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]

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]

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]

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]

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 module concerns the coevolution of plants and animals, including the ecological, behavioural and physiological aspects of their interactions. Pollination biology and the constraints on participating plants and animals are dealt with in depth, including applied aspects of crop pollination, and this is followed by a review of seed dispersal. Then patterns of herbivory by insects, vertebrates and other animals are considered, illustrating the interactions of plant physical and chemical defences and herbivores' reciprocal adaptations from feeding specialisations and host plant selection through to detoxification systems and life history adaptations. Interactions with third parties are also explained, especially plant-fungus-insect systems. There is an introduction to other tritrophic interactions (whereby plants can recruit herbivores' enemies as part of their defences, or recruit ants as biotic plant guards), to insects as plant pests, and to integrated and sustainable approaches to control measures and plant protection.
[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]

This module builds on material covered in BL1201 Molecular Biology and BL2104 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. It first considers the structure of genes and the composition of genomes and then examines genetic activity in eukaryotes in relation to nuclear organisation, chromatin structure and epigenetic mechanisms. Regulation of expression at the levels of gene transcription, RNA processing, RNA stability and translation are next covered in detail, drawing particular attention to the nature of protein-nucleic acid interactions. Specific control mechanisms in different prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, induced by environmental, cell cycle, and metabolic signals are highlighted.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module builds on the material covered in BL1201 and BL2104 to provide an understanding of more advanced aspects of protein structure and enzymology. The module begins by considering the protein-folding problem. The energetics of protein folding and the dependence of structure on sequence are examined. Protein folding diseases like spongiform encephalopathies are used as examples to highlight the significance of protein folding. The molecular basis of prion diseases is discussed in detail. The second part of the module focuses on the mechanisms of enzymes. This in turn leads into the phenomena of allosteric regulation, signalling cascades and transporter systems and is followed by a consideration of enzymes as pharmacological targets. The third part of the module introduces the major techniques for protein structure determination that are at the heart of modern biochemistry, molecular biology and drug discovery. Strategies for obtaining three-dimensional images of macromolecules by electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance are discussed. The laboratory course associated with this module introduces the fundamentals of safe laboratory practice. It provides grounding in the basic laboratory techniques, including associated calculations, as well as those associated with the study of proteins and enzymes.
[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]

The conversion of one form of energy into another by a biochemical process is at the centre of all life. This module studies the biological systems for conserving energy from food oxidation and light absorption (photosynthesis) and the conversion of the resulting redox energy into chemical energy in the pyrophosphate bonds of ATP. The module also considers electron transfer processes in biology and the energetics of trasport processes. Chemiosmotic theory and the principles are considered in detail as are the structure and function of electron and proton transfer systems of energy tranducing systems. Practical classes will introduce the student to the methods used in this field of study. The module will comprise twenty lectures, eight hours tutorials/seminars in total, and twelve hours in practical classes.
[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 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 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 has lectures in three component areas: parasite infections, viral disease, and pathogenicity of common bacterial infections, and will include consideration of host defences and effective treatment. In all three component areas the emphasis will be on understanding at the molecular level.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module deals with the structural and functional organisation of biological membranes. The dynamic molecular components of biological membranes are studied by investigating the mechanisms involved in the control of membrane fluidity, and the biogenesis of new molecular components of the membrane. The central role that biological membranes play in the regulation of the movement of molecules between different extracellular, intracellular and transcellular compartments is also considered. The process of molecular transport is studied at both a theoretical and practical level. The interaction between the structural and functional organisation of the cell membrane is highlighted by studying the specialisation seen in the major transporting epithelial tissues. Topics covered include: (i) structural and kinetic analysis of ligand-receptor interactions; (ii) GTP-binding proteins and the generation of intracellular second messengers: cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP, diacyl glycerol and inositol triphosphate; (iii) the activation of receptor and intracellular protein kinases: serine/threonine and tyrosine kinases; (iv) de-sensitisation of signal responses and receptor 'cross-talk'; (v) direct and indirect activation of plasma membrane ion channels. The practical component includes experiments to illustrate methods used to elucidate signalling pathways as well as providing training in laboratory and transferable skills.
[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]

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 will commence by establishing the fundamental basis of antimicrobial efficacy in terms of selective toxicity, with a brief history of antimicrobials and factors that make the ideal antimicrobial. This will be followed by study of the known inhibitory action of antibacterial and antifungal drugs at the molecular level, and study of the molecular basis of microbial resistance to these drugs. Lastly, potential new sources of antimicrobials will be considered, particularly antimicrobial peptides and 'natural' antimicrobials.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

