s e c n e i Life Sc
WELCOME
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The University of Bedfordshire has won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2011, the most prestigious corporate award that any UK business can win.
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Welcome. Get your lab coats on as we conduct an experiment… Aim: To convince you that, if you study in our Department of Life Sciences, you’ll grow, flourish and evolve into a winner. Method: We talk to staff and students, who tell us Bedfordshire is a fertile ground for learning. We also put our successful graduates under the microscope. Conclusion: We’re sure you’ll decide Bedfordshire is your natural habitat, so go on, breathe new life into your future…
© University of Bedfordshire, 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part strictly prohibited without the permission of the publishers. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the University of Bedfordshire. Information correct at date of publication, but subject to change.
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NEWS
The latest news from the Department of Life Sciences
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MEET THE PEOPLE
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CAMPUS FACILITIES AND MEET THE TEAM
Staff and students give their insights into Bedfordshire
First-rate labs and hi-tech equipment Learn about our revolutionary researchers
10 JUST THE JOB Inspiring stories from former University students
11 COURSE LISTINGS
Full details of the many courses we can offer
The University ire of Bedfordsh for t rs fi ed is rank ent ud st e th g in improv l na io at experience (N ey rv Su Student 2014)
Subject Guide Life Sciences
Bedfordshire leading the way in stem-cell research Parkinson’s disease is “one step closer to a cure” thanks to stem cell research at the University of Bedfordshire.
Dr Bushra Ahmed and a team of research students identified that Parkinson’s sufferers’ brain cells (neurons) are dying. Her research uncovered that Parkinson’s sufferers’ neurons are overloaded with excessive everyday toxic by-products. These by-products can be managed by a healthy individual but, for Parkinson’s sufferers’, this process is not so easy and neurons become damaged. Known as Oxidative Stress, this damaging process causes Parkinson’s sufferers’ brain cells to die, and so messages that control movement and balance are disrupted. “My aim was to identify what specific elements inside the cell are responsible for cell death in this way,” said Dr Ahmed, from the Department of Life Sciences. “What we have found far exceeded expectations in terms of firmly identifying the key factors in the causes of Parkinson’s disease. This research is undoubtedly a
great leap forward in the race for a cure, as we can now begin to develop methods of protecting these areas and preventing the damage synonymous with this condition.” The Principal Lecturer in Biochemistry and Course Leader for Biomedical Science added: “What is even more beneficial is that our students played such a key role in such an early part of their careers, and that not only have we been able to provide them with the necessary skills for life after studying, but also the achievement of gaining academic credit.” Using her current research Dr Ahmed hopes to continue onto the next stage, and uncover methods of preventing this damaging process from occurring, which will lead to the ability of minimising the deterioration seen in the brains of Parkinson’s suffers, and prevent symptoms from manifesting.
THE bEST bRAINS TEACH AT bEDFoRDSHIRE Students benefit from the expertise and experience of new staff recruited from leading UK universities The staff team at the University has recently been expanding, with several new and talented individuals coming on board. Dr Bushra Ahmed, Principal Lecturer in Biochemistry, is a “veteran” of the University, having started back in 2005 at the Luton campus, and she was joined recently by Dr Zheying Zhu, a Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology. The female contingent then doubled when Dr Barbara Guinn, a Senior Lecturer in Cell Biology and Biochemistry (specialising in cancer research), and Dr Louisa Vincini, a Lecturer in Forensic Science, joined us. It’s not just the academic team which is growing either – Head Technician Dr Maria Simon recently joined, too.
Dr Ahmed said: “There are opportunities at Bedfordshire for women which don’t exist in other places and countries.” The team is complemented by new staff, including Professor Prasad Sreenivasaprasad, Dr Robin Maytum, Dr Nicholas Worsfold, Dr Pinar Onganer and Dr Annamaria Gal in the arena of
Environmental Science. Also new to the Department is Senior Lecturer in Microbiology, Dr Arthur Hosie, whose research investigates bacterial physiology and pathogenesis. Plus, Dr Guy Grant has been appointed Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology, focusing on the role of entropy in understanding ligand binding. Meanwhile, our new Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science, Dr Adam Paige, is researching the role of common fragile siteassociated genes in tumour development and chemoresponse. All of our staff are keen to pass on their knowledge to Science students, so you can rest assured at Bedfordshire you’ll be learning from the very best. Meet the Department team on page 9.
