Universally the volume of genetic, epigenetic and transcriptomic data that has been generated in the past decade has been increasing exponentially, and has effectively increased understanding of the impacts of genetic changes to the wider public and their health. Public repositories of this data have allowed for large scale insights including genome wide association studies, meta-analyses, and novel re-analysis. In this assessment, students will use publicly available databases and tools to apply their knowledge of molecular biology to data, interpret findings, communicate application of theory and embed their understanding of molecular biology. They will also communicate their knowledge in manners suitable for scientific counterparts, as well as the general public. 

This assessment has 2 parts. The tutorials will be partly dedicated to guiding students on the use of public databases and tools so that they can effectively complete their written assignment. 

Part A

In part A you will be provided with a theoretical genetic test. This will be provided in the form of a genomic sequence. You will use online tools to identify the origin (gene name, chromosomal location, etc.) of the sequences provided, and answer questions about your findings and their interpretation. You will also undertake literature research to provide a summary of your gene of interest, it's features and functions, suitable for presentation to a research community. 

Part B

In part B, you will also investigate a well characterized, real world example of a known genetic condition which is routinely tested for in Australia. Through researching the gene and testing methods, you must then produce a fact sheet (suitable for non-science background / the general public) which can be provided to an individual or individuals family member undergoing the test. The fact sheet must include: the gene affected and its function, how this mutation is tested, how the test works, inheritance patterns, how the mutation affects the expression or function of the protein, the consequences for the condition of interest, and other relevant information as indicated in the task sheet.

Level of GenAI use allowed:

Level 3: You may use AI to assist with specific tasks such as drafting text, refining and evaluating your work. You must critically evaluate and modify any AI generated content you use. 

Marks will be allocated based on the following criteria:

1) Correctness of answers to questions.

2) Understanding and application of molecular biology concepts and knowledge. 

3) Written communication skills (both scientific / technical and science communication for the public).

4) Referencing.

5) Ability to conduct literature searches and present accurate information in a suitable format. 

A full marking rubric will be provided on Moodle. 

Students must complete experimental tasks and meet all competencies to pass the residential school. Please see the timetable for dates and times. Register via MyCQU. 

During the residential school you will learn several essential molecular biology techniques, implementing them in a series of experiments including nucleic acid isolation, transformation, gene amplification, and genetic analysis. 

Students will be assessed on safe and competent operation in a molecular laboratory when completing these tasks. 

Level of GenAI use allowed:

Level 3: You may use AI to assist with specific tasks such as drafting text, refining and evaluating your work. You must critically evaluate and modify any AI generated content you use. 

Other information:

The three day grace period does not apply to this assessment item. No late submissions allowed. 

You will be assessed on the application of molecular biology techniques in a laboratory setting including: 

• safe operation in a laboratory
• correct use of PPE
• safe handling of biological samples
• correct management of laboratory waste
• sample handling (including contamination minimisation)
• generation and interpretation of results for experiments including nucleic acid isolation, transformation, gene amplification, and genetic analysis 

A full list of competencies will be included in the laboratory manual (available via the Moodle site). No late submissions are allowed for this assessment. The three day grace period does not apply to this assessment item. 

During the residential school you will be required to perform experimental protocols involving, for example, transformation of bacteria with plasmid DNA, restriction endonuclease digestion of DNA and amplification of DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In your residential school you will be expected to complete a workbook and perform experimental calculations, report experimental results, answer questions about experimental procedures and interpret results. Clearly label the workbook with student name and student number. The laboratory workbook can be scanned, or completed digitally and the workbook can be uploaded onto the Moodle site. Hard copy submissions will also be accepted. The workbook will be available in Moodle as a digital file.  

Level of GenAI use allowed:

Level 3: You may use AI to assist with specific tasks such as drafting text, refining and evaluating your work. You must critically evaluate and modify any AI generated content you use. 

Marks will be allocated based on the correctness of calculations, correct presentation of laboratory results, analysis of results, and correct answers to questions, demonstrating understanding and application of techniques.