BIOLOGY

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J Baird & Dr M Wilson

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Compulsory course for all students with a degree intention in any programme coordinated by SBS. Part of sustained study programme in Conservation & Environment. Potential popular option for students from other schools in CLSM.

Overview

Organismal biology explores the challenges of being alive. The course content comprises modules pertaining to the comparative study of life functions (reproduction, growth and development, nutrition, gas exchange, circulation, excretion, movement and communication) in a diverse range of plants, animals and microbes. The emphasis is on describing the similarities and differences amongst plants, animals and microbes pertaining to the integration and regulation of life functions that allow survival of individuals and species in a range of environments.

Structure

Twelve-week course in first half-session. 3 one-hour lectures per week and 1 three-hour laboratory practical every second week (but only five practicals in total). Total contact hours: 36 lectures and five practicals; in total, 51 hours.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour MCQ exam (60%) and in-course assessment (40%).

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved both the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ exam in the same format as the main exam. The resit paper may contain questions pertaining to both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Formative Assessment

Four compulsory online tests (one test every three weeks) will help students assess how well they are learning the course material. Student performance will be monitored.

Feedback

Students will receive regular written feedback on each lab report before the start of the next practical class. Students who are identified as having difficulty in correctly completing the formative online tests will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Young, Dr M Barker, Dr S Dalrymple & Dr N King

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

All students study BI 1005 and BI 1509.

Notes

Compulsory course for all students with a degree intention in any programme coordinated by SBS. Only available to such students.

Overview

The course is designed to promote interest and understanding pertaining to topics in biology. This is done by encouraging good practice in learning and by developing competence in relevant skills pertaining to the study of biological science. Topics will be specific to the degree intention of individual students, althought the skills are mostly generic. Students will receive summative assessment on four pieces of in-course work, including an element of project work, which provides students with the opportunity of demonstrating their attainment of learning outcomes, in an integrative manner pertaining to a topic of their choice.

Structure

1 one-hour introductory session. Twelve 1½-hour tutorial sessions, every second week during the first and second half-sessions (18 hours in total). Grand total of 19 hours.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%) of which there are four components (two in each half-session).

Submission / resubmission of those component exercises which previously had not been submitted for marking or for which students have been awarded a fail mark, respectively.

Formative Assessment

Students will have access to a range of formative online exercises that will enhance their competence in skills components of the course. Participation in these exercises will be monitored and students with apparent difficulty will be identified and invited to discuss solutions with members of the teaching staff.

Students will be offered formative assessment of draft copy pertaining to in-course components before summative assessment is made of final copy.

Feedback

Students will receive feedback (formal and informal) on formative exercises. They will also receive written feedback on each of their in-course components of summative assessment.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor Pete Smith & another [to be confirmed]

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Compulsory course for students with a degree intention in many programme coordinated by SBS. Part of sustained study programme in Conservation & Environment.

Overview

The content includes topics in Ecology: (Biodiversity, Ecological Resources, Population Ecology, Community Ecology, Ecosystem Functioning) and topics in Environmental Science: (Ecosystems and Environment, The Atmosphere and the Oceans, Land Use and the Global Environment, Global Environmental Change - including Climate Change, GMOs, Acid Deposition, Ozone Depletion, Biodegradation of Crude Oils, - Waste Management and the Environment).

Structure

Twelve-week course in second half-session. Three 1-h lectures per week and one 3-h laboratory practical every second week (but only five practicals in total; some practicals are tutorial-based). Total contact hours: 36 lectures and five practicals; in total, 51 hours.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour MCQ exam (60%) and in-course assessment (40%).

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in both the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ exam in the same format as the main exam. The resit paper may contain questions pertaining to both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Formative Assessment

There is no formal formative assessment but students will be expected to engage in tutorial-type discussions which will allow them to assess their own understanding of the course content.

Feedback

The main source of feedback will be regular written comment on practical reports. These comments will be made available to students in advance of the next practical class.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr I Edwards

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

The course is open to all students but is a compulsory course for any student with a degree intention in Conservation Biology, Wildlife Management, Forest Sciences and Forestry.

Overview

Lectures and workshops pertain to: Agriculture (purpose and aims, historical development of farming systems, land tenure and market systems, technical influences, limitations - land capability and biological limits, agricultural policies, selected farming systems and farm management); Forestry (nature and purpose of forestry, world forests and deforestation threats, forests and forest policy in Britain, silvicultural issues - regeneration, tending and protection of forests and global forestry issues); Land sustainability (current UK land-use data, sustainability, rural agencies and institutions, nature conservation and rural leisure - mostly policy).

Structure

Twelve-week course in second half-session. 3 one-hour lectures per week and a total of 15 hours of workshop/tutorial activity. Total contact hours: 36 lectures and 15 hours workshop/tutorial; in total, 51 hours.

Assessment

1st Attempt: One written exam (100%).

Resit: One written exam (100%).

Formative Assessment

Participation in workshops will promote self assessment on the part of students, regarding their own progress in appreciation of course content.

