James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

BC5101 - Advanced Genes, Genomes and Development

Available to students with a basic level of understanding of cell biology and molecular genetics.

Subject Description

An understanding of the structure and function of the genome and of individual genes is critical to our understanding of evolution and how genetic information (the genotype) gives rise to the phenotype. After exploring the nature of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes and the methods used to study them, this subject introduces the diverse mechanisms of gene regulation in place in eukaryotes. The subject also describes how different cells differentiate and develop and introduces the molecular bases of embryology and genome evolution.

Learning Outcomes

• to understand the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes and how genomes and sequenced and assembled
• to understand how genes and genomes evolve and the relationship between genotype and phenotype
• to understand the mechanisms responsible for the control of gene expression
• to understand the molecular principles that apply to animal development

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (60%) - Individual
• Creative writing task - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (10%) - Group & Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (20%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Achieve a pass mark (at least 50%) across the examination component of the subject AND Achieve a pass mark (at least 50%) overall in the subject (i.e. based on both practical and examination performance)

Assumed Knowledge:  This subject assumes a basic level of understanding of cell biology and molecular genetics.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  BC3101

Availabilities