This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module aims to develop an in depth understanding of bacterial pathogens, based around lectures and interactive workshops. Key topics include Gram-negative pathogens (e.g. E. coli, Pseudomonas), Gram-positive pathogens (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus anthracis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis), current and emerging virulence traits (e.g. adhesion, invasiveness, enhanced spread, toxin production, antimicrobial drug resistance). The module will involve a rotation of seminars covering key theoretical concepts, mechanistic insights into host:pathogen interactions, and discussion of practical approaches to combat the spread of bacterial infections. These will be accompanied by interactive workshops wherein students will analyse, present and discuss the relevant research literature. In addition, a computer workshop will provide bioinformatics training for the analysis of genomic traits pertaining to bacterial virulence. The students will gain experience in scientific design, literature analysis, scientific communication and the analysis and interpretation of complex experimental data.
Total contact hours: 28
Private study hours: 122
Total study hours: 150
Assignment – computer workshop (30%)
Assignment – 10 minute presentation (30%)
Exam - 2h (40%)
The reading list will be research articles, which will be used to drive a case-study based approach to learning. Students will be provided with their own copies of this reading material, but in some cases they will be set tasks for receiving appropriate journal articles to which we already have access.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate systematic understanding of and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights related to bacterial pathogens.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to bacterial pathogen research.
Understanding how our current knowledge impacts upon future research to combat the spread of bacterial infections.
Critically evaluate current research in the field of bacterial pathogens and to evaluate methodologies/research findings and develop critiques of them.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Organise information clearly and present information for different audiences.
Interpret data, marshal information from published sources, and critically evaluate own research and that of others.
Work both independently and as part of a research group using peer support, diplomacy and collective responsibility.
Manage time and workload in order to meet personal targets and imposed deadlines.
Use appropriate technology to retrieve, analyse and present scientific information.
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