Biology

Microbiology

How does microbiology govern our world? In this module you will learn the basic principles of microbiology before exploring the interplay between microbes, ourselves, and the wider environment.

Cells and Organelles

Explore the fascinating inner workings of cells, giving you a foundation in areas such as cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry. 

Diversity of Life

"‹Through practical workshops, this module introduces you to the diversity of life and the fascinating adaptations that enable organisms to inhabit nearly all conceivable ecological niches.

Principles of Genetics

Explore core genetic concepts leading to an understanding of how genetics underlies the biological and molecular traits observed in organisms. 

Evolution

Why did sex evolve? Why do we die? What is a species? How can evolutionary medicine help us? This module will provide you with an understanding of how life on earth came to be what it is, from genes to species. Without evolution, nothing in Biology makes sense.

Human Physiology

Explore topics including the circulatory system, blood and cardiac and skeletal muscles; the nervous system; reproduction; respiration; the gastro-intestinal system; and the endocrine system.

Ecology (with optional Dive Training)

Ecology is the study of interactions among living organisms and their environment, and is the basis for nature conservation and understanding human impact on the planet. Gain an understanding of ecological theory, applied ecology, and the collection and analysis of ecological data. You can choose to complete integrated PADI Advanced Open Water training, with an opportunity to develop specialist diving skills relevant to ecological science.

Genetic Analysis

You'll take a  problem-based approach to understanding modern molecular genetics and genomics of eukaryotes. 

Vertebrate Zoology

This module provides an integrated view of vertebrate biology by showing how changes over time and geography drive morphology, physiology, behaviour, and ecology in different vertebrates. Structure-function relationships are presented to appreciate how different animals evolve similar solutions and adaptations to the same ecological challenge while closely-related animals diversify in response to different environmental challenges.

Molecular Evolution and Genomics

This module will focus on the big topics in molecular evolution. What do genomes contain and why? How do we build trees from DNA sequences? How can recombination or gene duplication or transposons lead to adaptation? How do we detect selection in the human genome? We'll cover these in theory and in practice with some fascinating examples from nature.

Metabolism

Examine the biological processes that allow the "کsymphony of life' to occur. Understanding key metabolic concepts will further your understanding of biology itself, from human disease to the flow of energy through ecological systems so will feed in well with the other modules available to study.

Conservation Biology

Have we entered a new era of mass extinctions? Examine current threats to biodiversity and the characteristics that make some species more vulnerable than others. Learn to use scientific evidence to support biological conservation strategies.

Biological Basis of Disease

In this module, you will gain an understanding of the biological, biochemical and genetic basis of several diseases including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Cellular Regulation and Biotechnology

This module will explore the inner workings of the cell, and how our understanding of cell biology can be used in biotechnology. We will consider a range of human, animal, microbial and plant based signalling systems, as well as core techniques.

50% of the module will be based around a lab based project using fluorescent reporter proteins (e.g. GFP). The module will also support you in reading and critically evaluating research papers.

Ecological Monitoring

You'll monitor species, habitats and environmental factors. Choose from mammals, birds, herpetofauna, insects, terrestrial vegetation, freshwater and marine communities."‹

Behavioural Ecology

Develop your understanding of why wild animals behave the way they do. You'll study the proximate and ultimate causes of behaviour, and the interactions between animals and their environment.

Final Year Projects

Show off what you have learned across your degree! Undertake traditional research-based projects with experts in subjects like climate change, or try something a bit different like creating a documentary on shark attacks. Whatever you choose, it will be something that takes pride of place on your CV.

Biology in Education

Thinking about teaching as a career? Undertake placements in local schools and deliver your own science lesson.

Microbial Genomics Project

Ecotoxicology

"‹Study the impacts of pollutants and ocean acidification on aquatic organisms at the molecular and cellular level.

Biological Futures

How can Biology make the world a better place? In this module you will co-organise and present at our annual "کBiological Futures' conference, collaborating on an exciting whole class project, developing collaborative and professional skills alongside biological understanding.

Practical Conservation

Work in partnership with local environmentally orientated organisations to learn about the day-to-day practicalities of species and habitat management.

Cancer Biology

Gain an understanding of the key concepts in cancer biology. You'll learn how current research impacts diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.

Molecular and Medical Parasitology

Explore how medically important parasites have a major impact on populations around the globe. You'll also develop practical skills in parasitology.

Human Genetics

Examine human disease and the underlying genetic causes. Learn about cytogenetics and genetic counselling, as well as the inheritance of recessive and dominant diseases.

Sensory Physiology of Animals

Discover the fascinating world of animal communication to learn how sensory systems control behaviour, and how this is applied to and affected by human activity, including climate change.

Field Studies (Biology)

Recent students have selected from destinations including a dive-based trip in Malaysia and an exploration of the Atlantic rainforest in Brazil (financial contribution required).

Sex and Social Behaviour

You'll develop a deeper understanding of fascinating topics such as the evolution of sex, cryptic female choice, sperm competition, sexual conflict, parental care, brood parasitism, co-operative breeding and much more.

Concepts in Pharmacology

Use your knowledge of biochemistry to explore the metabolic and functional fates of xenobiotic compounds, and study the biochemical tools used to assess drug action.