Feedback

Feedback will be given by staff to students regarding their participation in workshops and their appreciation of course content.

Credit Points

5

Course Coordinator

Dr I Edwards

Pre-requisites

Normally only available to students with a degree intention in Wildlife Management.

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Compulsory course for students with a degree intention in Wildlife Management. This course is only available to students from the School of Biological Sciences, with a preference to those students for whom it is compulsory for their degree.

Overview

Students have the opportunity to learn about and discuss, through site visits and related exercises (lectures, seminars on land use, regualtory and other relevant organisations), issues pertaining to land use, particularly agriculture and forestry in northern Scotland. Students carry out class exercises using information from site visits to gain experience in elementary management techniques.

Structure

Four days of field excursion in NE Scotland, including lecture and seminar components as well as class exercises.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Student performance is assessed (100%) throughout the course with regard to participation, understanding and performance in group exercises.

Resit: Retake course.

Formative Assessment

Continuous discourse amongst students and academic staff ensures enhanced skills in relevant issues pertaining to land management.

Feedback

Verbal feedback is provided on individual student performance throughout the course.

Credit Points

10

Course Coordinator

Dr I Alexander

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Compulsory course for all students with a degree intention in Plant Biology, Plant and Soil Science and Ecology. Strongly recommended for students of Forestry and Forest Science and open to students with other degree intentions (SBS). This course is only available to students from the School of Biological Sciences, with a preference to those students for whom it is compulsory for their degree.

Overview

Student will be instructed in the use of a flora for plant identification in coastal, woodland, moorland and montane habitats in the north of Scotland. They will be encouraged to consider how these habitats are shaped by environment and management practices. Small project studies of vegetation analysis are carried out.

Structure

Six days of field excursion with some lab-based components (residential at Bettyhill Field Centre).

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessmnet (50%) plant identification; written report on small project (50%).

Resit: Retake course.

Formative Assessment

Continuous discourse amongst students and academic staff ensures enhanced skills in plant identification and an appreciation of ecological issues.

Feedback

Verbal feedback is provided on all components of assessment during the field trip; written feedback is provided on short project reports.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Solan & Dr M R Young

Pre-requisites

BI 1004

Overview

This course deals with all major aspects of animal and plant community ecology in terrestrial and marine systems, including: the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems; decomposition; numerical approaches to community analysis; diversity, succession, stability; how communities are shaped by competition, predation and herbivory; plant/herbivore interactions; the niche concept and resource partitioning; the dynamics of colonisation and extinction; ecology and evolution of island communities; community structure including patch dynamics, food webs and biodiversity; concepts of biodiversity loss; distribution of species in time and space; and challenges of different environments. Lectures will be supported by laboratory and field exercises in techniques for community description and analysis, the measurement of dynamic processes and experimental approaches to understanding community dynamics.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures and 1 laboratory session per week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination paper (70%) and in-course assessment of 6 laboratory reports (30%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D J Shaw & Dr C Wilcock

Pre-requisites

BI 1004, BI 1507 and CM 1013 or CM 1014

Co-requisites

TS 1001 for students whose background warrants it.

Overview

The aim of this course is to give all biology students a basic understanding of the fundamental biological processes of genetics and evolution. Evolution is unified by the concept of continual change at the phenotypic level, underpinned by genetic changes of different kinds at the molecular level. The content of the course draws on material at all levels of complexity from the molecular, to the whole organism, to the population. There is a balance between molecular and organismal biology, and broader issues such as human population history.

Major topics:

• The key genetic and evolutionary concepts


• Evolution at the gene level


• Evolution at the genome level


• Evolution at the organism level


• Evolution at the population level and the origin of species


• Macroevolution (evolution of major organism groups).

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 6 three-hour practicals combined with tutorial support.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (75%), in-course assessment (25%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M D Swaine

Pre-requisites

BI 1004

Overview

Web-based online "homework" will be available for the next week consisting of a bank of questions, which the students are advised to answer and practise. The online system provides feedback during the exercise. On alternate Wednesday mornings, students have to complete an individual online test, based on the questions presented for practise in the previous week and related to the previous workshop. Any student who fails this assignment will be able to repeat the task.

Topics will include: numerical manipulations, practical skills, interpretation of graphs and data sets, basic statistics, application of statistical analysis to data, writing good scientific English, preparation of abstracts, designing experiments, critical analysis of published work, evaluating sources of information, analysis of conflicting published data, basic presentation skills.

Structure

6 two-hour workshops and 6 one-hour individual assignments.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment (100%). Consisting of 25% for group work, peer assessment (5%), and individual assignments (70%).

Resits: Students will be able to repeat individual assignments until they achieve a pass.

Formative Assessment

Feedback

Credit Points

30

Course Coordinator

Dr C Jones, Dr S Martin & Dr S Woodin

Pre-requisites

BI 1005

Co-requisites

None

Overview

Over approximately 3.7 billion years, living organisms on the Earth have diversified and adapted to every possible environment. This course will introduce the clues used to reconstruct the evolutionary tree of life and examine the amazing diversity of life through time, focusing on major lineages of organisms from fungi, through plants to invertebrates and vertebrates.

Practicals will illustrate a wide range of organisms, address important biological principles and encourage development of basic scientific skills including experimental design, hypothesis testing and data analysis in the context of individual and group learning.

Structure

24 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week, and 1 three-hour practical per fortnight.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour examination paper based mainly on the lecture course and comprising multiple choice questions and short essay questions (60%) and continuous assessment of practical work (40%).

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the continuous assessment.

NB. students gain exemption from course exam by passing three in-course tests.

Resit: 1 three-hour written examination in the same format as the main examination.

Formative Assessment

Three formative tests will help students assess how well they are learning the course material. Students who successfully pass all three tests will be offered exemption from the class exam.

Feedback

Students will receive regular written feedback on each practical report before the start of the next practical class. Students who are identified as having difficulty in correctly completing the formative tests will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Barker and Dr J McDonald

Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

Notes

The course is only open to students with a degree intention in a programme coordinated by SBS. Not available to other students - except visiting exchange students with a relevant degree intention from home university.

Overview

The course will focus on a series of essential skills, associated with becoming an effective and successful biologist. These enhanced skills include scientific literacy (including writing and critiquing), presentation (including posters, graphical and oral communication) and data handling (including descriptive statistics, experimental design, parametric and non-parametric analysis). The emphasis throughout will be on: consolidating Level 1 (or existing) skills; developing independent study skills and preparing the way for Level 3 courses in SBS.

Structure

24-week course, running during alternate weeks during both first and second half-sessions. Every fortnight, there will be three 1-h lectures, 1 one-hour workshop (lab or PC). Total contact hours = 48 hours. Workshops will organised around a small number of groups, allowing students to focus on material related to their degree intentions.

Assessment

Continuous assessment, consisting of 12 (equally-weighted) exercises (100%).

Submission of any outstanding or failed exercises as part of in-course assessment, until pass is achieved.

Formative Assessment

Formative on-line (WebCT or QMP) tests will help students assess how well they are learning. Student participation in these tests will be monitored. Participation data will alert the course coordinators to any difficulties with individual students in either attainment or attendance.

Feedback

Each student will receive individual feedback and a mark for each task. Feedback will be provided as written comments, audio feedback, or (for online exercises) automated feedback. Groups will also be given generic feedback.

Students who are identified as having difficulty in successfully completing the coursework assessment tasks will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during seminar and workshop sessions.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

TBA

Pre-requisites

BI 1005

Co-requisites

None

Notes

Available to any student who has the pre-requisites and a degree intention in a programme run by SBS.

Overview

The content reflects currently important topics in animal function and physiology. It features an introductory week plus units related to both invertebrate and vertebrate physiological adaptations to the environment. The content builds on, and integrates in a critical manner, knowledge about animals from BI 1005 (Organismal Biology) and BI 1509 (Ecology and Environmental Science). Topics typically include areas such Sensory Systems, Getting rid of wastes, Excretion, Respiration & Circulation, Thermoregulation, Osmoregulation, Acid-Base Balance and Gas Exchange.

Structure

12-week course in first half-session. 3 one-hour lectures per week (includes plenary, support lecture and group study/discussion) plus 1 three-hour practical every second week, from weeks 2-10 of the course. Total contact hours 36 lectures (plenary, support, discussion) and five practicals - 51 hours in total.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written exam (60%); continuous assessment (40%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written exam in the same format as 1st attempt.

Formative Assessment

Two formative on-line tests will help students assess how well they are learning the course material. Student participation in these tests will be monitored and contribute to retention of the class certificate.

Feedback

Students will receive regular written feedback on each practical report before the start of the next practical class. Students who are identified as having difficulty in correctly completing the formative on-line tests will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G T A McEwan

Pre-requisites

BI 1004, BI 1507, CM 1013 or CM 1014 and CM 1509. Students without these qualifications, may be admitted at the discretion of the Head of School.

Overview

This course introduces you to human physiology - the understanding of body function. The central concept, essential to physiology, is homeostasis - the maintenance of a relatively constant internal environment in a constantly changing external environment. This course (along with its partner BI 25B2) will consider how this is achieved at cell and whole body level. The focus in this course will be on the roles of the nervous and endocrine control systems. Specifically, it deals with: the physiology of the cell with special reference to nerve and muscle; cell-cell signalling; neuro-endocrine integration and some aspects of endocrinology; membrane potentials and action potentials in nerve cells; reflexes; central nervous system control of movement; the physiology and pharmacology of the autonomic nervous system; transduction of sensory information by receptors and processing of sensory information by the CNS; The composition and function of blood including its role in immunity.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures per week and 1 three-hour lab session per fortnight.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour MCQ examination (70%) and in-course assessment of laboratory practical reports and mid-term MCQ examination (30%).

