In this course, the students will get a theoretical and practical introduction into important methods and techniques in biochemistry and molecular biology. These include work with biochemical and molecular biological laboratory equipment, biological solutions and buffers, spectrophotometric analyses, enzymology and demonstrations of current research activities at the department. The students will learn the physical and chemical principles behind the analytical methods used. They will also get a practical introduction into internet-based data bases for protein and nucleic acid analyses.

Along with the practical aspects of the course, there will also be put particular emphasis on the design and planning of experimental work as well as documentation, critical evaluation including qualitative and quantitative analysis of the results. Students will present and discuss their work in seminars. Laboratory safety aspects will also be a focus.

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• can explain the principles of basic methods in experimental biochemistry and molecular biology (buffer theory, spectrophotometry and measurement of enzyme kinetics and gel electrophoresis)
• can interpret experimental data
• knows the general safety regulations for laboratory work in molecular biology

Skills

The student

• can apply basic methods in experimental biochemistry and molecular biology
• can use ordinary internet-based data bases for protein and nucleic acid analyses
• can plan experimental work based on a protocol
• can critically evaluate and discuss experimental results
• can follow general safety routines in the laboratory
• can write a formal lab-report
• can critically evaluate and correctly cite literature

General competance

The student

• can plan experimental work
•  is able to critically evaluate and discuss experimental results

Laboratory reports (30%) and written exam, 3 hours (70%).

Examination support materials: Non- programmable calculator, according to model listed in faculty regulations.