Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/ Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry and Chemistry) and Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Sciences) programs.

Aims & Objectives:

• To present to students detailed examples of how biochemistry and molecular biology techniques are applied in the development of biotechnology.
• To introduce students to regulatory and ethical considerations that apply to biotechnological industries and developments.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures, web based unit presence

Assessment:

Mid semester test (42%), assignments (25%), end of semester exam (33%)

Generic Skills Outcomes:

Students are expected to enhance several of their graduate attributes during this unit and should consult with your lecturer if not clear as to how this unit achieves this. The graduate attributes which relate to this unit help to produce students who:

Are capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas.

• Have a basic understanding of the theoretical principles involved in the study area.
• Have an in-depth technical competence in the specific (core) discipline.
• Can apply specific knowledge of the (core) discipline to real situations.
• Have the ability to engage in critical inquiry

Operate effectively and ethically in work and community situations.

• Have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Can effectively communicate within and without the subject discipline.

Are aware of environments in which they will be contributing.

• Have a basic understanding of the need to carry out work in an ethical and socially responsible fashion.

• Ability to apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals;
• Ability to communicate effectively, not only with engineers but also with the community at large;
• In-depth technical competence in at least one engineering discipline;
• Ability to utilise a systems approach to design and operational performance;
• Understanding of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities of the professional engineer, and the need for sustainable development.
• Understanding of the principles of sustainable design and development.

Content:

Content will include:

• Cell signalling:receptor structure and function. Major classes of ligands. Intracellular signal processing. Metabolic and cell cycle control.
• Protein purification, Affinity Chromatography.
• Nucleic acid properties and function, gene expression and control.
• Methods of DNA manipulation and analysis.
• Selected methods in molecular biology.
• Molecular genetics and mouse models of human disease.
• Introductory Bioinformatics.

Textbooks: