Cardiovascular Practical Skills Toolkit - Postgraduate Module

Program Overview

This program provides comprehensive training in cutting-edge cardiovascular research techniques. Participants gain practical experience through demonstrations and hands-on sessions. The module covers a wide range of methods, including flow-based studies, human cardiovascular physiology techniques, and advanced microscopy. The assessment involves a practical wet lab assessment and an essay on cardiovascular techniques applications.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This module will introduce you to modern biomedical research techniques commonly used in the study of cardiovascular science. You will be introduced to each technique through a seminar/discussion session where the theory behind the technique is followed by explanation of its applications, limitations, considerations for carrying out, etc. Where appropriate, you will also receive a practical demonstration of each technique with hands on experience.

Outline:

• Techniques to be covered:
• Flow based studies
• Human cardiovascular physiology techniques
• Platelet function tests
• Cardiac Physiology techniques – in vivo models
• Angiogenesis assays
• Genomics and rare diseases
• Advanced microscopy
• Standard wet lab techniques:
• Demonstration and practical experience in standard wet lab techniques to ensure you have a basic lab skills prior to starting your research project.
This will also be an opportunity to refresh previously learned skills.
• Module attendance required:
• Sessions covering each set of topics will run once a week over the course of the autumn term (2 – 3 hours per week).
• Module dates:
• Module dates to be confirmed shortly.

Assessment:

• A wet practical assessment of basic lab skills (25%)
• Essay (2500 words) on application of cardiovascular techniques (75%)

Teaching:

• Academics involved in the delivery of this module:
• Dr Steve Thomas
• Professor Neil Morgan