Molecules of Life, 15 credits

Contents

The course consists of three main modules that are run in parallel:

• **Module 1 (Theory, 7.5 credits): **Theoretical knowledge in cell biology and biochemistry linked to intended learning outcomes 1–6.
• Module 2 (Literature assignment and presentation, 2 credits): Interpretation of scientific data on organelle dynamics and interactions in groups, and oral communication through student presentations and discussions (learning outcomes 7–10).
• Module 3 (Case studies, 5.5 credits): Application of theoretical knowledge from lectures to case studies via an online learning platform, with assessed online assignments (learning outcome 11).

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding:

Students must be able to

Explain the cell’s structure and function, major organelles, and the cell membrane.

Describe the structure and function of macromolecules and central metabolic pathways within and between organelles in a cell.

Account for fundamental principles of cell communication and signal transduction between cells and organelles.

Explain principles of proteostasis and proteostatic systems in cells, including differences between organelles and their interplay.

Discuss the role of membrane contact sites in organelle communication and cellular homeostasis.

Analyse how organelle communication contributes to physiological processes and identify changes during stress or disease.

Skills and ability:

Students must be able to
Interpret scientific data on organelle dynamics and interactions from primary literature.

Compare different models or hypotheses on organelle interactions presented in the literature.

Collaborate in groups to solve cell‑biological problems and communicate the results effectively.

Present scientific content orally in a clear and structured manner.

Judgement and approach:

Students must be able to

Reflect on the importance of organelle compartmentalisation and organelle communication for cell function and health.

Required Knowledge

• 90 credits in biology, biotechnology, chemistry, medicine, or other life‑science–oriented subjects

and

• English 6/English level 2 or equivalent.

Form of instruction

The course is delivered as an online distance course in English. It includes online lectures and supervised assignments combined with case studies on an online platform. Students also participate in presentations and discussions of scientific literature (group work) based on research articles from a curated list.

All educational components except lectures are compulsory.

Participation requires a computer or tablet with internet access, as well as a camera and microphone.

Examination modes

Assessment is based on:

Individual oral examination covering the content of Module 1 (learning outcomes 1–6). This oral examination may be conducted in groups, but the assessment is individual.

Oral group presentation for Module 2 (learning outcomes 7–10).

Assessed online assignments for Module 3 (learning outcome 11).

Grading:

Module 1: Fail (U), Pass (G), Pass with Distinction (VG)

Modules 2 and 3: Fail (U), Pass (G)

To pass the course, the oral group presentation (Module 2), the assessed online assignments (Module 3), and the oral examination (Module 1) must all be passed. To receive the grade VG for the course, the oral group presentation (Module 2) and the assessed online assignments (Module 3) must be passed, and the oral examination (Module 1) must be graded VG.

Students must submit online assignments in the prescribed format and actively participate in presentations and discussions. Active participation means contributing reflections, questions, and attempts to answer questions posed to the individual or group. In case of absence from assessed online assignments, the examiner decides whether a replacement assignment is required or whether the component must be completed at a later date.

Students who fail assessed tasks are offered a re‑examination in accordance with Umeå University’s regulations. The first re‑examination is offered within two months after the ordinary examination. If the ordinary examination is held in May or June, the first re‑examination is offered within three months. At least one additional re‑examination is offered within one year after the ordinary examination. After that, the student must wait until the course/module is offered again.

The examiner may decide to deviate from the examination format specified in the syllabus. Individual adaptation of the examination format shall be considered based on the student’s needs. The examination format is adapted within the framework of the intended learning outcomes of the course.

A student who needs an adapted examination and has received a decision on support from the coordinator for students with disabilities at the Student Centre must request adaptation from the course‑coordinating department no later than 10 working days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adapted examination, which is then communicated to the student.

Other regulations

If the course syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, the student is guaranteed at least three examination opportunities (including the ordinary examination) according to the syllabus under which the student was originally registered, for no more than two years after the previous syllabus ceased to apply or the course is no longer offered.