MCB2011 - Molecular biology and the cell - 2019

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL

Undergraduate - Unit




Chief examiner(s)

Associate Professor Richard Reina


Associate Professor Helen Abud
Associate Professor Priscilla Johanesen
Ms Danielle Rhodes

Unit guides



  • First semester 2019 (On-campus)


BIO1011 and BIO1022


MOL2011 and BMS1062


In this unit we will explore the construction, components and maintenance of the cell, focusing on: the similarities and differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; the properties and functions of membranes; how cells replicate, die, communicate, and form communities; and how cells are genetically programmed.


On completion of this unit students will be able to:

  1. Relate the structure and composition of cells to their function and explain how mammalian cells differentiate to form tissues and organs.
  2. Explain the roles of different cellular compartments and organelles in cellular functions.
  3. Describe the general principles of gene organisation and the control of gene expression and give examples of how expression is controlled.
  4. Explain how cells communicate with each other and the environment.
  5. Outline the factors that control cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and movement.
  6. Describe the fundamental approaches and uses of recombinant DNA technology.
  7. Demonstrate practical skills in the molecular biology techniques that are used to study DNA, RNA and protein and use online databases to retrieve and analyse information on genes, proteins and molecular processes.
  8. Utilise appropriate microscopy techniques to visualise cells and intracellular organelles.


Mid-semester test: 10%

Evaluation of practical and workshop activities: 40% (Hurdle)

Examination (2 hours) : 50% (Hurdle)


Workload requirements

Two 1-hour lectures and up to four hours workshop activities per week

See also Unit timetable information

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study