Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry/Chemistry), Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) , 
Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communications), Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Business and  Bachelor of Science (Psychology/Biochemistry).

Aims & Objectives:

The unit of study aims to provide:

• An understanding of the basic principles of metabolic processes within the cell and how these processes can be harnessed for biotechnology.
• An understanding of the central role of the genetic material, DNA, in the flow of genetic information in the cell and in influencing the structural and functional characteristics of organisms.
• An understanding of some of the basic principles of manipulation of DNA for useful applications in a number of areas such as the environment, medicine and agriculture.
• Basic knowledge regarding the structure and properties of micro-organisms, including those of clinical, environmental and industrial importance.
• A variety of laboratory exercises where students can apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations and demonstrations, in the above areas.

At the end of this unit of study students will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the major mechanisms of metabolism, energy exchanges and homeostasis in cells.
• Recognise the linkage between the structures, chemical properties and chemical processes of certain molecules and macromolecules, and their roles in cells and biological processes, and in certain diseases.
• Gain an introduction to molecular biology/biotechnology.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of various techniques of genetic analysis and manipulation and biotechnology.
• Gain an understanding of the applications of biotechnology in diverse fields such as agriculture, medicine and the environment and the significance of these developments.
• Demonstrate an understanding of some of the social, ethical and legal issues associated with some aspects of biotechnology.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of micro-organisms and their characteristic properties, growth and handling.
• Demonstrate an understanding of their significance in infectious diseases, environmental processes and industrial applications.
• Demonstrate hands-on practical skills in the above areas.
• Appreciate the need for safely precautions in a lab environment.
• Work co-operatively.
• Record scientific observations correctly and interpret these honestly.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures, practical classes, web based unit presence

Assessment:

Generic Skills Outcomes:

Students are expected to enhance several of their graduate attributes during this unit of study and should consult with your lecturer if not clear as to how this unit achieves this. The graduate attributes which relate to this unit of study 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.
• Can apply specific knowledge of the (core) discipline to real situations.
• Are able to engage in informed critical inquiry.
• Have a sense of social responsibility for subject knowledge and its applications.

Operate effectively and ethically in work and community situations.

• Have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Are adaptable and manage change.

• Are self-motivated.
• Can understand problem identification, formulation and solution.
  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.

IEAust Generic Attributes
In addition to the Swinburne generic attributes, this unit is also expected to enhance skills recognised by the Institution of Engineers (Australia), specifically:

• 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 understand problem identification, formulation and solution.
• Understanding of the social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities of the professional engineer, and the need for sustainable development.
• Understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities and commitment to them.

Content:

• Overview of main types of energy transformations within the cell, role of enzymes and their action, fates of metabolites. Application of enzymes to biotechnology processes.
• Microorganisms: overview of broad types of bacteria, viruses, protists and other microorganisms. Growth and handling. Structure, function, modes of replication or transmission of selected bacteria, viruses.
• Roles of microorganisms in disease, role in environmental cycles, industrial applications of microorganisms, use of microorganisms in biotechnology.
• Brief overview of classical genetics, Mendelian genetics and variations.
• Brief overview of DNA structure, the flow of genetic information, DNA replication, gene transcription, protein translation.
• Principles of major molecular biology and genetic engineering techniques, including restriction enzymes and their uses, major types of cloning vectors, construction of libraries, Southern and Northern blotting, hybridisation, PCR, DNA typing.
• Applications of above techniques in human health and welfare, medicine, agriculture and the environment. Introduction to the human genome project, gene therapy, molecular diagnostics, forensics, creation and uses of transgenic plants and animals, animal cloning, use of micro-organisms in industrial biotechnology.
• Introduction to some of the ethical, legal, and social issues and scientific problems associated with the above technologies.
• Relevant practical exercises in the above areas.

Reading Materials:

Lecture notes (provided via Blackboard).
Laboratory manual (to be purchased from the university bookshop).

Textbooks: