School of Biology

This module is an introduction to molecular and cellular biology. It covers cell diversity and the origins of life, cellular structures and fundamental processes. The central dogma of molecular biology is investigated through the examination of the structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, and how this knowledge led to modern developments in biotechnology. The final section of the module gives an introduction into molecular and population genetics with an emphasis on the process of evolution. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes where biological laboratory techniques are taught an practiced through, for example, microscopy, DNA isolation, dissection and thin layer chromatography.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module provides an introduction to the diversity of life on Earth and will address key elements of organismal and ecological aspects of life. The module is divided into several sections beginning with the classification of life and an introduction to the kingdoms Monera, Fungi and Protista. Photosynthesis, respiration and the evolution and diversity of plants will be studied. Students will then look at the diversity of animals in the sea and the movement of some groups onto land. The module will also provide an introduction to animal behaviour and developmental biology, before finishing off by introducing ecology and the various factors promoting and threatening biodiversity. Throughout the module the lecture material is complemented by extensive practical classes introducing a variety of fieldwork and laboratory techniques.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Zoology is the study of animals, ranging from the simplest types of multicellular organisms such as sponges and jellyfish, through to humankind itself. The module surveys the animal kingdom, describing the key groups and the defining characteristics of their body plans and lifestyles, while putting this in an evolutionary context to reveal the patterns and trends in the kingdom as a whole. Special topics that are of fundamental importance to animals, such as animal communication, and the mechanisms of locomotion on land and in the sea and air, are considered in more detail. An extensive series of practical exercises reinforces and complements the lecture component of this module.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Ecology and Evolution are central to our understanding of life on Earth and the relationships between all organisms and their biotic and abiotic environment. The principles of Ecology and Evolution have determined the variety and distribution of all organisms and will determine their future responses to global change. This module will introduce students to principles and patterns of Ecology, ranging from the global (for example, patterns of energy flow through ecosystems and the biogeography of organisms and communities) to the individual (competition between and within species) and the history and processes of Evolutionary Biology (Darwin, natural selection, population genetics, the evolution of sex and speciation).
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This is an introductory module covering general aspects of animal cell structure and associated physiology. The module stars with a general overview of the regulation of the cell cycle, the roles of protein complexes essential to cell shape and adhesion and the homeostatic role of ion pumps, transporters and channels in the maintenance of solute compositions in both the intra- and extra-cellular fluid compartments. The module continues with detailed structure-function relationships within cells from three major tissues - i) nerve cells and the mechanisms of generation and propagation of the action potential, ii) skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle cells and mechanisms controlling contraction and finally iii) blood cells and O2 transport, immune response, coagulation and cell signaling pathways.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module builds on BL1201 Molecular Biology. The module will further develop the understanding and application of techniques, skills and concepts, which are integral to the revolution that has occurred in the biological sciences in recent years. The module is essential underpinning for all branches of modern biology and biochemistry. The lectures include coursework on biological molecular architecture, cellular architecture, enzymes & metabolism, genomics and conclude with an introduction to the molecular basis of infection and immunity. The laboratory element will develop practical skills and the use of bioinformatics resources.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module covers the principles of physiological adaptation in a range of animals, including examples from all major taxa and from all habitats. Initial comparisons relating to scaling and design of animals will be followed by more specific units on: (A) Comparative principles of ionic and osmotic exchanges; water balance in aquatic and land animals, adaptations at skin, kidney, and respiratory surfaces. (B) Respiratory systems in water and on land, and associated circulatory mechanisms. (C) Principles of temperature balance; ectotherms and endotherms. (D) Feeding and digestive systems; food collection, ingestion, and absorption at different trophic levels; and waste disposal. (E) Sensory systems in different environments (especially visual, olfactory, auditory, and special senses). (F) Control systems using hormones and pheromones and (G) the immune system in a range of animals.