Cell and Developmental Biology

This major provides students with broad understanding of cell structure and function and explores genetic, molecular and cellular mechanisms of development in a range of organisms and experimental models. It highlights the research methodologies used and how knowledge is applied to improve the human condition. Students should develop specialist skills in understanding cellular processes and experimental approaches used to investigate them. They should also develop generic skills in integrating information from diverse fields, communication and presentation of information, teamwork and independent learning that will equip them for a range of careers in research, biotechnology, government agencies, agriculture, medico-legal and journalism.

• To equip students with a broad knowledge of the structure and function of cells in unicellular and multicellular organisms.
• Engender an understanding of how cells interact in multicellular organisms to regulate tissue and organ structure and function and how these arise in developmental processes.
• Provide exposure to genetic, molecular and cellular experimental methodologies used to investigate cellular and developmental processes.
• Afford opportunities and experience in how to implement and apply research skills and techniques to biomedical problems.
• Facilitate the development of generic skills of analysis, interpretation, problem-solving and communication of scientific data.

Completion of 50 points of study at Level 3.

There are three specialisations within the Cell and Developmental Biology major.

The specialisations in Reproduction and Development and Animal Cell Biology are available within the Bachelor of Biomedicine course.