University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: TBC

This module will examine the diversity of useful natural products from the sea, consider the ways in which genomic and other approaches are being used to bioprospect for new substances (especially from micro-organisms), learn how genomic approaches are overcoming the problem of unculturability of many marine prokaryotes to find such compounds, and explore some of the more unusual applications of materials derived from marine invertebrates. It will also consider how marine biotechnology is contributing to improved disease control in aquaculture, how it can help the 'greening' of more conventional 'dirty' industries and may enable us to meet our future energy needs via renewable biofuels. The societal, ethical and environmental issues associated with the development of environmental biotechnology are also considered.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact:

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 128

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews:

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 30%
Coursework: 30%

Personnel