Biotechnology – BSc (Hons)

The aim of this module is to introduce the core concepts that are fundamental to all biological systems. This includes cell structure and composition, genetics, metabolism, anatomy and physiology of bacteria, fungi, plants and animals, ecosystems and environmental biology.

In this module, the fundamentals of General and Inorganic Chemistry are introduced. The module also is focused on the core areas of Physical Chemistry, and places a strong emphasis on numerical problem-solving. The module is completed by exploring Organic Chemistry. The module has a strong focus on the development of core Chemistry laboratory skills and techniques, with an emphasis on highlighting Chemistry as a core experimental discipline within the STEM domain.

This introductory Physics course is designed to provide students with intuitive mental models of key fundamental principles of Physics, illustrated and reinforced with relevant examples and applications. This course also provides learners with a strong practical foundation in the application of the Scientific Method, as well as a clear understanding of the concept of uncertainty in measurement. Facilitating learners to gain first-hand experience and proficiency of the practical techniques of measurement, data analysis and visualisation, and error analysis is another key part of this module.

The aim of this module is to offer an introduction to scientific mathematics providing the learner with the necessary tools to deal with the quantitative aspects of the discipline and to equip the learner with the technical skills necessary to become proficient in applying the mathematical concepts and tools for calculus to a wide range of context based examples in science.

This module aims to provide students with a range of transferable skills preparing them to learn and work in a scientific field. Students will work on individual and group based projects developing their communication and project management skills as well as their ability to work as part of a team.

The aim of this module is to provide the student with a working knowledge of laboratory practices with a focus on safety.

The aim of this module is to introduce the core concepts that are fundamental to all biological systems. This includes cell structure and composition, genetics, metabolism, anatomy and physiology of bacteria, fungi, plants and animals, ecosystems and environmental biology.

In this module, the fundamentals of General and Inorganic Chemistry are introduced. The module also is focused on the core areas of Physical Chemistry, and places a strong emphasis on numerical problem-solving. The module is completed by exploring Organic Chemistry. The module has a strong focus on the development of core Chemistry laboratory skills and techniques, with an emphasis on highlighting Chemistry as a core experimental discipline within the STEM domain.

This introductory Physics course is designed to provide Chemical and Life Sciences students with intuitive mental models of key fundamental principles of Physics, illustrated and reinforced with relevant examples and applications. This course also provides learners with a strong practical foundation in the application of the Scientific Method, as well as a clear understanding of the concept of uncertainty in measurement. Facilitating learners to gain first-hand experience and proficiency of the practical techniques of measurement, data analysis and visualisation, and error analysis is another key part of this module.

The aim of this module is to offer an introduction to scientific mathematics providing the learner with the necessary tools to deal with the quantitative aspects of the discipline and to equip the learner with the technical skills necessary to become proficient in applying the mathematical concepts and tools for calculus to a wide range of context based examples in science.

The aim of this module is to introduce students to a range of scientific topics relevant to their study programme as well as increase student engagement and problem-solving skills. The module will be delivered through a Team-Based Learning (TBL) strategy that consists of familiarisation with programme-relevant topics, in-class quizzes to assess interpretation followed by team-based discussion to enhance overall understanding

This module provides students with a firm grounding in the basic applications of Information Technology for scientific data analysis. Specifically, this module provides in-depth training in the use of spreadsheet software for collating, analysing and summarising scientific data.

The Gene Technology 2.1 module provides students with a fundamental knowledge of classical genetics upon which a framework can be built, to understand contemporary methods of molecular biology and genetic analysis. The module will introduce students to mendelian genetics, heredity and the solving of inheritance problems, the structure of nucleic acids and genes, and the molecular mechanisms of transcription and protein synthesis.

Biochemistry 2.1 provides students with knowledge and skills to enable engagement with the scientific principles of biomolecule structure, function and physiologic context, with emphasis on the role of biochemistry in clinical medicine, veterinary science, food and biotechnology industries.

This course will develop the students mathematical skills giving them an essential facility to solve problems in the life and physical sciences.

The aim of this module is to examine the chemistry, structure and reactivity of the main functional groups in organic chemistry with a special emphasis on those molecules of biological interest; to develop an understanding and familiarity with mechanistic concepts; and to equip the student with the necessary laboratory skills to carry out a safe synthesis and analysis of a simple organic compound.

This module is an introduction to the theoretical basis of common analytical methods including Spectroscopy and Chromatography Techniques and Titrimetry. This includes UV-Vis, IR, and Fluorescent Spectroscopies, Column, TLC, GC and HPLC chromatrography techniques and common titrimetry methods.

