Nanotechnology

In this course the student are introduced to current and developing technology used in Nanobiology research. They will learn the basic principles of instruments such as optical and magnetic tweezers and atomic force microscopy. The use of nanofabrication, microfabrication and microfluidics in nanobiology will be illustrated. The type of data produced, and the relevant sensitivity and accuracy of the different instruments will be described. Students will work hands-on with one of these instruments. The relevant application of specific instruments to answering questions in biology will be discussed. Bottom-up and top-down nanofabrication approaches will be described. This course will assume knowledge of Physics, Math, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology as learned in YR1 and previous YR2 courses. Knowledge learned in this course is needed to understand current advances in nanobiology and make informed choices for thesis project work.

1. The assessment consists of two practicum reports and a safety report.

   1.a the safety report must be handed in one week after the practicum that that was observed.
   1.b The final practicum reports must be submitted by week Q4.8.

2. The resit consists of: a replacement practicum assignment if the original practicum reports are insufficient, or a replacement safety assignment if the original safety report is insufficient.
   2.a The revised reports must be submitted by week Q5.3

3. The active learning assignment (practicum reports or safety report) resit consists of: an additional practicum assignment to be arranged individually with the instructor.
   3.a The deadline for the assignment resit is: see Brightspace or contact the course coordinator.

4. The final grade is pass or fail: you need to have a passing grade for all three reports to obtain a passing grade for this course.

5. Registration for assessments is done via Brightspace.

6. Students needing to turn work in late due to personal circumstances must contact the Academic Counsellor prior to turning it in to make arrangements. Other late work might not be graded.

Additional information:
Participation in all practicum sessions and in an active learning assignment is mandatory. Students who do not submit a sufficient practicum report and/or do not participate in an active learning assignment will be required to perform an additional practicum or an active learning assignment in order to pass the course.

Formative assessment:
Formative feedback is provided during practicum sessions and on draft versions of the reports. These help students improve their work prior to final submission.

Assessment updated 31-march-2026 with Board of Examiner Approval.