Spectroscopy for Biosciences is taught as two 1-hour theory classes each week and one 3-hour practical class every second week over one semester.
Students will be required to prepare practical reports analysing their own results. Course lecture notes, additional materials, announcements and other course-related information will be available on Blackboard, a virtual learning environment. Module-related issues or questions that may arise will be discussed at lectures. Online resources will be used. Students can contact lecturer outside of class hours to discuss feedback on reports and assessments. Blended learning and pedagogical technologies such as Blackboard Collaborate will be used where appropriate.
Module Aim:
To develop the learners' understanding of the analytical applications of UV-visible (UV-vis) and infrared (IR) spectroscopies and familiarise them with the principles, interpretation, and biologically relevant applications of mass spectrometry (MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Learners will also develop their theoretical and practical knowledge in relation to chromatographic methods.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Describe the principles, instruments, and applications of various spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques, and interpret the output of these techniques to extract analytically meaningful information.
LO2
Demonstrate practical measurement and analytical skills using a range of laboratory instruments and data acquisition systems.
LO3
Work effectively in a group and demonstrate good communication skills within a group, in presentation format, and in written reporting of laboratory activities.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
Successful completion of year 2 or equivalent
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Chromatography
System suitability for chromatography - parameters, calculations, and interpretation; van Deemter equation - theory and application
Spectrophotometric Techniques
Principles, instrumentation, and biologically relevant applications of a range of spectroscopic/spectrometric techniques including ultra violet (UV) infra-red (IR) spectra, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), Raman spectroscopy.
Practical
Practical skills will be advanced in chromatographic (TLC/IC/GC/HPLC) separation and analysis, and in spectrophotometric analysis (UV-visible, IR, AAS) and in associated sample preparation procedures.
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
50.00%
Practical
50.00%
Special Regulation
Students must achieve a minimum grade (35%) in both the practical and CA
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Presentation
Presentation summarising and appraising a relevant article from the scientific literature.
1,3
10.00
Week 4
Examination
1 hour exam
1
20.00
Week 7
Examination
1 hour exam
1
20.00
Week 12
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation
Practical reports
1,2,3
50.00
Every Second Week
No End of Module Formal Examination
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment