Course description
Biotechnology is one of the most rapidly growing fields within applied sciences, having applications from the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, through to the enhancement of food production. Due to the potential impact on human life, the importance of biotechnology is currently very high in both the public and scientific agendas.
The main focus of the course will be on 'Molecular Biotechnology'. Molecular biology, (molecular) genetics and bioinformatics form the 'backbone' of Biotechnology, and different aspects of these feature in a number of modules in the course. A thorough understanding of the link between DNA, RNA and protein is pivotal. You will study gene expression and protein production and purification, and applications thereof in different biotechnological fields. In addition to developing subject-based expertise and skills, you will consider the many global issues associated with recent biotechnological advances.
This course will give you access to a field of study which will have a major impact in the future of science. The MSc Biotechnology course is specifically designed to expand your knowledge and insight in the science underpinning biotechnological principles. In addition, it will help you to apply those knowledge and skills in addressing specific biotechnological problems in the fields of animal-, plant- and microbial biotechnology.
The course will enhance your career opportunities in the biotechnological industries, enabling you to take full advantage of opportunities that will ensue from the expansion of this area and/or prepare you for further academic research.
Plant Biotechnology
In this module we will focus on genetically modified (GM) crop plants, explore the biotechnological aspects and discuss how they are engineered. We will then go into detail and study the molecular biology, biochemistry and physiology of GM plants. In all cases, we will also discuss the background of the specific GM plant applications. Why do we need GM plants - do we need them?
Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is the application of computer based tools in the management and analysis of biological data. In this module, we will study prediction tools for subcellular localisation of proteins. Phylogenetic analysis including 16S rRNA analysis, PHYLIP computer analysis, and the production of phylogenetic trees, as well as the statistical analysis of microarray data will all be explored.
Graduate Research Methods
This module will provide you with an opportunity to develop your skills in the use of the literature and in quantitative methods.
Animal Biotechnology
Modern biotechnology has enabled us to create transgenic animals with a range of different uses for mankind. Also, breakthroughs in the last decade means that cloning of higher animals (mammals) is possible - which opens a range of possibilities for research, but also for the biological production of compounds used in medicine, vaccination, or in the agricultural or food sector.
Molecular Biology
The syllabus will be subject to review each year as topics develop, however, the following key topics will be delivered: gene manipulation and cloning vectors: restriction digestions, cloning into vectors, library construction, PCR, genomics and proteomics; and Recombinant Protein Expression: Expression vectors, E. coli expression strains, expression conditions.
Subject Exploration
This module consists of independent group work. In small groups, you will explore a chosen topic in detail. Each of the group members studies an aspect of the topic, and writes a chapter in which this area is critically evaluated. The chapters together with a general introduction form a portfolio which will be assessed.
MSc Project
The project is an important part of the course. Here, you will apply the knowledge and skills obtained in previous modules in a range of IT-, literature-based and lab-based projects.
CAREERS
Upon completion of your MSc, you may wish to apply for a PhD. Alternatively, you may prefer to go directly into employment. Many of our graduates have gone into exciting careers, either in a research capacity or working within the Biotechnology or Biochemistry industry.
APPLICATION DETAIL
Applicants should complete a standard university application form available from the enquiries office listed on the right of this page.
