Practical Skills in Biomolecular Sciences

Practical Skills in Biomolecular Science, is an indispensable book for undergraduate students in the life sciences. The book provides useful support at all stages of a degree course and underpins any practical course in biochemistry, biomedical science, genetics, immunology and microbiology. It is also a valuable resource for teachers of biology in colleges and secondary schools.  Laboratory and field studies are essential components of undergraduate training in biomolecular science. Practical work must be fully understood and effectively presented, but many students under-perform because they lack basic laboratory skills. This book, now in its third edition, continues to provide students with easy-to-use guidance for laboratory and field studies, but in addition it now covers broader transferable skills. As a result the new edition provides guidance and support over the entire range of a typical undergraduate course in biochemistry and biomedical science.  

"An essential book for all Life Science students – a highly recommended purchase for their degree."

Dr Mark Wilkinson, University of Liverpool

If you are studying within the biomolecular sciences, then this book is an indispensable companion throughout your entire degree programme. It  demonstrates lucidly the laboratory and data analysis skills that you will draw on time and again for the practical aspects of your studies, and also gives you a solid grounding in those wider transferable skills that are increasingly necessary to achieve a higher level of academic success.

This third edition builds on the excellent foundation of its predecessors. It contains a fully updated examination of existing topics and covers even more core skills, including:

• ELISA assays
• DNA micro-arrays
• Digital imaging
• Eukaroyte cell culture
• Real-time PCR
• Bioethics
• Personal development planning
• Learning styles
• Avoiding plagiarism
• E-learning

§         Thinking processes

§         Use of software to enhance graph/table drawing, statistical analysis and presentations

Key features

• New 'safety note' feature, highlighting specific hazards and appropriate practical steps to minimise risk
• Worked examples and ‘how to’ boxes that set out the essential procedures in a step-by-step manner
• Key points highlighting critical features of methodology
• Study exercises in each chapter to reinforce learning
• Use of margin tips, definitions and illustrations throughout

Rob Reed is Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Central Queensland University;  David Holmes is Head of the Division of Biomedical Sciences at Northumbria University; Jonathan Weyers is Director of Quality Assurance at the University of Dundee; and Allan Jones is Senior Lecturer in Biology and Life Sciences at the University of Dundee.