Introductory description

This module is an introduction to the molecular biology and genetic engineering principles essential to an understanding of the science underpinning biotechnology.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The module begins with a brief review of cell structure and function before considering the biochemistry of the cell, particularly protein structure and function, biomembranes and cell architecture.
Industrial microbiology – metabolic and process diversity. Production of cell biomass and primary cellular metabolites. Secondary metabolites and antibiotic production. High value metabolites – vitamins, hormones, extremo-enzymes and microbial enzymes.
This is followed by the molecular structure of genes and chromosomes leading to the introduction of molecular genetic techniques and genomics.
The module is then focused on gene cloning and DNA analysis:

• the basic principles of gene cloning and DNA analysis;
• the applications of gene cloning and DNA analysis in research;
• the applications of gene cloning and DNA analysis in biotechnology.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate a broad knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of biotechnology and the importance of microorganisms in the development, exploitation and commercialisation of biological processes.
• Recognise and analyse the problems associated with the development and use of biological systems in a commercial process.
• Discuss the underlying principles associated with the transition of processes from the laboratory to the industrial scale.
• Undertake literature/database searches to research the biotechnology related discipline.
• Demonstrate an understanding of ethical issues pertinent to biotechnology.
• Discuss the underlying principles associated with the transition of processes from the laboratory to the industrial scale.
• Work in multi-disciplinary and multi-skilled teams to solve biotechnological problems.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module

Subject specific skills

Demonstrate a broad knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of biotechnology and the importance of microorganisms in the development, exploitation and commercialisation of biological processes.
Recognise and analyse the problems associated with the development and use of biological systems in a commercial process.
Discuss the underlying principles associated with the transition of processes from the laboratory to the industrial scale.

Transferable skills

Undertake literature/database searches.
Work in multi-disciplinary and multi-skilled teams to solve problems.
Demonstrate an understanding of ethical issues pertinent to biotechnology.