In order to establish an infection in a host, pathogenic bacteria rely on mechanisms to adhere to host tissue, gain entry into cells, escape the host's immune response and spread and survive within or on the host. These processes are mediated by bacterial virulence factors, i.e. proteins and other bacterial products that utilise and subvert diverse host cellular processes for the benefit of the pathogen. In this module students will explore how structural biology has led to significant breakthroughs in understanding the molecular bases of some important bacterial infections.
[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 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]

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]

Evolutionary biologists, anthropologists and psychologists have taken evolutionary principles and used them to explain a range of human characteristics, such as homicide, religion and sex differences in behaviour. Other researchers are sceptical of these interpretations, and critical of the methods. Moreover, researchers disagree as to the best ways to use evolution to explore humanity, and a number of schools of thought have emerged. This module will introduce and critically evaluate the main evolutionary approaches currently being used, including socio-biology, evolutionary psychology, behavioural ecology and gene-culture co-evolution.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will focus on recent developments relating to evolutionary biology, placing particular emphasis on research related to medical or societal application or public policy. Examples of topics to be covered include: emergent diseases, biodiversity policy, conservation management, biological impacts of climate change, and public understanding of science.
[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]

Geomicrobiology explores the interactions between microbes and materials within inorganic environments and investigates the effects of microbial activity on these substances. Throughout the Earth's history, microbes have successfully colonised numerous and different inorganic environments, and in the process have changed the chemical nature of geological materials therein. The current interest in geomicrobiology has been reawakened by climate change and environmental issues. The module will commence by investigating very early Earth and its initial colonisers 3.7 BYA - the sulphate-reducing and methane-producing anaerobic bacteria - and later development of the aerobic environment. Then issues concerning today's Earth and the consequences of geomicrobial cycling are investigated, as well tomorrow's Earth and the influence of microbial activity on global climate change. What are the future implications of geomicrobiological activity? Finally, hypotheses regarding the geomicrobiology of a variety of newly explored space environments are considered.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

All cells depend on enzymes to catalyse the reactions that produce the energy required for life and that make and repair DNA, proteins and lipids. Understanding enzymes and their regulation underpins research on, for example, drug development. This module will study how the structures and molecular functions of selected examples enable the biological roles. Topics will include flavoproteins, DNA repair enzymes, nitric oxides synthases and other enzymes depending on the research interests of the academic staff. It will develop deductive skills, literature research, and communication of specific knowledge from reviews and primary research articles, and will encourage integration of previous basic knowledge of bioenergetics, protein structure and function, gene expression and metabolic regulation into the exploration of the cellular roles of enzymes.
[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]

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]

This module extends the students' knowledge of human metabolism and applies it to pathologies. The syllabus includes: a study of the integration of whole body metabolic processes, discussion of the role of biochemistry in investigating and monitoring human disease, the methods of diagnosing and treating some common diseases. Topics will cover integration of whole body metabolism, starvation processes, diabetes, metabolic variability, inborn errors of metabolism, endocrinology, homeostasis, plasma protein metabolism, muscle and hepatic metabolism, drug disposition and metabolism, and defects in glucose and lipid metabolism.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will consider modern molecular approaches that are now extensively used in several key areas of ecology: conservation and population genetics, phylogeography, and ecological genetics; aspects of molecular adaptation; and phylogenetic and genealogical inference.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Viruses as a group include many important human and veterinary pathogens such as influenza virus, hepatitis C virus, foot and mouth disease virus as well as emerging viruses like Ebola virus, and remain a continuing threat to human and animal welfare. This module will consist of a mixture of lectures, tutorials and personal-based learning on aspects of RNA virus host interactions. The topics covered will include comparison of the molecular mechanisms employed by enveloped and non-enveloped viruses to enter and exit from cells, discussion of how small RNA viruses maximise their coding capacity, comparison of the replication of positive and negative strand RNA viruses, discussion of how selected viruses reprogram the host cell to ensure their own replication, description of how RNA viruses intercede with innate immune responses, and understanding of how selected viruses interact with their vectors. In addition, discussion of virus-related topics that have made headline news in recent years will be addressed, and an understanding of the more commonly used molecular techniques to study viruses will be expected.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Predators and their prey are locked in an evolutionary arms race which continuously refines and improves the abilities of predators to locate and capture prey, and of prey to detect and evade predators. This strong selective pressure has produced some spectacular adaptations in both the nervous systems and the overall anatomy of the animals concerned. This, combined with the usually unambiguous motivation of the animals involved in predator-prey interactions (eat or starve, escape or be eaten) has made such adaptations favoured targets for study by neuroscientists, behavioural scientists, and biomechanicists. Students on this module will undertake a series of guided case studies researching the primary literature, and the module will also include some hands-on laboratory work. The aim is both to uncover some general principles of neural and biomechanical organisation, and also to reveal the variety and ingenuity with which evolution has found different solutions to shared problems.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