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module introduces the ecology of aquatic systems beginning with a description of the problems of life in a fluid medium. The module then considers the contrasting conditions that are inherent in freshwater, estuarine and marine systems. The influence of global climate variation and the close coupling between land and sea will be emphasised. Case studies will then be used to introduce the ecology of a variety of aquatic systems including tropical, temperate and polar systems. This module involves a residential field trip to Kindrogan field station in the Scottish Highlands.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Topics in this module will include: molecular variation and evolution, including phylogeny reconstruction; the evolution and maintenance of sex; the genetics of continuous traits, and the relative importance of continuous and discontinuous variation in evolution; evolutionary developmental biology; evolution of population genetic structure; the genetics of speciation, covering the evolution of pre- and post-zygotic isolation, and parapatric, sympatric and island speciation. Practicals will involve computer simulations to investigate a range of evolutionary phenomena, plus use of molecular markers to examine population structure and speciation.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module involves field-based exercises in a range of aquatic and/or terrestrial habitats. Students will examine and measure biodiversity, ecophysiological adaptation, and community structure, with both plant and animal material. Class exercises are used to develop good sampling techniques and to generate and analyse large data sets. Students also work in small project groups to develop individual skills in experimental design, practical manipulations, time-management and personal initiative, and in verbal/written presentation of project results.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Few biologists are statisticians or mathematicians, but all biologists use statistics and mathematics. This series of workshops is designed to build confidence in organising and analyzing data to address biological questions efficiently. The module will help you learn how to identify statistical and quantitative approaches, and how to manage and analyse data in a code driven statistical programming package. An introductory workshop will cover basic concepts and practical training that will be used in a choice of specific workshops that cover applications across the range of Biology.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will include lectures on the range of microbial and metazoan organisms and ecological systems in the marine environment. The coverage will range from bacteria, to algae, invertebrates and vertebrates (fish, birds, reptiles and mammals). The biology of marine organisms is considered in the context of both adaptations at the level of the individual and its expression in terms of large-scale latitudinal and depth-related variations in productivity and food web structure. Examples from the poles to the tropics and from shallow water to the deep ocean will be included. Practicals will be field- and laboratory-based and will provide an experimental introduction to both ecological and physiological problems in marine biology.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will examine how ecosystems function and how they provide services for humans: information which is essential for ecologists, conservationists and land managers. The module will consider examples of natural systems being altered by man to demonstrate how ecosystems function and the consequences of anthropogenic change. Disturbance and regulation in ecosystems, atmospheric and hydrological regulation, (including the green house effect and acidification), soil ecology, conservation and management of natural resources, agricultural and grazed ecosystems (including GMOs), urban ecosystems and aspects of sustainable development will also be discussed.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module is designed to provide a broad and multifaceted perspective on animal behaviour, emphasising contemporary theoretical, mathematical and statistical approaches to the discipline. Nobel-Prize-winning ethologist, Niko Tinbergen, pointed out that to understand behaviour fully researchers had to answer four types of questions, about its causation, function, development and evolution. All four areas are covered in the course, which includes lectures on the genetic, neural, physiological and experiential (i.e. learning) influences on behaviour; behavioural development; foraging; sexual behaviour, sexual selection and mate choice; communication, cooperation and culture. The course contains extensive material of a formal theoretical nature, and emphasises quantitative skills throughout. Students will be introduced to new mathematical and statistical approaches within the field.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module deals with the fascinating and rapidly changing field of Developmental Biology. It examines how an organism develops from an egg to an adult (including instances of metamorphosis), as well as how lost or damaged body parts can be regenerated. Also the interactions between development and ecology and evolution will be considered. There will be a focus on some of the typical model species used in developmental biology, including fruit flies, nematodes, mice and frogs, but this will be expanded to include other valuable comparative models, such as sea squirts, annelids, cnidarians and flatworms. The course will encompass multiple biological levels, from molecules, through cells and embryos, to the environment and the organism’s evolutionary history. As such this module is of wide relevance to a range of other biological disciplines.