week 1 lecture 1-Year 2 Biomedical Sciences Introduction and Guide

Welcome to Year 2

• Level Coordinator for Year 2 (FHEQ5): Dr. Concetta Bubici, responsible for overseeing the overall academic experience and coordination of modules for students at the FHEQ Level 5, which signifies intermediate higher education level, typically the second year of a bachelor's degree.

• Your Team for Semester 1 & 2: This dedicated team of academics provides teaching, support, and guidance across various modules. Their roles often include lecturing, leading practical sessions, conducting research, and serving as personal tutors.

  • Dr. Camilla Cerutti (BB2810)

  • Dr. Emma Bourton (BB2738)

  • Dr. Gudrun Stenbeck (Division Lead): Often responsible for strategic direction, resource allocation, and overall academic quality within a specific division or area of study.

  • Dr. Terry Roberts (BB2737, BB2807)

  • Dr. Ashley Houlden (Programme Lead, BB2732, BB2811): Oversees the entire Biomedical Sciences program, ensuring curriculum coherence, quality, and student progression.

  • Dr. Alessandro Esposito (BB2736, BB2808)

  • Dr. Ayca Sayi Yazgan (BB2809, BB2735)

  • Dr. Sabrina Tosi (BB2735)

  • Dr. Fotios Drenos (BB2601)

  • Dr. David Tree (BB2731)

  • Dr. Annabelle Lewis (Programme Lead): Shares responsibilities with Dr. Houlden in leading and managing the Biomedical Sciences programme.

Celebrating Academic Achievement in Level 4

• Congratulations to students who achieved overall GPAs in the top 5\text{%} last year (in alphabetical order). This recognition highlights exceptional academic performance during their foundational year (FHEQ Level 4).

  • Abigail Adarkwa

  • Tajwar Ahad

  • Iszy Church

  • Sheenal Maru

  • Sarah Rabehi

  • Ameera Saleem

  • Zainab Samiullah

  • Jai Sandhu

  • Kei Hin Wong

Biomedical Sciences Year 2 (FHEQ5): Study and Assessment Structure

• Core Modules (Credits in parentheses): These modules are mandatory and form the foundational knowledge base for Biomedical Sciences at this level.

  • BB2733 Career Planning & Entrepreneurship ($15$): Focuses on developing essential professional skills, exploring career pathways within biomedical sciences, and understanding entrepreneurial concepts relevant to the field.

  • BB2735 Human Pathology and Immunology ($30$): Provides an in-depth understanding of disease mechanisms, how the human body responds to illness, and the complex workings of the immune system.

  • BB2737 Experimental Design and Analysis ($15$): Covers the principles of designing scientific experiments effectively, collecting and interpreting data, and applying statistical methods.

  • BB2739 Applied Molecular & Cell Biology ($30$): Explores the practical applications and advanced concepts of molecular and cell biology, essential for understanding life processes at a microscopic level.

  • BB2731 Genetics, Genomics & Health ($15$): Examines the role of genetics and genomics in human health, disease susceptibility, and personalized medicine.

  • BB2810 Experimental Data Analysis, & Presentation ($30$): Concentrates on advanced techniques for analyzing experimental data, critically evaluating results, and effectively presenting scientific findings.

  • BB2808 Primary Literature Review ($15$): Develops skills in critically evaluating and synthesizing information from scientific literature, a crucial skill for research and academic writing.

  • BB2807 Professional Skills ($15$): Enhances employability through practical training in professional conduct, communication, and career development activities.

  • BB2809 Data Evaluation & Reporting ($15$): Teaches students how to process, interpret, and report scientific data accurately and professionally, often through practical lab reports.

  • BB2811 Biomedical Sciences Exam (Part 1 & Part 2) - This is a core assessment for $BB2811$ and is $30$ credits. Passing it is essential for progression to the final year without limiting your degree. This comprehensive examination assesses integrated knowledge across multiple core modules, determining eligibility for progression to the final year.

  • BB2812 Synoptic Exam ($15$): A holistic examination that requires students to integrate knowledge from across different modules, often testing broader understanding and critical thinking rather than specific module content.

  • BB2601 Advanced Biomedical Sciences Training (including safety) ($0$) - This module is a mandatory training but carries no credits. This essential training covers advanced laboratory techniques and crucial health and safety protocols, ensuring students can work safely and competently in a lab environment.

• Optional Study Blocks (Pick one): These provide an opportunity to specialize or explore areas of particular interest within Biomedical Sciences.

  • BB2738 Analytical Biochemistry ($15$): Focuses on the methods and techniques used to analyze biological molecules, their structures, and functions, crucial for research and diagnostics.

  • BB2732 Medical Microbiology ($15$): Explores microorganisms relevant to human health, including their pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and control of infectious diseases.

  • BB2734 Bioinformatics & Big Data Analysis ($15$): Introduces computational tools and statistical methods for analyzing large biological datasets, such as genomic and proteomic data.

  • BB2736 Development, Genetics & Stem Cell Biology ($15$): Investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms of embryonic development, genetic regulation, and the potential of stem cell therapies.

Assessment Timeline

• Semester 1 (Autumn):

  • Week $0$ (Sept 22-26, 2025): Welcome & Enrolment Week. This period is dedicated to student registration, induction sessions, timetable distribution, and essential administrative tasks to prepare for the academic year.

  • Week $1$ (Sept 29 - Oct 3, 2025): BB2809 introduced in BB2601 lecture. Students will receive an overview of the Data Evaluation & Reporting module, including its objectives, assessment criteria, and how it aligns with the Advanced Biomedical Sciences Training.

  • Week $3$ (Oct 13-17, 2025): BB2808 introduced in BB2808 lecture; titles released. The Primary Literature Review module will be introduced, and students will be given potential topics or guidelines for selecting their literature review titles.

  • Week $8$ (Nov 17-21, 2025): BB2807 introduced in BB2733 lecture. The Professional Skills module will be presented, outlining its components and how it contributes to career development alongside Career Planning & Entrepreneurship.

  • Week $9$ (Nov 24-28, 2025): Reading Week. An allocated period for independent study, research, revision, and catching up on coursework without scheduled lectures.

  • Week $10$ (Dec 1-5, 2025): BB2810 introduced in BB2810 lecture. The Experimental Data Analysis, & Presentation module will be introduced, detailing the poster presentation component and data analysis expectations.

  • Week $11$ (Dec 8-12, 2025): BB2808 DUE (literature review). The deadline for submitting the Primary Literature Review assessment. Term 1 officially ends, marking the conclusion of the first teaching period.

  • Week $15$ (Jan 5-9, 2026): BB2809 DUE (Data evaluation). The deadline for submitting the Data Evaluation & Reporting assessment. Term 2 begins, initiating the next block of teaching.

  • Weeks $15$ to $17$ (During winter exam period): BB2811 Paper 1 and Paper 2 exams. These examinations cover specific core modules from Semester 1, testing students' theoretical understanding before the break.

  • Week $16$ (Jan 12-16, 2026): BB2808 Feedback. Students will receive feedback on their Primary Literature Review submissions to help them understand their performance and areas for improvement.

  • Week $17$ (Jan 19-23, 2026): BB2809 Feedback. Feedback will be provided for the Data Evaluation & Reporting submissions.

• Semester 2 (Spring) / Term 2:

  • Week $18$ (Jan 26-30, 2026): Semester 2 begins. The start of the second teaching period.

  • Week $19$ (Feb 2-6, 2026): BB2807 DUE (Career Portfolio). The deadline for submitting the Professional Skills career portfolio, demonstrating engagement in employability-focused activities.

  • Week $22$ (Feb 23-27, 2026): BB2810 Progression meeting. A meeting related to the Experimental Data Analysis, & Presentation module, potentially to check on progress or discuss case study outlines.

  • Week $24$ (Mar 9-13, 2026): Reading Week. Another dedicated period for independent study and exam preparation.

  • Week $25$ (Mar 16-20, 2026): BB2807 Feedback. Feedback will be provided on the Professional Skills career portfolio.

  • Week $27$ (Mar 30 - Apr 3, 2026): BB2810 DUE (Poster). The deadline for submitting the poster component of the Experimental Data Analysis, & Presentation module. Term 2 ends, concluding the teaching period for the spring semester.

  • Week $31$ (Apr 27 - May 1, 2026): BB2810 LIVE (Poster Presentation). Students will present their posters in a conference-style setting, showcasing their data analysis and presentation skills.

  • Week $32$ (May 4-8, 2026): Biosciences Revision Week. A dedicated week for students to revise course material across all Biosciences modules in preparation for end-of-year examinations.

