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PH5016   Biophotonics

Academic year(s): 2018-2019

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Normally only taken in the final year of an MPhys or MSci programme involving the School, or a postgraduate photonics programme.

Planned timetable: 9.00 am Mon, Wed, Fri (TBC)

The module will expose students to the exciting opportunities offered by applying photonics methods and technology to biomedical sensing and detection. A rudimentary biological background will be provided where needed. Topics include fluorescence microscopy and assays including time-resolved applications, optical tweezers for cell sorting and DNA manipulation, photodynamic therapy, optogenetics, lab-on-a-chip concepts and bio-MEMS. Two thirds of the module will be taught as lectures, including guest lectures by specialists, with the remaining third consisting of problem-solving exercises, such as writing a specific news piece on a research paper, assessed tutorial sheets and a presentation. A visit to a biomedical research laboratory using various photonics methods will also be arranged.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Pre-Requisites are compulsory unless you are on a taught postgraduate programme.. Before taking this module you must ( pass 1 module from {PH3081, PH3082} or pass 2 modules from {MT2506, MT2507} ) and pass 1 module from {PH4034, PH4035}

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 lectures/tutorials.

Scheduled learning hours: 31

Guided independent study hours: 119

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 80%, Coursework (including presentation)= 20%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 80%
Practical examinations : 10%
Coursework: 10%

Re-assessment: Oral Re-assessment, capped at grade 7

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr C Penedo-Esteiro, Prof K Dholakia, Dr M Schubert, Prof F Gunn-Moore

Additional information from school

Please see also the information in the School's Handbook for Honours modules available via https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php This link also gives access to timetables for the modules.