Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit considers fundamental aspects of biochemistry and molecular biology including recombinant DNA technology; the synthesis of RNA (transcription) and proteins (translation) and how these processes are controlled at the molecular level. A focus is also on understanding the roles that proteins play in a cell, as well as their structure. Emphasis is placed on the characteristics of enzymes and the major metabolic pathways they catalyse. The contribution of organelles to eukaryotic cell function is also discussed.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the major techniques and uses of recombinant DNA technology; (2) describe the processes of transcription and translation and how they are controlled; (3) identify and describe the roles of proteins and how they relate to their structural characteristics; (4) describe the steps in major metabolic pathways and the enzymes catalysing them; and (5) identify organelles and describe their contribution to the metabolism of eukaryotic cells.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) online quizzes consisting of multiple-choice and/or short answer questions; (2) worksheets; and (3) attendance and participation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Martha Ludwig
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
71520 Master of Biomedical Science
or 71580 Master of Biotechnology
and Successful completion of
ATAR Subject(s) Chemistry
or CHEM1003 Introductory Chemistry or equivalent
or CHEX1003 Introductory Chemistry
Incompatibility
Unit(s) BIOC2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Cell
and Unit(s) BIOC2002 Biochemical Regulation of Cell Function
Contact hours
6 x 2 hr workshops over the course of a semester.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.