Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2014-2015 (archived)

Module CHEM40515: Molecular Probes and their Uses

Department: Chemistry

CHEM40515: Molecular Probes and their Uses

Type Open Level 4 Credits 15 Availability Not available in 2014/15 Module Cap
Tied to

Prerequisites

  • <If other modules, please enter module code using 'Right Click, Insert module_code' or enter module title>

Corequisites

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Excluded Combination of Modules

  • <If other modules, please enter module code using 'Right Click, Insert module_code' or enter module title>

Aims

  • To train students in the structure, function and use in the biosciences of molecular probes.

Content

  • Chemistry and excited state properties of a range of metal complexes.
  • Photoinduced energy and electron transfer.
  • The design of fluorescent sensors for tracking metal ions in vivo.
  • Photophysical and photochemical reactions.
  • Time resolved spectroscopy.
  • Supramolecular chemistry.
  • Host guest chemistry.
  • Self-assembly.
  • Quantum dots.
  • Synthesis and applications of nanoscale materials.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • The use of metal ligand complexes as molecular probes.
  • Photochemistry as a means of studying molecular probes.
  • The role of molecular structure and intermolecular interactions in determining the properties of molecular assemblies.
  • The use of nanomaterials to probe biological systems.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • The ability to chose a molecular probe appropriate for a given biological system.
Key Skills:
  • Developing the ability to learn independently within broad guidelines.
  • Ability to learn actively and reflectively and to develop intuition.
  • Ability to tackle material which is both unfamiliar and complex.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures will provide the means to give concise, focussed presentation of the relevant subject matter of the module. They will be supported by reference to suitable text books and where appropriate by the distribution of written material or through links on DUO (on-line learning resource).
  • Problem sheets will be given regularly in lectures to help students gain an understanding of the concepts presented. These will be assessed formatively.
  • Student performance will be assessed summatively through examination.
  • Formative assessments will provide the means for the student to demonstrate their acquisition of subject knowledge and the development of their problem solving skills. The tests will also provide opportunities for feedback, for students to gauge their progress, and for the Management Committee to monitor progress throughout the duration of the module.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 27 1 27
Self Study 123
Total 150

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 70%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Examination 1.5 100% Y
Component: Essay Component Weighting: 30%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Essay 3 100% Y

Formative Assessment:

Problem sheets distributed in lectures.


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University