In the face of global climate change, a growing human population and the threat of global pandemics and bioterrorism, pests and diseases are an increasingly important threat to global food security and human health. This course examines the human, economic and environmental impact of pests and diseases. It explores the biology of major threat organisms, with a focus on endemic and exotic threats to Australian biosecurity. Basic concepts in pathology will be covered and laboratory experience in various pathology techniques including molecular diagnostics will be provided. The social, economic and environmental impact and effectiveness of regulatory, chemical, biological and biotechnological measures used to control pests and diseases will also be examined. Australian regulatory frameworks designed to exclude exotic pests and diseases and to manage biotechnological solutions to endemic pests and diseases will be a particular focus.

Postgraduate LOs

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. research biosecurity information and online biosecurity resources;

2. discuss and present biosecurity information verbally, visually and in writing;

3. perform basic laboratory skills in pathology and pathogen diagnostic techniques;

4. navigate and use the regulatory frameworks related to biosecurity and ability to navigate and use these frameworks.

5. critically analyse the sometimes conflicting biological, social, economic, health and ethical issues affecting biosecurity

Postgraduate assessment will be based on:

1) Written exam 40%

2) Two case-study seminars 20%

3) Essay 20%

4) Laboratory journal 10%

5) Seminar journal 10%

2 lectures per week and seminars/workshops with keynote speakers.

Bachelor degree with first year chemistry and second year cell and molecular biology

Standard IT and library access