Course coordinator
Professor Nigel Beebe
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2026 (23/02/2026 - 20/06/2026)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
Students taking this course will learn about the fundamentals of molecular cell biology and genetics by examining what cells are made of and how the genetic information to build cells and perform cellular processes are encoded, executed, and inherited. The course explores the connections between physical processes at the molecular level and the whole organism phenotype, and identifies how cellular, genetic, and evolutionary processes affect everyday life.
Cells and genetic material form the building blocks of life. This course will start by focusing on cells: examining the major domains of life (recognisable by their distinct cell types), introducing biologically important molecules and their roles in defining cell structure and function, considering metabolic energy flows, and finally inspecting the mechanics of cellular division and reproduction. Then we will examine how genetic information is encoded, copied and used to create proteins by various organisms (prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses). Building upon this understanding of the mechanics of DNA copying and transcription, we will explore how these molecular and cellular processes yield whole organism phenotypes. And, conversely, using phenotypes as a starting point for observations, we will examine how the underlying molecular structures and cellular processes can be inferred. Then, we will consider how the relationships between molecular and cellular structures and organismal phenotypes influences evolutionary change, and we will discuss how evolution impacts our everyday lives. The course will close by introducing students to new insights being revealed by genomics and by illustrating the many ways that modern molecular biology and biotechnology use “tools” taken from biological organisms.
Examples in lectures, tutorials, practicals, online activities and assigned readings will draw on a wide range of experimental systems and will be related to contemporary issues in human health, agriculture, and biodiversity whenever possible. Small group and peer-to-peer learning are an important part of the university experience and will be especially promoted during practicals andﾠtutorials. Becoming a life-long learner requires developing skills in self-directed learning; the development of these skills will be supported by guided online activities and assigned readings.
Course requirements
Recommended prerequisites
We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:
QLD Senior Biology (Units 3 & 4) with a grade of B or better in the last three years (or equivalent), or BIOL1000
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
CHEE1001, BIOL7020 (co-taught)
Restrictions
Any student who has completed AGRC1020, AGRC1021, ANIM1060, or AGRC1041 will need permission from the Faculty of Science to enrol into BIOL1020. Please contact the Faculty of Science.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Professor Nigel Beebe
Associate Professor Jack Wang
Associate Professor Celine Frere
Ms Lois Eden
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
SIGNING UP FOR LECTURES, PRACTICALS and ONLINE LEARNING!!!!
Enrol in one of the lecture and tutorial streams. You attend 2 one-hour lectures and a one-hour tutorial a week.ﾠ
Enrol in one of the practical sessions. You will attend one practical session per week that lasts three hours. (Some weeks will not have practicals due to public holidays. Practicals start in teaching week 2).
You will be given information on how to access and enrol in Online Learning for BIOL1020. There will be one weekly Online Learning for every week of class (roughly requiring 2-3 hours to complete). You can complete your online learning at your own pace up to each weekly due date for each online learning.
Please note: Every effort is made to place students in their preferred class. However, it is not always possible for a student to be in their most preferred practical or tutorial class. If you have a reason for special consideration (e.g. elite athletes, students with student access plan, or other objective and unplanned issues) please email Lois Eden at l.eden@uq.edu.au with:
- Your full name (as per UQ enrolment)
- Your student ID number
- Details of the class time you'd prefer and the reason why
Attendance in practicals and tutorials is mandatory.ﾠPlease take care to note the timetable for tutorials and practicals as they do not run every week.
Aims and outcomes
This course aims to introduce students to central concepts in cell biology, genetics, and evolution.
Lectures, research orientated laboratory practicals, tutorials, readings, and self-directed study activities are organized around 3 themes:
- Molecular and cellular biology
- Genes to traits
- Inheritance and evolution
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Generic Skills - Identify and describe how cellular, genetic, and evolutionary processes impact everyday human life, including (but not limited to) effects on human health, agriculture, and biodiversity.
LO2.
Generic Skills - Be able to formulate testable hypotheses and evaluate those hypotheses against empirical results.
LO3.
Generic Skills - Demonstrate practical skills in different aspects in biology.
LO4.
