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BT5510: ADVANCED BIOTECHNOLOGY (2018-2019)

Last modified: 22 May 2019 17:07


Course Overview

This course will take the student through in depth study of how synthetic biology and systems biology are transforming the  principles and practice of modern biotechnology. The course will teach modern methods of biotechnology including host cell design and optimisation using modern modelling techniques, leading to an understanding of how multiple genes under precise regulatory control can be introduced into a species to endow it with new biotechnologically-valuable properties.

Through hands on study of synthetic biological processes in a series of workshops, students will learn how advanced genetic engineering of host expression systems can transform production of pharmaceuticals, chemical feedstocks and biofuels. The course will equip students with a range of knowledge and skills directly relevant to modern biosciences, including the biotechnology industry.

Course Details

Study Type Postgraduate Level 5
Term Second Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus Old Aberdeen Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Professor Ian Stansfield

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

None.

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

This course focuses on an understanding of advanced biotechnology through study of the use of synthetic biology in modern biotechnological processes. Through detailed study of the principles and practice of introducing multiple genes, and thus complete new biochemical pathways into host cell expression systems, the role of synthetic biology in biotechnology will be explored. The course will show how synthetic biology, combined with systems biology and mathematical modelling, can optimise protein expression, and utilise host cell metabolism to produce small molecules for use as chemical feedstocks, antibiotics and pharmaceuticals. Through case studies, the course will also explore how modern biotechnological processes are developed to the point of commercial success.  


Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

Poster production (30%); Short report on a biotechnological process (20%); Workshop report (50%).

Resit: viva exam with two members of academic staff

Formative Assessment

There are no assessments for this course.

Feedback

Written feedback and rubric feedback provided on all threee pieces of assessment.

Course Learning Outcomes

None.

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