Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) Major in Molecular Genetics Curtin University

Molecular genetics contributes to solutions to global problems, such as the prevention and control of human, animal and plant diseases, biosecurity, reversal of environmental degradation and feeding the world's population. "DNA chips" can detect the expression of thousands of genes enabling rapid diagnosis of many diseases in a single test. Individuals will soon have access to their own DNA sequence and hence predict their propensity to develop cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes, heart failure and many other human diseases.

Likewise, stem cells and tissue culture promise novel methods for organ replacement and injury repair, some of the biggest challenges for medical practitioners. Improving the world’s food supply is increasingly reliant on genetically modifying the production of plants and animals and trace amounts of DNA in the environment (eDNA) are being used to provide more complete estimates of biodiversity in terrestrial and marine environments.

This major is part of the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours), a course designed for high performing students to pursue their interest in Science through a core of research, leadership and entrepreneurship. It provides a flexible and personalised approach to studying Genetics with students able to explore the field through for-credit immersive research experiences, industry placement and/or interdisciplinary team-based projects. The major culminates in a capstone experience in which students will have the opportunity to pursue Genetics projects that may be based anywhere from pure research right through to translational (entrepreneurial) science.

Our graduates will be employed in a wide range of challenging careers working alongside other scientists, environmental scientists, medical and health-care professionals, engineers, agricultural scientist, agribusiness professionals computer software developers, lawyers, business professionals and entrepreneurs.

An understanding of genetics now underpins jobs related to biology (human health or environment). The deep knowledge of genetic processes and bioinformatics developed in this course opens the door to careers in research that is at the cutting edge of discoveries having demonstrable impacts on human health, environmental health and food security. Governments around the world are investing heavily in genetics research to enable these discoveries to career opportunities for those with the necessary skills are increasing rapidly.

What you'll learn

• demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the nature of science, its methods and processes, an advanced capacity to apply molecular genetic and biochemical concepts in a range of theoretical and practical situations, and the ability to contribute new knowledge to the molecular biosciences through research
• critically, logically and rationally analyse challenging and multi-faceted problems in molecular genetics, address them by applying practical and theoretical tools and critically evaluate findings within the current body of disciplinary knowledge
• access and make judgements on the value of available knowledge using a variety of tools, and incorporate them into the planning, conduct and communication of their own findings
• communicate effectively by demonstrating the capacity to listen and respond (using both written and spoken language) to clients, staff, professionals, management and industry and conform to discipline standards in presentations and publications
• use established and emerging technologies in molecular biosciences and apply them to address complex research questions
• engage in self-driven continuous discipline and professional education and training in molecular genetics
• participate in the generation and application of science in addressing global problems while understanding international ethical and professional standards in molecular biosciences