LQD180 Foundations of Biochemistry
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | LQD180 |
|---|---|
| Equivalent(s): | LQB180 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $1,192 |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $5,364 |
| International unit fee | $6,840 |
Unit Outline: College 1 2026, Kelvin Grove, Internal
| Unit code: | LQD180 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Equivalent: | LQB180 |
Overview
As part of your foundational level studies and training in disciplines related to biomedical and health sciences, you need to develop knowledge and comprehension of biochemistry in order to describe and explain the biomolecular composition of cells that constitute living systems, such as the human body, the structural nature of biomolecules, and the functions of biomolecules in essential life processes.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Describe the general characteristics of the nature of atoms and bioelements and their structural organisation in biomolecules, and apply this understanding to principles of molecular bonding, energy changes and fundamental reactions that are important for living systems.
- Apply a sound comprehension of the general concepts of biomolecular structure and function to solve problems relevant to human biology in health and disease.
- Demonstrate basic competency in laboratory experimentation and scientific communication skills through the recording, analysis and interpretation of experimental results.
- Apply standard health and safety practices in the laboratory and demonstrate awareness of potential risks and hazards.
- Demonstrate the competencies and skills required to analyse biochemical data using formulae to solve problems relevant to human health and disease.
Content
Living systems all seem very complicated, but they are simply collections of large and small organic molecules that function according to the laws of Nature. The content of this unit includes:
- The nature of living matter: structure of atoms and bioelements.
- Molecular bonding, valency and common reactions in aqueous systems.
- Introduction to the nomenclature and structure of common functional organic groups in biomolecules.
- Acids, bases, salts, buffers and pH in living systems.
- Energy, electromagnetic radiation and the properties of light.
- Thermodynamics and bioenergetics.
- The molecular structure and basic functions of the essential biomolecules: carbohydrates; amino acids, peptides and proteins; lipids; and nucleotides, nucleosides and nucleic acids.
- Macronutrients and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).
- Energy generation and energy usage in living organisms and their regulatory processes.
- Introduction to the essential life processes of respiration and cellular communication.
- Quantitative measurements and calculations in biomolecular sciences.
Learning Approaches
This unit takes a flipped approach to learning and teaching. You will be provided with eContent and weekly scheduled classes. eContent will be provided on your Canvas site for you to self-directedly engage with before your classes. The practical sessions in the unit aim to develop your basic laboratory skills, as well as reinforce the basic principles discussed in the lecture material, within a real-world laboratory setting. During your weekly workshop/tutorial sessions you will further explore the key concepts in a collaborative environment. After your weekly classes, you should continue to engage with unit resources to ensure you consolidate your understanding of unit content.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Feedback on your progress in this unit will be provided in various ways, including:
- multiple choice question quizzes and short answer tutorial questions will provide you with self-assessment opportunities on your grasp of the key concepts and expectations of the unit.
- general comments provided verbally in class
- feedback from peers in your tutorials
- general comments provided via the unit's Canvas website
- comments about individual progress included on criteria sheets for summative assessment
Assessment
Overview
Participation in the practical classes is an integral part of your learning experience in LQD180. Continuous feedback features throughout the unit and serves to provide a learning environment that positively reinforces the building of knowledge understanding and skilled practical application. If you are unable to attend a practical session, you should inform the unit coordinator by email and provide supporting documentation for your absence, e.g. medical certificate. For approved absences alternate arrangements may be accommodated. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for any related assessment.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Report
In the role of a biochemical analyst, you will critically evaluate biochemical data from three patients, who have undergone a standard laboratory test to assess their health situation, and make a diagnostic assessment of their respective conditions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details page for specific guidelines.
This assessment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Laboratory/Practical
Undertaking the role of a laboratory scientist, you will perform fundamental lab tasks to generate data and analyse and interpret the results. You will be required to complete the report templates within your lab manual and submit these at the end of each session to the scientific supervisor for immediate (in-class) feedback. You will also be required to perform mathematical calculations relevant to the preparation of buffers, reagents, and data sets pertinent to general and specific laboratory activities practised in the real-world.
You are expected to participate in all practical classes. Assessment of your laboratory work will be through your completion of the report templates in your laboratory manual which focuses on conceptual understanding and problem-solving, good record keeping, and applying good health and safety practices, safe chemical handling, and risk identification.
If you are unable to attend a practical session due to medical or special circumstances, you must inform the unit coordinator by email and provide satisfactory supporting documentation for your absence on or within two days of the missed practical class. Students with acceptable supporting evidence of bona fide absenteeism can be approved for a deferred assessment. Please discuss with the Unit Coordinator directly. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for related assessment.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is not authorised in this assessment.
