Omics techniques and the application to genomic medicine (For CPPD)

This module explores the state of the art genomics techniques used for DNA sequencing (targeted approaches, whole exome and whole genome sequencing) and RNA sequencing, using highly parallel techniques, together with current technologies routinely used to investigate genomic variation in the clinical setting.

This module will introduce the bioinformatics approaches required for the analysis of genomic data, which together with data governance covered in GM1 will provide a solid foundation for the Bioinformatics and Statistics modules. The module will also cover the use of array-based methodologies and RNA sequencing in estimating levels of protein expression, micro RNAs and long non–coding RNAs. A comprehensive introduction to metabolomics and proteomics, which are important for the functional interpretation of genomic data and discovery of disease biomarkers will also be included. Students will also learn about the strategies employed to evaluate pathogenicity of variants for clinical reporting.

Teaching of these core technologies and introductory bioinformatics will be facilitated in part by hands-on production of genomic data in which students will take DNA samples through an entire ‘omics’ workflow.

Information on other modules can be accessed here.

Course Dates

Key Features

Whilst evidence will not be required as part of your application, given the postgraduate level of the course and subject matter, we would recommend that applicants are able to meet the following requirements:

Academic requirement

Applicants are normally expected to a hold a 2i degree or higher from a UK university or an equivalent from an overseas university.

Language requirement

To ensure that all participants can participate fully and get the best from studying with us, you will need to be confident understanding and following arguments presented in written and spoken English at University level.

If English is not your native language, you will need to satisfy yourself that you have an appropriate level of English language proficiency in line with the following recommended tests (achieved in the same sitting and no more than 2 years before the date of booking):

◾IELTS Academic: Overall score of 7.0 (a minimum of 7.0 in Listening, Writing and Speaking; 6.5 in Reading)
◾TOEFL Internet: Overall score of 100 (a minimum of 25 in each individual component)
◾CAE: Grade A or B (with at least 193 in each individual element) plus a Language Centre assessment
◾CPE: Grade A, B, or C (with at least 200 in each individual element)

Alternatively, you may have undertaken all, or part, of your education in English and/or may have extensive experience using English on a regular basis in your professional life.

Note that: International students must ensure they have the appropriate immigration status to undertake the course, and this will need to be checked by the University. Students who do not hold an immigration status that permits study and work in the UK will be based overseas and attendance on modules can be supported as a visitor to the UK. There are restrictions on using the visitor route for study and this may restrict the number of modules that can be undertaken across one year. Further information is provided on the International Students website and prospective students are advised to read this in full.