BTEC7005A Advanced Biotechnology Practice (Biological Sciences) (4.5/22.5 units)

This topic is taught and assessed as a continuum.

This topic comprises a major research project in which the student is required to engage in individually supervised research, presenting results in the form of a thesis and seminars. It is expected that this work will be conducted in the research laboratories located at Flinders University, or in conjunction with other suitable laboratories for which relevant and adequate facilities and immediate supervision exists, either in academia or industry. All areas of contemporary biotechnology are open, with the research including any bioscience activity which is either fundamental in nature, or more applied, and having distinct economic or social objectives.

This topic aims to provide students with:

• The opportunity to spend two semesters working on a research project in a specialised area of biotechnology. This extends undergraduate skills by demonstrating ability to work in a research environment to solve complex problems for the economic and social benefit of society
• Experience in experimental design, critical analysis of scientific data, project management, advanced technical skills, and use of state-of the art equipment
• The opportunity to write an honours thesis and present oral presentations of the related research project. This extends undergraduate skills in written and oral scientific communication
• The skills and experience advantageous to obtaining a job or to pursue post-graduate study by development of the skills of a practitioner in the interdisciplinary, global biotechnology industry

1. Successfully carry out a research project in a specialised area of biotechnology and communicate their findings in the form of a thesis and oral presentations
2. Demonstrate the ability to work in a research environment in an independent manner, while also learning how to be part of an active research team
3. Demonstrate the ability to carry out experimental design, critical analysis of scientific data, records management, advanced technical skills, and use of state-of the art equipment. This involves critical reflection and learning