NUT1101_Week_1_-_Seminar_1_-_Intro_to_NUT1101_and_basic_chemistry

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WEEK 1: Seminar 1 Introduction to NUT1101 and Basic Chemistry

• Lecturer: Dr. Michael Houghton

• Department: Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash Victorian Heart Institute

• Contact Information:

  • Email: NUT1101.unit@monash.edu

  • Twitter: @mjhoughton89

  • Instagram: michaelhoughton89

Acknowledgement of Country

• Situated on unceded lands of Bunurong people of Kulin nations.

• Acknowledged as Traditional Custodians.

• Respected Elders, past and present, and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

• Recognized First Nations as first scientists contributing unique ways of knowing.

• Artwork "Ganangurr" by Chloe Jones from Monash University.

‘Ganangurr’ by Chloe Jones

• Background: Yorta Yorta artist based in Naarm (Melbourne) on Wurundjeri land.

• Represents cultural dreaming, journey, growth, and new beginnings.

• Connection to the Dungala river, significant for Yorta Yorta people's beliefs and sustenance.

Congratulations and Welcome!

• Rankings: Ranked 37th globally overall; 31st for clinical, pre-clinical, and health sciences.

• Associated with Group of Eight universities known for excellence in teaching and research.

• Vision of improving human condition stated by Prof Christina Mitchell AO, Dean of FMNHS.

Department Highlights

• Globally recognized in research and education in nutrition.

• Aspirations to enhance health across diverse populations through research and professional practice.

• Internationally accredited program enabling graduates to become Registered Associate Nutritionists.

Overview of Bachelor of Nutrition Science

• Increased awareness of food choices impacting health.

• Need for nutritionists to explain science of diet-disease relationship.

• Topics of study include:

  • Dietary intake

  • Food chemistry and composition

  • Nutrient metabolism

  • Public health nutrition

  • Sports nutrition

  • Food sustainability and regulations.

Interaction and Networking

• Engage with peers by introducing yourself; promote supportive environment.

Welcome to NUT1101: Science Foundations

• Instructors:

  • Dr. Michael Houghton (Unit Coordinator & Lecturer at Victorian Heart Institute)

  • Dr. Nicole Kellow (Chief Examiner & Senior Lecturer, Hudson Institute)

• Email: NUT1101.unit@monash.edu

About Instructors

• Dr. Michael Houghton:

  • BSc in Biochemistry (Lancaster University, 2010)

  • PhD in Molecular Nutrition (University of Leeds, 2017)

  • Loving food, coffee, and travel; married in UK.

Research Focus

• Diet's influence on chronic disease risk, particularly T2D and CVD.

• Studies include carbohydrate digestion and postprandial glycaemia, metabolism, and COVID-19 interactions.

Importance of Studying Nutrition

• Global challenges related to nutrition and health:

  • Misinformation and feeding a growing population of 10 billion.

  • Impacts of poor nutrition on health and sustainability of food supply.

Course Structure Overview

• Unit Credits: 12 Credit-Point unit with 24 hours expected study per week.

• Emphasis on teamwork and participation with consistent Moodle engagement.

Moodle Learning Platform Structure

• Guidelines and content will be accessible via Moodle.

• Weekly topics cover foundational chemistry crucial for nutrition science.

Practical Information & Courses

• Engage in animals' cellular basis of life and human genetics through the biology bridging course.

• Academic conduct; attendance is crucial for success.

Assessment and Timetable Outline

• Classes per week:

  • Seminars: 2 x 2h

  • Workshops: 2 x 2h

  • Lab practical: 1 x 3h (attendance compulsory)

• Assignments (45% total): Multiple lab reports, group presentations, and exams with a focus on participation and collaboration.

Practical Safety & Requirements

• Compliance with lab safety protocols is essential.

• Mandatory: Lab Safety quiz must be passed before entering lab.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand concepts in basic sciences relevant to nutrition and biochemistry.

• Apply skills in laboratory experimentation and data reporting.

Additional Support and Resources

• Academic success resources available, including workshops and online support.

• Recommended textbooks for foundational concepts in biochemistry and chemistry.

• Familiarization with AI tools for academic integrity in assessments.

Communication Guidelines

• Students encouraged to actively participate and present questions in forum discussions.