  • Weeks $32$ to $34$ (During Summer Exam Period): BB2811 Paper 3 and Paper 4, and BB2812 Synoptic Exam. These examinations conclude the academic year, covering Semester 2 modules and integrating knowledge holistically.

Year 2 Coursework Assessments

• Semester 1:

  • BB2808 (Primary Literature Review): A $2000$-word critical analysis of selected scientific journal articles, structured as a review article. This assessment requires students to not only summarize existing research but also to critically evaluate methodologies, findings, and conclusions, synthesizing information into a coherent narrative.

  • BB2809 (Data Evaluation & Reporting): Two $500$-word lab reports based on practicals from Semester 1. Students choose which $2$ out of $5$ practicals to write up. These reports require students to accurately record, analyze, interpret, and present experimental data, demonstrating their understanding of scientific methodology and reporting standards.

  • BB2807 (Professional Skills): A portfolio of materials focusing on employability, professional conduct, and future career planning. This typically includes a CV, cover letter, reflection on professional development events, and evidence of engagement. Includes attendance in Semester 1 "events": practicals (1\text{%} each), network event (2\text{%}), careers day (2\text{%}), and Medical device presentation (1\text{%}). Active participation in these events is crucial for developing soft skills and industry connections.

• Semester 2:

  • BB2810 (Experimental Data Analysis, & Presentation): A poster presented in a conference-style setting. This poster is based on a case study associated with data generated from Semester 2 practicals. Students will explain their research question, methodology, results, and conclusions visually and verbally, simulating a real scientific conference experience. Additionally, attendance in Semester 2 practicals contributes 10\text{%} to this grade.

Practicals in Semester 1 & Semester 2

• Semester 1 Lab Sessions ($5$ sessions): These practicals provide hands-on experience with fundamental laboratory techniques.

  1. Microbiology (ELISA): Learning the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for detecting and quantifying soluble substances, often crucial in diagnostic microbiology.

  2. Biochemistry (Purines): Investigating the properties and analysis of purine molecules, vital components of DNA and RNA.

  3. Quantitative PCR (Q-PCR): Gaining experience with Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, a technique used for amplifying and quantifying DNA or RNA, essential in gene expression studies.

  4. Immunology (Complement Assay): Performing assays to understand the complement system, a key part of the innate immune response.

  5. Cell Biology (Immunohistochemistry - IHC): Applying immunohistochemistry to visualize antigens in cells or tissues, a common technique in disease diagnosis and research.

• Semester 2 Lab Sessions ($4$ sessions): Further practical skills development.

  1. Cell Biology (Histology): Studying tissue structures and cell organization through microscopic examination of stained tissue sections.

  2. Blood Glucose Test: Learning to perform and interpret blood glucose measurements, fundamental in clinical diagnostics, especially for diabetes.

  3. Microbiology (Wound Diagnosis): Applying microbiological techniques to diagnose infections from wound samples, enhancing understanding of clinical microbiology.

  4. Cell Biology (Clonogenic Assays): Performing assays to assess the reproductive viability of cells, often used in cancer research and drug screening.

• Practical Admissions and Rules: These rules are in place to ensure a safe, organized, and effective learning environment for all students.

  • Arrival Time: $09:45$ for $10:00$ session and $13:45$ for $14:00$ session. Arrive early to your allocated session only to allow for preparation and essential pre-lab briefings.

  • No Admittance to Other Sessions: Due to capacity limitations, health and safety regulations, and resource allocation, students can only attend their assigned session.

  • Food Policy: Eat before class; no breaks will be provided during the session. This is a critical health and safety measure to prevent contamination and ensure concentration during practical work.

  • Prompt Start: Sessions will start promptly. Doors will close once the Health & Safety (H&S) talk has finished. The H&S briefing is mandatory and non-negotiable for student safety, hence the strict adherence to start times.

  • Latecomers: Post H&S talk, doors close, and no admittance is allowed. Latecomers should email the lead lecturer for space availability in other sessions, but there may not be space, resulting in a missed practical. Missing a practical means missing essential hands-on learning and potential grade contributions.

  • Attendance Grade Reminder: Practical attendance is crucial for BB2807 and BB2810 grades. Consistent attendance is vital not only for learning but also for meeting assessment requirements linked to professional skills and data analysis.

  • Cleanup: Students are required to clean their work area using the waste guide on the bench before leaving. Proper cleanup is essential for maintaining a safe and functional laboratory environment for subsequent users.

