Applied Biotechnology MSc

Large databases yield information about DNA, RNA and protein variation between individuals and species and bioinformatics is a crucial component of molecular biology. Polymorphisms, epigenetics and microRNA have all greatly enhanced our knowledge about regulation of gene expression. This module will look at applications of a range of advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR gene editing, next generation sequencing, microarrays, quantitative and multiplex PCR alongside our knowledge of
OMICS and gene expression databases.

This module integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to develop a comprehensive proficiency in fermentation technology. Key topics include culture media, microbial strain/culture selection and development, microbial/animal cell culture, sterilisation, modes and types of fermentation, oxygen requirement for culture, fermentation control systems, mixing, rheology, fermenter types and designs, and scale-up/down.  The training you will receive in fermentation technology impacts several key Sustainable Development goals such as: 1) Good Health and Wellbeing: Fermentation is utilised to create health-enhancing products like probiotics and enzymes, promoting digestive health, immune system support, and overall well-being; 2) Affordable and Clean Energy: Fermentation enables the generation of biofuels. This aids the transition towards sustainable and clean energy sources.

The module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that underpin the integration of biotechnology with sustainability goals. You will explore how biotechnology can contribute to environmentally-friendly and socially responsible solutions, addressing challenges such as resource depletion and climate change. The module will cover a range of topics, including bioenergy production and carbon reduction, bioremediation and environmental clean-up, sustainable food production and sustainable production of commodity chemicals.

The purpose of this module is to teach the principles and practice of research with a focus on study design and methods of data collection. The module shows how these designs and methods can be applied to evaluation studies as well as to research. It also provides a supportive and intellectually challenging environment within which you can develop your knowledge, understanding and skills as a researcher.

This module allows you to hone your research skills by undertaking a substantial piece of research. Within this module, you will learn how to formulate a research proposal, investigate an appropriate research topic, keep research records, analyse the results of their research, discuss the findings with reference to previously published work, and convey the importance of their research through effective communication. The project proposed and undertaken must be commensurate with a master's level qualification and include rigorous and critical data analysis with a high level of initiative. You will be expected to work largely independently, but within a team and with structured support given by the supervisors. Learning in this module is facilitated through theme-specific tutorials and interactive workshops, covering aspects such as research compliance, research sustainability, effective communication, and preparation for employment/ career development.

An in-depth study on the scope of commercial biotechnology and starting and financing an operational company. The role of intellectual property protection, preparing a business plan and communicating business ideas, assessing projects, managing a company, and managing finances are all included, as well as how to comply with industrial safety legislation and regulatory requirements.

Bioinformatics lies at the heart of modern biology. This module introduces the discipline and shows how bioinformatics can help answer practical questions and solve problems in biology, medicine and pharmacology. Topics include DNA and protein databases, DNA and protein sequence alignment, protein structure prediction, drug discovery and molecular modelling.

This module will explore topics in science communication and will help to develop transferable skills and perspectives in the many ways that scientific knowledge can be disseminated. In relation to applied practice, the nature and means of human communication will be explored and assessed. Central themes include considerations of the purpose of science in society and the likely impact its findings and their communication have on human behaviour. This module is heavily focussed on interactive workshops, and includes training in science journalism, public speaking and presentations, online engagement, and TV and radio production.

This module will introduce the theoretical and practical underpinnings of systems biology. The emphasis is on studies of entire systems assisted by the use of bioinformatics and how the knowledge from these may be applied to medicine. The module will examine databases and other resources as well as
discuss key issues to the studies of entire systems.

This industry-focused module will allow you to learn and apply an integrated knowledge base of analytical techniques utilised in the pharmaceutical industry for the quality control of drugs and other products. You will not only gain hands on experience using state-of-the-art analytical equipment but will also have to critically justify, adapt and apply these techniques to sets of real-life problems faced by pharmaceutical scientists during the validation, production, quality control and regulation of medicines

This module will provide you with a deep understanding of biotherapeutics and regenerative medicines which is one of the fastest growing areas in the pharmaceutical industry. The module focuses on the opportunities and challenges in their development and use. Sales of these therapeutics is predicted to overtake small molecule drugs and their development and manufacturing is a key growth area in the pharmaceutical industry.

Using case studies of successful and failed biotherapeutics, topics ranging from lead development, validation, selection of production platforms, delivery barriers and formulation strategies will be explored focusing on the specific limitations inherent in most biologic drugs. You will also gain hands on experience in the techniques used to manufacture and assess the quality of biopharmaceutical products. Finally, you will explore how drug safety assessments and rigorous clinical trials play a critical role in ensuring that these medicines are effective and fit for purpose.