing, has led to the rapid generation of large amounts of genomic data with important clinical and diagnostic consequences.
Molecular diagnostics is a fast evolving subject which involves an active scientific dialogue between clinical and research labs. Findings reported from research groups are now becoming included in diagnostic screens and likewise, diagnostic utility is shaping the funding opportunities for research. Many of the lecturers contributing to this module hold primarily clinical posts within the NHS Trust. Hence this module is presented from a clinical service-perspective with much of the teaching focus on molecular diagnostics in applied health care. There is also a strong emphasis on career opportunities within different health care settings, such as NHS services, genetic counselling, clinical trials, and jobs within industry and involved with commercialisation.
Target Students
Compulsory for all students taking the MSc in Molecular Genetics and Diagnostics U7PMOLGD (C443).
Classes
This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: 2 Essay questions, 3000 words total
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To allow students to gain an understanding of genetics health services, the approaches used, ethical issues which arise, as well as, career opportunity advice.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course the student will demonstrate:
Knowledge and understanding of:
- Molecular diagnostic approaches
- Factors to be considered for setting up and managing a molecular diagnostic laboratory
- Appreciation of ethical considerations relevant to genetic counselling and genetic screening
- Techniques used in cytogenetics and prenatal diagnosis of disease
- Applications of molecular diagnosis in population screening
- Clinical trials and different career opportunities for graduates
- Commercial aspects to research studies
Transferable/Key Skills:
- Independent working
- Critical evaluation of scientific literature
- Selection of appropriate facts from the literature for module assignments.