• Lab Attendance for Grading: Consists of $9$ practicals, network event, careers day, and Medical device presentation. It contributes 10\text{%} to BB2807 grade and 10\text{%} to BB2810 grade. This indicates that active participation in practical sessions and related professional development events is a significant component of these module grades.

Improve Your Writing - Free Sessions with a Professional Writer

• Service Provider: Melissa Bailey, a historical fiction writer and author of two novels. Her expertise extends beyond creative writing to academic rigor and clarity.

• Contact: melissa.bailey@rlfeducation.org.uk

• Offering: Independent and confidential one-to-one tutorials available on-campus or online. These personalized sessions offer tailored support to enhance academic writing skills.

• Assistance Areas:

  • Increasing writing skills to improve grades. By refining writing, students can articulate their knowledge more effectively, leading to better assessment outcomes.

  • Expressing ideas more clearly. Learning to communicate complex scientific concepts concisely is a vital academic and professional skill.

  • Answering grammar and punctuation questions. Addressing fundamental language mechanics helps ensure professional and understandable academic submissions.

  • Improving any academic writing (essays, reports, theses, dissertations). Comprehensive support for various types of academic assignments specific to higher education.

  • Organizing thoughts and structuring work. Developing logical flow and coherent structure is essential for presenting arguments and information effectively.

  • Communicating complex ideas clearly and precisely using simple, direct language. The goal is to demystify complex scientific concepts for the reader without oversimplifying them.

  • Improving writing style. Enhancing the readability, tone, and overall impact of academic writing.

Examinations

• Location: In-person, on-campus for January and May exams. All examinations will be conducted in a traditional supervised setting on the university campus.

BB2811 Examinations (Biomedical Sciences Exam)

• Credit Value: $30$ credits (core assessment). This examination carries a substantial weight in the overall degree.

• Progression Requirement: Must pass this assessment to progress to the final year without limiting degree options. Failure to pass may necessitate resits or impact progression pathways, potentially affecting degree classification or eligibility for certain final year projects.

• Structure: Consists of $4$ exams that combine for the final grade. This multi-paper structure ensures a broad assessment of knowledge across different core areas.

• Exam Breakdown:

  • BB2811 Paper 1 (33\text{%}):

    • $2$-hour exam covering BB2735: Human Pathology & Immunology. This paper comprehensively assesses understanding of disease processes and immune responses.

    • $40$ Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ). Tests broad knowledge and recall of key concepts.

    • $1$-hour essay (choose $1$ of $4$ questions). Requires in-depth analysis, critical thinking, and the ability to construct a well-reasoned argument on a specific topic.

  • BB2811 Paper 2 (17\text{%}):

    • $1$-hour exam covering BB2731: Genetics, Genomics and Human Health. Focuses on the genetic basis of health and disease.

    • $20$ MCQ Questions. Tests understanding of core genetic principles and applications.

    • $30$-minute essay (choose $1$ of $4$ questions). Assesses the ability to synthesize information and discuss genetic concepts in a concise manner.

  • BB2811 Paper 3 (33\text{%}):

    • $2$-hour exam covering BB2739: Applied Molecular and Cell Biology. This paper evaluates advanced understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms.

    • $40$ MCQ Questions. Checks comprehension of detailed molecular and cellular processes.

    • $1$-hour essay (choose $1$ of $4$ questions). Requires detailed explanations, problem-solving, and critical assessment of molecular and cell biological topics.

  • BB2811 Paper 4 (17\text{%}):

    • $1$-hour exam covering your one chosen study block from the four available options. This paper allows students to demonstrate specialized knowledge in their selected area.

      • BB2732 - Medical Microbiology

      • BB2734 - Bioinformatics and Big Data Analysis

      • BB2736 - Development, Genetics & Stem Cell Biology

      • BB2738 - Analytical and Clinical Biochemistry

    • $20$ MCQ Questions. Tests specialized knowledge within the chosen optional block.

    • $30$-minute essay (choose $1$ of $4$ questions). Requires focused critical discussion or analysis within the student's chosen specialization.

BB2812 Examination (Synoptic Exam)

• Format: A $2$-hour, on-campus, closed-book examination. This format tests the ability to integrate and apply knowledge across the breadth of the Biomedical Sciences curriculum.

• Preparation: Two papers will be provided a week before the exam. These preparatory materials often provide context or background information to stimulate thinking and allow for broad research, although the specific question remains unknown.