This module builds on fundamental microbiological concepts studied in year 1 Biology and provides the learner with knowledge of general microbiology emphasising asepsis, microbial laboratory methodologies, and an understanding of the role of microorganisms in industry, medicine and the environment.

This Cell Biology module will provide students with the fundamentals of mammalian cell biology. It will involve exploring the components of the cell, their structure, function and location in the cell. The students will be introduced to cell interactions, including cellular interactions with their environments forming tissues. The students will be provided with the opportunity to explore different cell types, their lifecycles and their role in cellular disease, and will introduce special techniques for the study of cell structure and function.

The Gene Technology 2.2 module builds on knowledge gained by the student in the Gene Technology 2.1 module. It introduces students to key themes and experimental techniques in gene regulation, recombinant DNA technology, oncogenes/tumour suppressors, the genetic basis of disease, a fundamental grounding in genetic analysis in forensic science.

Biochemistry 2.2 provides students with an in-depth knowledge of metabolism, enzyme catalysis, endocrine hormones and cellular signalling. Biochemical disturbances underlying various disease states will also be evaluated. Laboratory skills for the isolation and functional analysis of biological macromolecules will be acquired. The relevance of biochemistry concepts and laboratory techniques in medicine, the bio/pharmaceutical and wider industry and in environmental sustainability will be elaborated.

This course will develop the students probability and statistical skills giving them an essential facility to solve problems in the life and physical sciences.

This modules builds on Analytical Techniques 1 by studying further common analytical techniques. These include Atomic Absorption and Emission spectroscopies, Mass spectroscopies including GC/MS, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and X ray analysis. The chromatographic techniques studied include Electrophoresis, Capillary Electrophoresis, Ion Chromatography, SFC and GPC/SEC chromatographies. Other techniques introduced include Radiochemical methods, Thermal Methods of analysis, Microscopic methods and Electrochemical methods.

This module will elaborate on selected topics relating to the molecular biology and genetic engineering of bacteria and yeast. The biotechnological application of bacteria and yeast for the generation of commercially important products and processes will be described. Learners will engage with the practice of various recombinant DNA technologies used for the genetic manipulation and molecular characterisation of microorganisms.

This module will explore the structures and functions of membranes and subcellular organelles in the cell. It will look at membranous organelles in the cell and show how they act as an integrated network for protein and lipid trafficking. The module will also look at how cells communicate with their environment, exploring how these signals are interpreted by the cells resulting unvaried responses and effects in cells. The module also gives the students experience in mammalian cell culture techniques and allows for analysis of data resulting from experiments on these cells.

Students will study the application of recombinant DNA technology and genetic analysis in the context of eukaryotic systems. The genetic modification of eukaryotic cells for heterologous protein expression, and the generation of transgenic organisms will be reviewed. The tools and technologies for analysis of DNA sequence, gene expression and regulation and will be evaluated. The module will present an overview of the application of recombinant DNA technologies in the industrial, agricultural, pharmaceutical and biomedical sectors.

Quality management is a key part of the highly regulated manufacturing of drugs, biologics and devices. The module will give an overview of how quality is maintained throughout the manufacturing process from raw materials all the way through to the finished product. The learner will become familiar with quality systems’ compliance in the manufacturing process and also in the laboratory

In this module the learner will develop their knowledge of the molecular and cellular components of the immune system. The module will enable the learner to acquire a theoretical and practical knowledge of a range of immunotechnologies currently applied for clinical research and diagnostics.

Molecular Biology provides a comprehensive knowledge of the molecular organisation of eukaryotic genes and genome structure. The molecular mechanisms underlying DNA damage, DNA repair and mutagenesis will also be emphasised. The genetic basis of disease and emerging trends in disease gene discovery will also be evaluated.

The Environmental Biotechnology module provides learners with comprehensive information on the diversity of prokaryotes in the biosphere, the central roles they play in different habitats and the suite of molecular biology techniques used to study microbial communities in environmental samples. This module provides a base of knowledge for the year 4 module Advanced Environmental Biotechnology.

The aim of this module is to provide the learner with the opportunity to experience full-time employment in a workplace relevant to their degree where they can apply their academic knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. Ideally, the student will work in a Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility where they will experience the culture, nature and structure of working in a regulated and/or scientific setting.

