BTH1802 · Trends in biotechnology

Overview

This unit provides a comprehensive overview of classical and modern biotechnology, as well as recent advancements and new directions in biotechnology. This unit covers a wide range of topics, including recent developments in molecular biology, biochemistry and microbiology, and their applications in agriculture, the food industry, medicine and the environment. It also introduces the increasing role of bioinformatics and OMICS technologies in research and development. You will explore the impact of biotechnology on healthcare through the development of vaccines, personalized medicines and innovative gene therapies, as well as its applications in agriculture to create genetically modified crops to improve food security. This unit also addresses the safety, ethical, legal and societal implications of biotechnological innovations and promotes critical thinking about the responsibilities and challenges facing biotechnologists. Through invited lectures from industry experts and hands-on activities, you will gain practical insights and develop a nuanced understanding of how cutting-edge biotechnology trends are shaping the future of science and society. The aim of this unit is to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and navigate the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental techniques and the basic principles of molecular biology, biochemistry and microbiology, including emerging trends in biotechnology, and their applications in agriculture, healthcare and the environment;
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of the OMICS technologies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, and their applications to scientific research;
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic concepts of biotechnology business, intellectual property rights, and the regulatory framework governing the biotechnology industry;
4. Explain ethical issues related to biotechnology, such as genetic modifications and bioprospecting, and consider societal implications of biotechnological advancements; and
5. Communicate scientific findings related to biotechnology, both verbally and in writing, using appropriate terminologies and formats effectively.

Workload

The semester workload requirement for this unit is 144 hours that includes scheduled learning activities (58 hours, made up of 36 hours lecture and 24 hours tutorials) and independent study (86 hours). Weekly workload consists of: • Three 1-hour lectures; • One 2-hour tutorial and • Seven hours of independent study.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.