Human Biology

Anatomy and Physiology of the Human Body

This provides the fundamentals of human biology by developing your understanding of the structure and function of the human body and how it works. All major body systems are explored from the cellular level through to whole organs and systems integration through neural and hormonal control. Key systems include: the heart and cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, musculoskeletal, nervous, renal and urogenital, endocrine and immune systems.

Genetics, Genomics and Human Variation

This provides an introduction to genetics, genomics and human variation. Genetics is the study of heredity; how the characteristics of living organisms are passed on from one generation to the next via DNA. Genomics is the study of the entirety of an organism's genes, called the genome. Particular reference will be made to the structure and function of genes and chromosomes, principles of variation, fundamentals of genetic disorders and human evolution & development.

From Molecules to Humans

Understanding of human biology is further enhanced here through underpinning biochemistry, cell and molecular biology relevant to biological systems and organic and inorganic chemistry. Specific focus is given to cell structure and function, cell division and the cell cycle, cell specialization and cooperation. This is proceeded by foundations in molecular biology, including DNA and RNA.

Essential Laboratory Techniques

This highly applied part of the course provides a programme of laboratory work where you will learn the fundamentals of practical biological experimentation and problem solving. These practical laboratory classes will support deeper learning of theoretical concepts through the application of knowledge in understanding key biological data. There is a strong focus on developing baseline competency in key lab techniques in the discipline, with a clear emphasis on risk assessment and working safely in the labs.

Study Skills & Research Methods

A key outcome of undergraduate study is the transferable skills that you acquire, such as those in writing, presenting information, referencing, working within teams, interpreting data, data analysis and understanding evidence. Dedicated time is given for developing these skills within the curriculum to directly improve your degree outcome and employability prospects.

Determinants of Health and Disease

You will study the advanced physiology of organ systems as appropriate to the study of human health and disease states (chronic, infectious and age-related). You will understand the nature and pathological fundamentals of common diseases such as: gastrointestinal tract pathologies, diabetes, CVD, respiratory and musculoskeletal pathologies. The microbiome and lifestyle factors are further topics that will supplement the multidisciplinary approach taken in this part of the course.

Human Metabolism

You will develop and apply your understanding of metabolic physiology and biochemistry to gain a more in depth understanding of homeostasis and control of the internal environment. The key biological processes of cell-signaling and enzymology will further extend your knowledge and understanding in this key area.

Immunology and Clinical Genetics

In these very important branches of medical and biological sciences, you will gain an immunological and genetic insight into disease and dysfunction. You will study immunology (acute and chronic), innate and acquired immunity and genetics and epigenetics in relation to disease and dysfunction.

Epidemiology

An introduction to the surveillance techniques and analytical approaches to monitoring and responding to biological diseases is fundamental preparation for careers in science and health. You will consider fundamental perspectives in epidemiology and global epidemiology of both non-communicable and communicable diseases.

Investigative Methods in Disease Biology and Practical Techniques in Molecular and Cellular Biology

Across the second year, you will continue an intensive programme of lab-based practicals and seminars which will extend your subject-specific and transferable skill set. Lab practicals will include for example the assessment of biomarkers of health and disease and microbiology in addition to practical techniques in molecular and cellular biology. This component of the course will also focus on increasing your confidence with different research methodologies and problem solving with a view to preparing you for your final year research project.

Genetic and Molecular Basis of Human Disease

Advanced concepts in the molecular and genetic study of health and disease forms the core theory at third year. This contemporary topic provides you with an excellent understanding of the mechanisms by which diseases and ageing affect the human body and how pharmacological therapy targets and treats contemporary medical conditions.

Contemporary and Advanced Lab Techniques in Human Biology

These seminars and advanced laboratory sessions will further refine your practical and research skills in more complex techniques appropriate for the field. You will study diagnostics in health and disease and some of the more sophisticated biomedical techniques with particular focus on immunology and molecular biology. You will also consider your future career and understand how effective data analysis techniques are essential for the workplace in this field.

Human Biology Research Project

You are equipped with the necessary applied skills through first and second year and concurrently at third year to enable

you to plan and undertake this important 15-credit laboratory-based research project. As a combined honours student, you have the option of undertaking an integrative dissertation (30-credits), with agreement from both of your subjects. Undertaking a research project in the final year enables the further acquisition of key skills including good lab practice, sound research design and execution, health and safety awareness, legal and ethical aspects of human research and strong data handling and analysis skills.