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Engineering Replacement Body Parts

When you'll study it
Semester 2
CATS points
15
ECTS points
7.5
Level
Level 5
Module lead
Nicholas Evans
Academic year
2025-26

Module overview

Do you want to find out how stem cells are being used to help treat disease and allow us to live better, for longer? And are you interested in the controversy surrounding them?

Do you want to find out what tissue engineering is, and how scientists are building replacement organs in the lab?

Are you fascinated by how engineering can help those who have lost limbs walk, and allow those who are deaf to hear again? And also how these same technologies may lead to ethical and legal questions concerning their correct use in society?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you will enjoy learning about this fascinating subject in this innovative module. No prerequisite knowledge is necessary, so don't be daunted by the science, engineering, ethics or legal aspects of this module.

The module explores the potential of stem cells, engineered tissues and implanted devices in medicine, and how these technological advances may have an impact on law and ethics of our societies. The module will use a number of learning methods, including traditional lectures, interactive seminars, facilitated group discussion, a mock 'trial', a field trip to a medical device manufacturer, laboratory masterclasses, and design project work.

During the module, you will both learn about the science underlying the new technologies in question, and you will be encouraged to discuss the impact of these emerging technologies on our societies in the future. Particular emphasis will be placed on the ethics of some of the technologies and how the use can be encouraged and their misuse prevented.

This is an interdisciplinary module. http://southampton.likn.co/cip/information_for_students/interdisciplinary_and_other_modules/index.page?