Biotechnology and Bioengineering

How do we effectively develop both understanding and practical skills in the evolving field of molecular biology? How do we assess the impact of CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing on current biological research and its broader applications? 

In this module, you will embark on a journey to deepen your understanding and enhance your practical skills in molecular biology. Through interactive workshops, hands-on practical sessions, and collaborative group work, you'll be actively engaged in learning key practical and transferable skills vital for any field of biology.  You will take part in an extended mini-project that places you at the forefront of biological innovation, utilising CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing. This cutting-edge technology, complemented by modern genome sequencing technologies, opens a wide array of applications in the biological sciences. By mastering these skills, you'll be equipped to contribute to ground-breaking research and advancements in fields ranging from agriculture to medicine. This module not only prepares you for a career in molecular biological research by giving you a competitive edge in technology but also empowers you to contribute to future scientific breakthroughs.

Biotechnology and its application has had a massive impact on the everyday lives of humans and the environment for thousands of years. This module provides critical perspectives on the most recent developments in biotechnology and their application, providing solutions to health challenges, an ability to feed the world more sustainably, ways of generating energy in a ‘greener’ way, new materials and many more. Specific examples will demonstrate development of findings into commercial application and the process and regulatory structure within which this takes place. Students have the opportunity to explore their own interests in the field and develop ideas that can be applied into application. The role of biotechnology in addressing local and global health, social, economic, and environmental challenges as aligned with the UN sustainable development goals will be considered. The module contains perspective from external speakers in the biotechnology sector, providing professional insights, networking and employment opportunities. 

What are the limits of scientific research? Are scientists allowed to do whatever they like? Which risks (for individuals and/ or society) are acceptable for research? Which responsibility have researchers for how their research findings will be used (for the benefit of humankind or for malevolent causes)? What responsibility do scientists have for the subjects of their research (humans or animals)? Do scientists have to ensure the validity of their research findings (and, if yes, to which extent)? How should scientists communicate their research findings? Are scientists responsible for the (mis)interpretation of their findings? Can scientists also be activists in their field of research (without affecting their scientific credibility)? Do research ethics differ between different settings (e.g. between academia and industry or between basic and applied research)? These are just some questions that you will consider to think about implications of research beyond the immediate scientific content. By doing this, you will acquire core skills on the ethics conduct in the biosciences and beyond. This module will help you to develop into a mature, responsible scientist who does not only know how to tackle a research question but who is also able to consider and judge the ethical and societal implications of their research.

Explore the cutting-edge realms of biotechnology and bioengineering in this dynamic module! From unravelling the mysteries of drug discovery and engineering biology to mastering the art of cell engineering, this course will lead you to the forefront of scientific innovation. Delve into the mechanics of cells and the importance of cellular processes in biotechnology applications, venture into industrial biotechnology's biofuels frontier, and unlock the potential of protein-based drugs and bionanomaterials. Taught by leading academics in their fields, workshops and seminars will immerse you in our latest research, methodologies, advancements, and trends shaping the future of the field, while hands-on practicals will bring theory to life. Join us on this journey of discovery, where your curiosity meets innovation, and together, we will push the boundaries of what's possible in biotechnology and bioengineering!

Biotechnology has the potential to revolutionise many aspects of human life and the natural world, making its understanding essential for informed decision-making and participation in societal debates on its use and regulation. In this module you will develop your skills to become a  well-rounded and professional scientist who is capable of conducting high-quality and original research. You will discuss how to identify and articulate research questions and hypotheses that are relevant to the current challenges and opportunities within the field of biomedicine. You will focus on how to critically evaluate the scientific literature, discerning the quality and relevance of research articles, reviews, and reports in the field of biomedicine, so that you remain up-to-date with the latest research developments to ground your own original research on a solid theoretical framework.  With the help of advanced statistical software you will further develop your skills in critical analysis of scientific data, including training in data management, statistical analysis, and interpretation of results, ensuring that you can draw valid conclusions from your research findings. Finally, you will be shown how to effectively design and communicate an original research proposal to the wider scientific and non-scientific community. Upon completion of this module you will be a confident research professional, able to lead your own research project independently. 

Studying Analytical and Emerging Technologies for Biotechnology and Bioengineering is highly valued in industries such as (bio)pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare, enhancing employability prospects. Understanding and practice of emerging techniques will equip you with the knowledge to innovate in a rapidly evolving field and to tackle current and future challenges. Through an exploration of analytical technologies essential for the analysis of proteins, small molecules, and cells, you will delve into an array of techniques to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying principles of biology and biotechnology. With practical applications to design and implement protocols for the recovery and characterisation of protein molecules from mammalian cell culture, this allows the application of theoretical knowledge to practical settings.  Through a combination of lectures, practical exercises and expert-led sessions, you will acquire an understanding of analytical technologies and their relevance in industrial biotechnology. 

Careers in science and technology involve critical thinking, problem solving, communication and creativity. In this module, you will undertake an independent research project to develop these skills. You will work together with an academic supervisor to address specific scientific questions and design a research project. 

You will be trained in key techniques relating to the project, and work independently under the supervisor's guidance to design and execute experiments to address your research questions. You will learn how to effectively communicate your project and findings in style with scientific conferences and journals.