Course Objectives

The aim of this course is to provide students with further insight into organic chemistry, an introduction to basic genetics; the course also includes a practical component on genetic engineering (DNA extraction, measurement of DNA concentration, PCR and gel electrophoresis). The practical component has a strong focus on lab procedures and report writing.

Course Description

After completing the course students will be able to understand the structure and function of the substances that have been studied. They will also be able to independently use the methods that have been presented, and understand and explain the principles and provide reasons for their choice of methods.

• Hydrocarbons - structure and nomenclature
• Functional groups in molecules: alcohols, amines, ethers, carbonyl compounds, esters
• Organic reaction types
• Nutrients
• Enzymes
• The metabolism of sugar in the body
• Nucleic acids and protein synthesis
• Introduction to genetics
• Genetic variations
• Use of DNA markers
• How to work in a DNA lab
• Different genetic methods (PCR, restriction enzymes)

Learning Methods

30 hours lectures and 20 hours lab.
Mandatory: study groups and lab (lab reports).

Assessment Methods

3-hour written midterm examination which counts 50%, and a 3-hour written final examination counts 50%. Lab reports must be submitted and approved before students will be allowed to take the final examination.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean