BSc (Hons) Biology

Principles of Cell Biology

This module will address the structure, composition and function of eukaryotic cells. Their cell membranes and organelles are covered in detail. From this basis the module considers cell specialisation and division and you will be introduced to microscopy and histological techniques, which may be used to examine cells and tissues.

Research Methods for Biologists

This module aims to introduce the skills and knowledge necessary for you to develop the ability to assimilate and judge scientific knowledge. You will be introduced to some of the key philosophical constructs around which scientific knowledge is based. You will also be taught about data collection, data management, summary statistics and data presentation, along with the tools required to search and evaluate and present literature relevant to your studies. You will work closely with your personal tutor to develop these skills.

Evolution, Genetics and Domestication

This unit introduces you to the basic concepts and scope of evolutionary biology. The diversity of living things arose by evolutionary processes such as natural selection. Genetics is central to biological evolution, and thus the structure, function and inheritance of the genetic code are introduced.

Biomolecules

Animal Physiology

Introduction to Microbiology

This module provides an introduction to the subject of microbiology. You will become aware of the structure and classification of a variety of micro-organisms and will become competent in handling them safely in the laboratory. You will become familiar with the growth, reproduction and death of micro-organisms, together with methods of isolation and identification of commonly encountered micro-organisms.

Animal Physiology

This unit introduces you to the functions of the principal mammalian physiological systems, to include the neuromuscular, renal and hepatic, respiratory, cardiovascular and endocrine systems, and examines their roles in maintaining overall organism homeostasis and in the coordination and regulation of mammalian activities.

Biological Form and Function

This module is concerned with developing an understanding of the diversity of life on Earth and the principles of evolution of anatomical form across taxa. It aims to describe the variety of life by describing morphological and anatomical characteristics of all groups from Archaea through micro-organisms, plants, a wide range of key invertebrate groups and vertebrates, providing insight into the key evolutionary changes that led to new forms of life. Anatomical adaptations will be explored across taxa within the animal kingdom in order to show how different types of organisms use their anatomy to solve the same morphological and physiological problems. Through this, an understanding of anatomically distinct and shared features across animal species will be developed. On completion of this module, you will have developed skills that will allow you to appreciate the anatomical adaptations that have evolved for the success of different taxonomic groups. The module provides a foundation for further study in zoology or veterinary anatomy.

Plant Structure and Function

This module aims to provide a broad overview of plant form and function by reviewing the key structural characteristics of cells, tissues and organs in a range of plant species. It investigates the diversity of plant form and the evolutionary history of plant life; emphasis is placed on the adaptations of plants to their environment. It focuses on the relationship between anatomy and the mechanical role of cells, tissues and organs. Concepts and principles are introduced via formal lectures and further developed by using laboratory practicals. On completion of this module, you should have a broad understanding of form and function in plants and an appreciation of the diverse range of structures and tissues utilised by humans.

Ecology

Ecology is the scientific study of the interactions that determine the distribution and abundance of organisms. You will be introduced to the methods used to estimate animal and plant abundance and patterns of distribution. In addition you will learn about biological mechanisms that operate to limit the distribution and abundance of animals and plants. You will also gain an insight into key aspects of modern ecological thinking – developing an understanding of the behaviour and dynamics of the complex biological systems that maintain most ecosystem services. There will be a focus on environmental change and the likely impact that this will have on communities and ecosystems around the world.

Applied Statistics

The unit considers some of the principles of experimental design introduced in several year one units and expands them in detail. It describes statistical significance tests for comparing data and enables you to practise where and how to use each statistical test. The unit will allow you to critically assess published work with regard to design of experiment and analysis of data. It will provide you with the skills required to design and analyse a research project generally, and specifically that undertaken in year three of your course.

Metabolism

This unit is intended to allow you to use the knowledge gained in Biomolecules in an exploration of the complex ideas associated with mammalian metabolism. The unit will provide you with opportunities to appreciate the ways in which metabolic pathways interact and are controlled and will give you an insight into the influence of interactions at molecular level on behaviour, in exercise and in nutrition. Practicals will allow you to further develop your laboratory skills. The unit also aims to develop your understanding of: the role of enzymes in metabolism, aspects of nitrogen, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and aspects of metabolism in relation to the brain.

