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Mike Skinner
This course describes the basic nature if viruses and basic concepts of how they replicate. It looks at traditional methods for propagating and assaying viruses as well as methods to identify and follow them in individuals and populations. It will also look at how we can use molecular genetics to learn how viruses work in molecular detail.
On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to:
1. Recognise unifying principles but diversity of virus structure and function
2. Illustrate how we can detect, identify and track viruses in individuals and populations
Read more
This course describes the basic nature if viruses and basic concepts of how they replicate. It looks at traditional methods for propagating and assaying viruses as well as methods to identify and follow them in individuals and populations. It will also look at how we can use molecular genetics to learn how viruses work in molecular detail.
On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to:
1. Recognise unifying principles but diversity of virus structure and function
2. Illustrate how we can detect, identify and track viruses in individuals and populations
Read more
This course describes the basic nature if viruses and basic concepts of how they replicate. It looks at traditional methods for propagating and assaying viruses as well as methods to identify and follow them in individuals and populations. It will also look at how we can use molecular genetics to learn how viruses work in molecular detail.
On successful completion of the course, learners will be able to:
1. Recognise unifying principles but diversity of virus structure and function
2. Illustrate how we can detect, identify and track viruses in individuals and populations
3. Recognise the importance of traditional and molecular genetics to understanding viruses
This is an intermediate series of courses intended for both clinical and non-clinical scientists who want to update their skills for work in clinical, academic, and pharmaceutical/bioscience industries, and is developed and delivered by experts working on viruses and novel vaccines.
To be successful in this series of courses, you should have basic knowledge in biology, genetics, microbiology or related fields.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/wmf919/what
What's inside
Syllabus
Module 1 - What are viruses?
The names of some viruses are instantly recognisable. The impact on an individual, a family, a community, and beyond, can be devastating. Disease, serious illness, and even death. Others have not been in the spotlight so much in recent years but have been incredible threats to humans and humanity. However, most recent COVID-19 pandemic, has shone a spotlight again on viruses and the fragility of our defences against, existing threats that are constantly mutating, adapting and evolving let alone against newly emerging threats.
This week we look at the question: What are viruses?
Read more
Syllabus
Module 1 - What are viruses?
The names of some viruses are instantly recognisable. The impact on an individual, a family, a community, and beyond, can be devastating. Disease, serious illness, and even death. Others have not been in the spotlight so much in recent years but have been incredible threats to humans and humanity. However, most recent COVID-19 pandemic, has shone a spotlight again on viruses and the fragility of our defences against, existing threats that are constantly mutating, adapting and evolving let alone against newly emerging threats.
This week we look at the question: What are viruses?
Read more
Module 2 - How do viruses replicate (and spread)?
How do viruses replicate and spread? If we want to understand the fundamental characteristics of viruses, so that we can find ways to tackle them, we need to know how viruses replicate and spread. In this module, we are going to look at virus replication and spread and introduce some terms around these concepts.
Module 3 - How do we propagate, observe and measure viruses?
To be able to study viruses, we need to be able to isolate and then produce viruses using a process from horticulture called propagation. We can then use cells cultivated in mass quantities using laboratory techniques and pass the isolated virus cells through the cultivated cells to study the effects of the virus in a process called passaging.
In this module, we will look at the development of propagation and passaging techniques – how these have evolved over time, and how they have impacted the development and production of vaccines.
Module 4 - How do viruses evolve?
There was a lot in the media about variants and mutations during the COVID-19 pandemic. We had variants named after where they were first recognised. Then they were given Greek letter identifiers, such as delta and omicron. How important is it to have an understanding of how viruses evolve, and which types of viruses are likely to evolve much quicker than others? What is the impact of mutations on antiviral drug effectiveness? And overall, how are viruses, and the diseases they cause, shaped by mutation, selection and evolution? This week, we will look at virus mutation, their types and consequences, and the evolution of novel viruses through reassortment, recombination, and adaptation.
