MBLG1001/1901
Molecular Biology & Genetics (Intro)
Course Information
These course outlines are a guide only. They are provided for the information of prospective students. Although every effort is made to ensure the most up to date information is provided, timetables often change each semester due to the availability of rooms and resources. Content (including lecture/practical topics, assessment and textbooks) is also regularly reviewed to ensure relevance and effective learning.
The lectures in this unit of study introduce the "Central Dogma" of molecular biology and genetics -i.e., the molecular basis of life. The course begins with the information macro- molecules in living cells: DNA,RNA and protein, and explores how their structures allow them to fulfill their various biological roles. This is followed by a review of how DNA is organised into genes leading to discussion of replication and gene expression (transcription and translation). The unit concludes with an introduction to the techniques of molecular biology and, in particular, how these techniques have led to an explosion of interest and research in Molecular Biology. The practical component complements the lectures by exposing students to experiments which explore the measurement of enzyme activity, the isolation of DNA and the 'cutting' of DNA using restriction enzymes. However,a key aim of the practicals is to give students higher level generic skills in computing, communication, criticism, data analysis/evaluation and experimental design.
MBLG1901
The advanced component is designed for students interested in continuing in molecular biology. It consists of 7 advanced lectures (replacing 7 regular lectures) and 3 advanced laboratory sessions (replacing 3 regular practical classes). The advanced lectures will focus on the experiments which led to key discoveries in molecular biology. The advanced practical sessions will give students the opportunity to explore alternative molecular biology experimental techniques. Attendance at MBLG1999 seminars is strongly encouraged.
Dr Dale Hancock
Room: 715/377
Telephone: 9351 6024/9351 4024
E-mail: d.hancock@mmb.usyd.edu.au
MBLG1901 (Adv) 1st Lecture - Monday 12:00pm Chem Lecture Theatre 4
MBLG1901 (Adv) 2nd Lecture - Wednesday 8:00am Eastern Avenue Lecture Theatre
MBLG1001 1st Lecture - Monday 9:00am Eastern Avenue Auditorium
MBLG1001 1st Lecture repeated - Tuesday 9:00pm Eastern Avenue Auditorium
MBLG1001 2nd Lecture - Thursday 9:00am Eastern Avenue Auditorium
MBLG1001 2nd Lecture repeated - Friday 1:00pm Eastern Avenue Auditorium
6 credit points of Junior Biology and 6 credit points of Junior Chemistry
This course is essential for all students wishing to study Biochemistry, Microbiology, Nutrition or Molecular Biology and Genetics at intermediate or senior levels, and is highly recommended for all students planning to study Biology at higher levels.
The textbook is a custom Publication from Pearson (a combination of sections from 2 textbooks) which will be available at the beginning of the semester from the Co-op bookshop, cost ~$145.
AVOID THE RUSH! The laboratory Manual, cost $15, is now available at the Co-op bookshop.
A laboratory coat is essential for all practical sessions.
One 2.5 hour exam, in-semester skills test and asignments