Assessment: Final Examination
You will undertake the role of a graduate scientist and demonstrate your understanding of fundamental biochemical constructs and theories often discussed and used in the real-world interpretation of experimental and biological systems. Moreover, you will be required to solve authentic quantitative and case-study based questions, such as those encountered in the laboratory environment, which are performed often in the real-world practices of a graduate scientist and the biochemist or molecular biologist.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited in this assessment.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
Practicals will require personal protective equipment supplied by each student:
1. Laboratory Gown - Rear fastening 100% cotton or polyester/cotton mix
2. Safety eye protection glasses - selected and used in accordance with Australian Safety Standards
3. Fully enclosed non-slip shoes.
Resources
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
LQD180 Practical Manual
Recommended text(s)
Alberts B, Hopkin K, Johnson AD, Morgan D, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P. Essential Cell Biology. 5th ed., WW Norton & Co. (2018).
Crowe J, Bradshaw T. Chemistry for the Biosciences: the essential concepts. 4th ed., OUP (2021).
OpenStax, Biology 2e., (2018) https://openstax.org/details/books/biology-2e?Book%20details
OpenStax, Chemistry Atoms First (2016) https://openstax.org/details/books/chemistry-atoms-first
Voet D, Voet JG, Pratt CW. Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the molecular level. 5th ed., Wiley (2017).
Risk Assessment Statement
This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You are required to view a Health & Safety Induction video and complete an online health and safety quiz prior to being permitted into the laboratory, to access please follow this link Health & Safety Induction. A passing score of 10/10 is required and will be checked prior to entry to the first laboratory session. You may repeat the quiz until this score is achieved. You are also referred to the Health & Safety Web Site for further information.
If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.
Unit Outline: College 2 2026, Kelvin Grove, Internal
| Unit code: | LQD180 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Equivalent: | LQB180 |
Overview
As part of your foundational level studies and training in disciplines related to biomedical and health sciences, you need to develop knowledge and comprehension of biochemistry in order to describe and explain the biomolecular composition of cells that constitute living systems, such as the human body, the structural nature of biomolecules, and the functions of biomolecules in essential life processes.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Describe the general characteristics of the nature of atoms and bioelements and their structural organisation in biomolecules, and apply this understanding to principles of molecular bonding, energy changes and fundamental reactions that are important for living systems.
- Apply a sound comprehension of the general concepts of biomolecular structure and function to solve problems relevant to human biology in health and disease.
- Demonstrate basic competency in laboratory experimentation and scientific communication skills through the recording, analysis and interpretation of experimental results.
- Apply standard health and safety practices in the laboratory and demonstrate awareness of potential risks and hazards.
- Demonstrate the competencies and skills required to analyse biochemical data using formulae to solve problems relevant to human health and disease.
Content
Living systems all seem very complicated, but they are simply collections of large and small organic molecules that function according to the laws of Nature. The content of this unit includes:
- The nature of living matter: structure of atoms and bioelements.
- Molecular bonding, valency and common reactions in aqueous systems.
- Introduction to the nomenclature and structure of common functional organic groups in biomolecules.
- Acids, bases, salts, buffers and pH in living systems.
- Energy, electromagnetic radiation and the properties of light.
- Thermodynamics and bioenergetics.
- The molecular structure and basic functions of the essential biomolecules: carbohydrates; amino acids, peptides and proteins; lipids; and nucleotides, nucleosides and nucleic acids.
- Macronutrients and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).
- Energy generation and energy usage in living organisms and their regulatory processes.
- Introduction to the essential life processes of respiration and cellular communication.
- Quantitative measurements and calculations in biomolecular sciences.
Learning Approaches
This unit takes a flipped approach to learning and teaching. You will be provided with eContent and weekly scheduled classes. eContent will be provided on your Canvas site for you to self-directedly engage with before your classes. The practical sessions in the unit aim to develop your basic laboratory skills, as well as reinforce the basic principles discussed in the lecture material, within a real-world laboratory setting. During your weekly workshop/tutorial sessions you will further explore the key concepts in a collaborative environment. After your weekly classes, you should continue to engage with unit resources to ensure you consolidate your understanding of unit content.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Feedback on your progress in this unit will be provided in various ways, including:
- multiple choice question quizzes and short answer tutorial questions will provide you with self-assessment opportunities on your grasp of the key concepts and expectations of the unit.
- general comments provided verbally in class
- feedback from peers in your tutorials
- general comments provided via the unit's Canvas website
- comments about individual progress included on criteria sheets for summative assessment
Assessment
Overview
Participation in the practical classes is an integral part of your learning experience in LQD180. Continuous feedback features throughout the unit and serves to provide a learning environment that positively reinforces the building of knowledge understanding and skilled practical application. If you are unable to attend a practical session, you should inform the unit coordinator by email and provide supporting documentation for your absence, e.g. medical certificate. For approved absences alternate arrangements may be accommodated. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for any related assessment.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Report
In the role of a biochemical analyst, you will critically evaluate biochemical data from three patients, who have undergone a standard laboratory test to assess their health situation, and make a diagnostic assessment of their respective conditions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details page for specific guidelines.