Animal Behaviour and Ethology

This module is based on the four ethological levels of explanation for animal behaviour; mechanism, development, function and evolution. You will learn about the ethological concepts underlying the study of animal behaviour supported by classic experimental studies of domestic and wild animals from a wide range of taxonomic groups. The module will also cover the design and interpretation of behavioural studies.

Molecular Biology

This module provides you with an understanding of the principles and practice of molecular biology. You will learn about the structure of genomes and how genotype and phenotype are connected through replication, transcription and translation. You will learn about methods of DNA manipulation, restriction, cloning, gel electrophoresis and PCR.

Plant-Animal Interactions

In this module you will gain an understanding of, and an appreciation for, the interactions between plants and animals that have been the driving force for the evolution of the world as we know it. Interactions between the flowering plants and vertebrate and invertebrate animals have led to the huge diversity of flowering plants that maintain the essential life support systems of the planet and are the basis of all current agricultural systems. Despite the huge economic costs of agricultural pests that damage plants, the evolutionary arms race between plants and their herbivores has driven the evolution of many of the important plant secondary compounds we use today as stimulants (e.g. caffeine) or drugs (e.g. salicylic acid = aspirin). Other economically, evolutionarily or ecologically important plant-animal interactions include pollination and seed dispersal. You will examine the economic, evolutionary and ecological consequences of plant-animal interactions at scales from ecosystems to molecules. You will have the opportunity to develop your own perspective on this important topic, and will be asked to review and interpret and evaluate the evidence available in the primary literature.

Nutritional Science

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining health and welfare. This unit concentrates on the function, digestion and utilisation of nutrients, as well as factors which influence food intake. It focuses on the scientific principles of nutrition.

Reproduction and Breeding - Option (Choose one of two)

This module focuses on two key areas of reproduction: Firstly, the comparative anatomy and physiology across a range of vertebrate classes to include fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals. Secondly, the genetics of selective breeding including the application of the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and heritability theory to selective breeding.

Infection & Immunity - Option (Choose one of two)

The module provides an overview of medical microbiology including virology, mycology and parasitology. It also provides an overview of the cellular and molecular basis of the immune response in health and human diseases. This module intends to discuss the structure, function and complex mechanisms of host defence by B- and T-Cells. It will enable you to evaluate the role of inflammatory mediators, soluble effectors and cellular cytotoxicity in inflammation and immunity.

Research Project

The dissertation unit gives you the opportunity to undertake an independent programme of research under supervision from a member of staff. A wide range of subject expertise exists within the department, which gives you a varied choice of areas to study. Research could be conducted in topics relating to animal health, reproduction, welfare or behaviour, equine science, plant science, biomedical or forensic science, conservation, ecology, environmental science and bioveterinary science. The unit is intended to provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate original and critical thought and present your results in the form of a dissertation produced to the normal standards of academic writing. In the past, student-led projects have been published in the scientific literature because of the quality and originality of the work.

Biotechnology

The unit will facilitate an understanding of the principles, techniques and applications of molecular biology and study the potential of cells and their components with a view to their biotechnological exploitation. The unit will review the understanding of recombinant DNA technology and discuss issues surrounding the genetic manipulation of organisms for economic purposes. The use of genetic analysis for conservation and forensic applications will be considered.

Issues in Current Biology

This is a student-led module in which you will develop a detailed understanding of a topical issue in the biological sciences, either of your own choice or suggested by tutors. Topics will allow you to integrate material from across your degree programme, and demonstrate your powers of critical analysis.

Examples of potential topics:

• What ecosystems will remain by the year 2100?

• Does genomic technology have the potential to revolutionise medicine?

• What is the potential for plant breeding to enhance crop yields?

• The impact of future climate change on the prevalence of malaria.

• Will animal welfare be compromised by the need to feed 9 billion people?

• Will synthetic meat replace the need to farm animals?

• Is it ethical to produce artificial life?

Ecological Survey and Census - Option (subject to confirmation)

Effective ecological monitoring programmes are essential if we are to detect and understand changes in biological communities. This unit introduces a rationale for monitoring and a practical guide to a number of the techniques available.

