Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LH Biomaterials and the body
School	Institute of Clinical Sciences
Department	Biomedical Sciences
Module Code	02 38636
Module Lead	Dr Sarah Kuehne and Dr Gowsihan Poologasundarampillai
Level	Honours Level
Credits	40
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites	Immunity and Infection - (02 27786) LC Fundamentals of life science - (02 27070) Cellular Biochemistry and Biology - (02 27065) LI Student Selected Science Project - (02 36588)
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-28 hours Tutorial-14 hours Practical Classes and workshops-18 hours Guided independent study-340 hours Total: 400 hours
Exclusions
Description	This advanced module on Biomaterials will build upon compulsory modules from year 1 and 2, making full use of the knowledge gained of the human body. The aim of the module is to advance the understanding of a range of Biomaterials, their characteristics/properties and in particular their interaction with the body to enhance human health. This will encompass topics of tissue engineering and regeneration, including scaffolds, 3D- and bio-printing. The module will also explore biocompatibility, encompassing host cells (tissue and immune cells) in contact with materials as well as specific aspects of infections related to biomaterials and possible prevention. The latter will explore topics from targeted antimicrobial release to surface patterning and coating. Students will gain an understanding of the pathway from conception to production in industry and explore different ways of communicating about biomaterials.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Evaluate and discuss the use of biomaterials at different body sites to enhance human health. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of required testing of novel biomaterials. Describe the process involved in evaluating biomaterials for use in human health. Critically evaluate and apply a practical knowledge of laboratory techniques used to investigate material properties, antimicrobial properties and cytotoxicity. Display an ability to use skills and understanding to formulate experimental design, and present, analyse and interpret experimental data.
Assessment	38636-01 : Overall Module Mark : Mixed (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	The module is assessed by a combination of a 3 hour written examination (50%) and course work (50%) - experimental data interpretation - practical write-up Reassessment: Academic failure: If a student fails the module then they will be required to repeat the failed components only. Failure to submit: Submission of coursework is compulsory for the programme. Students are advised that failure to submit without justifiable reason could result in failure of the module. Students will be required to submit outstanding work to meet the module outcomes.
Other
Reading List