Pre-university - Insights into the Life Sciences The University of Edinburgh

Overview

The course aims to introduce the Life Sciences to students who are considering university study. Students will explore how the Life Sciences play a major role in helping us solve problems, in areas such as disease, through learning about real-life research, carrying out science investigations, meeting scientists and discussing some of the biggest questions facing science today.

Students will leave the course with a deeper understanding of the knowledge and theory across Life Sciences and an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of scientific research. Students will develop new skills, improve on existing ones, and begin their journey to becoming a professional scientist.

The Life Sciences involve the scientific study of living organisms such as humans, other animals, plants and microorganisms. It is a globally important area of science, solving global real-world problems that are facing humans, plants, animals and the planet today.

This course will bring together different Life Science disciplines. Students will explore aspects of life from the perspectives of:

• Biochemistry: where they will gain deeper insight into the processes of life at a molecular level.
• Molecular & Cellular Biology: where they will investigate the molecular basis of life.
• Biodiversity & One Health: where they will explore the relationship between microorganisms, animals, humans and the environment.

Students will have the opportunity to develop their scientific skills through:

• using the scientific method
• designing and carrying out scientific investigations
• interpreting and critically analysing scientific data
• using scientific equipment and technology
• working collaboratively with peers
• communicating scientific research

• Design and plan a considered scientific investigation, in a group and under the supervision of the course teacher.

• Summarise and communicate a scientific investigation.