Module 5 - How do we use ‘reverse genetics’ & ‘chimaeric viruses’ in research, gene therapy & vaccine development?
Conventional virus genetics talks about the range of genotypes, range of phenotypes, stability and quasispecies. Traditional genetic analysis often involves associating observable phenotypes with genotypes, then mapping the mutations causing those genotypes. Mapping normally involves looking at the genetic linkage between known and unknown genetic markers. In this module, we will look at viral genetics - the approaches used in conventional virus genetics, and the limitations of conventional virus genetics.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Offers comprehensive study of viruses, including their properties, behavior, and how they impact individuals and populations
Suitable for individuals with backgrounds in biology, genetics, microbiology, or related fields
Taught by experts working on viruses and novel vaccines
Core audience includes clinical and non-clinical scientists seeking to update skills for work in clinical, academic, and pharmaceutical/bioscience industries
Provides a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral replication, which is essential for developing diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines
Covers traditional and molecular genetics techniques used to study viruses, which are valuable skills for scientists in various fields
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in What Are Viruses And How Do We Work With Them? with these
activities:
Find a mentor who specializes in virology
Show steps
Finding a mentor who specializes in virology will provide you with guidance and support throughout your learning journey.
Show steps
-
Attend conferences or events related to virology.
-
Reach out to professors or researchers in the field.
-
Join online forums or communities dedicated to virology.
Review Basic Biology
Show steps
Ensure you remember basic biology concepts to make learning easier!
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
-
Review the structure and function of cells.
-
Brush up on DNA and RNA structure and function.
-
Go over basic genetics, including Mendelian inheritance.
Review basic microbiology concepts
Show steps
Reviewing basic microbiology concepts will help you understand the fundamental principles of viruses and their interactions with hosts.
Browse courses on
Microbiology
Show steps
-
Review your lecture notes from previous microbiology courses.
-
Read textbooks or online resources to refresh your knowledge of basic microbiology concepts.
-
Complete practice problems or quizzes to test your understanding.
13 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 16 activities
Watch video lectures on virus topics
Show steps
Watching video lectures on virus topics will allow you to learn from experts in the field.
Show steps
-
Find video lectures on virus topics online.
-
Watch the lectures and take notes.
-
Review your notes and summarize the main points.
Read a book on viruses
Show steps
Reading a book on viruses will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the subject.
Show steps
-
Find a book on viruses that is appropriate for your level of knowledge.
-
Read the book carefully and take notes.
-
Summarize the main points of the book.
-
Discuss the book with classmates or your instructor.
Follow Tutorials on Virus Evolution
Show steps
Tutorials will provide a structured approach to learning about virus evolution.
Show steps
-
Find tutorials on virus evolution.
-
Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
-
Take notes and ask questions as needed.
Attend a Virus Discussion Group
Show steps
Engage with peers to discuss and learn about viruses in a collaborative setting.
Show steps
-
Find a virus discussion group.
-
Attend the meetings regularly.
-
Participate in the discussions and ask questions.
Participate in a virus discussion group
Show steps
Participating in a virus discussion group will allow you to engage with other students and learn from their perspectives.
Show steps
-
Find a virus discussion group online or in your community.
-
Introduce yourself and share your interests.
-
Participate in discussions about viruses and related topics.
-
Ask questions and share your knowledge with others.
Write a Summary of a Research Article
Show steps
Summarizing research articles will help you understand and retain the key concepts.
Browse courses on
Research Methods
Show steps
-
Choose a research article related to viruses.
-
Read the article carefully and take notes.
-
Identify the main points and supporting evidence.
-
Write a summary that is clear, concise, and accurate.
Create a virus fact sheet
Show steps
Creating a virus fact sheet will help you synthesize and retain information about viruses.
Show steps
-
Choose a specific virus to focus on.
-
Research the virus's structure, function, and replication cycle.
-
Create a fact sheet that includes information about the virus's name, classification, symptoms, transmission, and treatment.
-
Share your fact sheet with classmates or online.
Solve Virus Replication Practice Problems
Show steps
Practice problems will enhance your understanding of virus replication and molecular genetics.
Show steps
-
Find practice problems related to virus replication.
-
Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
-
Check your answers and learn from your mistakes.
Solve virus-related practice problems
Show steps
Solving virus-related practice problems will help you develop your problem-solving skills and deepen your understanding of viruses.
Show steps
-
Find practice problems in your textbook or online.
-
Work through the problems step-by-step.
-
Check your answers against the provided solutions.
-
Identify areas where you need additional practice.
-
Repeat the process until you are confident in your ability to solve virus-related problems.
Practice virus propagation techniques
Show steps
Practice virus propagation techniques to reinforce concepts learned in Module 3.
Show steps
-
Read the protocol for virus propagation.
-
Gather the necessary materials and equipment.
-
Prepare the cell culture.
-
Infect the cells with the virus.
-
Monitor the cells for signs of infection.
Volunteer at a virology lab or research center
Show steps
Volunteering at a virology lab or research center will provide you with hands-on experience and allow you to learn from experts in the field.
Show steps
-
Find a virology lab or research center that is accepting volunteers.
-
Apply to volunteer and provide your resume and cover letter.
-
Complete the necessary training and orientation.
-
Assist with research projects and other tasks as assigned.
Develop a research proposal for a novel virus
Show steps
Develop a research proposal for a novel virus to apply the principles learned in Module 4.
Browse courses on
Epidemiology
Show steps
-
Identify a relevant research question.
-
Review the literature on novel viruses.
-
Design a research study.
-
Write a research proposal.
-
Present your research proposal to a peer group.
Develop a research project on a virus of your choice
Show steps
Developing a research project on a virus of your choice will allow you to apply your knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.
Show steps
-
Choose a virus that you are interested in researching.
-
Develop a research question and hypothesis.
-
Design and conduct experiments to test your hypothesis.
-
Analyze your results and draw conclusions.
-
Write a research paper or present your findings at a conference.
Find a mentor who specializes in virology
Show steps
Finding a mentor who specializes in virology will provide you with guidance and support throughout your learning journey.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend conferences or events related to virology.
- Reach out to professors or researchers in the field.
- Join online forums or communities dedicated to virology.
Review Basic Biology
Show steps
Ensure you remember basic biology concepts to make learning easier!
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the structure and function of cells.
- Brush up on DNA and RNA structure and function.
- Go over basic genetics, including Mendelian inheritance.
Review basic microbiology concepts
Show steps
Reviewing basic microbiology concepts will help you understand the fundamental principles of viruses and their interactions with hosts.
Browse courses on
Microbiology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your lecture notes from previous microbiology courses.
- Read textbooks or online resources to refresh your knowledge of basic microbiology concepts.
- Complete practice problems or quizzes to test your understanding.
13 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 16 activities
Watch video lectures on virus topics
Show steps
Watching video lectures on virus topics will allow you to learn from experts in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find video lectures on virus topics online.
- Watch the lectures and take notes.
- Review your notes and summarize the main points.
Read a book on viruses
Show steps
Reading a book on viruses will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the subject.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a book on viruses that is appropriate for your level of knowledge.
- Read the book carefully and take notes.
- Summarize the main points of the book.
- Discuss the book with classmates or your instructor.
Follow Tutorials on Virus Evolution
Show steps
Tutorials will provide a structured approach to learning about virus evolution.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials on virus evolution.
- Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
- Take notes and ask questions as needed.
Attend a Virus Discussion Group
Show steps
Engage with peers to discuss and learn about viruses in a collaborative setting.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a virus discussion group.
- Attend the meetings regularly.
- Participate in the discussions and ask questions.
Participate in a virus discussion group
Show steps
Participating in a virus discussion group will allow you to engage with other students and learn from their perspectives.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a virus discussion group online or in your community.
- Introduce yourself and share your interests.
- Participate in discussions about viruses and related topics.
- Ask questions and share your knowledge with others.
Write a Summary of a Research Article
Show steps
Summarizing research articles will help you understand and retain the key concepts.
Browse courses on
Research Methods
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a research article related to viruses.
- Read the article carefully and take notes.
- Identify the main points and supporting evidence.
- Write a summary that is clear, concise, and accurate.
Create a virus fact sheet
Show steps
Creating a virus fact sheet will help you synthesize and retain information about viruses.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a specific virus to focus on.
- Research the virus's structure, function, and replication cycle.
- Create a fact sheet that includes information about the virus's name, classification, symptoms, transmission, and treatment.
- Share your fact sheet with classmates or online.
Solve Virus Replication Practice Problems
Show steps
Practice problems will enhance your understanding of virus replication and molecular genetics.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems related to virus replication.
- Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
- Check your answers and learn from your mistakes.
Solve virus-related practice problems
Show steps
Solving virus-related practice problems will help you develop your problem-solving skills and deepen your understanding of viruses.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find practice problems in your textbook or online.
- Work through the problems step-by-step.
- Check your answers against the provided solutions.
- Identify areas where you need additional practice.
- Repeat the process until you are confident in your ability to solve virus-related problems.
Practice virus propagation techniques
Show steps
Practice virus propagation techniques to reinforce concepts learned in Module 3.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the protocol for virus propagation.
- Gather the necessary materials and equipment.
- Prepare the cell culture.
- Infect the cells with the virus.
- Monitor the cells for signs of infection.
Volunteer at a virology lab or research center
Show steps
Volunteering at a virology lab or research center will provide you with hands-on experience and allow you to learn from experts in the field.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a virology lab or research center that is accepting volunteers.
- Apply to volunteer and provide your resume and cover letter.
- Complete the necessary training and orientation.
- Assist with research projects and other tasks as assigned.
Develop a research proposal for a novel virus
Show steps
Develop a research proposal for a novel virus to apply the principles learned in Module 4.
Browse courses on
Epidemiology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a relevant research question.
- Review the literature on novel viruses.
- Design a research study.
- Write a research proposal.
- Present your research proposal to a peer group.
Develop a research project on a virus of your choice
Show steps
Developing a research project on a virus of your choice will allow you to apply your knowledge and skills to a real-world problem.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a virus that you are interested in researching.
- Develop a research question and hypothesis.
- Design and conduct experiments to test your hypothesis.
- Analyze your results and draw conclusions.
- Write a research paper or present your findings at a conference.
Career center
Learners who complete What Are Viruses And How Do We Work With Them? will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Microbiologist
Microbiologist
A Microbiologist studies microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This course provides a strong foundation for a Microbiologist who will be working with viruses. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which are essential for understanding how viruses work and how to develop treatments for viral infections.
Virologist
Virologist
A Virologist studies viruses, including their structure, function, evolution, and pathogenicity. This course provides a strong foundation for a Virologist, teaching the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution. This knowledge is essential for understanding how viruses work and how to develop treatments for viral infections.
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technician
A Laboratory Technician is responsible for performing routine tasks such as collecting, recording, and implementing experiments. They also may be responsible for cleaning, maintaining, and calibrating laboratory equipment. This course teaches the basics of virus propagation, testing, and experimentation, which would provide a solid foundation for a Laboratory Technician seeking to work with viruses.
Science Writer
Science Writer
A Science Writer communicates scientific information to the public. This course provides a strong foundation for a Science Writer who will be writing about viruses. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which are essential for understanding how viruses work and how to communicate information about viruses to the public.
Bioinformatician
Bioinformatician
A Bioinformatics processes and analyzes biological data using computational methods. This course may be useful for a Bioinformatician who will be working with viral data. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help a Bioinformatician to better understand how viruses work and how to analyze viral data.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
An Epidemiologist is a public health professional responsible for studying the occurrence and distribution of disease or injury in a population. This course provides a solid foundation for an Epidemiologist, teaching the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution. This knowledge is essential for understanding how viruses spread and cause disease.
