Studying at York
Pathogens - BIO00086H
Module summary
Infectious agents impact our daily lives in ways we are only beginning to predict and properly control. This module is divided into 4 blocks examining transmission, molecular biology and host:pathogen interactions of human-infectious agents of global importance. We will focus on active research areas including pathogen cell biology, identification of key virulence factors, drug resistances and other pathogen survival strategies. This module will include discussion of experimental design, model systems, techniques, and data analysis. Each block will highlight shared themes/paradigms where appropriate.
Related modules
Pre-requisite modules
Co-requisite modules
- None
Prohibited combinations
- None
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2024-25 |
Module aims
The aim of the module is to develop understanding of pathogen biology by exploring characteristics which both promote pathogen survival and make the pathogens vulnerable to targeted drug design. We will examine molecular interactions and pathways between the host and infectious agents, and how this can lead to disease or protection. The importance of genomics and evolution in understanding pathogen biology will be explored. Recent progress in combative strategies such as vector targeting, vaccine and drug design will be discussed. Skills in data interpretation and experimental design will be developed through critical engagement with key literature. A range of pathogens will be considered including viruses, bacteria and eukaryotic parasites) allowing a comparative view of key biological aspects such as genetics, survival strategies, molecular pathways, diagnostics and pathology.
Module learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
Discuss the value of genomics to solving problems in pathogen biology and disease.
Compare the genetics of different pathogens and how this both promotes pathogen survival and may present useful vulnerabilities.
Illustrate fundamental concepts in pathogen biology with examples from current research in the field.
Critique the molecular, cellular and regulatory pathways involved in different pathogen survival strategies.
Comprehend and critically assess experimental data and approaches in infectious disease literature.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Module feedback
Marks for all summative assessments will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Feedback will be either individual or cohort-level, depending on the assessment format. You should take the opportunity to discuss your marks and feedback with your supervisor.
For exam-style summative assessment, model answers will be provided for all questions along with cohort-level feedback indicating how students answered questions in general. Marks achieved per question will be added to your script.
For coursework assessments (eg. reports or essays) you will receive individual feedback on your work. This will usually be in the form of a feedback sheet that will include suggestions for further improvement.
During the teaching of the module you will receive formative feedback that may be at a whole class or individual level. Such feedback may include: model answers and discussion of workshop questions, summaries of performance in practicals, VLE-based quizzes, individual spoken comments during workshops, individual written comments on formative work.
Indicative reading
These are available through the VLE module site.