What are viruses and what can we do to protect ourselves? The COVID-19 pandemic has brought viruses into the focus of wider public attention. By analysing scientific research articles in an interactive, collaborative and student-led approach, you will establish an in-depth understanding of these unique pathogens that are not even living organisms. You will discover how the evolution of viruses is driven by a continuous tug-of-war with the immune system. This will enable you to appreciate the successes that we have made in protecting ourselves from virus diseases but also highlight open questions and areas of future research.
Lecture 12 hours, Workshop 20 hours
1,500 words Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: Research proposal worth 70%.
10 minutes Presentation. Assessment Details: Presentation worth 30%.
Reassessment Method: Like-for-like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
Appraise the nature of viruses and the potential threat that they cause.
Evaluate the intricate interactions between viruses and the host immune system.
Assess antiviral prevention and treatment strategies.
Critique scientific information from research articles to form coherent arguments.
Generate ideas for future research.
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