Resit: 1 two-hour MCQ examination (70%) and in-course assessment of laboratory practical reports and mid-term MCQ examination (30%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A MacKenzie

Pre-requisites

BI 1004, BI 1507 and CM 1013. TS 1001 strongly recommended for students with C or less at Higher (or equivalent) in Mathematics or Physics.

Overview

With the sequencing of the human genome there has never been a more exciting time to study modern molecular biology. This course consists of four main modules that provide an understanding of the processes that convert the one-dimensional information contained within genomes into three-dimensional organisms including humans.

Module 1; Nucleic Acids. provides an overview of nucleic acid biochemistry with emphasis on the dynamic structure of human DNA and the way in which it is packaged into chromosomes. The basic principles of modern recombinant DNA technologies are also covered.

Module 2; Peptides and Proteins. provides a comprehensive introduction to protein biochemistry and gives details of the chemistry of amino-acids and peptides. The properties of proteins are described using a number of examples of globular and fibrous proteins.

Module 3; Gene Regulation. describes how the genetic information contained in the genome is transcribed into RNA and then translated into proteins. In this module, a basic introduction to gene regulation in human development, health and physiology is provided.

Module 4; Genetic Disease. explains how the human genome can be compromised by mutation and chromosomal rearrangements leading to disorders such as Downs syndrome, cystic fibrosis, fragile-X syndrome and cancer.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 4 three-hour practical classes; a total of 4 one-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60% of final mark). In-course assessment will include four 50 minute computer based end of module assessment each worth 5% (20% of final mark) and four practical reports each worth 5% (20% of final mark).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (60% of final mark). In-course assessment will include four 50 minute computer based end of module assessment each worth 5% (20% of final mark) and four practical reports each worth 5% (20% of final mark).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C C Wilcock

Pre-requisites

BI 1004

Overview

Plants dominate our landscape and our lives. This is largely due to their diversity resulting from a remarkable ability to adapt to life in changing environments and, more recently, to man. This course reviews the origins and extent of this diversity and illustrates how recent approaches to its study give insights into the nature and causes of plant diversity. The major groups are covered: bryophytes, ferns and their allies, gymnosperms and flowering plants. The course highlights the distinguishing features of each group of plant and explains how their diversity may have arisen. The origin and domestication of food plants is outlined with special attention to the role of man in the breeding of wheat, barley and rice and to the more recent novel methods of generating plant diversity by genetic modification. The importance of fungi is discussed, with emphasis on their nutritional strategies, both as important plant pathogens and symbionts, and decomposers. The practical sessions illustrate a wide diversity of plants and fungi and the techniques used to investigate them.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour laboratory session.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (75%) and in-course assessment (25%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written exam for all candidates and a 1 hour exam on in-course material for those who failed this assessment.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S Martin

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 and BI 1507

Overview

Vertebrate Zoology adopts a comparative approach to the study of vertebrate animals and the structure and function of their organ systems. The course reviews and describes the main vertebrate groups; fish, amphibians, reptiles (including dinosaurs), birds and mammals, emphasising their form and function, evolution, adaptations and diversity. The course also includes the physiology of the respiratory, circulatory and osmoregulatory systems; thermoregulationl and sense organs (especially those concerned with hearing). The lectures are supplemented by suitable practical exercises designed to teach a variety of skills which include microscopy, analysis and interpretation of data, dissection (of the trout), and group project work which includes report-writing and presentation skills.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures and 1 three-hour labratory session every other week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: A two-hour examination paper based mainly on the lecture course and comprising 60 multiple choice questions and 6 short note questions (60%) and continuous assessment of practical work (40%).

Resit: A two-hour examination paper based mainly on the lecture course and comprising 60 multiple choice questions and 6 short note questions (60%) and continuous assessment of practical work (40%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr P M Thompson & Dr S J Woodin

Pre-requisites

None

Notes

Available only to students in programme year 2 or above.

Overview

This course aims to provide a basic understanding of the principles of conservation biology, using a wide range of case studies from local Scottish habitats and species to those in more diverse tropical systems. It provides an overview of the nature, value and threats to biodiversity and details the problems faced by small populations of plants and animals. Whilst focusing on scientific aspects of conservation biology, this inter-disciplinary course covers the legislative, ethical, economic and management frameworks in which practical conservation action is taken. The course has been designed to be suitable for both biologists and non-biologists.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures per week and 6 three-hour tutorial/practical/fieldwork sessions.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60%) and in-course assessment of practical reports and written work (40%).

Resit: A resit exam, in the same format as the main exam. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor M Cotter

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 and BI 2005

Notes

Only available to students with degree intentions in the School of Medical Sciences.

Overview

Students select a theme, representing the major disciplines within the School. They then attend a 3-hour seminar, which presents areas of interest within the discipline for a research project. Working in groups of 8, students research the topic and prepare a Powerpoint presentation for the other members of the Theme. Presentations are held in week 37. All tutorial groups within the Theme present their talks together.

