Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology - proseminar 1200-1CHMLBMP5
The proseminar serves as an integral complement to the Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory course. Its primary goal is to deepen and organize the knowledge gained through practical laboratory exercises while placing it in the broader context of molecular biology, medical biotechnology, and bioengineering. Particular emphasis is placed on developing students' skills in independent critical thinking, experimental data analysis, and scientific communication, all of which are essential for teamwork and delivering scientific presentations.
A significant portion of the course is devoted to the interpretation of results obtained during laboratory work — including their critical analysis, comparison with scientific literature, and understanding the limitations of the methods applied. Students learn how to process and evaluate biological and bioanalytical data.
Throughout the course, selected theoretical and practical issues are discussed to directly support specific laboratory modules, including:
- computational strategies and problem-solving related to experimental design and biotechnological calculations (e.g., concentrations, dosing, dilutions), based on a test conducted during the first seminar session;
- applied microbiology, particularly antimicrobial susceptibility testing (e.g., disc diffusion assays, MIC determination), and interpretation of resistance data in line with EUCAST guidelines;
- fundamentals of immunology necessary for understanding ELISA and immunoprecipitation assays — including the role of antibodies, cytokines, and complement system;
- an introduction to 3D design required for bacterial bioprinting labs and hydrogel matrix preparation;
- image and colorimetric data analysis used in labs involving ELISA and lateral flow assays (LFA) — including signal interpretation, assay validation, and detection limit assessment.
The final part of the course focuses on the critical analysis of scientific literature. Students independently prepare summaries and reviews of selected research papers in the form of a scientific poster. These presentations strengthen their ability to synthesize complex topics, construct scientific arguments, and adapt the communication of scientific content to both specialized and general audiences.
Type of course
Mode
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge – the student knows and understands:
K_W09 – at an advanced level, the chemical components of living organisms, their structural characteristics, chemical properties, and roles in biological processes; understands the relationship between the structure and function of biomolecules.
K_W12 – at an advanced level, the key concepts of molecular biology, microbiology, and genetics.
Skills – the student is able to:
K_U06 – use scientific literature in both Polish and English, as well as search scientific databases and digital resources to find information necessary for solving scientific or practical problems.
K_U10 – perform qualitative and quantitative analyses of experimental results in chemistry and biology, and interpret them in relation to literature and reference data.
K_U11 – present research results both orally and in writing, prepare scientific presentations, and engage in academic discussion using logical and precise language.
Social competences – the student is ready to:
K_K02 – undertake actions for the continuous deepening of knowledge and the development of skills, including beyond compulsory coursework.
K_K03 – assess the impact of scientific achievements in chemistry and biomedical sciences on quality of life and human health, taking into account ethical, legal, and social aspects.
Total student workload: 30 hours, including:
- participation in proseminar classes – 15 hours,
- preparation for in-class tasks and discussions – 5 hours,
- preparation and development of a presentation/poster – 10 hours.
Assessment criteria
The final grade consists of the presentation assessment (evaluated in terms of content accuracy, clarity of delivery, and quality of execution; weight: 80%) and student participation during the seminar sessions (weight: 20%).
Bibliography
"Biologia molekularna w medycynie. Elementy genetyki klinicznej". Redakcja: Jerzy Bal. Wydawca: PWN. Język wydania: polski. ISBN: 978-83-01-16665-6. Rok wydania 2013
"Biotechnologia molekularna. Geneza, przedmiot, perspektywy badań i zastosowań. Wydanie: Warszawa, 1, 2007. Autor: Jerzy Buchowicz. Wydawca: Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: