Genetics is a fast moving moving and expanding field that is transforming medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and biomedical research, with huge impacts on our daily lives.
This information for life resides in the genetic material known as DNA. Geneticists study the way DNA is replicated, repaired, and decoded to make protein and other molecules within cells and tissues, which in turn impact the physiology, behaviour, and wellbeing of living things. Genetics provides a framework for understanding all living processes on the planet, from microorganisms and viruses to plants, animals and indeed ourselves.
Molecular Genetics is a modern discipline in Genetics that seeks to understand the nature of inherited characteristics at a molecular level in terms of DNA and RNA structure, sequence, modification, and other factors that influence gene activity.
Genomics is an emerging discipline in genetics that applies new technologies to study the function and activity of the complete set of genes in a living thing, from bacteria to humans. Genomics is set to become a major part of healthcare where individuals are personally diagnosed and treated based on their own genetic information.
Today, Genetics has broad applications that reflect its central importance in medicine, agriculture, biomedical research and biotechnology. The knowledge of DNA at a molecular level provides tools for manipulating gene sequences such as genome editing that forms the basis of genetic engineering. The understanding of how genes and genomes work provides insights into disease and avenues for developing new therapies. Our programmes therefore enable our graduates to capitalise on career opportunities opened up by revolutionary advances in Genetics and Genomics.
