Outline

Overview

Viruses are some of the simplest biological machinery known yet they are also the etiological agents for some of the most important human diseases. New technologies that have revolutionised the discovery of viruses are also revealing a hitherto unappreciated abundance and diversity in the ecosphere, and a wider role in human health and disease. Developing new gene technologies have enabled the use of viruses as therapeutic agents, in novel vaccine approaches, gene delivery and in the treatment of cancer. This unit of study is designed to introduce students who have a basic understanding of molecular biology to the rapidly evolving field of virology. Viral infection in plant and animal cells and bacteria is covered by an examination of virus structure, genomes, gene expression and replication. Building upon these foundations, this unit progresses to examine host-virus interactions, pathogenesis, cell injury, the immune response and the prevention and control of infection and outbreaks. The structure and replication of sub-viral agents: viroids and prions, and their role in disease are also covered. The practical component provides hands-on experience in current diagnostic and research techniques such as molecular biology, cell culture, serological techniques, immunofluorescence and immunoblot analyses and is designed to enhance the students' practical skills and complement the lecture series. In these practical sessions experience will be gained handling live, potentially pathogenic microbes. Students will deliver presentations that cover a range of topical issues in virology and how they are presented in the media. Students will develop their communication and critical thinking skills. The unit will be taught by the Discipline of Microbiology within the School of Life and Environmental Sciences with the involvement of the Discipline of Infectious Diseases and Immunology within the Sydney Medical School.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	6 credit points from (MIMI2X02 or MEDS2004 or MICR2X22 or BMED2404)
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	VIRO3901
Assumed knowledge ?	Fundamental concepts of microorganisms, biomolecules and ecosystems
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Timothy Newsome, timothy.newsome@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Main exam Written exam under supervised conditions	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Q&A following presentation, submission or placement	Q&A following presentation Q&A following presentation	5%	Multiple weeks	5 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Lectorial quizzes MCQs delivered online in lectorials (best 10 out of 12)	10%	Multiple weeks	12 x 5 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Practical assessment 5 x 3–4 pages/short presentation: (4%+4%+5%+5%+8%) assessments.	26%	Multiple weeks	5 x 3–4 pages/short presentation.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Presentation Presentation critically evaluating primary virology research and media.	15%	Multiple weeks	15 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Evaluation	Presentation feedback Applying rubrics and feedback to peer draft presentation.	4%	Week 08 Due date: 24 Apr 2026 at 18:00 Closing date: 29 Apr 2026	3–4 pages	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Practical assessment: This assessment tests the students’ comprehension of the background material, the results obtained and their interpretation and assimilation of the results. There five practicals assessments covering Practical classes 2-7 and include short answer questions, calculations and a short presentation.
Presentation: This is a group activity (3-4 students) and concerns the presentation of a primary piece of literature that has recently been covered in the media. Students will critically analyse the original article how the finding was represented in media source. Failure to submit a draft presentation by the draft deadline incurs a penalty of 10% of the final mark of the assessment.
Presentation feedback: presentation groups assess, provide feedback on, and apply assessment rubrics to the draft presentation of a peer group.
Lectorial quizzes: in each lectorial weeks 2-13 students there are two MCQs delivered through Canvas. The weekly quiz is worth a total of 1 mark (0.5 marks/MCQ) and the best 10 marks of 12 marks will contribute 10% to the final grade. A student who is unable to attend 10 lectorials due to unavoidable clashes or illness will be offered an alternative assessment in the form of an oral, in-person assessment.
Final exam: Assess achievement of unit learning outcomes of the Unit of Study, explicitly focused on the learning outcomes covered in the Lecture material. This assessment comprises short answer questions. This assessment is a hurdle task with a minimum standard of 40% and failure to attend, attempt, or submit will result in the award of an AF grade. If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

Detailed information for each assessment and late penalties can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject as well as a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding to produce original solutions for novel or highly complex problems and/or comprehensive critical discussions of theoretical concepts.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a well-developed understanding of the unit material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply their subject knowledge and understanding of the subject to produce good solutions for challenging problems and/or a reasonably well-developed critical analysis of theoretical concepts.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad general understanding of the unit material and can solve routine problems and/or identify and superficially discuss theoretical concepts.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Multiple weeks	Fundamental concepts in virology including replication, classification and structure.	Lecture (5 hr)
	Host-pathogen interactions during viral infection including bacteriophage, plant viruses, the immune response to viruses, virus evolution and ONE Health	Lecture (9 hr)
	Key examples of human viral pathogens	Lecture (11 hr)
	Experimental design, critical thinking and practical skill used in experimental virology.	Practical (26 hr)
Week 11	Critical evaluation of primary virology research paper and use of experimental techniques to test scientific hypotheses.	Workshop (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Students are expected to attend at least 80% of timetabled activities as defined in the unit of study outline. Timetabled activities include lectorials, practical classes, tutorials, and presentations. A student may fail this unit of study because of inadequate attendance. Students must attend a minimum of four of the Practical classes (Practicals 2–7) as defined in the unit of study outline. A student may fail this unit of study because of inadequate attendance.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed through the Library eReserve, available on Canvas.

Knipe and Howley. Fields Virology. 6th edition 2013. Available freely as an electronic resource from the University of Sydney library.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Define the key characteristics of viruses that distinguish them from other agents of disease such as bacteria, sub-viral particles and prions. Describe the role of viruses as agents of disease, their function in the ecosphere, abundance and diversity.
LO2. Explain how different classes of viruses replicate, and the impact of genome type on replication and virus structure.
LO3. Explain how the immune system is able to combat viral infections and confer immunity, and the various ways viruses have evolved to circumvent this control mechanism. Explain how viral diseases emerge and the threat posed to public health. Explain how anti-viral drugs and vaccination act to limit virus replication.
LO4. Perform basic cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, diagnostic and molecular techniques used in a modern virology laboratory, and explain the scientific principles behind these techniques
LO5. Critically evaluate experimental approaches used in virology to formulate and test hypotheses.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Changes to implement secure and open assessments in response to developments in generative artificial intelligence. Simplification of assessment by removal of theory of practise assessment and preparation quizzes in response to student feedback. Following changes in unit delivery to single lectorial/week, addition of lectorial quizzes.

Additional information

Immunocompetence: In this unit you will gain experience handling potentially pathogenic microbes. You are strongly advised to contact the unit coordinator if you have any predisposing condition or issue that might be relevant to your participation in these practical sessions.

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
A laboratory coat and closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

VIRO3001: Virology

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links