This assessment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Laboratory/Practical
Undertaking the role of a laboratory scientist, you will perform fundamental lab tasks to generate data and analyse and interpret the results. You will be required to complete the report templates within your lab manual and submit these at the end of each session to the scientific supervisor for immediate (in-class) feedback. You will also be required to perform mathematical calculations relevant to the preparation of buffers, reagents, and data sets pertinent to general and specific laboratory activities practised in the real-world.
You are expected to participate in all practical classes. Assessment of your laboratory work will be through your completion of the report templates in your laboratory manual which focuses on conceptual understanding and problem-solving, good record keeping, and applying good health and safety practices, safe chemical handling, and risk identification.
If you are unable to attend a practical session due to medical or special circumstances, you must inform the unit coordinator by email and provide satisfactory supporting documentation for your absence on or within two days of the missed practical class. Students with acceptable supporting evidence of bona fide absenteeism can be approved for a deferred assessment. Please discuss with the Unit Coordinator directly. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for related assessment.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is not authorised in this assessment.
Assessment: Final Examination
You will undertake the role of a graduate scientist and demonstrate your understanding of fundamental biochemical constructs and theories often discussed and used in the real-world interpretation of experimental and biological systems. Moreover, you will be required to solve authentic quantitative and case-study based questions, such as those encountered in the laboratory environment, which are performed often in the real-world practices of a graduate scientist and the biochemist or molecular biologist.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited in this assessment.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
Practicals will require personal protective equipment supplied by each student:
1. Laboratory Gown - Rear fastening 100% cotton or polyester/cotton mix
2. Safety eye protection glasses - selected and used in accordance with Australian Safety Standards
3. Fully enclosed non-slip shoes.
Resources
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
LQD180 Practical Manual
Recommended text(s)
Alberts B, Hopkin K, Johnson AD, Morgan D, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P. Essential Cell Biology. 5th ed., WW Norton & Co. (2018).
Crowe J, Bradshaw T. Chemistry for the Biosciences: the essential concepts. 4th ed., OUP (2021).
OpenStax, Biology 2e., (2018) https://openstax.org/details/books/biology-2e?Book%20details
OpenStax, Chemistry Atoms First (2016) https://openstax.org/details/books/chemistry-atoms-first
Voet D, Voet JG, Pratt CW. Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the molecular level. 5th ed., Wiley (2017).
Risk Assessment Statement
This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You are required to view a Health & Safety Induction video and complete an online health and safety quiz prior to being permitted into the laboratory, to access please follow this link Health & Safety Induction. A passing score of 10/10 is required and will be checked prior to entry to the first laboratory session. You may repeat the quiz until this score is achieved. You are also referred to the Health & Safety Web Site for further information.
If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.
Unit Outline: College Summer 2026, Kelvin Grove, Internal
| Unit code: | LQD180 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Equivalent: | LQB180 |
Overview
As part of your foundational level studies and training in disciplines related to biomedical and health sciences, you need to develop knowledge and comprehension of biochemistry in order to describe and explain the biomolecular composition of cells that constitute living systems, such as the human body, the structural nature of biomolecules, and the functions of biomolecules in essential life processes.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Describe the general characteristics of the nature of atoms and bioelements and their structural organisation in biomolecules, and apply this understanding to principles of molecular bonding, energy changes and fundamental reactions that are important for living systems.
- Apply a sound comprehension of the general concepts of biomolecular structure and function to solve problems relevant to human biology in health and disease.
- Demonstrate basic competency in laboratory experimentation and scientific communication skills through the recording, analysis and interpretation of experimental results.
- Apply standard health and safety practices in the laboratory and demonstrate awareness of potential risks and hazards.
- Demonstrate the competencies and skills required to analyse biochemical data using formulae to solve problems relevant to human health and disease.
Content
Living systems all seem very complicated, but they are simply collections of large and small organic molecules that function according to the laws of Nature. The content of this unit includes:
- The nature of living matter: structure of atoms and bioelements.
- Molecular bonding, valency and common reactions in aqueous systems.
- Introduction to the nomenclature and structure of common functional organic groups in biomolecules.
- Acids, bases, salts, buffers and pH in living systems.
- Energy, electromagnetic radiation and the properties of light.
- Thermodynamics and bioenergetics.
- The molecular structure and basic functions of the essential biomolecules: carbohydrates; amino acids, peptides and proteins; lipids; and nucleotides, nucleosides and nucleic acids.
- Macronutrients and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).
- Energy generation and energy usage in living organisms and their regulatory processes.
- Introduction to the essential life processes of respiration and cellular communication.
- Quantitative measurements and calculations in biomolecular sciences.
Learning Approaches
This unit takes a flipped approach to learning and teaching. You will be provided with eContent and weekly scheduled classes. eContent will be provided on your Canvas site for you to self-directedly engage with before your classes. The practical sessions in the unit aim to develop your basic laboratory skills, as well as reinforce the basic principles discussed in the lecture material, within a real-world laboratory setting. During your weekly workshop/tutorial sessions you will further explore the key concepts in a collaborative environment. After your weekly classes, you should continue to engage with unit resources to ensure you consolidate your understanding of unit content.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Feedback on your progress in this unit will be provided in various ways, including:
- multiple choice question quizzes and short answer tutorial questions will provide you with self-assessment opportunities on your grasp of the key concepts and expectations of the unit.
- general comments provided verbally in class
- feedback from peers in your tutorials
- general comments provided via the unit's Canvas website
- comments about individual progress included on criteria sheets for summative assessment
Assessment
Overview
Participation in the practical classes is an integral part of your learning experience in LQD180. Continuous feedback features throughout the unit and serves to provide a learning environment that positively reinforces the building of knowledge understanding and skilled practical application. If you are unable to attend a practical session, you should inform the unit coordinator by email and provide supporting documentation for your absence, e.g. medical certificate. For approved absences alternate arrangements may be accommodated. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for any related assessment.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Report
In the role of a biochemical analyst, you will critically evaluate biochemical data from three patients, who have undergone a standard laboratory test to assess their health situation, and make a diagnostic assessment of their respective conditions.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details (Canvas) page for specific guidelines.
This assessment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Assessment: Laboratory/Practical
Undertaking the role of a laboratory scientist, you will perform fundamental lab tasks to generate data and analyse and interpret the results. You will be required to complete the report templates within your lab manual and submit these at the end of each session to the scientific supervisor for immediate (in-class) feedback. You will also be required to perform mathematical calculations relevant to the preparation of buffers, reagents, and data sets pertinent to general and specific laboratory activities practised in the real-world.
Assessment of your laboratory work will be in the form of the laboratory practical manual that focuses on conceptual understanding and problem-solving, good record keeping, and applying good health and safety practices, safe chemical handling, and risk identification.
You are expected to participate in all practical classes. If you are unable to attend a practical session due to medical or special circumstances, you must inform the unit coordinator by email and provide satisfactory supporting documentation for your absence on or within two days of the missed practical class. Please discuss with the Unit Coordinator directly. In the case of unapproved absence from practicals, no marks will be given for related assessment.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited in this assessment.
Assessment: Final Examination
This examination assesses your understanding of fundamental biochemical concepts and theories often discussed and used in the real-world interpretation of experimental and biological systems. There will also be case-study based questions, such as those encountered in the laboratory environment, which are part of the real-world practice of a graduate scientist.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited in this assessment.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
Practicals will require personal protective equipment supplied by each student:
1. Laboratory Gown - Rear fastening 100% cotton or polyester/cotton mix
2. Safety eye protection glasses - selected and used in accordance with Australian Safety Standards
3. Fully enclosed non-slip shoes.
Resources
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
LQD180 Practical Manual
Recommended text(s)
Alberts B, Hopkin K, Johnson AD, Morgan D, Raff M, Roberts K, Walter P. Essential Cell Biology. 5th ed., WW Norton & Co. (2018).
Crowe J, Bradshaw T. Chemistry for the Biosciences: the essential concepts. 4th ed., OUP (2021).
OpenStax, Biology 2e., (2018) https://openstax.org/details/books/biology-2e?Book%20details
OpenStax, Chemistry Atoms First (2016) https://openstax.org/details/books/chemistry-atoms-first
Voet D, Voet JG, Pratt CW. Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the molecular level. 5th ed., Wiley (2017).
Risk Assessment Statement
This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You are required to view a Health & Safety Induction video and complete an online health and safety quiz prior to being permitted into the laboratory, to access please follow this link Health & Safety Induction. A passing score of 10/10 is required and will be checked prior to entry to the first laboratory session. You may repeat the quiz until this score is achieved. You are also referred to the Health & Safety Web Site for further information.
If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.HL11 Diploma in Health Science (Health Studies)
- Demonstrate broad, foundational knowledge and skills for future studies in a range of health science disciplines.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO3, ULO4, ULO5, Report, Laboratory/Practical, Final Examination - Apply critical thinking, judgement and evaluative skills to the analysis and synthesis of a range of predictable problems related to the health and wellbeing of individuals and/or groups in the community.
Relates to: ULO2, Report, Laboratory/Practical