Biotechnology (Add on) – BSc (Hons)

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.