Structural Biology (P01389)

? Credit Points : 40 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : MED-P-P01389

The recent explosion in genome sequencing has provoked immense interest in determining the molecular structures of the novel open reading frames that have been discovered. The reasons for this interest are many but include the relationship that exists between the structure and its function of the protein and hence the possibility of determining function from structure, and the use of molecular structure to design drugs. While perhaps the most accurate method for structure determination remains X-ray crystallography, other techniques like NMR and electron microscopy afford alternative insights into protein structure and several other techniques provide essential and complementary information. This module aims to provide a basic working knowledge of the techniques necessary to derive structural information together with their application to a wide variety of biological problems. As well as the Institute of Structural Molecular Biology, the course will draw upon the expertise of members of the Schools of Physics, Chemistry and Biomedical Sciences.

Entry Requirements

? This course is not available to visting students.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Life Sciences, (Medicine, Schedule R)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

The aim of this course is to act as an elective research theme for the MSc/Diploma by Research in the Life Sciences Programme and to provide students with the opportunity to acquire relevant research skills and associated generic/transferable skills, in order to:
- provide students with thorough and specific preparation for 3 year PhD training in the life sciences;
- award an MSc by Research en route to the PhD;
provide an opportunity, if necessary or desirable, to exit from research training at the end of Year 1 with an Edinburgh Masters or Diploma by Research Degree in the Life Sciences