Clinical Microbiology - Option (subject to confirmation)

This module aims to reinforce the underlying concepts and principles of microbiology developed through earlier modules. You will become familiar with diagnostic techniques involved in the field of microbiology, and will be able to apply your developing knowledge and skills to some contemporary issues and concerns in the field of microbiology.

Behavioural Ecology - Option (subject to confirmation)

This unit examines behaviour from an evolutionary perspective analysing behavioural repertoires from a functional (survival) stance. The unit will focus on three key topics: optimality, sexual selection and human evolutionary psychology (i.e. what can the study of animal behaviour tell us about the evolution of human behaviour).

Wild Vertebrates in the British Isles - Option (subject to confirmation)

This unit explains the population dynamics, ecological relationships, conservation and management of the principal vertebrate species of conservation significance of the British Isles. The potential for conflict is examined and the policy and legal instruments which regulate these conflicts are studied.

Animal Cognition

This unit will cover the contributions made by experimental psychology, comparative psychology and ethology to our understanding of animal cognition and the animal mind. It will cover the philosophical basis of the study of the animal’s mind and the scientific assessment of animal cognition and consciousness, placing these abilities in their evolutionary and functional contexts

Overseas Field Course - Option (subject to confirmation)

An overseas field course gives you the opportunity to investigate biological phenomena in the field. You will be encouraged to view the ecosystem within the wider context of the anthropogenic impacts being imposed on it, and you will work in groups, guided by staff, to develop and test hypotheses allowing them to understand more about biological processes operating within the study area.

You will study the fundamental principles of modern biology including cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, evolution, genetics, animal behaviour, biodiversity and conservation, ecology and physiology in your first and second years, with a range of specialist options in the final year. You will also develop a range of career-relevant skills including scientific communication, research methods, statistics and data management, and maintaining an up-to-date knowledge base.

A dynamic inter-disciplinary environment that supports teaching and research is engendered by staff, many of whom lead research programmes at the cutting-edge of their respective fields. At all stages you will be encouraged to engage with this research ethos and participate in innovative teaching and learning that develops your creativity and powers of critical thinking. You will be supported throughout your degree by your personal tutor.

Teaching at Lincoln places a strong emphasis on students engaging actively with their studies from the outset. Students are encouraged to think of themselves as researchers and producers who can make a contribution to their field of study.

In your first year you will study a suite of core units that enable you to develop a firm foundation of essential skills, knowledge and understanding that underpin subsequent years of study.

At level two, these knowledge and skills are further developed, but with flexibility so that you may specialise in particular areas of study.

At level three you will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to an independent research project that forms your dissertation unit. The emphasis at level three is for you to challenge conventional wisdom and evaluate the very foundation upon which knowledge is based. These are essential skills that have many applications in the modern world.

You will have the benefit of science facilities at two of our stunning campuses with access to a range of state-of-the-art research facilities.

Work placements will be available for some students on this course.

In addition to bringing the skills gained from your prior qualifications, you will need to be a self-motivated and independent learner, prepared to take full advantage of the challenges offered by this broad-based degree programme.

Varied assessment modes are designed to support your learning of a wide range of skills and biological knowledge. Examples include unseen exams, essays, practical reports, presentations and group and individual research project write-ups.

In addition to up-to-date knowledge of the biological sciences you will gain a range of skills and experience valued by employers and those offering postgraduate provision.

We want to recruit highly motivated students who want to make a difference in their careers, whether locally or globally. Evidence of enthusiasm for, and interest in, the biological sciences, are as important as evidence of your ability to succeed on this course, as shown by the qualifications you hold or will gain.

Are you interested in meeting the challenges of the 21st century armed with the skills and knowledge to address some of the worlds most pressing problems? Are you keen to communicate the excitement and importance of biology to others? Are you ready to ask questions and challenge received wisdom with your own thoughts and discoveries? If you answered yes to any of these questions then we think you would enjoy this course.

280 Tariff points to include at least one science A level, plus 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, to include English Language, Maths and Double Science or Single Science Chemistry.

45 level 3 credits at merit or above from a recognised Access to HE course in a Science or related subject.

Graduates will be equipped to enter a range of scientific and non-science based professions. Careers including those in agriculture, biotechnology, animal sciences and environmental protection can be entered directly or after further study at MSc or PhD level. Graduate-entry jobs in teaching, finance, administration, management consultancy and policy will also be options.