Course summary

Molecular and Cellular Biology is a fundamental discipline that underpins the study of all living organisms. This is a rapidly evolving and exciting field which combines biochemistry, genetics and cell biology to provide insights to, and explain how, molecular function produces the hierarchy of living cells, tissues and ultimately whole organisms. Advances in molecular biology have been instrumental to the completion of many genome projects which in turn have led, and continue to lead, to exciting developments in medical science, agriculture, biotechnology and industry – for example, understanding the molecular basis of illness and disease to biotechnology for the development of new drugs, bio-control agents and the use of genetic engineering for vaccine development. Molecular biology is central to all biological processes and biotechnology applies the understanding of these processes to finding innovative solutions to today’s biological challenges. At the University of Glasgow there is a strong focus on Research led teaching and as such the course content is continually updated to reflect scientific advancements and breakthroughs. You will be taught by leading experts in their field from across our Research Institutes. Equally important to the theoretical background is the development of practical, problem solving, communication and critical thinking skills. All of these are built into the course from year 1 getting more extensive and detailed as you progress. Practical classes allow you to experience firsthand modern molecular biology techniques and experimental strategies. These are closely aligned to lecture content and therefore give a further opportunity to consolidate your learning and understanding of core topics. We strongly encourage applications for summer internships and help students to try to secure these either at the University of Glasgow or further afield.