• Exam Day: The question will be released during the exam. This format assesses the ability to think critically, synthesize information, and construct a comprehensive answer under timed conditions, requiring intellectual agility rather than rote memorization.

• Response: Students will have $2$ hours to write an answer of approximately $1500$ words. This demands efficient planning, strong analytical skills, and the ability to articulate a well-structured and detailed argument within a limited timeframe.

Important Information and Resources

• BB2700 Brightspace: All information, including this presentation, assessment briefs, and other crucial details, will be posted here. This serves as the primary online learning environment and central hub for all course-related announcements, materials, and deadlines.

• Tutorials / Personal Tutor:

  • This year's grades contribute significantly to your final degree classification, and the workload is higher. Engaging with your personal tutor can provide essential academic guidance and support.

  • It is vital to get to know your personal tutor for help, support, and advice. Personal tutors act as mentors, offering academic advice, guidance on personal challenges, and career counseling throughout your degree.

  • Tutors provide references for future endeavors (e.g., jobs, further study), and attendance at tutorials helps them know you well enough to write a good reference on your character, punctuality, and attendance. Strong references are invaluable for postgraduate applications or job opportunities.

• Timetable:

  • Always check the course timetable rather than "My Timetable" for your lecture locations (on-campus or online). The general course timetable provides the most accurate and up-to-date information, which may differ from personalized timetables on occasion.

  • For any timetable issues, contact the Student Hub ASAP:

    • Email: studenthub@brunel.ac.uk

    • Location: Michael Sterling building

    • Telephone: $+44 (0)1895 268268$ The Student Hub is the first point of contact for all administrative and logistical queries, including timetable discrepancies.

• Practical Attendance: Attendance is monitored for all practicals and contributes 10\text{%} to both BB2807 and BB2810 grades. Regular attendance is critical for both hands-on skill development and meeting assessment criteria.

  • Semester 1 practicals run in weeks $1, 3, 5, 8, \text{and } 9$. This schedule allows for consistent practical experience throughout the first semester.

Student Reps

• Role: Student reps are academic representatives who ensure student voices are heard regarding course and department changes and feedback. They act as a crucial link between the student body and academic staff.

• Purpose:

  • Represent student voice. They collect feedback from their peers on academic matters, highlighting areas for improvement or success.

  • Impact University policy and lobby for students' rights. Student reps have the opportunity to influence decision-making processes, advocating for changes that benefit the student community.

  • Create positive change. Through constructive feedback and collaboration, reps contribute directly to the enhancement of academic programmes and student experience.

  • Inform curriculum development. Their insights help shape the content and delivery of courses, ensuring they remain relevant and responsive to student needs.

• Benefits:

  • Increase employability by strengthening soft skills. Roles as student reps develop valuable transferable skills such as communication, negotiation, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork, highly sought after by employers.

  • Meet new people. It's an excellent opportunity to network with fellow students, academic staff, and university administrators.

• Rewards & Recognition:

  • FREE hoodie: A token of appreciation for their service.

  • HEAR Transcript: Formal recognition of their role on their Higher Education Achievement Report, enhancing their academic record.

  • LinkedIn Package: Support to professionally represent their experience on their LinkedIn profiles, boosting their online professional presence.

  • Personal development training: Opportunities to attend workshops and training sessions to further enhance their skills.

  • Union Citizenship Points: Recognition within the Student Union for their engagement.

  • Student Voice Awards: Opportunities to be nominated and win awards for outstanding contributions.

  • Rep of the Month: Monthly recognition for exemplary performance.

• How to Become a Rep: Generally, no election is needed; you can just sign-up. An election might be held only if too many students want to be reps. The process is designed to be accessible to encourage wider participation.

• Contact for More Information (Student Voice Team): For general inquiries or assistance regarding student representation.

  • Email: StudentVoice@brunel.ac.uk

  • Location: Student Union – Advice & Representation

  • Drop-In Hour: Monday $1\text{pm} - 2\text{pm}$ Convenient time for in-person consultations.

  • Key Contacts: Specific individuals within the Student Voice Team who can provide detailed information and support:

    • Maria Bamgbele (Student Voice Manager): Maria.Bamgbele@brunel.ac.uk

    • Yota Omo-Sowho (Student Voice Coordinator): Yota.Sowho@brunel.ac.uk

    • Abhishek Ghawate (Education President): Abhishek.Ghawate@brunel.ac.uk