Students also prepare an individual 1500-2000 word report on the topic for completion by week 43.

Seminars on preparation of Powerpoint presentations and computer package usage are provided for those students who feel that they need them.

Structure

1 three-hour seminar, 6 one-hour tutorials, 1 three-hour presentation session.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Continuous assessment (100%). Consisting of individual essay (40%), presentation (40%), course performance (20%).

Resit: Students will be able to repeat the individual essay component.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Williams

Pre-requisites

BI 1004, BI 1507, CM 1013 or CM 1014

Overview

Cell biology lies at the heart of modern biological science, and is fundamental to our understanding of whole animal biology. This course will focus initially on the structure and function of individual cells, and from these principles the formation and maintenance of the "cellular societies" that comprise whole organisms and their organs will be covered. Defence against disease is an essential to all organisms. The course will introduce the cells of the immune system and their role in combating pathogens. Conservation and divergence in different aspects of cell biology, physiology and immunology throughout the animal kingdom will be highlighted throughout the course.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week, 1 lab class (3 hour) every second week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60%); continuous assessment of practicals and mid-term examination (40%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (60%); continuous assessment of practicals and mid-term examination (40%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Jack & Dr S Tucker

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 and BI 1507, CM 1013 or CM 1014 and CM 1509. Students without those qualifications may be admitted at the discretion of the Head of School.

Overview

Having learned some of the cellular control mechanisms in BI 20B2 this course asks: How do the major body organs and systems work – both alone and in communication with one another? How do we adapt to changing circumstances, control breathing as required, adjust to our nutritional needs, spawn new generations?
Taking the knowledge learned in BI 20B2 forward, this course will explore the physiology behind the way in which the heart supplies even the furthest extremities with nutrition and oxygen and how gases are extracted from the air we breathe by our lungs. The kidney (fluid balance), the digestive system (nutrition) and the reproductive systems will also be explained in detail. This course will provide an overview of what goes on inside your body, and what happens when it goes wrong.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 lectures per week, 3 lab sessions and a mid-term examination.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour exam paper. In-course assessment on practical work and mid-term exam.

Resit: 1 two-hour exam paper. In-course assessment on practical work and mid-term exam.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr F Ward

Pre-requisites

BI 1004, BI 1507

Overview

Bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses occupy all niches of this planet, from the deepest oceans to the human body. Their success in such a wide variety of environments is dependent on their diversity and adaptability. This course is an introduction to the biology and ecology of micro-organisms. It stresses the importance of man's relationships with micro-organisms, from disease to biotechnology. As part of the study of biotechnology, a field trip to a distillery forms part of the course. The course also describes the role of micro-organisms in disease, including a comprehensive review of immunology and how the immune system functions in combating infection.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week; 1 three-hour practical class every two weeks.

Assessment

1st Attempt: A two-hour EMQ examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Resit: A two-hour EMQ examination (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr K Shennan and Dr J Barrow

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 and BI 1507 and CM 1013 or CM 1014. TS 1001 strongly recommended for students with C or less at Higher (or equivalent) in Mathematics or Physics.

Overview

This course deals with the ways in which molecular events within cells are organised and controlled. Following a brief biochemical tour of the cell, the mechanisms by which chemical energy is harvested within cells is studied by reference to the processes of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, the breakdown of fatty acids, the terminal respiration system and oxidative phosphorylation. Mechanisms by which complex molecules are built from simple precursers are explored. Gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis, photosynthesis, the glyoxylate cycle, the pentose phosphate pathway and amino-acid metabolism are used to illustrate general concepts. A survey of the ways in which chemical events are catalysed is included, and the course concludes by examining the mechanisms by which cell activity may be influenced by the rates of flow occurring in net-worked systems of reactions.

Structure

3 one-hour lectures per week; a total of 2 three-hour practical classes; a total of 4 one and a half-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (80%) and in-course assessment (20%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (80%) and in-course assessment (20%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J McDonald

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 and BI 1507

Overview

Life on earth depends on plants. Their unique ability to split oxygen from water has resulted in an atmosphere that is not only suitable to breathe, but which protects DNA from the lethal effects of UV irradiance. This ability to liberate oxygen from water has both set the stage for evolution and ensured life as we know it. Plants do other things as well: in addition to being the single most important converters of radiant energy into forms that can be used to sustain life, they make a vast array of complex products that are of great use to man, and which are central to the functioning of ecosystems.

This course explores the major aspects of modern plant biology, indicating their relevance to natural and managed ecosystems, man and the environment. It covers key products made by plants, and their uses; services provided by plants (such as cleaning air, water and soil); the ways in which plants are manipulated by man, and some of the problems faced by plants themselves.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week, and one 3 hour practical per fortnight.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (75%) and in-course assessment (25%), of 5 practical reports, 3 written in the practical and 2 handed in after one week. Each count 5%.

Resit: 1 two-hour written exam for all candidates.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J McDonald

Pre-requisites

BI 1005, BI 1509

Notes

Available to any student who has pre-requisites.

