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Unit Overview

Description

This unit will equip students with a foundation in modern molecular genetics applicable to a wide range of organisms. Students will gain insight into: chromosome structure; mechanisms of transcription and translation; regulation of gene expression; mechanisms of mutation and DNA repair; genetic variation; cell cycle control; and methods for determining gene function. Emphasis will be placed on emerging applications dependent on molecular genetics, including synthetic biology and RNA-based technologies. The unit will have a flipped format with pre-recorded lectures paired with self-study materials. Knowledge will be consolidated through in-person, active-learning workshops. Practical experience will be gained through laboratory sessions featuring routine methods in molecular genetics.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationModeFirst year of offer
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)On-campus
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) define the structural and molecular characteristics of genes and chromosomes, and how they differ between prokaryotes and eukaryotes; (2) interpret the molecular mechanisms and general principles by which genes are regulated in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms; (3) explain how variation in gene content can arise and be measured, and can account for phenotypic change including disease; (4) demonstrate how core molecular genetics knowledge can be applied to solve practical problems relating to agriculture, health and the bioeconomy; and (5) acquire and apply technical skills applicable to the molecular life sciences.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) workshop and practical assessments; (2) in-semester tests; and (3) exam. 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)
Associate Professor Mark Waters
Unit rules
Prerequisites
IMED1001 Form and Function
and IMED1002 The Facts of Life
or SCIE1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell
or SCIX1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell
or IMED1003 Cell Survival and Communication
Incompatibility
GENE2210 Functional Genomics Students enrolled in both MJD-GENET and MJD-HUMGE may choose either GENE2210
OR GENE2220
Contact hours
pre-recorded lectures: up to 2 hours per week
laboratory classes: up to 2 hours per week
consolidation workshops: up to 2 hours per fortnight
Note
Pierce, B. A. Genetics: a Conceptual Approach, 7th edn, update: W. H. Freeman and Co 2024
Text

Pierce, B. A. Genetics: a Conceptual Approach, 4th edn: W. H. Freeman and Co 2012

  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.