MSc Industrial Biotechnology

10 credits

Bioinformatics is an inter-disciplinary subject that develops tools for analysing increasingly large and complex biological data. This module covers the fundamental knowledge from both biological and computational disciplines to enable further practical and theoretical study. Python scripting language will be used, but no previous knowledge of Biology or Python scripting is required.

This module comprises theory and practical work both in workshop sessions and in classwork with real biological case studies. It covers:

• analysis of biological sequences (DNA, RNA, and protein)
• use of biological sequence databases
• process automation
• algorithms and tools to allow pairwise and multiple sequence alignment
• use of high-throughput next-generation sequence data

10 credits

This modules aims to provide:

• an understanding of the new challenges posed by the advent for big data, as they refer to its modelling, storage, and access; and
• an understanding of the key algorithms and techniques which are embodied in data analytics solutions

20 credits

Applied Biocatalysis is a core technology in Industrial Biotechnology, covering the use of enzymes and related materials as catalysts in industrial processes. It complements fermentation as presented in the bioprocessing class, where whole cells are the catalysts – indeed the two form a continuous spectrum of technologies.

This module will provide you with the following learning objectives:

• understand the range of approaches available for finding new enzymes
• appreciate the key properties required in a practical biocatalyst and how they can be obtained
• appreciate the scope of biocatalysis and how it can integrate with synthetic chemistry
• understand how the kinetics of enzymatic processes can be modelled and analysed
• understand the principles of the immobilisation of enzymes and whole cells
• appreciate key issues in industrial enzyme manufacture, trade and application

20 credits

This module covers advanced aspects of the science, technology and socio-economic aspects of renewable energy production, with a particular emphasis on biofuels.

The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of chemical, biochemical, microbiological and process engineering aspects of renewable energy production. This module will help you to:

• Critically appraise current/future status of renewable energy
• Evaluate biotechnology research in novel biofuel processes
• Evaluate renewable energy production with regard to:
• human health
• climate change
• energy security

10 credits

Project management and project-based organisations are becoming increasingly common in industry, therefore this module assumes that you require some knowledge of the tools and techniques used to manage projects within organisations. Those with no background in project management will be introduced to:

• the concept of the project lifecycle
• project management as a strategic tool
• the methodologies and tools that enable efficient project execution

10 credits

This module will provide you with personal transferable graduate skills in areas of food microbiology and biotechnology. You'll develop critical data analysis skills, laboratory skills including report writing and data generation. Additionally, you'll develop your literature searching, and essay writing skills.

This class covers:

• Production of Biofuels & Bioplastics
• Generation of Recombinant Proteins & Cell Factories
• Fermentation Technology
• Foods and Beverages Production
• Plant Transgenics & Bioremediation
• Bacteriophage in Food Industry

20 credits

Bioprocessing is a key skill in Industrial Biotechnology and therefore this module underpins the whole course. Bioprocessing forms the basis of the production end of the biotechnology business.

You'll gain an understanding of the:

• basic principles of bioprocessing including process kinetics
• importance of and mechanisms for strain/cell line stability and preservation
• importance of medium design, bioreactor design and operation
• principles of mass transfer and its relationship to the success of bioprocesses
• principles of good manufacturing practice and its relevance to regulatory issues
• skills in data/paper interpretation and writing

20 credits

This module explores the concepts of rational design, computer modelling, construction and characterisation of synthetic biology systems and devices. You'll have the opportunity to design, build and test a simple genetic circuit or metabolic pathway, and to plan a more complex synthetic biology project.

10 credits

Downstream processing refers to the recovery and purification of biosynthetic products from natural sources such as animal or plant tissue or fermentation broth, including the recycling of salvageable components and the proper treatment and disposal of waste. It's an essential step in many manufacturing processes.

You'll gain an understanding of:

• downstream separation techniques
• capture and purification operations
• influence of product type on separations
• cell disruption operations
• centrifugation, membrane separations and chromatographic applications

10 credits

The module introduces you to the circular economy as a systems-based concept in which production is designed to be restorative and resilient, while waste is designed out of the system. Circular economy is thus featured as a reaction to the conventional dispensation of the linear ‘make-use-dispose’ economy, and as a framework for the development and management of a sustainable, ‘waste as a resource’ economic system.

10 credits

You'll develop critical data analysis skills and laboratory skills, including report writing and data generation. You'll also develop skills in reflective and experiential learning and effective use of learning resources.

This class covers:

• principles of quality management schemes
• understanding the role of accreditation systems in processing industries: focus on food & drink manufacturing
• Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• analytical lab skills

10 credits

This module will provide you with personal transferable graduate skills in areas of analysis of foods, report writing and data generation. Additionally, you'll develop your literature searching, critical analysis and essay writing skills.

This class covers:

• global food commodities
• food sustainability and food security
• utilisation of waste streams
• developing circular economies

20 credits

This module combines taught and practical elements and covers topics such as taxonomy, systematics and physiology or micro-algae and macro-algae. 

The emphasis will be on the biotechnological exploitation of these organisms focussing on their use as human/animal food; hydrocolloids, fine chemicals; green fertilizers and as feedstock to produce algal biofuels. Issues such as the environmental impacts of macro-algal farms, disease susceptibility and techno-economics will be covered.

The project will be typically based with one of the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre’s industrial partners and be supervised by both an industrial and academic supervisor. The placement will last a minimum of 10 weeks, and you'll usually be based in industry working on an industry-relevant project gaining invaluable experience in a key area of biotechnology.