科廷科技大学

The Molecular Genetics major (BAdvSci) (Honours) provides a flexible and personalised approach to studying Genetics with students able to explore the field through for-credit immersive research experiences, industry placement and/or interdisciplinary team-based projects.

Molecular genetics contributes to solutions to global problems, such as the prevention and control of human, animal and plant diseases; addressing environmental degradation; feeding the world's population; and biosecurity.

This major is part of the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) course, designed for high-performing students to pursue their interest in science through a core of research, leadership and entrepreneurship.

An understanding of genetics now underpins a range of jobs related to biology, and the deep knowledge of genetic processes and bioinformatics you will gain in this course will provide you with career opportunities in research related to human health, environmental health and food security.

Genetics is a rapidly growing science discipline, and, around the world, governments are investing heavily in genetics research. DNA 'chips' can detect the expression of thousands of genes enabling rapid diagnosis of many diseases in a single test. Before long, individuals will have access to their own DNA sequence and learn their propensity to develop particular diseases. Likewise, stem cells and tissue culture promise novel methods for organ replacement and injury repair.

Career information

Graduates can be employed in a wide range of challenging careers working alongside other scientists, environmental scientists, medical and health-care professionals, engineers, agricultural scientist, agribusiness professionals computer software developers, lawyers, business professionals and entrepreneurs.

What you'll learn

Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the nature of science, its methods and processes, an advanced capacity to apply molecular genetic and biochemical concepts in a range of theoretical and practical situations, and the ability to contribute new knowledge to the molecular biosciences through research
Critically, logically and rationally analyse challenging and multi-faceted problems in molecular genetics, address them by applying practical and theoretical tools and critically evaluate findings within the current body of disciplinary knowledge
Access and make judgements on the value of available knowledge using a variety of tools, and incorporate them into the planning, conduct and communication of their own findings
Communicate effectively by demonstrating the capacity to listen and respond (using both written and spoken language) to clients, staff, professionals, management and industry and conform to discipline standards in presentations and publications
Use established and emerging technologies in molecular biosciences and apply them to address complex research questions
Engage in self-driven continuous discipline and professional education and training in molecular genetics
Participate in the generation and application of science in addressing global problems while understanding international ethical and professional standards in molecular biosciences
Work collaboratively and respectfully with scientists from a range of cultural backgrounds and understand the cultural issues that impact research in the molecular sciences or the broader profession
Be able to work professionally and ethically as an independent molecular geneticist and collaboratively within teams either as a professional leader or collaborator using effective problem solving and decision making skills within the professional context of their area of study; comply with legislation relevant to the molecular biosciences.