Cosmology studies the history and the structure of the universe. Observations show the homogeneity and isotropy of the universe on large scales. For the homogenous and isotropic spacetimes, the equations of general relativity reduce to two ordinary differential equations. These cosmological equations govern the evolution of the universe. We study these equations in detail, and show how observations are affected by the expansion and curvature of the universe. The course covers the astronomical methods used to determine the expansion rate (i.e., the Hubble constant) and the mass density of the universe. Physical processes in the early universe such as nucleosynthesis, the formation of the microwave background, and galaxy formation will also be studied. The course begins with a concise introduction to the differential-geometricmethods and ends with advanced topics including inflation and cosmological perturbations. A good working knowledge of General Relativity is essential for many parts of this course.

This module provides an introduction to the fascinating and important discipline of infection. Common pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and parasites are...

This module provides an introduction to the fascinating and important discipline of infection. Common pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and parasites are discussed in relation to their biology and the diseases they cause. The focus of the module is pathogenicity: the capacity to cause disease.

We will consider: how the immune system provides protection against infection; how pathogens manage to flourish in the face of the formidable array of host protective mechanisms; how vaccines and drugs can be used in the fight against infection. Considerable emphasis will be placed on critical discussion of these core concepts.

SARS-CoV-2 has, of course, focused attention on infectious diseases and we will consider some key aspects of the virus and disease. However, we will still consider a range of other highly important human pathogens, remembering that our understanding of them has informed our understanding of (and response to) the current pandemic.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module you will have a working knowledge of:

Common infectious diseases and the agents that cause them.
	The factors that influence pathogenicity.
	How the immune system provides protection against infection.
	How vaccines and drugs can be used in the fight against infection.
	How to critically review the development of concepts in this subject.