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Hobart
Introduction
Molecular biology involves the study of DNA, RNA and proteins that are common to all organisms on Earth. The unit introduces the structure, function and diversity of DNA, RNA and proteins, the forms and scales of genetic diversity encoded in genomes, and the practical and ethical use of genomics techniques to characterise, manipulate and compare these DNA molecules. You will learn the theory and practice of molecular biology, gain hands-on experience of the methods, software and analyses, and their application in aquatic ecosystems, aquaculture, fisheries and conservation. The unit content is regularly updated to reflect the rapid development in this field.
Summary
| Unit name | Aquatic Molecular Biology |
| Unit code | JFA305 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies |
| Discipline | Ecology and Biodiversity |
| Coordinator | Doctor Linda Armbrecht |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 2 |
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- Key:
- On-campus
Off-Campus- International students
- Domestic students
Note
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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 5/7/2026 | 27/7/2026 | 30/8/2026 | 24/10/2026 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the structure, synthesis and function DNA, RNA and proteins, and how these molecules are expressed.
- Implement laboratory techniques to isolate, characterise and analyse DNA/RNA.
- Analyse molecular data using basic bioinformatics software and resources.
- Evaluate molecular biology data in an aquatic biology context.
Fee Information
| Field of Education | Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 | Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 | Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 | Domestic Full Fee 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 010907 | $1,192.00 | $1,192.00 | not applicable | $3,030.00 |
- Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
- HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
- FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4
1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.
If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.
Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Weekly 2-hour seminars, combination of pre-recorded and face-to-face seminars. Weekly 3 hour practical sessions, on campus at teaching lab or computer lab. |
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| Assessment | Educational videos (10%)|Laboratory practise (10%)|Oral Presentation (group task) (10%)|Quiz (10%)|Final Exam (30%)|Project Report (30%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.