Facilitating learning through real-world applications
I am the Honours Program Director and Course Coordinator for the following courses offered by the School of Agriculture and Environmental Science at UniSQ. I bring to these courses my extensive research experience and passion for genetics, molecular biology and crop improvement.
Biology 1
Biology 1 (BIO1101) at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) provides a foundational understanding of biological concepts and the application of the scientific method. The course covers a broad range of topics including the history of life on Earth, the diversity and classification of organisms, cell structure and function, energy transformations (photosynthesis and respiration), genetics, and basic principles of ecology and evolution. The course is delivered by a teaching team with research expertise in each particular topic. This course is essential for students pursuing further studies in biological sciences or related fields, providing a solid grounding in fundamental biological concepts and scientific inquiry.
Student testimonial: “. . .Its a great course that has sparked interest in new areas and also equally helped me identify areas that I need to invest more learning time into. It’s evident that Rebecca has thoughtfully curated her course structure to be learner friendly, encourage high levels of engagement and to be supportive. . .”
Plant Breeding
Plant Breeding (AGR2304) at UniSQ provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in the development of new plant varieties. The course includes a residential school where students apply breeding techniques and use biotechnological tools in a laboratory setting. Students also participate in field visits to observe plant breeding applications in real-world agricultural settings. This course is essential for students pursuing careers in agricultural science, particularly those interested in crop improvement and sustainable agriculture.
Student testimonial: “. . . I enjoyed the course. I enjoyed the practical sessions that helped reinforce the material taught, and the tours gave insight into career directions. . .”
Cell and Molecular Biology 1
Cell and Molecular Biology 1 (BIO2107) at UniSQ provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts and techniques in cell and molecular biology. The molecular biology component of the course focuses on gene organization, replication, transcription, and translation, along with an overview of molecular technologies to study these molecular processes. The cell biology component of the course explores cellular ultrastructure, protein post-translational modifications, vesicle transport, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis. Students gain essential molecular biology laboratory skills through practical activities.
Student testimonial: ” . . .BIO2107 exceeded my expectations and I thoroughly enjoyed the course. I originally had been anticipating completing this course for a while as I am really interested in the field of genetics and molecular biology, and the course content was really fascinating. I also really enjoyed the residential school as we completed techniques which will be very important in my future endeavours in molecular research and academia. . .”
Cell and Molecular Biology 2
Cell and Molecular Biology 2 at UniSQ delves into advanced molecular biology concepts, including the structure and packaging of genomes in prokaryotic, eukaryotic, and viral systems. Students investigate the regulation of subcellular and intercellular processes, exploring gene expression, cell structure, transport, and membrane function. Students learn about signaling processes that regulate cell function in both healthy and diseased states, as well as the cell cycle, programmed cell death, and tumorigenesis. Through hands-on activities, students are introduced to bioinformatics and extend their practical skills through molecular and cell biology laboratory exercises.
Student testimonial: “. . .I love the interaction during the lectures with the hands-on activities. Great practice for the problem-solving assessment!. . .”
