Understanding genetic technologies
This module will equip you with knowledge of the principles behind commonly used molecular techniques and how to apply them. You will learn how to evaluate which laboratory investigations are most suitable for a given clinical scenario and to critically review the processes used in issuing a laboratory report, from checking samples to issuing a diagnostic report. You will also learn how to design a panel of genes for analysis using next-generation sequencing technologies applicable to a specific clinical phenotype.
(Delivered at St George’s)
Clinical interpretation of genomic data
You will learn how to analyse the key features of a genetic variant which affect the prior likelihood of pathogenicity. You will understand how to critically examine the clinical context within which a genetic variant will be interpreted. This module will teach you how to apply in silico variant analysis tools to evaluate genetic variants, equipping you with the skills to critically evaluate the report generated by in silico variant analysis tools. By the end of the module you will be able to demonstrate the interrogation of population level genomic databases with respect to a specific genetic variant alongside the interrogation of mutation databases with respect to a specific genetic variant.
(Delivered at St George’s)
Communication of genetic information and ethics
This module will teach you how to communicate effectively and sensitively to patients and their families about complex genetic data and variants of unknown significance. It will allow you to critically evaluate the ethical issues surrounding consent for genetic testing with an understanding and explanation of incidental findings. You will evaluate the ethical considerations of genetic testing and be able to formulate cogent arguments for and against testing in specific clinical scenarios.
(Delivered at St George’s)
Personal and professional development portfolio
In this module you will assemble a portfolio that demonstrates learning and progression in the application of genetic technologies, the interpretation of genomic data, and the communication of complex genetic information to patients. You will demonstrate application of the approaches undertaken in the clinical interpretation of genomic data, and will critically appraise the medical literature relevant to the interpretation of genetic data. Alongside this you will reflect on the effect of genetic test results on the patient and other healthcare professionals and on your communication skills when imparting complex genetic information to patients/families and directed literature. You will finally propose and justify your approaches to continuing professional development.
(Delivered at St George’s)
Omics techniques and technologies; their application to genomic medicine
This module covers the range of multi-omics technologies, their interpretation and application in key areas of healthcare such as cancer, rare inherited diseases and infectious diseases, as well as research.
(Delivered at King’s College London)
Molecular pathology of cancer, and application in diagnosis, screening and treatment
This module provides detailed knowledge and understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in cancer development, including how interrogation of a person’s own genome and the genome of tumour cells can facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
(Delivered at King’s College London)
Application of genomics in infectious disease
This module shows how genomics can be used to provide more accurate diagnosis, predict which drugs are likely to be more effective, and monitor treatment and control of infectious disease in both individuals and populations.
(Delivered at St George’s)
Pharmacogenomics and stratified healthcare
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the analytical strategies and techniques used in pharmacogenomics and explores some of the challenges and limitations in this field. It also provides an overview of the different type of genomic biomarkers currently in use or emerging.
(Delivered at King’s College London)
Bioinformatics, interpretation and data quality in genome analysis
This module provides the knowledge and understanding required to critically interpret existing genomic research and develop the skills to formulate research questions. It also provides the skills to collect, analyse and interpret NHS data using a basic range of statistical and bioinformatics techniques.
(Delivered at King’s College London)
Ethical, legal and social perspectives on genomic medicine
This module aims to provide a framework for ethical understanding of medical genomics. You will be provided with a platform of ethical understanding from which to consider issues of human confidentiality, autonomy, disclosure, informed consent and natural justice.
(Delivered at St George’s)
Cardiovascular genetics and genomics
The aim of this module is to introduce students to the role of genomics in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, both in terms of common and rare disease. You will learn about the impact our growing knowledge of the genomic aetiology of these conditions is having on management.
(Delivered at St George’s)