Accreditation One of the University’s most popular courses is the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science, which is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). The IBMS is the professional body for Biomedical Scientists in the UK. This course gives tailored scientific knowledge and training so our students are fully equipped to enter the profession. It provides the close link between research and teaching that ensures that our graduates are highly employable.
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meet the people
UNDER THE MICROSCOPE IWe’re testing out our theory, so we’ve got staff and students in a controlled environment to ask them about life and learning in the Department of Life Sciences‌ Here are the results:
The Department of Life Sciences boasts a wealth of teaching experience and researchactive staff. They have varied research interests in areas of Biological/Biomedical Science and regularly present their findings at local, national and international conferences. This provides students with the latest thinking and knowledge in exciting specialist areas. One of the most popular courses is the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science, which is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), and offers opportunities to work in hospital laboratories. Plus, the Forensic Science course has been developed with help from the Bedfordshire police. Students from the Department have gone into a wide variety of careers in hospitals; resarch
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laboratories; pharmaceutical, industrial and commercial labs; teaching; medical and scientific sales; retail; business; or have been accepted on medical training programmes. An impressive 92 per cent of our graduates are either in work or undertaking further study within six months of graduating, according to the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education study 2012. The University has invested in the STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) as these have been identified as areas of strategic investment by successive governments. They are seen as wealth-generating areas for the future, and so graduates from these courses will be in great demand.
Subject Guide Life Sciences
Name
Dr Louisa Vincini Title
Lecturer and Course Leader in Forensic Science Q What’s the best thing about Beds? A The best thing is the potential. We have lots of enthusiastic students, experienced lecturers and great facilities. The Luton Campus Centre is iconic and generally the facilities for students are excellent. Q In what ways do you help your students gain employment when they leave? A We help them with job applications, CV preparation, letters of support and letters of reference, and we provide contacts who are real-world employers. Ninety-two per cent of our students go into employment or further study within six months of graduating. Q What other career-focused activities or events are there? A We do laboratory-based projects and case studies to ensure our students gain experience of working as forensic scientists. We have lectures and study groups which help students experience the whole process of investigations from crime scene to court. Q What’s the most rewarding thing? A Seeing students progress from learners to forensic scientists who can add value to the profession. I enjoy the personal contact and helping students reach their potential. Q Any advice for prospective students? A I think you’ll have a lot of fun here and learn to be a professional with skills that will help you gain a rewarding job. www.beds.ac.uk 5
meet the people
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
Q How would you rate the staff? A They are all excellent. They are amazing academics and very friendly and helpful people who are always ready to help.
Q Why did you choose to study at Beds? A One of the main reasons was the fact that the staff were very helpful and made me love the University even before I’d seen it. While I was in the process of choosing a university and moving from Bulgaria to the UK, only the staff at the University of Bedfordshire actually replied to my emails and enquiries!
Q How well do you think your course prepared you for a job? A The huge variety and number of laboratory practicals, the interactive seminars, the talks and the detailed lectures made me feel very confident of my skills and knowledge. I completed an MPhil and now I’m studying medicine at the University of Brighton!
Q Why would you recommend this course to others? A Because it’s fantastic, fascinating and challenging, and if you really love life sciences you can gain great in-depth and up-to-date knowledge and experience.
Q Any advice for people thinking of studying your course at Bedfordshire? A Go for it if you are hard-working and passionate about it. You will have the best three years of your life.
Name
Viktoriya Boncheva Course
Name
Professor Prasad Sreenivasaprasad Title
Acting Head of Life Sciences Q What is your background? A I have a PhD in Bioscience with expertise in the application of cutting-edge biomolecular technologies. I recently joined Bedfordshire. Q What is the best thing about Bedfordshire? A The people here, as well as the various systems, seem to work together really well to create a vibrant learning environment to support students from diverse cultures and countries. Q How do you rate the facilities? A Excellent – and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the University is investing heavily in redevelopment. Q What is the most rewarding part of your job? A Interactions with people at all levels, plus the chance to travel to different parts of the world for research and teaching work. Q How well do Bedfordshire’s courses prepare students for jobs in the real world? A Our courses are developed and delivered to train graduates with relevant knowledge and professional skills. We continue to support our students by providing references, contact with potential employers and so on. Q Any advice for students considering coming to Bedfordshire? A ASPIRE – Access, Scholarship, Partnership, Innovation, Respect and Employability are our core values, so we offer a welcome to students from any part of the world who want to enrich their learning experience: “The world is a global village”. Q Three words to describe the department? A Excellent, vibrant and supportive. 6 www.beds.ac.uk
Subject Guide Life Sciences fluorescent spectroscopy and electron microscopy to look the effect of different conditions on a particular protein – it was fascinating!