Molecular & cellular biology - Compare and contrast the diversity in molecular components and cellular structures across the three domains of life and describe examples of fundamental similarities arising from the common origin of life.
LO5.
Molecular & cellular biology - Explain how cells are able to coordinate the basic molecular building blocks of life in order to divide, replicate, and survive.
LO6.
Genes to traits - Understand what genes are and how they link to traits, the physical nature of the gene and molecular processes underlying the “Central Dogma” of molecular biology.
LO7.
Genes to traits - Compare and contrast the gene regulatory mechanisms between bacteria and eukaryotes.
LO8.
Genes to traits - Describe sexual reproduction through meiosis and how it contributes to genetic variation.
LO9.
Genes to traits - Conceptual knowledge of viruses and synthetic biology
LO10.
Inheritance and Evolution - Explain and compare processes contributing to genetic variability, including but not limited to: mutation, recombination, transformation, gene flow, horizontal gene transfer, gene and genome duplication, genetic drift, and natural selection.
LO11.
Inheritance and Evolution - Understand the relationship between recombination and linkage.
LO12.
Inheritance and Evolution - How to detect if evolution is occurring by calculating allele frequencies.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Practical preparation and participation
|
10% |
Week 1 Mon - Week 13 Fri |
| Examination, Quiz |
Mini Test 1
|
15% |
23/03/2026 - 26/03/2026
Completed in classes during Week 5. |
| Examination, Quiz |
Mini Test 2
|
15% |
27/04/2026 - 30/04/2026
Completed in classes during Week 9. |
| Examination |
End of semester exam
|
60% |
End of Semester Exam Period 6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Practical preparation and participation
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
Week 1 Mon - Week 13 Fri
Task description
Practical activities to be conducted during practical time require some reading and preparation in advance. Students are required to be prepared for the practical, hence they are expected to read the relevant sections of the practical manual (posted on blackboard) and to complete a short set of pre-practical questions before coming to class.
Additional questions and activities will occur during the regular scheduled practical time which will contribute marks to this assessment. Students must have their pre-practical questions checked off by their tutor upon arriving at the beginning of each practical session. All questions from practicals might also appear on the mini tests and final exam, so students are encouraged to make the best attempts possible.
Lab safety is a critical priority and is assessed as part of class participation. Students must follow all safety guidelines before entering each practical session. This practice contributes to working safely in the lab environment.
All practical components contribute to the overall mark for this assessment. The marking criteria will be provided by the course practical coordinator and are also available in the practical manual. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Lois Eden.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Students must have their pre-practical questions checked off by their tutor upon arriving at the beginning of each practical session.
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
Extensions are not available for this assessment as the submissions are to be checked off by a tutor in attendance at the Practical session. If you are unable to attend your timetabled practical you may attend another within the week in order to submit. If you are unable to submit, please contact Lois Eden (l.eden@uq.edu.au) to discuss exemption.
Late submission
You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.
Students need to have their pre-practical questions upon arriving at the beginning of each practical session, or attend an alternate within the week to submit. Penalties will apply if not submitted.
Mini Test 1
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination, Quiz
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
23/03/2026 - 26/03/2026
Completed in classes during Week 5.
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
Mini Test 1 will include questions based on materials from lectures, assigned readings and Online Learning materials, tutorials, and practicals and will be in a multiple-choice, short answer and/or problem-solving format. Example deep-thought short answer questions based on lectures, assigned readings, Online Learning materials, and tutorials will be posted on Blackboard the Friday before each mini-test.
Because many of the concepts in BIOL1020 are cumulative, mini-test questions will rely upon concepts focused on from teaching weeks 1-4.
This assessment task is to be completed in-class and in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Exam details
| Planning time | no planning time minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 40 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
If you are unable to sit a mini-test, you are required to submit a deferred exam request via mySI-net. Applications can be submitted any time before the date of the mini-test but must be submitted no later than 5 calendar days after the date of the original mini-test. When you are completing the application, please choose “Mid-semester exam”.
Acceptable grounds for the deferral of a mini-test and the required supporting documentation are outlined here: Deferring an exam - my.UQ - University of Queensland
Deferred mini‑tests are held on Thursday in the week following the initial test, in Weeks 6.
