JCU Logo

James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

For subject information from 2025 and onwards, please visit the new JCU Course and Subject Handbook website.

BM1000 - Introductory Biochemistry and Microbiology

Credit points:03
Year:2023
Student Contribution Band:Band 2
Prerequisites:CH1020, CH0020 or Senior Chemistry
Administered by:College of Public Health, Medical and Vet Sciences

Mixed attendance offerings only available to Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons) students.

Subject Description

    Introduction to the foundational principles of biochemistry including molecular aspects of cell structure and function, the major molecular components of living systems, their synthesis and interconversion. This is addressed principally from a mammalian perspective. Introduction to the microbial world including highlights in the structure of cells and their functioning which have significant implications for biotechnology, disease processes and the control of organisms. Mechanisms of resistance to infectious diseases in animals and plants.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate the acquisition of fundamental scientific knowledge of; cellular structures, cellular reproduction and genetics; cellular metabolism, transport and motility; microbial function and communication; innate and adaptive immune system function and its role in infection and disease
  • Further develop and demonstrate basic laboratory skills in the manipulation and analysis of cells and biomolecules
  • Collect, record, interpret and draw conclusions from scientific data
  • Generate data and statistics from experimental procedures. Analyse scientific evidence and have the ability to draw logical conclusions
  • Work both independently and cooperatively within an undergraduate university environment

Subject Assessment

  • Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (50%) - Individual
  • Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Group & Individual
  • Written > Test/Quiz 2 - (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

Students must obtain at least 50% in the practical assessment component (post-lab quizzes), at least 50% in the on-course theory assessment component (Quiz 1 and Quiz 2) and at least 50% in the final exam. A total aggregate of 50% or more across all assessment items must be achieved in order to pass the subject.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  CH2010 TV1102

Availabilities

Cairns Nguma-bada, Study Period 1, Mixed attendance, (Face to Face dates exist for this availability)

Census date:Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
Study Period Dates:Monday, 20 Feb 2023 to Friday, 16 Jun 2023
Face to face teaching: (Compulsory weekly face-to-face attendance at the Cairns campus. Compulsory residential attendance is required at the Townsville campus during lecture recess.)
Lecturer(s):
Assoc. Professor Brenda Govan
MRS Kelly Whyte
MS Michelle Rothwell
MISS Jade Eaves
Assoc. Professor Donna Rudd
MISS Jessica Watt
DR Hillary Vanderven
DR Alanna Sorenson
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 36 Hours - Lectures
  • 12 Hours - Tutorials - Guided Learning Session
  • 12 Hours - Workshops
  • 12 Hours - was Other - Residential
Restrictions:Enrolment is restricted.
Enrolment Restrictions:
Courses:
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) [IHCAP] [Embedded]
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) [Embedded]

Mackay, Study Period 1, Mixed attendance, (Face to Face dates exist for this availability)

Census date:Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
Study Period Dates:Monday, 20 Feb 2023 to Friday, 16 Jun 2023
Face to face teaching: (Compulsory weekly face-to-face attendance at the Mackay campus. Compulsory residential attendance is required at the Townsville campus during lecture recess.)
Lecturer(s):
Assoc. Professor Brenda Govan
MRS Kelly Whyte
MS Michelle Rothwell
MISS Jade Eaves
Assoc. Professor Donna Rudd
MISS Jessica Watt
DR Hillary Vanderven
DR Alanna Sorenson
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 36 Hours - Lectures
  • 12 Hours - Tutorials - Guided Learning Session
  • 12 Hours - Workshops
  • 12 Hours - was Other - Residential
Restrictions:Enrolment is restricted.
Enrolment Restrictions:
Courses:
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) [IHCAP] [Embedded]
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) [Embedded]

Townsville Bebegu Yumba, Study Period 1, Internal

Census date:Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
Study Period Dates:Monday, 20 Feb 2023 to Friday, 16 Jun 2023
Coordinator(s):
DR Sacha Jensen
Lecturer(s):
Assoc. Professor Brenda Govan
MRS Kelly Whyte
MS Michelle Rothwell
MISS Jade Eaves
Assoc. Professor Donna Rudd
MISS Jessica Watt
DR Hillary Vanderven
MRS Helen Morris
DR Sacha Jensen
MR Ray Layton
DR Alanna Sorenson
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 38 Hours - Lectures
  • 10 Hours - Tutorials
  • 16 Hours - Specialised

Townsville Bebegu Yumba, Study Period 1, Mixed attendance, (Face to Face dates exist for this availability)

Census date:Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
Study Period Dates:Monday, 20 Feb 2023 to Friday, 16 Jun 2023
Face to face teaching: (Compulsory weekly face-to-face attendance at the Townsville campus. Compulsory residential attendance is required at the Townsville campus during lecture recess.)
Lecturer(s):
Assoc. Professor Brenda Govan
MRS Kelly Whyte
MS Michelle Rothwell
MISS Jade Eaves
Assoc. Professor Donna Rudd
MISS Jessica Watt
DR Hillary Vanderven
DR Alanna Sorenson
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 36 Hours - Lectures
  • 12 Hours - Tutorials - Guided Learning Session
  • 12 Hours - Workshops
  • 12 Hours - was Other - Residential
Restrictions:Enrolment is restricted.
Enrolment Restrictions:
Courses:
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) [IHCAP] [Embedded]
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) [Embedded]