Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Chemistry & Molec Biosciences
This course examines cellular structure & function at the molecular level and integrates the disciplines of biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, and molecular genetics. This is an advanced course that utilizes current published research as the medium to instruct on topics such as methods in molecular cell biology, cell architecture, cell interactions, the nucleus, cell differentiation and cellular dynamics. The final topic discusses the role of molecular cell biology in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
This course covers the most significant areas of cell biology. Topics include cell interactions, cell migration, cell division, cell differentiation, nuclear structure and function, protein trafficking, cell death, cellular stress and homeostasis. There is a strong emphasis on the clinical applications of cell biology, research approaches and practical techniques, and on problem-based learning in this course.
Course requirements
Assumed background
A good understanding of the basic concepts underpinning cell and molecular biology. Prerequisite coursesﾠare BIOC2000 (Biochemistry & Molecular Biology)ﾠand BIOL2200 (Cell Structure & Function). BIOL2202 (Genetics) would also be beneficial.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
[BIOL2200 or BIOL2900] AND [BIOL2202 or BIOL2902]
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Mathew Jones
Professor Brandon Wainwright
Dr Nicholas Ariotti
Dr Sumaira Hasnain
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Please check your timetable regularly at the start of each semester.
Aims and outcomes
The aims of BIOL3006 are:
- To appreciate how cell function is dictated at the level of protein structure and interactions, organelle structure and cell interactions.
- To develop aﾠbroad insight into how different experimental techniques contribute to our investigation of cell biology.
- To link experimental techniques to an understanding of how current discoveries were made and where how these results and (new) techniques drive the research forward.
- To recognize the importance of cell biology to our understanding of the mechanisms of disease and how this contributes to disease diagnosis and treatment.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Appraise the main structural components of eukaryotic cells, including the nucleus and cellular organelles, and evaluate their individual contribution to cellular function.
LO2.
Identify, understand and relate the molecular components of the cell nucleus and organelles to their function with a special focus on cell division and cell differentiation in a variety of cell types.
LO3.
Appreciate and connect molecular interactions within and between eukaryotic cells and to the non-cellular environment.
LO4.
Explain how proteins are processed and transported within the cell after synthesis in order to perform their function.
LO5.
Compare and contrast experimental and computational approaches that are used in molecular cell biology and apply these methods to current problems in the field.
LO6.
To comprehend the molecular mechanisms of disease and how this understanding contributes to the development of new tools for diagnosis and treatment.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination |
In-semester exam
|
30% |
18/09/2025 6:00 pm |
| Practical/ Demonstration, Quiz |
Practical Assessment - Methods in Molecular Cell Biology Quiz
|
15% |
Practical one 25/09/2025 Practical two 23/10/2025
Due times will be released via Blackboard. |
| Presentation |
Research Approaches Presentations
|
25% |
7/10/2025 - 15/10/2025
Held in the lecture slots 7 October (Week 10) - 15 October (Week 11). |
| Examination |
End of semester exam
|
30% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
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
In-semester exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
18/09/2025 6:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06
Task description
Short answer questions on the content covered in the lectures. The number of questions and point value of questions from each staff member will reflect the number of lectures given by that staff member. Additional information will be provided on Blackboard and in class.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
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/s relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| 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.
Practical Assessment - Methods in Molecular Cell Biology Quiz
- Hurdle
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration, Quiz
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
Practical one 25/09/2025
Practical two 23/10/2025
Due times will be released via Blackboard.
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
A combination of True/False questions and multiple choice questions on the learning objectives covered in each practical will be given in the second week of each practical exercise.
Each online quiz will be worth 7.5% of the total assessment for BIOL3006.
Note: Completion of the practical assessment is COMPULSORY.
See Additional Information for instructions on what you need to do if you miss a practical session.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
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.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle/s relating to this assessment item.Submission guidelines
Submitted online - within 24 hours of the final practical session.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Applications for extension
Extension applications must be received no later than 24 hours after the published assessment due date and time.
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.
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D).
Information on medical certificates
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here.
Research Approaches Presentations
- Team or group-based
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Oral
- Category
- Presentation
- Weight
- 25%
- Due date
7/10/2025 - 15/10/2025
Held in the lecture slots 7 October (Week 10) - 15 October (Week 11).
- Learning outcomes
- L02, L03, L04, L05, L06
Task description
Students will work collaboratively to produce a PowerPoint presentation describing the uses and limitations of a current technique in molecular cell biology. Prof Fiona Simpson will provide you with more detailed information in her lectures on Research Methods.
Students will present a short PowerPoint presentation. These PowerPoint presentations must be emailed to f.simpson@uq.edu.au before 2 pm on the Friday immediately prior to the first scheduled presentation (Friday 26 September 2025). The timetable for your group's presentation will be announced in the week before the first scheduled presentation. Each group will give their presentation to the whole class during one of the timetabled lecture periods. The assessment will also include asking questions to other groups about their research approaches following their presentations.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
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
PowerPoint presentations must be emailed to f.simpson@uq.edu.au before 2 pm on the Friday immediately prior to the first scheduled presentation (Friday 26 September 2025).
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Applications for extension
Extension applications must be received no later than 24 hours after the published assessment due date and time.
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.
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D).
Information on medical certificates
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date. For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period). 10% will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days, at which point your submission will receive a mark of zero (0) unless an extension has been approved.
In most instances one or more hurdles will apply to your assessment item so you will need to submit it to fulfil the requirements of the course regardless of how late it is and the mark you are likely to be awarded.