In this module, students will develop a detailed understanding of molecular neuroscience. There will be three main sections. Firstly, how neurons stay alive (e.g. neurotrophic factor signalling cascades) is examined; then how neurons age (e.g. White matter thinning, Gliosis (neuroinflammation), and thirdly, how the nervous system responds to neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer's disease. Work will focus at the biochemical and molecular level, so that detailed knowledge of signalling pathways including the kinase cascades from the neurotrophic factors and death pathways will be gained.The module concentrates on three key areas relating to neurodegenerative processes. 1) How neurons stay alive, for example the neurotrophic factor signalling cascades 2) The aging nervous system: Changes that can 'prime' neurons for degeneration, degenerative disorders - risks, pathology, treatments. Including a practical session looking at aging murine brains (histology) and at aging neurons and glia in vitro 3) How the nervous system responds to neurodegenerative diseases, with particular focus on Alzheimer's disease.Work will be especially at the biochemical and molecular level, so that detailed knowledge of signalling pathways including the kinase cascades from the neurotrophic factors and death pathways will be gained.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Practical skills are the core of research in biochemistry and molecular biology. This module is designed to prepare students for laboratory research projects in internationally competitive research. The module is designed to foster skills such as experimental design, core practical skills, data analysis and excellent record keeping. Each practical requires some prior theoretical familiarity. Emphasis is placed upon experimental design - notably anticipation of experimental outcomes and the choice of appropriate experimental controls. This planning phase is followed by execution of the experiment and analyses of the data.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

This module will examine and compare the biology of the four main groups of social insects: termites, ants, wasps and bees. Sociality in other groups (aphids, beetles) will also be considered briefly. Topics will include the evolution of sociality, social organisation and social control systems, reproductive strategies, and diverse communication modes including pheromonal systems, acoustic systems, and 'bee dances'. Aspects of foraging behaviour and learning abilities will also be considered, particularly for ants (leaf cutter ants, army ants, slave-making ants) and for bees both eusocial and semi-social. There will be strong evolutionary, ecological and behavioural themes, and relevance also to conservation issues.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Studies of mating systems in animals are primarily concerned with how animal societies are structured in relation to sexual behaviour. In plants, where many organisms do not have separate males and females, the term refers to the degree to which individuals are self-compatible or the amount of out-crossing that occurs. The effects of breeding system on sexual selection and sexual conflict, together with the costs of inbreeding and the evolution of mating systems, are central concerns of this module.
[source: University Module Catalogue]

Behaving animals form complex systems, and can create complicated and beautiful phenomena, such as flocks of birds, termite nests, and patterns of army ant swarms. This course will look at research that examines animal behaviour from a complex systems perspective, where analyses range from captive housing of entire bird flocks, computer simulation, and use of robots to interact with the animals. Introductory lectures will be followed by seminar-style discussion of the primary literature, computer practicals, and hands-on practicals where students will identify complex systems in animal behaviour around St Andrews.
[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 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]

Until recently the nervous system was viewed as a black and white world in which neuronal networks carried out tasks using fast chemical synaptic transmission to produce an appropriate network output. However the output of neuronal networks is not fixed but instead is modifiable under different behavioural or developmental circumstances. A major source of flexibility in the output neuronal networks derives from neuromodulation; a process in which the basic operation of the networks remains the same but the strengths of synaptic connections and the integrative electrical properties of neurons in the networks are changed by the actions of a range of neuromodulators. This module explores the diverse range of neuromodulatory mechanisms and outlines their importance in information processing in the nervous system.
[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 process of developing a new drug from conception to the clinic takes on average 15 years and costs over $800M. There are now many examples of drugs developed based on a knowledge of the three dimensional structure of the target, and all major pharmaceutical companies have structural biology as part of their core drug discovery programmes. Many drugs currently used to combat AIDS were developed from a detailed knowledge of key HIV proteins, as were the two drugs used for influenza. Most major pharmaceutical companies are targeting kinases in the search for new cancer therapies, with international efforts focusing on producing structural details of huge numbers of human kinases.This module will examine case studies of drugs that have been developed with the aid of structure-based methods.
[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]