Course overview
Investigative Cell Biology (ICB) immerses students in contemporary medical research across the College of Health at Adelaide University. The course expands knowledge and understanding of biological and pathological basis of disease while providing insight into how modern research methods are used to investigate, understand and treat it. Through integrated lectures, workshops and authentic assessment tasks, students develop essential research capabilities - including critical thinking, data interpretation, scientific communication and project design. These skills are directly aligned with careers in research, diagnostics and clinical practice, and provide a strong platform for postgraduate study. A key strength of ICB is its delivery by active, nationally and internationally recognised researchers. Students engage with real-world research themes, exploring both seminal discoveries and emerging advances, alongside the experimental techniques that underpin them. Workshops focus on applying this knowledge: examining in vivo, in vitro and clinical models, evaluating the strengths and limitations of research methods, and critically analysing scientific evidence. This applied approach strengthens students’ ability to interpret findings and assess the quality and relevance of research. Rather than relying on a single textbook, the course uses curated scientific papers and multimedia resources to reflect the evolving nature of the field and promote engagement with current literature.
Overall, ICB equips students with a clear understanding of how medical research is conducted and translated into practice - developing the analytical and professional skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the future of healthcare and biomedical science.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain how the structures at the level of cells, tissues and organs relate to their overall function in both health and disease states.
- Evaluate the application, strengths, and limitations of models and research techniques used in medical research.
- Critically evaluate medical research literature, assessing methodological approach, validity and relevance to clinical or scientific questions.
- Synthesise findings from a range of scientific literature to identify gaps, inconsistencies or contention within a field.
- Communicate research findings in written format clearly and effectively using appropriate scientific conventions and terminology.