Life Sciences
Developmental Biology
Module code: C1008
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework, Computer based exam
How does an adult organism arise from a fertilized egg? This module presents the concepts and principles that are rapidly emerging from studies of developmental processes in animals.
Topics to be discussed include egg organisation and origins of cell differences, molecular mechanisms of cell differentiation, cell movements and inductive interactions, long-range signalling mechanisms, the cellular and molecular processes underlying pattern formation, and the evolutionary conservation of developmental mechanisms in different phyla.
Module learning outcomes
- To know and critically understand the basic mechanisms and processes of animal development in invertebrate and vertebrate systems.
- To be able to critically understand and explain developmental mechanisms and processes through the integration of molecular, genetic, biochemical, cellular and evolutionary concepts and data.
- To know the main experimental approaches and methodologies used in the field of developmental biology and be able to use these logically in the design of experimental strategies aimed at testing hypotheses within the field.
- To be able to develop structured and coherent arguments within the area of developmental biology and communicate these clearly and logically in a variety of forms including answers to short questions and essays.