Course description
Molecular Biology and DNA Technology
This module concerns the latest advances in and techniques used for the study of information flow in organisms, and concentrates on applications of DNA technology in gene therapy, analysis of gene expression and topical research areas.
Cell Culture and Antibody Technology
In this module you will study production, maintenance and applications of animal cell cultures and antibodies (both monoclonal and polyclonal), and the use of immunochemical techniques (e.g. ELISA, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry) for analysis and therapy. You will also investigate the use of cellular systems for the study of mechanisms of toxicity and cell signalling pathways.
Enzyme Technology and Biocatalysis
This module investigates the commercial application of enzymes, enzyme purification and the theoretical background to enzyme activity in free, immobilised and whole cell preparations, and in extreme environments such as at high temperature and in non-aqueous reactors. Future industrial applications of biocatalysts, modification of enzymes as diagnostic tools and biosensors are also covered.
Business and Bioethics
In this module you will look at key commercial and ethical issues in research and development in the fields of applied bioscience. Working as a member of a team, you will take such issues into consideration in the formulation of a business plan designed to promote a specific project for commercial development.
Research Methods
In this module you will develop your skills in the use of software packages for statistical analysis of data. You will learn how to plan, write and deliver oral presentations and research proposals. There will also be sessions involving critical appraisal of scientific papers and the preparation of poster presentations.
Microbial Physiology and Genomics
In this module you will study the physiology, growth and environmental adaptation of microbes. You will also learn about the diversity of microbial genomes and the use of modern genomic and bioinformatics approaches to the study of metabolic pathways, virulence factors, etc.
Either: Special Topics in Molecular Biology
or:
Fermentation Technology
In this module you will undertake a series of integrative practical classes that brings together areas of knowledge gained in Cell Culture and Antibody Technology and Molecular Biology and DNA Technology. You will also take a detailed look at specific applications of molecular approaches in plant and fungal biotechnology.
In this module you will develop a good understanding of microbial products on an industrial scale, by looking at the nutrient and environmental factors that influence production. You will also study specific examples of commercial production from microbes.
Research Project
The course is completed with a five-month laboratory based research project. You may carry out the work either in the School or in another academic or industrial research laboratory in the UK or abroad, subject to approval by the Course Team.
You may prefer to take a shorter programme of study. If you take modules 1 to 7 you will be eligible for a PGDip in Biotechnology.
Study routes
This course will be delivered through lectures, laboratory classes, demonstrations, computer packages, and project work. We have state-of-the-art lecture, computing, library and laboratory facilities.
There will be various support mechanisms to help and advise you, including email contact with all tutors, a virtual learning environment for course information and messages, and pastoral support from our International Coordinator and Postgraduate Courses Administrator. The University offers an induction programme for international students, and English language classes if required.
Assessment
Modules assessed by a variety of different types of course work including written assignments, oral presentations and poster presentations, and examinations. The Research Project will involve the design, implementation and reporting of a major research task.
