Molecular Marine Ecology unit (KSA714)

Hobart

Introduction

This unit explores the suite of molecular tools available to biologists and how they can be applied to questions concerning the biology, ecology, taxonomy, diversity, and evolution of marine organisms. Topics covered include theory and practice of key molecular tools such as sampling for DNA, DNA extractions and library preparations, PCR, electrophoresis, sequencing technologies, bioinformatics and population genetics. Laboratory sessions and a class research project provide you with hands-on experience in genomics methods, and the collection and analysis sequencing data. This is a fast-moving field and the unit content is regularly reviewed and updated in light of technological development.

Summary

Unit name	Molecular Marine Ecology
Unit code	KSA714
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies
Discipline	Ecology and Biodiversity
Coordinator	Doctor Linda Armbrecht
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Postgraduate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2

Note

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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).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Explain the structure, synthesis and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, and how these molecules are expressed.
• Choose a sampling design and implement laboratory techniques to isolate, characterise, and analyse DNA/RNA.
• Analyse and interpret molecular data using basic bioinformatics software and resources.
• Critique and evaluate molecular biology data in a marine ecology 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
010909	$1,192.00	$1,192.00	not applicable	$2,862.00

• 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	Seminars (2h) composed of pre-recorded and face-2-face content, released weekly from Weeks 1 to 12 on the unit's MyLO site. Practical component comprised of weekly 3hr lab or computer sessions.
Assessment	Background Learning module (10%)|Educational videos (20%)|Molecular Biology Quizzes (20%)|Oral Presentation (20%)|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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