This course examines the biology of cells, the basic units of life on Earth. The course addresses several central themes in cellular biology, including: the origin and early evolution of cells, cellular division and replication, the transport of proteins and other macromolecules within cells, the compartmentalisation of cellular metabolism, the functions of organelles in protists, animals and plants, the cellular basis of differentiation, and signalling between and within cells. Students will be exposed to the latest breakthroughs in the field and learn key cellular biology techniques. A unique aspect of the course is a practical component that addresses a research question to which the answer is unknown at the outset of the experiments. This practical provides students with an authentic research experience, and enables students to develop valuable skills in data analysis and scientific writing.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Describe the evolution, diversity and replication of cells;
- Explain the role of compartmentalization and signalling in cellular biology;
- Interpret and explain key experiments in the history of cell biology;
- Evaluate and apply knowledge of modern techniques in cellular biology.
- Interpret, analyse, describe and present new experimental data.
Indicative Assessment
- Laboratory-based research assignment (10) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- Results section of research report (10) [LO 3,4,5]
- Research report in the style of a scientific paper (40) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- On-line quizzes (10) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- Final exam (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including:
- Face-to face component which may consist of 2 x 1 hour lectures per week (total 24 hours). 5 x 3 hours of practical and 3 x 3 hours of workshop sessions throughout the semester.
- Approximately 82 hours of self directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks.
Students are expected to actively participate and contribute towards discussions.
Inherent Requirements
To be determined
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
Nil
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7593 | 27 Jul 2026 | 03 Aug 2026 | 31 Aug 2026 | 30 Oct 2026 | In Person | N/A |