Aimed at students with a basic knowledge of developmental biology, this module will provide a solid understanding of the complexity of vertebrate development and the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes. You will learn techniques that use model organisms to address fundamental problems in development. You will learn how to apply these techniques to biological problems. Knowledge and understanding(combined for 4 degrees) Students will have learnt:A1a. the fundamental biological principles on which the discipline of genetics is basedA1b. the relationship between Zoology/Biology/Genetics/Human Genetics and other disciplinesA2. the principles of molecular experimental techniques, as applied to Genetics/Human GeneticsA3 the importance of Zoology/Biology/Genetics/ Human Genetics in human health and disease and its relevance to medicine and biotechnologyA4a appropriate terminology, nomenclature and classificationA4b current trends and developments within geneticsA6 cell and molecular biologyA11 ethical issues and the impact of advances in bioscience on societyIntellectual skillsStudents will have the ability to:B1. critically analyse and interpret published information and dataB2. think independently while giving due weight to the arguments of othersB3. understand complex ideas and relate them to specific problems or questionsB4. acquire substantial quantities of information systematically, process it effectively, and draw appropriate conclusionsB5. make and record accurate observations and measurementsPractical skillsStudents will have the ability to:C1. carry out scientific research and evaluate and make use of the material so acquiredC3. work safely in the laboratory and assess related safety issuesC4. undertake appropriate experimental design and statistical analysisC5. undertake practical experimental work using appropriate equipment and instrumentsC6. apply basic knowledge of practical approaches and techniquesTransferable/key skills Students will have the ability to:D1. communicate effectively in writingD2. communicate effectively in oral presentationD3. organise and manage their working time, schedule tasks, and meet deadlinesD4. use and access information and communication technologyD5. reflect on and assess their own progress, strengths and weaknessesD6. manage and manipulate numerical dataD7 work productively with others