Useful links
Unit of study_
AMED3003: Diagnostics and Biomarkers
2025 unit information
Diagnostic sciences have evolved at a rapid pace and provide the cornerstone of our health care system. Effective diagnostic assays enable the identification of people who have, or are at risk of, a disease, and guide their treatment. Research into the pathophysiology of disease underpins the discovery of novel biomarkers and in turn, the development of revolutionary diagnostic assays that make use of state-of-the-art molecular and cellular methods. In this unit you will explore a diverse range of diagnostic tests and gain valuable practical experience in a number of core diagnostic methodologies, many of which are currently used in hospital laboratories. Together we will also cover the regulatory, social, and ethical aspects of the use of biomarkers and diagnostic tests and explore the pathways to their translation into clinical practice. By undertaking this unit, you will develop your understanding of diagnostic assays and biomarkers and acquire the skills needed to embark on a career in diagnostic sciences.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Medicine and Health
| Study level | Undergraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Department of Medical Sciences |
| Credit points | 6 |
|
Prerequisites:
?
|
12 credit points from (IMMU2101 or MEDS2004 or MIMI2002 or MIMI2902 or PHSI2005 or PHSI2905 or PHSI2006 or PHSI2906 or PHSI2007 or PHSI2907 or MEDS2001 or PCOL2011 or PCOL2021 or MEDS2002 or BCMB2001 or BCMB2901 or MEDS2003) |
|---|---|
|
Corequisites:
?
|
None |
| Prohibitions:
?
|
AMED3903 |
| Assumed knowledge:
?
|
None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. investigate the biological processes underlying the discovery of viable biomarkers that lead to the diagnosis of disease
- LO2. evaluate the characteristics of biomarkers that make them suitable for use as diagnostic tools
- LO3. compare and contrast the key tests that are used to diagnose and track the course of disease
- LO4. demonstrate competence in a variety of clinical diagnostic techniques
- LO5. assess data from key technologies and design strategies to improve outcomes
- LO6. analyse the development of advanced diagnostic technologies and critique the scientific basis for their application
- LO7. create a translational pathway for a biomarker or a diagnostic assay
- LO8. apply quality assurance and audit tools as well as national regulatory and ethical standards in the application of medical sciences to the clinical environment.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Semester 2 2025
|
Normal day | Westmead, Sydney |
Outline unavailable
|
Find your current year census dates
Modes of attendance (MoA)
This refers to the Mode of attendance (MoA) for the unit as it appears when you’re selecting your units in Sydney Student. Find more information about modes of attendance on our website.
Important enrolment information
Additional advice
Adobe Illustrator is required. This is freely available on campus, or a 1 year license can be purchased.
