Year
2021
Units
4.5
Contact
1 x 1-hour seminar-2 per semester
1 x 4-hour seminar-1 per semester
12 x 1-hour workshops per semester
2 x 2-hour laboratories per semester
1 x 7-hour independent study weekly
3 x 1.5-hour project works per semester
Assessment
Assignments; Tests.
Topic description

Biotechnology is the use of biological systems to solve practical problems for social and economic benefit. This topic introduces Biotechnology through examples drawn from each of the main areas: Environmental, Food, Plant Science, Medical, Industrial and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. In the process, students learn about the science that underlies Biotechnology and develop the skills required of a Biotechnologist. This topic also develops an understanding of potential career paths for Biotechnologists.

Educational aims

This topic aims to:

  • Develop an understanding of biotechnology through examples
  • Give students an appreciation for the breadth of biotechnology
  • Prepare students to be effective oral, written and interpersonal communicators to a wide range of audiences and using a variety of media
  • Develop awareness of the social impact of biotechnology
  • Develop an understanding of potential career paths in biotechnology and self-reflective practice in skills development
Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:

  1. Explain what biotechnology is and provide examples of its application
  2. Research and explain biotechnology methods
  3. Work individually and in groups to produce a piece of work adhering to the principles of academic integrity
  4. Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of biotechnology methods Search for, retrieve and analyse scientific literature