Overview

The content reflects currently important topics in plant and soil research. It features an introductory week plus five, two-week blocks of teaching covering five topics, plus one summary week of course content. The content builds on and integrates in a critical manner knowledge about plants and soils from BI 1005 (Organismal Biology) and BI 1509 (Ecology and Environmental Science). Topics typically include areas such as limitations to biomass production; the biology associated with plant-derived products such as food, fibres and pharmaceuticals; plant-soil interactions; soils and climate change and soil microbial processes in the context of land remediation and sustainability.

Structure

12-week course in the second half-session. 3 one-hour lectures per week (includes plenary, support lecture and group study/discussion) plus 1 three-hour practical every second week (but only five practicals in total). Total contact hours 36 lectures (plenary, support, discussion) and five practicals 51 hours in total.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written exam (50%); continuous assessment (50%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written exam in the same format as 1st attempt.

Formative Assessment

Two formative on-line tests will help students assess how well they are learning the course material. Student participation in these tests will be monitored and contribute to retention of the class certificate.

Feedback

Students will receive regular written feedback on each practical report before the start of the next practical class. Students who are identified as having difficulty in correctly completing the formative on-line tests will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C Jones

Pre-requisites

BI 1004

Overview

Ninety-seven percent of living organisms are invertebrates belonging to around 31 phyla. Their diversity of form and organisation is astonishing and their classification complex and controversial. Their life styles and life histories are frequently bizarre and their occupation of diverse, often hostile, environments spectacular. They are a major food resource for many vertebrates, including man; some wreak havoc through parasitism whilst others inflict enormous damage as agricultural pests. This course briefly reviews classification of invertebrate animals and examines functional aspects of their biology: locomotion, nutrition, reproduction, and nervous co-ordination and control. Practicals address the important biological principles and encourage development of basic scientific skills including experimental design, hypothesis testing and data analysis in the context of individual and group learning.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures per week, and 1 three-hour practical per fortnight.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination paper based mainly on the lecture course and comprising 60 multiple choice questions and 6 short essay questions (70%) and continuous in-course assessment of practical work (30%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination in the same format as the main examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

To be confirmed

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 or MR 1008

Overview

The aim is to develop a pragmatic understanding of the biology of marine organisms with an emphasis on species of commercial significance. Marine food chains are reviewed including micro-organisms, algae and plankton in relation to primary production in the seas. Animals considered include sponges, corals, jelly-fish, rotifers, tube-worms, mussels, scallops, squid, shipworm, barnacles, copepods, prawns, krill, sea-urchins, starfish, sharks, herring, halibut, tuna and whales. For each species the life cycle and production will be discussed together with impacts and significance to man. The course is accessible to non-biologists. For biologists it provides a specialist introduction to marine species.

Structure

12 weeks - 3 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour laboratory every other week.

To pass this course a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (60%). In-course assessment of laboratory work (40%).

Resit: A resit examination, in the same format as the main examination. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

10

Course Coordinator

Dr P J Fraser

Pre-requisites

BI 1004

Notes

(i) Available only to students in programme year 2 and above.
(ii) The course may pose difficulties to students with certain disabilities. After consultation we will advise students which course offers the best opportunity. We will make provision, on an individual basis, and will provide alternatives for those activities that would pose insurmountable difficulties to achieve.

Alternative activities and/or venues may be made available to meet the requirements of disabled students. This course is only available to students from the School of Biological Sciences, with a preference to those students for whom it is compulsory for their degree.

Overview

The aim of the field course is to introduce students to methods for the collection of animals and their identification, assessment of population densities and an appreciation of the relationships between animals and their habitats. Techniques of field sampling of animals will be demonstrated and methods of analysis will be taught in the laboratory. Up to fifty per cent of the course consists of an independent investigation.

Structure

The course runs for at least 6 working days.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Assessment is based on presentation of a short written account of the course work or a seminar presentation and performance during the course.

Resit: No resit for field courses.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J McDonald

Pre-requisites

No pre-requisites but the course will be available only to students taking degrees in a biological science.

Overview

Scientific method will be taught through experimental design of a combined laboratory and glasshouse experiment; data handling and statistical analysis; writing a scientific report; assessment of peer submissions. Presentation skills and training in accessing library databases are also covered.

Training on software suitable for handling, manipulating, testing and presenting data is an integral part of the course.

Structure

Thread II: 6 weeks – The weekly number of lectures, practicals and tutorials varies throughout the course.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory examination and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (40%) and in-course assessment (60%). Oral examination for borderline candidates.

Resit: A resit examination, in the same format as the main examination. This may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C C Wilcock

Pre-requisites

BI 2001

Notes

(i) Available to students in Programme Year 3 or above.

