What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will explore and apply the fundamental biological and chemical principles used to develop important analyses in modern bioscience. You will learn how the composition of complex mixtures of molecules are analysed and interpreted to support clinical diagnosis or to illuminate bioscience research. Additionally, the use of cell culture to support biomedical analyses in cytotoxicity testing and also their responses to modelled pathophysiological challenges in biomedical research will be an important and exciting feature. You will learn about performing clinical diagnostics and its underpinning quality assurance. As well as the content illustrating important biological and analytical principles, the mode of assessment will develop your generic research skills in literature searching and evaluation, data analysis, critical appraisal of methodologies and report writing to prepare you for your final year research project and beyond in life as a professional scientist. Professionalism will be fostered through developing an understanding of the requirements needed for a modern diagnostic laboratory.
How will I learn on this module?
You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical classes and online content.
The theoretical basis of an analytical principle or supporting biological technique or technology will be explained in lectures and illustrated with contemporary examples of diagnostic or research applications in practical classes and online materials and activities. The practical sessions will give you hands-on experience of key analytical techniques/technologies and associated data analyses. Seminars will guide you in literature searching, referencing and the academic regulations around good academic practice and avoiding plagiarism.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported by a team of staff associated with the module in a number of ways. Staff will deal with your questions and queries in lecture and practical sessions on issues of module content and also to provide guidance on interpretation of the coursework briefs and the development of the core skills necessary to retrieve, evaluate, discuss and apply the research findings of others. Staff can be contacted outside of sessions via a variety of channels to deal with your queries. Supporting information will also be distributed by the eLP - Blackboard Ultra.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
M1. Analyse the principles of scientific research and its application in bioscience.
M2. Appraise the methodologies necessary to use analytical techniques and cultured cells in research and diagnosis.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
M3. To be able to use and relate to and analyse scientific literature
M4. To competently and professionally generate, record, analyse, describe, interpret and compare analytical data.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
M5. To recognise the use of scientific techniques and how these skills enhance employability.
How will I be assessed?
Students will write an IMRAD report describing the use of a cell-based analytical methodology (2000 words) which contributes 50% of the module score. Feedback for the IMRAD component is given within the turninitin which the students can access through the eLP (Blackboard Ultra).
MLOs assessed M1-M2, and M4-M5.
Students will produce a poster that visually summarises an annotated bibliography of papers and appraises the key underpinning scientific techniques and their application.
The poster is submitted to turnitin and is worth 50% of the module score. Marks are allocated for both the content and visual appeal of the poster. Feedback for the presentation is given in the rubric used for marking.
MLOs assessed M1, M3, and M5.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
The module provides a foundation on how biological research is performed. You will be trained in how to research and use the scientific literature on a current biomedical and biological topics. You will learn how advanced analytical scientific techniques can be used, along with how cell culture can be used to understand and model disease, and provide reagents useful in medicine and research. Your taught experience will be delivered through laboratory practicals, lectures and seminars along with a stimulating online offering. You will be educated with an excellent taught experience with a blended learning environment that will provide you with key scientific skills in your future career.
Course info
UCAS Code C100
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Applied Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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