Name
Emma Amir-Ebrahimi Course
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science JOB
PHOTOGRAPHY: laurie fletcher
PhD Student Q What made you choose this course? A I was really impressed by the broad range of subjects which provides an excellent opportunity to identify areas that really interest you. It was also important to me that the Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Q What made you chose to carry on to PhD? A I had thought I would pursue a career in the NHS but my final year project was predominantly lab based and I knew I wanted to be involved in research. I was using
Q What’s the best thing about Biomedical science at Bedfordshire? A During the degree we really benefitted from the investment made in the Department of Life Sciences. We had lecturers from colleges and universities like Imperial, Queen Mary and Cambridge. It was really exciting to be exposed to such a wealth of experiences. Q What advice would you give to students considering your course? A Keep your mind and your options open. If you’re dedicated and work hard you can do it. I never thought I would achieve a degree let alone be embarking on a PhD!
Raimona Peters Biomedical Science Why did you choose to study at Beds? Because it wasn’t too far from home, so I could still get the experience of living away from home but I can get back there easily if I want to. Also there are local hospitals, which are good for placements. And it had a very good reputation. What’s the biggest challenge? Time management. It can be tough having so many deadlines close together, but it’s rewarding getting through all the work. What is the best thing about your course? Being taught by tutors who are doing their own research and have achieved some really great things. Everyone is involved and all together. The social side of things is good too.
Name
Agata Pogodzik course
BSc (Hons) Forensic Science Q Does the department arrange visiting lecturers? A There have been numerous visiting lecturers, each one a professional in their own field, which I found really inspiring. We gained a grasp of how they actually work and what they have to deal with every day. Q What are your plans when you finish? A I have a few ideas, but mostly I would like to do my own research. Q Are you confident your degree will help you find employment when you leave? A Yes. I believe that with hard work, it will pay off in the future.
How do you rate the facilities? They’re really good and all the labs have high-tech equipment. http://uob.cc/hear-ramona www.beds.ac.uk 7
CAMPUS facilities
Experiment with our equipment It’s time to analyse our fantastic facilities‌ and you can reach your own conclusions FAB LABS
The Department has recently invested in refurbishing its laboratories. We have three teaching laboratories and two dedicated research laboratories, which students may use during their final-year projects. Forensic Science students can get hands on experience in our scene of crime laboratory. There are specialised facilities, including a histopathology laboratory, a tissue culture room for growing mammalian cells, an autoclave room and an imaging suite. Our computer teaching laboratory has a range of software including applications for pharmacology simulation experiments, nutritional analysis, molecular modelling and statistical analysis. This room can also be used as a virtual laboratory. Students have access to an extensive range of high end analytical instruments and laboratory equipment including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gel equipment used for techniques such as genetic fingerprinting. Access to microscopes, spectrophotometers and microtitre plate readers, and to processes such as high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS), allows students to become familiar with the types of equipment and techniques they may use in their future careers. The University is currently investing in the further development of our laboratory facilities. FALLING INTO PLACE
Real-world experience helps develop employable graduates. On some of our courses students secure work placements within NHS labs. All 8 www.beds.ac.uk
undergraduate students undertake a research project in their final year, and some students gain experience within pharmaceutical, clinical or medical research labs at collaborating, or nearby, institutions. Our BSc Forensic Science course has close links with the local police force and frequently calls upon police experts.
system, Bedfordshire Resources for Education Online (BREO) gives students access to lecture notes, discussion boards, blogs, podcasts and announcements. The University has recently subscribed to the Elsevier package of journals, allowing online access to over 1,500 titles in Life Sciences and Medicine.
