Subject description for 2019/2020 RNA Biology (BI322F) RNA Biology BI322F Course description Genomic analyses strongly indicate that genetic complexity scales with RNA-based regulation. But what makes RNA unique compared to DNA? This course focus on RNA versatility, from molecular architecture to cellular functions and biological roles. Topics include RNA structure and catalysis, mRNA intron splicing, RNA processing and translation, non-coding RNAs, and RNA in research. Costs No tuition fees. Costs for semester registration and course literature apply. Learning outcomes KnowledgeThe student should:Have theoretical knowledge of major aspects of RNA biology, which includes RNA structure, cellular function and biological roleUnderstand: i) RNA from sequence to 3-dimentional structure ii) the catalytic properties of RNA; iii) how the spliceosome and ribosome works; iv) maturation and stability of cellular RNA; v) RNA editing and nucleotide modification; vi) how short and long non-coding RNA works; vii) future prospective in RNA biologyUnderstand why and how RNA biology could be applied genomic researchSkillsThe student should:Read and understand up-front scientific literature on RNA biologyDocument and communicate new scientific resultsGeneral competence The student should:Communicate what RNA molecules are, why it is important to investigate RNA, and how studies can be designed and performed Course type Elective. Prerequisites For students admitted to Master in Biosciences or PhD i Aquatic Biosciences at Nord University. Mode of delivery Face-to-face Teaching activities and methods Lectures (20h) Questions/discussion colloquium (4h) Obligatory research seminar (8h) Recommended prior knowledge Previous knowledge in molecular biology corresponding to BI122F (Genetics and Evolution) (10 ECTS) and BI210F (Molecular Cell Biology). Course evaluation Evaluation using mid-term and final surveys. Students are also encouraged to participate in the central quality surveys. Assessment and examinations Compound evaluation, grading scale A-E, Beste A, Ikke bestått FPortfolio, comprises 50/100 of the grade, grading scale A-E, Beste A, Ikke bestått F.Oral examination, comprises 50/100 of the grade, grading scale A-E, Beste A, Ikke bestått F. Course literature The reading list can be found in Leganto Course coordinator Steinar Daae Johansen Professor +47 75 51 78 33 steinar.d.johansen@nord.no ECTS Credits 5 Course location Bodø. Faculty Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture Steinar Daae Johansen Professor +47 75 51 78 33 steinar.d.johansen@nord.no