The list of modules below are the alternative modules to work placement

The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the fundamentals of environmental science and the relevance of sustainability to their course of study. Threats to environmental sustainability such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, pollution, population increase and over harvesting of resources will be investigated in a team-based learning environment. An understanding of potential applications of green technologies, renewable energies and circular economic strategies is the ultimate outcome of this module.

The aim of this module is to provide the student with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of scientists working in the Biotech industry. Students will gain deeper understanding of Quality Systems including compliance and regulatory requirements that underpin work practices in both Laboratory and Manufacturing facilities (cGLP and cGMP). They will develop their understanding of bio-manufactoring facilities, including the key roles that plant layout and utilities (air and water systems) play in achieving required manufacturing standards. They will be introduced to topical Lean practices applied in both manufacturing and laboratory-based environments and will map a product through the key stages of manufacturing/laboratory proceses recognising the role utilities and Lean processes play ensuring a compliant environment is maintained.

This module introduces students to the areas of the life sciences that raise ethical and moral issues regarding human rights and animal welfare. The aim is to explain why some area of the life sciences raise controversial ethical issues, the range of viewpoints that often intertwine with religious and philosophical beliefs and how technological advances can raise new moral dilemmas.

The way in which disease is prevented, detected and trated has been revolutionised by clinical trials, leading to the avoidance of premature death. They continue to be an expanding area of research and are central to the work of pharmaceutical companies. This module will focus on the design, conduct, management, analysis and reporting of clinical trials. It will provide theoretical and practical understanding of the issues involved in the design, conducy, analysis and interpretation of randomised controlled trials of health interventions.

The aim of this module is to introduce the major tenets of analytical biotechnology to students, allowing them to translate knowledge assimilated to unique skill-sets to suit various roles. Students undertaking this module will be provided with a keen awareness of aseptic drug manufacture and the opportunity to discover new and emerging analytical biotechnological techniques and their applications.

This module will expand on the science of genetic disease exploring technological advances emerging from the disciplines of molecular biology and cell biology.. Emerging concepts in disease mechanisms and treatment, such as the role of the microbiome, aging and senescence, non-coding RNA, epigenetics and nanotechnology will be reviewed.

The aim of this module is to introduce students to bioinformatics. Upon completion of this module students should have an appreciation for the principles of current and emerging bioinformatics approaches to addressing biological problems and have gained experience in applying this knowledge in hands on computer based practical sessions.

To provide the student with theoretical and practical knowledge of bioreactors, growth characteristics and uses of industrial cell lines, the structure of industrial bioprocesses and a thorough understanding of the manufacture of biotechnological and biopharmaceutical products

This module focuses on the process of systematic inquiry through to the design of a research study from its inception to the final report. The emphasis will be on active learning and developing students that are self-motivated, critical thinkers that can work independently or as part of a diverse team

This module will provide the learner with a solid foundation in a wide variety of statistical data analysis techniques used in biopharmaceuticals with particular emphasis on the ability to design experiments and critically analyse the data produced. This module will also provide students with a comprehensive knowledge of the principles underpinning validation and qualification of processes, equipment, procedures and systems used in the implementation and maintenance of a compliant biotechnological environment.

Through this module students will learn how to apply their knowledge of analytical biotechnology in both research and industry. Emerging from this course students will envision biotechnology as a global driver of change, integrating new technologies and personalised healthcare.

To provide the student with a thorough understanding of the manufacture of biotechnological/biopharmaceutical products and the latest developments in protein engineering and advanced biological therapeutics.

The aim of the module Advanced Environmental Biotechnology is to acquaint students with the application of microbes and their natural capabilities to solving of modern day environmental and biotechnological problems. Building on knowledge gained from the module Environmental Biotechnology, the module expands into the areas of utilization of microbial activities, secondary metabolites and enzymes for wider biotechnological and environmental purposes.

This aim of this module is to introduce students to current the legal and regulatory rules and compliance criteria associated with development, approval process and manufacture of medicinal products, including pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and medical devices. The module will present the spectrum of regulatory affairs pertaining to specific activities of a company. The major Directives and Statutory Instruments which legally underpin the regulatory requirements for Agricultural Biotechnology and the use of GMOs will also be reviewed

The aim of this module is to provide the student with the opportunity to work independently to develop in-depth knowledge of research design and methodology and to carry out research. The student will at the end of this module have carried out a piece of independent research and disseminated their results via thesis, oral and/or poster presentation. It is expected that the student will spend up to 6hours per week working in the laboratory or at the computer carrying out research as well as a number of hours independent workload completing the final report.