BSc Biomedical Sciences

The Introduction to Nanomedicine Unit offers an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge research in nanomedicine, with a strong emphasis on utilizing nanotechnology for the targeted delivery of therapeutic molecules. Students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of nano-formulation design principles and the intricate interactions between nanomaterials and biological systems, providing a foundation for future therapeutic innovations. The course encompasses a wide range of nanomaterial applications, spanning bioimaging, cancer therapy, diagnosis, and the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as emerging fields such as nanotechnology's involvement in COVID-19 vaccines and cancer immunotherapy. Taught by academic experts from the Centre of Nanotechnology in Medicine, students will benefit from insights provided by internationally recognized leaders in the field. Interactive lectures, where BSc students and those pursuing an MSc in Nanomedicine by Research share classes together, will stimulate active engagement with the latest developments in nanomedicine, creating a dynamic learning environment. As part of their assessment, students will undergo a short-answer exam and will be tasked with proposing nanotechnology-based solutions to various clinical scenarios.

The Introduction to Nanomedicine Unit aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of nanomedicine, encompassing both the biological impact and therapeutic applications of nanomaterials. Through expert-led lectures, students delve into fundamental concepts like nano-formulation and immunological aspects, as well as cutting-edge research topics such as nanotechnology in COVID-19 vaccines and cancer immunotherapy.This unit is well-suited for BSc students contemplating advancing their studies with a research-focused MSc program.

Interactive lectures, enhanced by the participation of MSc in Nanomedicine students, will serve as a prominent component of the learning and teaching methods within the Introduction to Nanomedicine unit. These face-to-face sessions, totalling 18 hours, will feature dynamic discussions and activities, enabling students to actively engage with the material and cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and multidisciplinary learning skills. Additionally, students will be tasked with addressing engineering challenges in nanomaterial design for various biomedical applications. Students will complete a summative short-answer exam, that requires them to integrate teaching materials from various lectures to demonstrate their understanding of the course content in a holistic manner. Lecture materials and relevant literature will be accessible on Blackboard to facilitate learning.

1. Describe the principles and fundamental concepts in nanomedicine and the methodology used in nanomedical research.2. Explain the development and use of nanomaterials, focusing on liposomes, carbon-based materials, and 2D materials in medicine, particularly in the context of delivering therapeutics.3. Evaluate the latest advances in the design of nanoscale drug delivery systems and targeting strategies.4. Explain the principles of nanotechnology utilized for biomedical imaging.5. Assess the importance of the interactions of nanomaterials-based systems with the physiological environment.6. Evaluate key principles of nanosafety and nanotoxicology.7. Describe clinically available nanomaterials-based products and those currently in clinical trials.8. Describe the latest advances in using nanomaterials to address unmet clinical needs.9. Discuss he ethical and societal dilemmas surrounding the use of nanotechnology in medicine.

10. Utilize the knowledge acquired from lectures to address a specific clinical challenge through the application of nanomedicine-based strategies.

11. Search for relevant literature, critically evaluating scientific papers, and synthesizing information from multiple sources.

12. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills: Throughout the unit students will be engaged in engineering problem-solving tasks aimed at tackling complex challenges in the design and development of nanomedicine.

Exam preparation workshop (where sample exam questions are distributed and discussed in small student groups, with model answers provided at the conclusion of the session).Short answer exam will be marked by members of staff; marking will be moderated.