Public Health Educator
Public Health Educator
A Public Health Educator develops and implements public health programs to promote health and prevent disease. This course provides a strong foundation for a Public Health Educator who will be working with viral infections. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which are essential for understanding how viruses spread and cause disease.
Clinical Research Associate
Clinical Research Associate
A Clinical Research Associate works with investigators, sponsors, and study participants to ensure that clinical research studies are conducted in accordance with regulatory guidelines and ethical standards. This course provides a good foundation for a Clinical Research Associate who will be working with viral infections. The course teaches the basics of virus propagation, testing, and experimentation, which are essential skills for this role.
Medical Scientist
Medical Scientist
A Medical Scientist conducts research to understand the causes and mechanisms of disease and to develop new treatments. This course provides a good foundation for a Medical Scientist who will be working with viral infections. The course teaches the basics of virus propagation, testing, and experimentation, which are essential skills for this role.
Physician
Physician
A Physician treats and prevents diseases and injuries. This course may be useful for a Physician who will be working with viral infections. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help a Physician to better understand how viruses cause disease and how to treat viral infections.
Science Teacher
Science Teacher
A Science Teacher teaches science to students. This course may be useful for a Science Teacher who will be teaching about viruses. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help a Science Teacher to better understand how viruses work and how to teach about viruses to students.
Pharmacist
Pharmacist
A Pharmacist dispenses medications and provides information about medications to patients. This course may be useful for a Pharmacist who will be working with viral infections. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help a Pharmacist to better understand how viruses work and how to provide information about viral infections to patients.
Nurse
Nurse
A Nurse provides care to patients and families. This course may be useful for a Nurse who will be working with viral infections. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help a Nurse to better understand how viruses cause disease and how to provide care to patients with viral infections.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian
A Veterinarian treats and prevents diseases and injuries in animals. This course may be useful for a Veterinarian who will be working with viral infections in animals. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help a Veterinarian to better understand how viruses work and how to treat viral infections in animals.
Agricultural Scientist
Agricultural Scientist
An Agricultural Scientist conducts research to improve agricultural practices and products. This course may be useful for an Agricultural Scientist who will be working with viral infections in plants or animals. The course teaches the basics of virus structure, function, and evolution, which can help an Agricultural Scientist to better understand how viruses work and nasıl with viral infections in plants or animals.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wmf919/what
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
What Are Viruses And How Do We Work With Them?.
Save
Virology: Molecular Biology and Pathogenesis textbook that covers the molecular biology and pathogenesis of viruses. It is suitable for advanced undergraduates or graduate students.
Save
This textbook offers a readable and accessible introduction to human virology, covering the basic principles of virology and the major human viral pathogens.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of medical microbiology, including a chapter on virology that covers the molecular biology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of viral infections.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of medical microbiology. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field of microbiology.
Save
Virus Taxonomy: Ninth Report of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses provides taxonomy of viruses.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of microbiology. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field of microbiology.
Reverse Transcriptase book that covers the discovery and properties of reverse transcriptase.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of microbiology. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field of microbiology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of microbiology. It valuable resource for students and researchers in the field of microbiology.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wmf919/what
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So You Want to Study Life Science?
OpenCourser.com/course/jje30r/futurelearn
So You Want to Study Life Science?
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Imperial College London
Instructor
Mike Skinner
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Foundations in Virology and Vaccinology. It's comprised of four courses:
- Types of Vaccine
- What Do Viruses Do And How Do We Control Them
- How Vaccines Work
- What Are Viruses And How Do We Work With Them? (viewing)
Good to know
Offers comprehensive study of viruses, including their properties, behavior, and how they impact individuals and populations
Suitable for individuals with backgrounds in biology, genetics, microbiology, or related fields
Taught by experts working on viruses and novel vaccines
Core audience includes clinical and non-clinical scientists seeking to update skills for work in clinical, academic, and pharmaceutical/bioscience industries
Provides a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral replication, which is essential for developing diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines
Covers traditional and molecular genetics techniques used to study viruses, which are valuable skills for scientists in various fields
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