BIMMSIS-Molecular Methods for Species Identification and Survey

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Hyun Soon Gweon
Email: h.s.gweon@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will provide students with molecular techniques used to identify and survey species. The module will cover the basics of molecular biology to the modern molecular techniques which are increasingly becoming an important tool for environmental monitoring and survey.

Aims:

To provide students with knowledge and practical experience of molecular methods used to identify and survey organisms through lectures and hands-on practicals including designing, collecting, processing and analysing environmental samples.

Assessable learning outcomes:

On successful completion of the module, the student is expected to be able to:

• Describe and discuss the pros and cons of molecular techniques as a tool for environmental monitoring and why these are increasingly being used and researched


• Identify differences between molecular technique from the physical sampling method


• Recognise how and when to apply molecular techniques for environmental monitoring


• Design and ca rry out a survey based on molecular techniques

Additional outcomes:

Students will gain first-hand experience of molecular based environmental survey.

Outline content:

The module will cover molecular techniques used in environmental survey and monitoring. Students will learn the most current practice from experts and the reasoning behind why molecular techniques are increasingly used from commercial, regulatory and research perspectives. First-hand experience of molecular techniques from sampling to lab work will also be a major component of the module.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will consist of a series of seminars, practical exercised composed of field sampling through to lab work. Teaching will be delivered by ecological consultants and active researchers in the field.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• A series of reports for each practical session: individual written report in which students will write (1) a brief report on the methods they have leant; and (2) a detailed description of what they have done during the practical session in the form of a lab note.


• OralÌýgroup presentation: students will give a presentation on their findings from practical sessions.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 􀀓Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes􀀔, which can be found here: