Course content

The course is a signature course for the study programs in Biotechnology (MBIOT5, MSBIOTECH) and is jointly organized by Department of Biotechnology and Food Science and Department of Biology.The Bioinformatics part (50%) gives a comprehensive introduction to DNA analysis. Each student receives a 20 kb large "raw" DNA-sequence with unknown identity and origin (bacterial, archaeal, or eukaryotic). The students in groups of 2-4 is expected to analyse the sequence based on questions raised in an available compendium. This bioinformatic part is using a practical approach where the students are guided and have to use a wide portfolio of electronic bioinformatic tools. The students will submit several reports throughout the course work, where each is building on the previous, and all are included in the basis for grading.The Biotechnology part (50%) consists of a seminar series with invited guest lecturers that will present current Biotechnology with emphasis of understanding of the cellular functions at a molecular level, advanced biotechnological methods and their applications, including omics technologies and advanced recombinant DNA technologies applied in Metabolic Engineering and Synthetic Biology. One or more mandatory group works are included in this part. An introduction to the principles of responsible research and innovation (RRI) will also be given.

Learning outcome

The student has broad knowledge in methods and strategies that are applied in current Biotechnology, including bioinformatics, recombinant DNA technologies and omics technologies. This includes methods for design and construction of biosynthetic pathways and their functional integration into a prokaryotic or eukaryotic host. The student has competence to understand the connections between the biochemistry and metabolism of the cell, including availability of precursor metabolites, reducing power and energy, for overproduction of specific biomolecules. The student has clear understanding of challenges associated with application of prokaryote and eukaryote organisms in biotechnological processes. The student has competence in ethical and societal problems associateed with responsible research and innovation (RRI) within the Biotechnology sector.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, group work and seminars. The course is given in EnglishThe students will identify a relevant biotechnological problem/ questions and present their findings in a mandatory poster session

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Basic knowledge in biochemistry, microbiology, and cell biology; e.g. corresponding to the courses BI1001, TBT4102, TBT4107, and TBT4110.

Course materials

To be announced at course start

Credit reductions