CHE5321 · Advanced bioprocess technology

Overview

The unit explores how scalable commercially viable process-unit operations are harnessed by the biotechnology industry for the sustainable processing of biomolecules such as recombinant proteins, vaccines, enzymes, nucleic acids, biochemicals and bioplastics. Bioprocess engineering concepts will be developed within workshops and practice classes complemented with practical laboratory sessions. There will also be an opportunity for activities where, both individually and within teams, you will design your own biological engineering solutions to important issues or opportunities. You will learn about the wider biotechnology environment, especially regarding GxP, national and international regulations, ethics, biosafety and commercialisation, and its application to pharmaceutical, food and beverage, waste materials, food and water, bioenergy, and bioplastics sectors.

Areas of study: E6014 Master of Engineering - Specialisation: Biological engineering E6017 Master of Advanced Engineering - Specialisation: Bioresource engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Continuous assessment: 70% Final assessment: 30% This unit contains threshold hurdle requirements that you must achieve to be able to pass the unit. You are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component and at least 45% in the final assessment component. The consequence of not achieving a hurdle requirement is a fail grade (NH) and a maximum mark of 45 for the 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. Explain how separations, mass transfer, fluid dynamics and biocatalysis principles are applied in bioprocessing.
2. Assess the performance of bioprocessing operations including cell processing, product extraction and purification and troubleshoot operational problems.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the socio-economic context of advanced bioprocessing, such as quality control and assurance, regulatory and ethical responsibilities, in assessing complex problems.
4. Solve open-ended problems by investigating emerging trends in the field and identifying and proposing creative processes.
5. Collaborate effectively with others by utilising your team’s diverse abilities and perspectives.
6. Communicate complex concepts within a range of settings, including oral presentations and written reports.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

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