End of semester exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06
Task description
Short answer questions on the content covered in the second half of the course. It does not cover the content in the first half of the course that was covered in the In Semester Exam. The number of questions and point value of questions from each staff member will reflect the number of lectures given by that staff member. Additional information will be provided on Blackboard and in class.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
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/s relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| 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: Some engagement with the assessment tasks; however no demonstrated evidence of understanding of the concepts in the field of study The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Inability to apply knowledge and skills The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: Emerging ability to apply knowledge and skills The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Acceptable application of knowledge and skills The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Effective application of knowledge and skills The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Extensive application of knowledge and skills The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Original, novel and/or creative application of knowledge and skills The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdles
In order to pass this course, you must meet ALL of the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
1. You must obtain a weighted average mark of 40% or more across the two examination components.
2. You must complete 100% of the laboratory component of the course.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, 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 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Assessment Submission
It is the responsibility of the student to ensure the on time, correct and complete submission of all assessment items.
Students are responsible for retaining evidence of submission by the due date for all assessment items, in the required form (for example, screenshot, email, photo, and an unaltered copy of submitted work).
In the case of a Blackboard outage, contact the Course Coordinator as soon as possible to confirm the outage with ITS.
Assessment/Attendance
Notify your Course Coordinator as soon as you become aware of any issue that may affect your ability to meet the assessment/attendance requirements of the course. The my.UQ website and the Course Profile (CP) for your course provide information about your course requirements, the rules associated with your courses and services offered by the University.
A note for repeating students in this course
Only learning activities and/or assessment items completed during the study period of enrolment, including any approved extensions, may contribute to your grade in this course. The whole or partial use of assessment items previously submitted for the same course, for a course at any institution, or for published material, is not permitted without written permission of the Course Coordinator.
Important Note
Turnitin is to be used for assignments/laboratory reports to check for plagiarism. Penalties can be severe for plagiarism.
The University has adopted the following definition of plagiarism: Plagiarism is the act of misrepresenting as one's own original work the ideas, interpretations, words or creative works of another either intentionally or unintentionally. These include published and unpublished documents, designs, music, sounds, images, photographs, computer codes and ideas gained through working in a group. These ideas, interpretations, words or works may be found in print and/or electronic media.
Students should read the UQ Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy.
Absence from the PBL/Practical Session
You must attend 100% of the laboratory component of this course.
If you are unable to attend your timetabled practical session due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., illness) you must submit a practical absence request immediately accompanied by acceptable supporting documentation that covers the date of the missed practical. A list of acceptable reasons and required supporting documentation is found at https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension?p=1#1
Your request must be submitted prior to or on the day of the missed practical. The submission link can be found in the Learning Resources folder in the Practical absences folder in Blackboard.
Requests without correct supporting documentation may not be approved. If the reason for your absence is not approved, you will be considered as absent from that practical session and the attendance hurdle may apply.
After your request is submitted, email the course coordinator (Dr Mathew Jones mathew.jones@uq.edu.au) to obtain a copy of a relevant, published research paper. You will then have to write a lay summary (something that could be understood by one of your peers) of the paper. This should be no less than 1.5 and no more than 2 printed A4 pages in length, and presented single-spaced in Calibri/Times New Roman font size 12 on a page with 2 cm margins. You will be asked to submit your summary to the course coordinator no more than seven (7) calendar days after the paper is sent to you.
It is your responsibility to submit an application, provide correct documentation and complete the summary by the due date and time. Extensions will not be granted for alternate assessment (unless exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated).
If you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the School - enquiries@scmb.uq.edu.au
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
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
Blackboard
Additional supplementary material may be posted on the course Blackboard site at learn.uq.edu.au.
Please check the Announcements page on Blackboard regularly for information updates.
Problem-based learning exercises and practical notes will be available from tutorial staff during the semester.
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 |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 |
Lecture |
Course Introduction Overview of the course; covering the content, assignments and assessment presented by the course coordinator Learning outcomes: L01 |
Multiple weeks From Week 2 To Week 3 |
Lecture |
The Nucleus - Dr Mathew Jones Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 3 To Week 4 |
Lecture |
Cell Division - Dr Mathew Jones Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 5 |
Lecture |
Cell Organelles - Prof Fiona Simpson Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Week 6 (01 Sep - 07 Sep) |
Lecture |
Cellular Homeostasis - A/Prof Rohan Teasdale Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 7 To Week 8 |
Lecture |
Cellular Stress - A/Prof Sumaira Hasnain Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 8 To Week 9 |
Lecture |
Cell Differentiation - Prof Brandon Wainwright Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 8 To Week 11 |
Practical |
Laboratory experiment 1 & 2 Set of experiments in the laboratory which is concluded by a quiz at the end of the second week of the laboratory practical. More information will be provided on Blackboard. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L05 |
Multiple weeks From Week 10 To Week 11 |
Lecture |
Research Approaches Seminars Students will present their Research Approaches presentations. The presentations will be held during the lecture times in weeks 10 and 11. More information will be posted to Blackboards. Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 11 To Week 12 |
Lecture |
Protein Trafficking - Dr Nick Ariotti Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
Multiple weeks From Week 12 To Week 13 |
Lecture |
Cell Migration - A/Prof Samantha Stehbens Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06 |
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
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
You'll also need to be aware of the following policies and procedures while completing this course:
- Laboratory Occupational Health and Safety