Modern Optical Methods In Molecular and Cellular Biology (P01384)

? Credit Points : 40 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : MED-P-P01384

Over the last decade rapid advances in lasers, optical techniques and imaging methods have opened revolutionary new opportunities in the life sciences. For example, the use of ultrashort laser pulses integrated with advanced microscopy and sensitive low-light detection methods are finding mainstream roles in modern molecular biology, cellular/sub-cellular physiology as well as in aspects of medicine. These techniques, in combination with the use of light as a minimally-invasive manipulative tool have also opened up entirely new research areas such as single molecule biophysics.
The course aims of this MSc module are to offer integrated instruction and training in the principles and applications of modern optics in the life sciences focussing particularly on key aspects of molecular and cell biology. The module is structured so as to present a coherent development from theory and practical instruction through to research projects.

The module will be run and administered by staff associated with the Collaborative Optical Spectroscopy, Micromanipulation & Imaging Centre. COSMIC is a major cross-disciplinary centre for advanced characterisation, visualisation and control of materials at the molecular level. Staff are drawn from the Schools of Chemistry, Physics and Biology and bring expertise in all core aspects of the programme ranging from fundamental photophysics to live cell imaging in one interdisciplinary setting. The key conceptual innovation within COSMIC is the coordinated use of three principal complementary modular techniques:& Ultra-fast Real-time Spectroscopy; Advanced Imaging; Non-invasive Micromanipulation

Entry Requirements

? This course is not available to visting students.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Life Sciences, (Medicine, Schedule R)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

The aim of this course is to act as an elective research theme for the MSc/Diploma by Research in the Life Sciences Programme and to provide students with the opportunity to acquire relevant research skills and associated generic/transferable skills, in order to:

- provide students with thorough and specific preparation for 3 year PhD training in the life sciences;
- award an MSc by Research en route to the PhD;
provide an opportunity, if necessary or desirable, to exit from research training at the end of Year 1 with an Edinburgh Masters or Diploma by Research Degree in the Life Sciences