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Programme & Unit Catalogues


PA40299: Biotechnology: art and science

[Page last updated: 05 August 2021]

Academic Year: 2021/2
Owning Department/School: Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology
Credits: 6 [equivalent to 12 CATS credits]
Notional Study Hours: 120
Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Period:
Semester 2
Assessment Summary: EX 75%, OT 25%
Assessment Detail:
  • Exam (EX 75%)
  • Oral Presentation (OT 25%)
Supplementary Assessment:
Reassessment not allowed
Requisites:
Description: Aims:
The aims of this unit are to gain an understanding of historical events that have shaped the current use of biotechnology to prepare protein and peptide therapeutic drugs and to appreciate the potential uses of biotechnology-based techniques for validating clinical targets for directed cellular therapies and drug discovery.

Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit, the student should be able to: recount historical events that led to step-wise changes in biotechnology as they apply to the pharmaceutical industry, critically appraise current applications involving biotechnology-based technologies, critically evaluate the feasibility of using one biotechnology-based approach over another, and synthesize an integrated plan for using biotechnology-based technologies for the research and development of a novel therapeutic agent.

Skills:
Scientific skills (T/F/A)
Study skills, handling information, working with others (T/F)
Problem solving (T/F).

Content:
Fundamental aspects of molecular biology, microbiology, mammalian cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, systemic physiology (and related patho-physiology), and drug delivery will be covered as they relate to the history and applications of biotechnology-based technologies. The content is intended to present an integrated approach for the student to become well-acquainted with the art and science of biotechnology.

Programme availability:

PA40299 is Optional on the following programmes:

Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology
  • USPA-AKM02 : MPharmacol(Hons) Pharmacology with Year long work placement (Year 4)

Notes:

  • This unit catalogue is applicable for the 2021/22 academic year only. Students continuing their studies into 2022/23 and beyond should not assume that this unit will be available in future years in the format displayed here for 2021/22.
  • Programmes and units are subject to change in accordance with normal University procedures.
  • Availability of units will be subject to constraints such as staff availability, minimum and maximum group sizes, and timetabling factors as well as a student's ability to meet any pre-requisite rules.
  • Find out more about these and other important University terms and conditions here.