The time and location of the deferred tests will be provided as part of your deferred exam application outcome in mySI‑net or via email from the course Practical Coordinator Ms. Lois Eden.
Mini Test 2
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination, Quiz
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
27/04/2026 - 30/04/2026
Completed in classes during Week 9.
- Other conditions
- Time limited, Secure.
Task description
Mini Test 2 will include questions based on materials from lectures, assigned readings and Online Learning materials, tutorials, and practicals and will be in a multiple-choice, short answer and/or problem-solving format. Example deep-thought short answer questions based on lectures, assigned readings, Online Learning materials, and tutorials will be posted on Blackboard the Friday before each mini-test.
Because many of the concepts in BIOL1020 are cumulative, mini-test questions will rely upon concepts focused on from teaching weeks 5-8.
This assessment task is to be completed in-class and in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Exam details
| Planning time | no planning time minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 40 minutes |
| Calculator options | Casio FX82 series calculator only |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
If you are unable to sit a mini-test, you are required to submit a deferred exam request via mySI-net. Applications can be submitted any time before the date of the mini-test but must be submitted no later than 5 calendar days after the date of the original mini-test. When you are completing the application, please choose “Mid-semester exam”.
Acceptable grounds for the deferral of a mini-test and the required supporting documentation are outlined here: Deferring an exam - my.UQ - University of Queensland
Deferred mini‑tests are held on Thursday in the week following the initial test, in Weeks 10.
The time and location of the deferred tests will be provided as part of your deferred exam application outcome in mySI‑net or via email from the Practical Coordinator Ms. Lois Eden.
End of semester exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 60%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026
Task description
The exam will cover all material in the course including Practical material. The format will be multiple choice, short answer, and/or problem solving.
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See Additional Course Grading Information for the hurdle information relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdle
In order to pass this course, you must meet the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
You must obtain 45% or more on the End of Semester exam
For example, if you obtain a grade of 4 or 5 for all non-exam assessment, but fail the final exam, your overall course grade will be a maximum grade 3.ﾠ
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a non-graded ‘N’, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment.
Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply. Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met. Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of NSP, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
Read the information contained in the following links carefully before submitting an application for extension to assessment due date.
For guidance on applying for an extension, information is available here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D): https://policies.uq.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=184
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/uq-policies-and-rules/requirements-medical-certificates
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.
Required
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Practical manual | The practical manual will be available electronically through the course's blackboard website. There is NO purchase cost associated with the manual. | |
| Online Learning activities | Online Learning activities are an integral part of the lecture content and will be available electronically through the course's blackboard website. Compulsory study questions to reinforce learning will accompany these online study materials and will be assessed weekly. Students should plan on spending around 1-3 hours a week studying the Online Learning Materials. |
Recommended
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Textbook | Textbook is highly recommended. The textbook is Campbell Biology (published by Pearson, authors: Reece et al., 12th edition (Australia & NZ edition). Several copies will be available at UQ Library for on-site use. There is also an eBook available (http://www.pearson.com.au). The license allows a limited number of students at a time to READ ONLINE. It is important that you close your browser when you have finished reading so that other students can access the online option. Alternatively, digital copies of the textbook can be purchased via the Vital Source platform for around $50 for 6 months access or $65, for 12 months access to the textbook. |
