During this course, students will be introduced to and develop a critical understanding of (i) precision diagnostics - current screening strategies for diagnosis; diagnostic imaging technologies; use of biomarkers for precision medicine; point of care testing; molecular pathology applications; novel diagnostic tools and (ii) precision therapeutics - drug discovery; clinical trials; technology for drug delivery; regenerative medicine; challenges and opportunities in precision therapeutics.

This course consists of lectures, tutorials and laboratories in semester 1.

None

None

Essay (2000 words approx.) - 50%

Reflective portfolio (500 words approx.) - 20%

Group presentation - 30%

It is the default expectation that all courses will offer opportunities for reassessment or deferred assessment. Where it is not possible to offer this in some assessment components, the grade achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade, and any exceptions for this course are described below.

[No exceptions]

■ Facilitate development of knowledge and understanding of current screening and testing methods, diagnostic imaging technologies, and companion diagnostics used for precision medicine.

■ Provide students with a detailed overview of therapeutic approaches employed in precision medicine.

■ Equip students with an integrative understanding of clinical trial methodologies, regulatory and ethical issues in precision medicine.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Critically evaluate current diagnostic tools and their applications in precision medicine.

■ Utilise knowledge of screening and testing methods in precision medicine to critically appraise their use in different contexts.

■ Critically discuss the use of clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness of a therapeutic intervention.