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This project will involve extensive laboratory or field research to investigate a defined problem within biology, appropriate to the degree programme being studied by each student. The project will involve diligence, initiative and independence in pursuing the literature, good experimental design, good experimental and/or analytical technique either in the field or the laboratory, and excellent record keeping. The project will culminate in the production of a high-quality report that demonstrates a deep understanding of the chosen area of research. Students will be allocated to a member of staff within the School of Biology who will guide and advise them in research activities throughout the academic year.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This project will involve an extensive literature review to investigate a defined hypothesis or problem within the field of biology, appropriate to the degree programme being studied by each student. The project will involve diligence, initiative and independence in pursuing the literature, and the production of a high-quality dissertation that demonstrates a deep understanding of the chosen area of research. Students will be allocated to a member of staff who will guide and advise them in research activities throughout the academic year. The project will be written up in the form of a research dissertation.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide primarily seminar and practical-based analysis of the life-history requirements of foraging in marine mammals, geographical and physiological constraints on finding food, food and feeding with a focus on types of prey and adaptations by the prey, adaptations for marine mammals feeding in the marine environment, optimal foraging theory, and optimal diving theory. Initial lectures will focus on theoretical issues and description of methods to study foraging. Students will then conduct case-studies of marine-mammal foraging, which will be presented in a seminar format as a group. Some practical work will also be included.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide primarily seminar-based instruction on the fundamentals of Biological Oceanography (BO). A few introductory lectures will focus on basic principles in BO and oceanography, including physical and geochemical principles as they apply to biological oceanography. Students will present seminars on particular focus areas within each lecture topic, based upon reading primary literature. BO is a broad field, so the module will provide an overview of the field with depth in a few chosen areas. At least one practical will be offered on the use of remote-sensing data for ocean observation, and we hope to develop a practical of zooplankton sampling. This module should coordinate especially well with marine acoustics and scientific diving.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

The goal of this module is to examine the ecological and biological principles underpinning the major tropical marine ecosystems. The module provides an understanding of the ecological processes that control tropical marine ecosystems, and considers the organisms that are characteristic of each. All the major tropical marine habitats will be considered, but with a focus on coral reef, seagrass and mangrove ecosystems. The module also tackles topical research areas on the subject through student-led seminars, which will vary depending on the latest scientific research and the specific interests of participants. On completion of the module, students will have an understanding of coral reef, mangrove and seagrass ecology. They will understand the biology and physiology of corals and be able to identify the major phyla associated with tropical marine ecosystems. The module will also provide an understanding of the threats to tropical marine habitats, current research trends on tropical marine systems, and the scientific approaches and techniques used tackle scientific questions relating to tropical marine biology.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide an introduction to the utilisation of fish stocks in a sustainable way. It will focus on how the status of these stocks can be assessed, the problems associated with determining catch limits, and how advice from fisheries scientists is communicated to managers. There will be a mixture of dedicated lectures (including talks from outside experts), student-led seminars, tutorials and practical computer sessions.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will examine the diversity of useful natural products from the sea, consider the ways in which genomic and other approaches are being used to bioprospect for new substances (especially from micro-organisms), learn how genomic approaches are overcoming the problem of unculturability of many marine prokaryotes to find such compounds, and explore some of the more unusual applications of materials derived from marine invertebrates. It will also consider how marine biotechnology is contributing to improved disease control in aquaculture, how it can help the 'greening' of more conventional 'dirty' industries and may enable us to meet our future energy needs via renewable biofuels. The societal, ethical and environmental issues associated with the development of environmental biotechnology are also considered.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide seminar- and practical-based instruction on sound propagation in the ocean, use of sound by marine mammals for communication, orientation, and foraging (as monitored by humans using techniques to record sound). It will also examine sound-based conflicts between humans and marine organisms.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Most marine invertebrates include a planktonic larval stage within their life cycle. The adaptive and ecological significance of a larval stage to otherwise benthic (bottom-dwelling) species is open to numerous interpretations, but for species that are sessile as adults, dispersal and colonization potential appears to be of major significance. This module will focus both on larval growth and development during the planktonic stage and also settlement and metamorphosis to the benthic juvenile state. Successful establishment of the post-larval stage is crucial to the completion of the life cycle and understanding the control of larval settlement has major socio-economic implications for species viewed as being detrimental (e.g. fouling) or beneficial (e.g. mariculture) components of marine ecosystems.