Additional learning resources information
Students are encouraged to read the UQ Academic Integrity and Plagiarism policy (http://www.uq.edu.au/hupp/index.html?page=25128) which makes a comprehensive statement about the University's approach to plagiarism, including the approved use of plagiarism detection software, the consequences of plagiarism and the principles associated with preventing plagiarism.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 4 |
Lecture |
SECTION 1: MOLECULAR & CELLULLAR BIOLOGY W1: L1 Welcome to BIOL1020 & diversity of Life L2 Cells Need Membranes W2: L3 Proteins L4 Carbohydrates and Protein Modification W3:L5 Cellular Energy L6 Respiration and Photosynthesis W4: L7 DNA Structure and Replication L8 Cell division and Cell Cycle |
Tutorial |
SECTION 1: MOLECULAR & CELLULLAR BIOLOGY W1: L1 Welcome to BIOL1020 & diversity of Life L2 Cells Need Membranes W2: L3 Proteins L4 Carbohydrates and Protein Modification W3:L5 Cellular Energy L6 Respiration and Photosynthesis W4: L7 DNA Structure and Replication L8 Cell division and Cell Cycle
|
|
Practical |
SECTION 1: MOLECULAR & CELLULLAR BIOLOGY W1: L1 Welcome to BIOL1020 & diversity of Life L2 Cells Need Membranes W2: L3 Proteins L4 Carbohydrates and Protein Modification W3:L5 Cellular Energy L6 Respiration and Photosynthesis W4: L7 DNA Structure and Replication L8 Cell division and Cell Cycle |
|
Not Timetabled |
SECTION 1: MOLECULAR & CELLULLAR BIOLOGY W1: L1 Welcome to BIOL1020 & diversity of Life L2 Cells Need Membranes W2: L3 Proteins L4 Carbohydrates and Protein Modification W3:L5 Cellular Energy L6 Respiration and Photosynthesis W4: L7 DNA Structure and Replication L8 Cell division and Cell Cycle |
|
Multiple weeks From Week 5 To Week 8 |
Lecture |
SECTION 2: GENES TO TRAITS W5: L9 Genes to Traits L10 Central Dogma – Transcription and Translation W6: L11 Viruses L12 Gene Regulation in Bacteria W7: L13: Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes L14 Phenotypic Variation and Heritable Traits W8: L15 Sexual Reproduction, Meiosis and Inheritance L16 Introduction to Mendelian Inheritance |
Tutorial |
SECTION 2: GENES TO TRAITS W5: L9 Genes to Traits L10 Central Dogma – Transcription and Translation W6: L11 Viruses L12 Gene Regulation in Bacteria W7: L13: Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes L14 Phenotypic Variation and Heritable Traits W8: L15 Sexual Reproduction, Meiosis and Inheritance L16 Introduction to Mendelian Inheritance |
|
Practical |
SECTION 2: GENES TO TRAITS W5: L9 Genes to Traits L10 Central Dogma – Transcription and Translation W6: L11 Viruses L12 Gene Regulation in Bacteria W7: L13: Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes L14 Phenotypic Variation and Heritable Traits W8: L15 Sexual Reproduction, Meiosis and Inheritance L16 Introduction to Mendelian Inheritance |
|
Not Timetabled |
SECTION 2: GENES TO TRAITS W5: L9 Genes to Traits L10 Central Dogma – Transcription and Translation W6: L11 Viruses L12 Gene Regulation in Bacteria W7: L13: Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes L14 Phenotypic Variation and Heritable Traits W8: L15 Sexual Reproduction, Meiosis and Inheritance L16 Introduction to Mendelian Inheritance |
|
Multiple weeks From Week 9 To Week 13 |
Lecture |
SECTION 3: INHERITANCE & EVOLUTION W9: L17 Evolution L18 G is for Genetics W10: L19 Mendel's Peas (online only) L20 Detour! Breaking Mendel's Rules (online only) W11: L21 Genetic Linkage L22 Genetic mapping W12: L23 Hardy Weinberg L24 Evolution in Action |
Tutorial |
SECTION 3: INHERITANCE & EVOLUTION W9: L17 Evolution L18 G is for Genetics W10: L19 Mendel's Peas (online only) L20 Detour! Breaking Mendel's Rules (online only) W11: L21 Genetic Linkage L22 Genetic mapping W12: L23 Hardy Weinberg L24 Evolution in Action |
|
Practical |
SECTION 3: INHERITANCE & EVOLUTION W9: L17 Evolution L18 G is for Genetics W10: L19 Mendel's Peas (online only) L20 Detour! Breaking Mendel's Rules (online only) W11: L21 Genetic Linkage L22 Genetic mapping W12: L23 Hardy Weinberg L24 Evolution in Action |
|
Not Timetabled |
SECTION 3: INHERITANCE & EVOLUTION W9: L17 Evolution L18 G is for Genetics W10: L19 Mendel's Peas (online only) L20 Detour! Breaking Mendel's Rules (online only) W11: L21 Genetic Linkage L22 Genetic mapping W12: L23 Hardy Weinberg L24 Evolution in Action |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
- AI for Assessment Guide
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.