Units / MCB2022
MCB2022 · The dynamic cell
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 2Faculty of Science
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
In this unit you will study the cell as a dynamic unit capable of responding to environmental, cellular and molecular cues that can result in a range of outcomes such as: motility; movement or rearrangement of internal structures; alterations in the production, processing or disposal of oligonucleotides, proteins and organelles; repair of damaged components; assembly and disassembly of molecular machinery or communication pathways; switching genetic pathways on or off; and changes in cell proliferation, lifespan, function, or interactions with other cells.
Areas of study: Biochemistry Genetics Microbiology Molecular biology
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton | Second semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | In semester quizzes and assessment | Quiz / Test | 30% | — |
| 2 | In-semester workshop and practical (laboratory) assessments | Demonstration | 40% | Threshold |
| 3 | Examination (2 hours and 10 minutes) | Examination | 30% | Threshold |
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.
Learning outcomes
- Explain the mechanisms that enable cells to move in response to external stimuli.
- Discuss the way in which DNA is replicated within the cell, the mechanisms for maintaining DNA integrity and the implications of acquiring errors in the DNA sequence.
- Outline the mechanisms that drive gene expression and the way in which gene expression is regulated.
- Illustrate how our understanding of cellular and molecular processes is enhanced through the use of animal models, microscopy and laboratory techniques.
- Demonstrate skills in laboratory techniques relevant to cell and molecular biology, and the ability to analyse experimental data by integrating concepts and knowledge.
- Demonstrate an ability to effectively communicate research findings either orally or in writing with reference to published literature as appropriate.
- Work effectively as a member of a team.
Workload
A total of 12 hours per week including: • 2 hours of lectures • up to 4 hours of workshop and laboratory activities and • up to 6 hours of self-directed independent study per week
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Workshops | 12 hours |
| Laboratories | 36 hours |
| Lectures | 24 hours |
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