This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The module aims to develop an in depth understanding of fungal pathogens, based around lectures and interactive workshops. Key topics include severe, recurrent and chronic fungal diseases (such as cryptococcal meningitis, candidiasis and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis).and molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to anti-fungal drugs. 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 fungal infections. These will be accompanied by interactive workshops wherein students will analyse, present and discuss the relevant research literature. 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 (25%). Assessment consists of 7 questions. 4 questions require a concise (yes/no) answer or a numerical answer. 3 questions require a short written essay with the following word limit: Q3: 300 words; Q6: 200 words; Q7: 350 words.
Presentation (25%)
Assignment (10%) Word Limit: 1000 words including figure legends
Exam (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:
Have:
A systematic understanding of and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights related to fungal pathogens.
A comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to fungal pathogen research.
Understanding how our current knowledge impacts upon future research to combat the spread of fungal infections.
An ability to critically evaluate current research in the field of fungal 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:
Have:
Communication: ability to organise information clearly, present information in oral and written form, adapt presentation for different audiences.
Analytical skills: interpretation of data, marshalling of information from published sources, critical evaluation of own research and that of o.
Team work: the ability to work both independently and as part of a research group using peer support, diplomacy and collective responsibility.
Self-motivation and independence: time and workload management in order to meet personal targets and imposed deadlines.
Information technology: use of appropriate technology to retrieve, analyse and present scientific information.
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