Molecular Biology
What is Molecular Biology?
How is a gene is able to function so precisely as to produce the right product at the right time, place and in response to the right signals? How are processes such as development, cell division and environmental sensing executed and controlled? Our understanding of these processes and others as diverse as understanding animal behavior is best appreciated at the molecular level where we see they are orchestrated by macromolecules which interact and work together in a machine-like manner.
Our molecular biology course is a very broad based approach to molecular bioscience, crossing boundaries of biochemistry, genetics, cell and developmental biology. The focus is on the biology and function of the incredible macromolecular machines which drive living processes but you will also become familiar with the state-of-the-art technology used to conduct these studies.
During your stay at Manchester you will study topics such as:
- How cells regulate division and growth; what can go wrong and how this leads to cancer
- How genes are switched on and off in response to changes in the environment and cell-cell interactions
- How proteins are made and sent to different parts of the cell
- The molecular mechanism of circadian rhythms in animals plants and fungi
Understanding of these areas at the molecular level is the basis, amongst many others, has led to development of new therapies for major diseases, engineering plants to increase yield, nutrient value and pest resistance. Your Molecular Biology degree will equip you with the skills and understanding you will need to take your place at the cutting edge of biomolecular research.
Fission yeast cells stained with the DNA dye DAPI.