FPEN 309: Introduction to Biotechnology

Objectives: To introduce students to the underlining principles of key biotechnological tools and techniques and the associated ethical considerations in biotechnology.

Description: This course explores the basic concepts of biotechnology within the context of traditional vs. modern biotechnology processes. It highlights key developments in the history of biotechnology and provides a basic understanding of common tools and techniques including recombinant methods, proteomics, and fermentation. Students are additionally introduced to current trends in biotechnology and the regulatory framework and ethical aspects of biotechnology are emphasised. Key areas of discussions include nucleic acid structure and function as well as the principles and application of genetic engineering in the food industry. The course also covers concepts on continuous fermentation, agitation, mass transfer and scale-up of fermentation systems, enzyme technology.