Overview

This course explores the diversity and ecology of interactions of plants with both mammals and insects and discusses the underlying evolutionary processes involved. The course examines different ways plants and animals interact and outlines the benefits the participating organisms receive from this interaction. Topics covered are: coevolution; pollination and seed dispersal by animals; herbivory and animal responses to plant defensive chemicals; mammalian and insect herbivores; plant-nematode and plant-mollusc interactions; and applied aspects of plant-animal interactions including biological control. Recent advances in the subject are emphasised.

Structure

Thread I: 6 week course - 24 hours lectures, 1 three-hour workshop, 1 three-hour seminar.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory examination and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (67%) and in-course assessment (33%) which comprises a 2,000 word essay and 2 reports.

Resit: A two-hour written examination for all candidates.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Mrs C Dennis

Pre-requisites

BI 20Z1

Notes

(i) This course extends over 6 weeks only. (ii) Available only to students in programme year 3 or above.

Overview

This course relates the physiology, development and nutrition of domestic, companion and exhibition animals to animal husbandry and care. It describes how this knowledge can be used to improve the management and welfare of these animals in production and recreational environments.

Structure

6 hours of lectures per week. Thread II.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour written examination for all candidates (70%) and in-course assessment (30%).
Resit: 1 two-hour written examination.

Credit Points

10

Course Coordinator

Dr C T Marshall

Pre-requisites

ZO 3508

Overview

This 7-day field course will be an optional component of the marine biology and zoology degree programmes. It is open to level three students who have previously taken ZO3508 in the 1st half session of their 3rd year. The course is scheduled in the first week of the Easter vacation and will be held at the Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory, St Teresa, Florida (http://www.marinelab.fsu.edu/). Staff from the Laboratory will assist with teaching and practical work.

Structure

Trips to nearby field sites will be run on the first five days. These trips will study some or all following habitats: seagrass meadow, wetlands, sandy shore or muddy/silty shore, estuary, salt marsh and dunes. Each field trip will be followed by an associated group-based activity which compares structure and functioning of the sub-tropical environment with a temperate environment local to Aberdeen. This comparison will also include an analysis of issues related to environmental sustainability and habitat use.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Course assessment will be based on two elements: a field note book (50%) and project work (50%). The field note book will be kept by individual students throughout the course to record data and relevant information. Project work will focus on one issue of particular interest, and students will work in pairs. On the final day of the course students will present oral presentations summarising their project work.

Formative Assessment

Feedback

Credit Points

5

Course Coordinator

Dr S Bird

Pre-requisites

Available only to those registered for one of the SBS Honours degrees.

Co-requisites

None.

Notes

This course is only available to students from the School of Biological Sciences, with a preference to those students for whom it is compulsory for their degree.

Overview

This is a two day residential course designed to introduce aspects of working in a team and team-building. During this time you will be expected to work within a team where you will undergo various challenges, and have time to reflect on the effectiveness of you as an individual within the team and the overall team itself.

Structure

A two and a half day residential course.

Assessment

1st attempt: Credits will be issued on satisfactory attendance/participation of the course.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr T Stuchbury

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours Biology.

Overview

The course will consist of an individual essay (approx 5000 words) on a topic chosen from a set list.

Structure

No formal teaching.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Essay (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr T Stuchbury

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours Wildlife Management.

Overview

The course will consist of an individual essay (approx 5,000 words) on a topic chosen from a set list.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Essay (100%).

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Dr T Stuchbury

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours Biology.

Overview

An independent research project, under the supervision of a member of staff. The candidate is required to deliver a short seminar on the results of the work, publish a web site and to submit a thesis. As a preparation for the project, candidates are expected to attend a residential team building course held over 2 days in week 12.

Structure

Independent work.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Evaluation of the thesis, web-site and seminar and an oral examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J Baird and Dr S Martin

Pre-requisites

Must be enrolled for MSci Biological Sciences.

Notes

As part of their requirement to fulfil honours year, MSci Biological Science students will write the grant proposal in place of constructing a web site.

Overview

Students will receive a lecture outlining the requirements of a successful grant proposal, after which they will have one-to-one coaching and advice from a member of academic staff.

Structure

Tutorial, workshop and project supervision.

Assessment

1st attempt: One short grant proposal assessed on quality of proposal and not upon successful gain of funding.

Resit: No resit.

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Dr S Dalrymple

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours in Conservation Biology.

Overview

An independent research project, under the supervision of a member of staff. The candidate is required to deliver a short seminar on the results of the work, publish a web site and to submit a thesis. As a preparation for the project, candidates are expected to attend a residential team building course held over 2 days in week 12.

Structure

Independent work.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Evaluation of the thesis, web-site and seminar and an oral examination.

Credit Points

45

Course Coordinator

Dr T Stuchbury

Pre-requisites

Available only to level 4 candidates for Honours Environmental Biology.

Overview

An independent research project, under the supervision of a member of staff. The candidate is required to deliver a short seminar on the results of the work, publish a web site and to submit a thesis. As a preparation for the project, candidates are expected to attend a residential team building course held over 2 days in week 12.

Structure

Independent work.

Assessment

1st Attempt: Evaluation of the thesis, web-site and an oral examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G I Paton and Dr Z A Hickman

Pre-requisites

BI 1004 and either BI 15P1 or BI 2001.

Overview

This course covers the effects, monitoring and control of pollution in terrestrial, atmospheric and freshwater ecosystems. Topics include (i) legislation associated with the assessment and identification of pollutants and contamination, and the interaction of these pollutants with plants, soils and ground waters; (ii) freshwater pollution, particularly the impact of organic pollutants and monitoring methods including the use of biotic indices; (iii) biological effects of atmospheric pollution, field assessment of damage, ecological approaches to pollution control, and national and international control legislation.

Structure

Thread I: 6 weeks - 3 lectures per week and one whole day practical activity.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (67%) and in-course assessment (33%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M Wilson and Professor G I Paton

Pre-requisites

None

Overview

The course starts with an introduction to microbiology and then covers soil and aquatic microbial ecology, and bacterial, archaeal and fungal ecology. Microbial diversity and ecosystem function are covered with an emphasis on molecular techniques. There is also a computer-based practical on phylogeny. The course continues with an introduction to environmental biotechnology and then covers reporter and marker genes, biosensors, plant biotechnology, biocontrol, composting, and the application of molecular techniques in biotechnology. There is also a tutorial on genetically modified crops and ethics, as well as background on commercial exploitation of biotechnology, and a laboratory-based practical.

Structure

3 two-hour lectures per week, 2 guest lectures, 4 tutorials, 2 three-hour practicals.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination (70%); continuous assessment (30%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S Dalrymple and Dr M R Young

Pre-requisites

BI 2001

Overview

The scientific and administrative basis of nature conservation, with emphasis on selection and management of reserves and ecological aspects of conservation in the wider countryside. Both vegetation and fauna are considered as well as environmental monitoring. Case studies and site visits are included.

Structure

6 week course, Thread I (A, E, F)- 3 lectures and 1 field trip per week.

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour examination (67%) and in-course assessment (33%) consisting of a group poster, an individual poster report and a research proposal.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Professor D Robinson

Pre-requisites

Available to students in programme year 4.

Overview

Advanced concepts in the biological and environmental sciences that are of contemporary importance will be introduced. These will form the basis for structured discussions and debates and the preparation of essays or reports.

Structure

6 week course, Thread II – 6 two-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr S Dalrymple

Pre-requisites

BI 4024. Available only to candidates for Honours in Conservation Biology.

Overview

A review essay on a topic in conservation biology completed under the guidance of a member of staff during the second half session.

Structure

6 weeks - One meeting per week with the essay supervisor.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M R Young

Pre-requisites

BI 4024. Available only to candidates for Honours in Conservation Biology.

Overview

Students will be introduced to topics which are currently important within Conservation Biology (such as the advisability of re-introducing beavers to Britain; or the most effective ways of selecting tropical forest fragments as reserves). Each topic will be introduced and students will then have to research it, produce a written account of it, and then contribute to a tutorial or seminar. There will be an element of student choice in the topics covered.

Structure

Thread I: 6 weeks - 4 two-hour discussions.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%). Four in-term essays.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J Smith

Pre-requisites

Only available to students in programme year 3 and above.

Overview

The course aims to develop confidence, competence and ability in modelling Ecological and Environmental topics starting with a discussion of background issues required for modelling. Skills in modelling at the regional, field and sub-field scale are developed through a combination of sequential lectures, computer classes and tutorials on carbon and nitrogen in the environment and in plant communities. A strong focus on the purpose of modelling is introduced through examples and discussion of how models are used to direct public policy and advice (global climate change, nitrate pollution and crop management).

Structure

Thread ll: 6 week course - 7 one-hour lectures, 3 three-hour computer classes and 3 one-hour tutorials.

Assessment

1st Attempt: In-course assessment (100%).

Credit Points

120

Course Coordinator

Dr J Baird and Dr S Martin

Pre-requisites

Level 4 students must normally attain an overall CAS of 16 as judged from the collated Level 4 spreadsheet to proceed to MSci Level 5.

Notes

MSci students will follow current Level 1, 2 and 3 programmes and a slightly modified Level 4.

Overview

The content will be a series of workshops and tutorials; the first six weeks of the first semester will be core subjects, the second six weeks will be discipline specific. Each workshop and tutorial will be followed up by oral presentations i.e. weeks 12-23: One three-hour workshop on Monday 10-1 and one three-hour tutorial on Tuesday 10-1. Then one three-hour presentation and discussion session on Friday 10-1. The second semester will consist solely of an extended research project.

Structure

Tutorial, workshop and project supervision.

Assessment

1st attempt: 35% continuous assessment; based on two 5000 word literature reviews (2x10%), one 3000 word essay (10%) and a 15 minute oral presentation of the essay (5%).

65% based on dissertation; written document (40%), seminar (15%) and employer's report (10%).

Resit: No resit.