AN EXCELLENT RESOURCE
CAREER LADDER
Open seven days a week, the Learning Resources Centre at Park Square in Luton has more than 300,000 books and 19,500 journals. There are also 300 networked PCs, which are available until 2am four days a week, as well as 1,000 seats, plus video viewing rooms. A brand new library facility is being developed and is due to open in 2015. Students can communicate through podcasting, voice email and voice discussion boards using the Wimba suite of voice tools. Our web based distance learning
Students from the Department have progressed on to work in hospitals, pharmaceutical, industrial or commercial laboratories, and research laboratories. Graduates have advanced to postgraduate study, or have progressed on to study medicine or veterinary science. You can see qualified advisers from our Careers and Employment Service give guidance, obtain feedback on draft CVs and application forms, arrange work placements and practise interviews.
Subject Guide Life Sciences Dr Bushra Ahmed
LEADING LIGHTS LEADING LIGHTS
Our staff are all active researchers at the forefront of their respective fields, so you’ll benefit from the latest thinking on a range of subjects. The Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Science and Technology (IBEST) is based at our purpose-built facility at Butterfield Park. Here, we introduce you to the staff who are undertaking this pioneering research and who will be your mentors throughout your studies with us. BIOMEDICINE AND NUTRITION
r Arthur Hosie aims to better understand bacterial physiology and pathogenesis by exploiting microbial D genome sequence data and molecular techniques Dr Pinar Onganer investigates cell signalling in cancer Dr Robin Maytum investigates thin filament regulation of muscle contraction and the effects of mutations causing genetically inherited heart disease. His work includes analysis of mycosporine-like amino acids present in marine organisms r Adam Paige researches the role of common fragile site-associated genes in tumour development and D chemoresponse
Professor Jan Domin Dr Shaobo Zhu
rofessor Jan Domin and Dr John Reynolds are currently researching kidney disease among other P projects Dr Barbara Guinn focuses her research on the identification of tumour antigens in a range of solid and haematological cancers. Dr Louisa Vincini studies body fluid identification and advances in forensic DNA analysis r Bushra Ahmed researches in vitro and in vivo models of gene therapy, brain injury, neuronal survival, D memory impairment and programmed cell death (apoptosis). Currently, she is investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neuro-degenerative disorders including Parkinson’s disease Dr Shaobo Zhou studies fatty acid and colon cancer, functional food and zinc nutrition Dr Zheying Zhu and Dr Guy Grant are also involved in Biomedicine and Nutrition research ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING
r Nicholas Worsfold investigates the ways in which ecological communities respond to environmental D change and researches the interface between environmental science and public policy rofessor Prasad Sreenivasaprasad researches microbial ecology interactions and environmental P adaptation. He also plans to focus on global food security and environmental sustainability SENSOR TECHNOLOGY Dr Barry Haggett is working on a range of sensor devices and their applications. CELL AND CRYOBIOLOGY
Dr Emma Spikings undertakes reproductive biology research including the impact of mitochondrial DNA and cryopreservation.
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SUCCESSFUL ALUMNI
just the job
A degree from Bedfordshire is the springboard for a rewarding career. Here are some possible paths you may wish to take...
Microbiologist
Nutritional Therapist
Microbiology is the study of microbes such as bacteria, and is often lab-based. Microbiologists study how microorganisms function, how they cause disease and how we can develop ways to counter them or control them for beneficial use. To become a microbiologist you will need a biomedical degree, and postgraduate study will enhance your prospects.
Although often seen as a complementary therapy, nutritional therapists are now entering the mainstream alongside medical practitioners, tailoring their work to fit around orthodox treatments. Nutritional therapists usually work in one-to-one situations with clients, and identify particular dietary factors which affect health and wellbeing. To become a nutritional therapist you will need a good relevant degree, and may need to obtain accreditation through the Nutritional Therapy Council (NTC). Students are advised to check in advance with the NTC to ensure their chosen degree is recognised.
Scene-of-crime Forensic Scientist
Forensic science is an essential and often complex part of police work. Scene-of-crime officers work with DNA sampling, and gathering and handling samples of hair and fibres, to identify perpetrators of crime. An in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology is needed, and a rigorous approach to methodology. An Honours degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science is a prerequisite.
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Laboratory scientist
A high number of qualified biomedical scientists are employed in the health sector, both through the NHS and privately. Modern hospitals tend to have hi-tech facilities and often work at the
forefront of their respective fields. Areas include diagnosis and control of infections, and testing of laboratory samples of food, water and other substances to analyse their safety. A lab-based biomedical scientist will require an Honours degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science – such as the University of Bedfordshire’s Biomedical Science degree. Cell biologist
All life forms are composed of cells, and studying the way they behave is a major strand of biological science. Irregularities in how cells function lead to diseases such as cancers and immunodeficiencies, and they can also affect human fertility. Cell biologists are currently making substantial breakthroughs in these areas. An Honours degree is required, and most cell biologists have relevant postgraduate qualifications such as a PhD.