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Marine mammals interact with human activities in a variety of ways and are frequently the focus of more general concerns about the health and exploitation of marine ecosystems. This module explores the impact of these activities on individuals and populations of seals and cetaceans, and vice versa. Most marine mammals species are long-lived and slow reproducing and the impacts of unmanaged human activities can be severe; a number of species or populations are threatened as a result. The module explores how best to provide robust scientific advice to inform conservation and management at local, national and international level.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module aims to give a broad overview of the concepts and fundamental achievements of physical oceanography. Physical oceanography is the study of physical conditions and physical processes within the ocean, especially the motions and physical properties of ocean waters. A series of lectures will be provided to assure that students have the broad background required to tackle primary literature in this field. Students will present seminars on particular focus areas within each lecture topic, based upon reading primary literature.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide both theoretical and practical experience of the techniques used by scientific divers. The module is restricted to students who have an existing diving qualification (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or BSAC Sports Diver or equivalent). Seminars during the field trip will cover diving safety, dive project planning, management, risk assessment and the theory behind underwater surveying techniques. Abroad, students will receive training in underwater marine identification, construction and deployment of underwater surveys and sampling techniques, gaining practical experience of recording, analysing and interpreting survey data. Then they conduct a mini-research project using suitable survey techniques and present their findings through a report and a presentation.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

The existence and extent of social learning and cultural transmission in non-humans is a very active area of current research, as well as of controversy, with an active ongoing debate. The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to this area through considering the conceptual issues and direct and indirect evidence for cultural transmission in cetaceans, the whales and dolphins. We will consider what is meant by the term 'culture', how it can be studied in non-humans, and the evidence for and against such processes being present in cetacean societies.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Learning to produce sounds is a particularly interesting subject as far as humans are concerned because it is such a notable feature of our own species. Why do we show it, and how did it evolve? As there is little evidence of it in any other primates we need to look further afield for clues. It is found in several other mammalian orders and in three orders of birds, and the evidence for it and nature of it will be examined in these examples. We will discuss why selection may have favoured it in each case. We will also consider vocal learning in a broader sense, including its use in animals that do not themselves produce sounds.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module is about using computers to search and study protein and DNA sequences, and related data such as mRNA expression levels. Vast quantities of such data are publicly available, and, if viewed in the right way, can provide strong evidence concerning function, structure, and evolution of DNA, RNA, proteins and genes. Because of this, computational analysis has become a crucial component of modern biology, including biochemistry, molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology and biomedical research. With hundreds of genome sequences and vast quantities of expression data available, the approach has greater potential than ever before. This module will give an overview of the data, software and methods of analysis, and in-depth practical training in applying bioinformatics techniques to questions of biology and biomedical research. Case studies where researchers use genomes to ask questions about divergence, adaptation and speciation will be discussed. The emphasis of the module is not mathematical, but rather concerns data, the general features of methods, use of software, applications relevant to biology, and results. The module will involve use of computers and simple computer programming, for which training will be provided as part of the module.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will focus on the scientific problems associated with the conservation and sustainable use of animals and plants, and on the way in which scientific advice on these issues is provided. Initial lectures will cover sustainable development and the precautionary principle; the causes of extinction; the economics of conservation; management of exploitation; and estimating species richness. After this student-led seminars will cover a range of more specialist issues of current concern. Practical work on population viability analysis, classifying populations using the IUCN criteria, and species richness estimation may be included.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

The conservation of animal and plant populations relies initially on information of population sizes and trends. This information can only be collected by fieldwork. This module teaches the basic field techniques that underpin the monitoring of populations. Each week the theory behind a different technique is introduced, then the technique is practiced in the field, and finally data collected by the technique are analysed and discussed in a workshop at the end of the week, so that a full understanding of a technique and its proper application is gained. The module ends with students carrying out a project applying and integrating the techniques they have learnt.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide an understanding of diving physics and how pressure changes affect the physiology of the human diver. It will use both tutorials and self-study sessions to cover theoretical topics such as oxygen toxicity, nitrogen narcosis and the symptoms and treatment of decompression illness. Thermal considerations of diving, long-term effects and the physiology of technical mixed gas and rebreather diving will also be investigated. Students will also explore applied topics such as the management of diving casualties and the treatment of diving- associated illnesses. The final emphasis will be on how our understanding of diving physiology directs current practice in the UK on safe diving practices.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

In this module, we will consider a number of outstanding questions, from both molecular and whole organism approaches, currently facing ecologists and evolutionary biologists today. These questions include why we get old and why we have sex, through to why the world is (mostly) green and how will life on earth come to an end. These questions will be relevant to both our understanding of the evolution and maintenance of the biosphere as we see it today, and also in terms of understanding humanity's place in that biosphere. We will take Sherratt and Wilkinsons's (2009) recent book Big Questions in Ecology and Evolution as our starting point, with student-led seminars bringing us classic and contemporary primary literature to address the topics in more detail. The result will be an exciting opportunity to get to grips with a number of big problems in ecology and evolution, from the perspective of the very latest research in those areas.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Evolution of new morphologies involves changes to the development of organisms. The field of evolutionary developmental biology is thus becoming established as a major and essential component of any comprehensive understanding of evolutionary biology. This module aims to cover some of the main, current themes in evolutionary developmental biology. Since animal life evolved in the sea, much of what we can learn about the major events in animal evolution can be obtained from studying marine invertebrates. Consequently the examples covered in this module will tend to be drawn from these organisms.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will provide a theoretical and practical introduction to the ecology and key ecosystem components of Antarctica with emphasis on marine ecology, ecosystem functionality and conservation issues. Students will participate in a two-week vessel-based expedition to Antarctica during the austral summer (northern winter). This field trip involves traveling to southern Argentina, conducting at-sea surveys during transit to/from the Antarctic Peninsula, participating in shore-based activities (e.g. observations at penguin colonies, visit to active research station), and exploring Antarctic coastal waters from small boats and the ice-strengthened vessel. Through a series of lectures, student-lead seminars, workshops, on-board practicals and field excursions, students will gain appreciation of and insights into the diversity, complexity, scientific and management challenges of the Antarctic ecoregion.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

The module allows is for students studying with Ooeration Wallacea in terrestrial and marine environments for a minimum of four weeks during the summer vacation. Students will gain experience in researching a variety of habitats and investigate the species in locations such as Indonesia, Honduras, South Africa and Mozambique. Students will be introduced to tropical ecology, sustainable development and conservation, fieldwork and novel research methods under the supervision of experts in those research areas. Students will be expected to maintain a journal of their field studies, in addition to being assessed on the application of field techniques and knowledge. The module will culminate in the production of a detailed research proposal.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module is based on the Undergraduate Ambassador Scheme launched in 2002. It provides final year students within the Faculty of Science with the opportunity to gain first hand experience of science education through a mentoring scheme with science teachers in local schools. Students will act initially as observers in the classroom and later as classroom assistants. With permission of the teacher-in-charge, students may also be given the opportunity to lead at least one lesson, or activity within a lesson, during their placement. This module will enable students to gain substantial experience of working in a challenging and unpredictable working environment, and of communicating scientific ideas at various different levels; and to gain a broad understanding of many of the key aspects of teaching science in schools. While of particular value to students aiming for a career in education, these core skills are equally important for any career that requires good communication. Entry to this module is by selection following application and interview during the preceding semester.
[source: University Module Catalogue]