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You will first study three foundation modules: |
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Mathematics for Mechanistic Biology
The formation of mechanistic models of biological systems requires a set of mathematical tools that are not usually taught within a biological degree course. You will become competent in the manipulation of quantitative data and the testing of physical models of biological systems. The module will be tailored to your mathematical background.
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Computing for Mechanistic Biology
You will gain a practical introduction to programming, using Python and MATLAB. The module will focus on computational methods in the context of the modelling and data manipulations that are central to emerging fields in biology.
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Physical Biology
In this module you will learn how to apply ideas from physics to biological systems that you are already familiar with. This will include considering the quantification of biological systems and how advanced physico-chemical approaches such as scanning probe microscopy can have bearing on biological systems.
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In the second semester you will study three highly interdisciplinary modules: |
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Modelling and Simulation of Natural Systems
This unit will further develop your practical skills in the techniques used for modelling and simulating dynamic natural systems. You will learn alongside Computer Science students how to use MATLAB to simulate and explore the dynamics of differential equation models, using examples drawn from both biological and physical systems.
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Biological nanotechnology
You will learn about the manipulation of individual atoms and molecules to create new technological tools and products. In the biological context this will include understanding how biological nanostructures can be mimicked or exploited technologically, and how we can attempt to reengineer biological systems.
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Biophysical Chemistry
This module will provide you with a more mature understanding of vital enzymatic chemistry. It will take an advanced approach based upon quantitative analysis of reaction kinetics, mechanistic studies of enzyme-mediated reactions, and the use of advanced spectroscopic techniques to analyse reaction mechanisms and kinetics in a quantitative way.
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Three elements will run throughout the course: |
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Research across the disciplines in Mechanistic Biology
You will develop skills in interacting with colleagues from other disciplines via seminars, essays and discussion sessions. The module will draw on research from across the Krebs Institute.
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Translational Mechanistic Biology
This module will give you insight into how different biotechnology companies work and into how fundamental research can be taken to the market. The course will draw on the experience of experts from industry, as well that of members of the Krebs Institute who have been involved with the formation of University spin-out companies.
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Research Project
A third of the course will be a Research Project centred on interdisciplinary approaches to Mechanistic Biology, drawn from research laboratories across the Krebs Institute. Each project will be jointly supervised by Biological and Physical Scientists, providing a truly interdisciplinary experience. Your project could range from using novel atomic force microscopy methods to study photosynthetic complexes through to applying systems biology approaches to the analysis of bacterial physiology. |
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