FRS 001 — Sec. 003 —
(1 unit) — CRN 53571 — W 5:10-6:30 PM — 263 Olson
Biomedical Research: Methods and Design
Instructor: Leon Hall, Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine,
School of Medicine
Description: Significant advances in our understanding of molecular
mechanisms of normo- and patho-biology have extensively influenced the practice
of medicine. The continued elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of disease
is essential to the development of novel treatments aimed at improving upon current
therapies and enhancing patient quality of life. The course will introduce students
to molecular biology research (i.e. what it is, why it is done, how methods are
applied, and how data is correctly interpreted). The course will include an introduction
to molecular biology research methods, the design of hypothetical studies, methods
for troubleshooting, and the review and critique of published research. The course
will include lectures in neuroscience research (brain and spinal cord injury),
cancer research, and other areas of patho-biology investigation. This seminar
series is designed to provide students with a basic introduction to molecular
research study design, available methods, application, and data interpretation.
It is expected that students who intend to pursue studies in biomedical clinical
medicine careers will gain an understanding of the process involved in the formulation
of quality research. The course will facilitate an understanding of the importance
of study design to the acquisition of quality information, and the importance
of basic research to the advancement of clinical medicine. In addition, it is
hoped that the seminar series will spark students interest in biomedical research
and encourage them to take their first steps toward gaining laboratory research
experience. In addressing these goals, student will undertake tasks that will
assist them in developing presentation/communication and team-work skills.
Format: The course will be taught over 8 1.5 hour time blocks.
There is no required text although reading material will be provided in advance
of guest lectures and seminar presentations. It is expected that students will
attend lectures prepared to ask questions and engage in discussion. Grading:
The above will account for a third of the grade. The remainder of the grade will
be based on the completion of an assignment, which will be to write and present
a brief study proposal (to be done in groups).
About the Instructor: Professor Hall received his Ph.D. from
the University of Leicester School of Medicine in England. He is a member of the
School of Medicine Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine faculty. He
has collaborated in research developing molecular biology methods for application
to the quantitative analysis of mRNA, assessment of enzyme function, and development
of gene transfer technologies. Dr. Hall is currently engaged in the application
of non-viral gene delivery techniques to the transfer of neuroprotective genes
in traumatic brain and spinal cord injury.