BI2CM1: Advanced Studies in Cellular and Molecular Biology

Module code: BI2CM1

Module provider: School of Biological Sciences

Credits: 20

Level: 5

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Dr Eva Kevei , email: e.g.kevei@reading.ac.uk

Module co-convenor: Dr Andrew Bicknell, email: a.b.bicknell@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: Yes

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 3 April 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

Cell and Molecular Biology is the study of the structure and function of cells and the macromolecules that define them. Every cell is like a small factory with specialised structures and signals that work together to allow a cell to survive, divide, communicate with its neighbours and the environment in which it exists. The aim of cell biologists is to understand the molecular pathways that orchestrate cellular function. In modern times, the structure and function of eukaryotic cells are investigated mainly at the molecular level, through a combination of biochemical and genetic methods. The use of these methods has led to great advances in our understanding of complex processes such as cell division, cell signalling, cell differentiation and cell movement. 

This module will expand your understanding of the processes underlying cellular function learnt in BI1CM1 Cell and Molecular Principles of Life and overall, aims to explore at the molecular level the mechanisms by which cells work and how these mechanisms are regulated. We will do this through a mixture of lectures and a number of tutorials where you will read, interpret and discuss data from primary scientific literature. The module also aims for you to gain competence in cell and molecular techniques used in modern cell biology by a series of structured practical classes where you will gain hands on experience in the lab and enable you to use the techniques to solve a cell biology problem. 

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to: 

1. Describe and discuss the structure and function of eukaryotic cells 
2. Design experimental strategies to interrogate molecular pathways and cellular processes.  
3. Demonstrate competence in the application of molecular and cell biology techniques to generate data. 
4. Interpret and discuss experimental data from primary literature 
5. Integrate concepts from across the module to explain complex cellular functions 

Module content

Lecture material includes the following topics: 

• Overview of the structure of the eukaryotic cell, its internal organisation and the function of each cellular organelle at the molecular level. 
• Elements of the cytoskeleton required for upkeep of cell structure and function. 
• Cellular trafficking pathways. 
• Regulation of eukaryotic gene expression and protein synthesis. 
• Post translational modification of proteins. 
• Cellular mechanisms for control of cell growth, survival, proliferation and differentiation. 
• The molecular basis of cell adhesion and cell motility. 
• Intracellular quality control and recycling mechanisms. 
• Molecular and cell biology techniques and model systems used to interrogate cellular processes. 

Tutorials include the following training / activities: 

• ÌÇÐÄ̽»¨ and critical discussion of primary scientific literature. 

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

The learning outcomes will be met through a mixture of lectures, tutorials, laboratory-based practical classes, self-directed learning and directed independent study. Appropriate supplementary information and reading lists will be provided on Blackboard.