An advanced laboratory skills module is pivotal in equipping students with the essential competencies required for success in the field. The rationale behind this module lies in the ever-evolving and intricate nature of life sciences, which demand hands-on expertise to conduct experiments, analyse data, and draw meaningful conclusions. This module's purpose is twofold: firstly, to cultivate a deep understanding of more advanced techniques and instrumentation used in state-of-the-art research, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, biotechnology, healthcare, or other life science-related fields. Secondly, it aims to foster critical thinking, planning and problem-solving abilities, and precision in experimental work, thereby nurturing a cohort of professionals who can contribute meaningfully to advancing our understanding of life's intricate mechanisms and developing novel solutions to pressing biological challenges. By instilling these advanced laboratory skills, the module empowers students to become competent and innovative life scientists capable of seamlessly integrating into academic and industrial research teams.

The learning outcomes of an advanced laboratory skills module are multifaceted and aimed at providing students with a comprehensive practical and transferable skill set and knowledge base. This module focuses on advanced analytical techniques used in biomolecular sciences. It emphasises practical skills and theoretical understanding of the methodologies employed in analysing and characterising biomolecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. The module includes tutorials, hands-on laboratory sessions and data analysis, providing students with skills to use state-of-the-art instrumentation and software for analytical purposes. The goal is to develop proficiency in techniques crucial for modern biotechnology, molecular biology, and biochemistry research.

On completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Gain hands-on experience with advanced analytical instruments: Students should acquire proficiency in advanced laboratory techniques, including molecular biology, genomics, proteomics, CRISPR, and bioinformatics, enabling them to execute complex experiments and analyses with precision. 2. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles and applications of various analytical techniques in biomolecular research: Learners should develop the ability to design and execute experiments independently, including selecting appropriate methodologies, controls, and troubleshooting skills to ensure accurate data collection. 3. Develop skills in interpreting data generated from these techniques: Students should gain expertise in data analysis, statistical methods, and interpreting results, enabling them to draw meaningful conclusions and make evidence-based decisions. 4. Apply analytical methods to real-world research problems in biosciences: The course should cultivate critical thinking skills, fostering the capacity to identify research gaps, propose hypotheses, and develop innovative solutions to scientific problems. 5. Demonstrate an understanding of and adhere to laboratory safety protocols, ethical guidelines, and regulations to ensure responsible and safe laboratory practices. 6. Develop the ability to communicate research findings effectively through written reports, presentations, and discussions. This prepares students to disseminate their work within the scientific community and beyond. 7. Improve collaboration and teamwork: The module will emphasise the importance of collaboration and teamwork in a laboratory setting, promoting effective communication and cooperation with peers and mentors.

On completion of this module, students will be able to • cultivate a sense of responsibility and respect for the precision required in advanced biomolecular techniques and recognise the impact of their work on the scientific community and society. • develop confidence in using sophisticated laboratory instruments, • embrace a mindset of continuous learning, and appreciate the value of teamwork and constructive feedback in the collaborative environment of a research lab. This will foster a commitment to high standards of quality and integrity in their scientific endeavours.

On completion of this module, students will be able to • display the required organisational skills to set up and implement a successful scientific experiment correctly. • gain hands-on proficiency in operating advanced analytical instruments, such as preparing samples for gene and protein expression analyses, genetic engineering, and protein purification. • learn to execute these procedures with precision and skill, ensuring reproducibility and accuracy in their experiments. Mastery of these manual skills will enable students to carry out experimental protocols efficiently, troubleshoot equipment, and handle biomolecular samples safely and effectively.

The core design concept of this module is to ensure the attainment of practical competencies and the application of knowledge in a laboratory environment. Tutorials: The tutorials will introduce the real-life problems that the student will work on and teach scientific communication and writing skills. At the end of the semester, students deliver a marked scientific presentation summarising their approaches to solving the biological questions / problems presented to them. Labs: Labs will be centred around a real-life problem (CURAGEOUS). Methods focusing on gene and protein expression analyses, genetic engineering, and protein purification will be applied to solve those problems. This module will be assessed along two main pathways. Firstly, students will generate an experimental plan to solve a presented problem (CURIOUS) containing the following: • Background technical information on each technique. • Detailed SOPs and any SOP amendments. • Risk assessments for each technique (RESPONSIBLE). • Technical report including data analysis and figures. • Troubleshooting steps (AGILE). Secondly, at the end of the semester, students will present a summary of their background, methods, results and discuss the results in an oral presentation (ARTICULATE). Recent developments and research findings will be considered through the following strategies: 1. Integration of Cutting-Edge Techniques and Technologies: • Hands-On Training: Incorporation of emerging techniques such as single-cell sequencing, or advanced proteomics methods into lab activities.• Technology Demonstrations: Partnering with industry to showcase state-of-the-art equipment and methodologies like next-generation sequencing (NGS). 2. Problem-Based Learning: • Use of real-world examples and recent breakthroughs as case studies for students to solve or simulate experiments. 3. Research-Led Curriculum: Guest Lectures by invited active researchers to share their findings and connect them to practical skills. 4. Bioinformatics and Data Analysis • Incorporation of practical sessions where students analyse publicly available data (e.g., from genomics or proteomics databases) related to recent research trends. This approach ensures students not only gain essential skills but also stay updated on modern bioscience trends, enhancing their readiness for research or industry careers.