Biotechnology (Add on) – BSc

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.

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.

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.