Bioanalytical scientist
Bioanalysts undertake a diverse range of projects, generally in laboratories, across a number of industries. Biomedical testing makes up one strand which the bioanalytical scientist can undertake, and they will be involved in the development of qualitative and quantitative analyses of biological samples. A degree in biological science is needed, together with an aptitude for analysis and problem solving. Further opportunities
Biomedical graduates work in many professions, in health, industry, science and higher education. Cutting-edge research can be pursued professionally or through postgraduate courses at Bedfordshire, and there are a host of career paths which rely on biomedical training and qualifications.
Subject Guide Life Sciences
91% overall the satisfaction on e nc ie Sc l ca Biologi course ent (National Stud ) 14 20 Survey
oN CouRSE
Top 30 ranked University for Biology and re lated Science cour ses (National Stud ent Survey 2014)
We’ve conducted the experiments, observed the results and evaluated the evidence… now it’s time to choose which course to study
BSc (Hons) refers to three- or four-year Bachelor’s Honours degrees. fD refers to two-year foundation degrees, run at one or more of our partner colleges. UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES BSc (Hons)
Biological Science If you are fascinated not just by the complexity of the human body and how it works, but also the wider issues of ecology and the environment and people’s impact upon them, then this course is for you. The course is designed to provide broad skills and a knowledge-base in the biological sciences. The qualification will appeal to employers who value the training in critical thinking and logic that a science degree requires. You will initially study a broad range of topics covering microbiology, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology, and genetics. During the second year, you will cover wider areas such as health and the environment, which will develop your understanding of human biology and the impact of an expanded human population on our environment; and biotechnology, giving an insight into the techniques used to manipulate biological organisms for human benefit. There are opportunities to link stage three Honours projects to staff research.
disease. The course also provides a sound theoretical and practical foundation in a range of laboratory sciences used to aid the diagnosis of, or investigate, human diseases. Students will regularly receive lectures from guest speakers from research and hospital laboratories. Areas of study include: medical immunology; clinical biochemistry; and medical microbiology. As a successful graduate you will be equipped to work in NHS hospital labs, research labs, or in industry, or to advance to a postgraduate degree such as an MSc or PhD. BSc (Hons)
Forensic Science In year one you will study the main areas of the biosciences relevant to Forensic Science. These include cellular chemistry, biochemistry and genetics, human anatomy and physiology, and the psychology of the criminal mind. In year two you will cover more applied forensics, such as forensic skills in psychology and forensic science at the scene of a crime, and call on outside forensics experts for help. In addition, topics such as cellular pathology, medical physiology and haematology put forensic science in a broader context as it relates to human biology. In year three you will study advanced forensic analysis, including recent advances in DNA analysis, toxicology, psychology and criminal justice, and forensic case studies.
course include: managing animal collections; scientific theory of animals; interaction of animals and environment and animal physiology and disease. The course can lead to careers in animal care, conservation and scientific research into animal health and nutrition. As well as contacts with local zoos and safari parks, which provide a great opportunity for practical research, our partner, Shuttleworth College, has excellent animal management facilities and animal collections. FOUNDATION COURSES fD
Animal Management (Bedford College, Shuttleworth) The course offers a unique mix of well-established practical, scientific, technical and business principles which underpin animal management. This includes the application of the underlying principles in a vocational context and appropriate methods of enquiry for this subject area, limits of knowledge and implications for ongoing personal development. Both on-site and off-site attendance is required throughout the course. Although a significant part of the course is delivered via class-based sessions, a number of off-campus visits are arranged.
BSc (Hons)
Biomedical Science The Biomedical Science course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and covers a range of biological and molecular science areas. The multi-disciplinary approach allows you to investigate normal life processes and study the pathological changes that occur in human
BSc (Hons)
Animal Science (stage 3 only) This is a one-year (full time) or two year (part time) route to an Animal Science honours degree. It is aimed at those who already possess a Foundation Degree, HND or equivalent in Animal Management or a related area. Elements of the
Full details for all our courses are available to download at www.beds.ac.uk/courses
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