Biotechnology Syllabus

Biotechnology is the application of biological knowledge and techniques to create products and processes that benefit human health, agriculture, industry, and the environment. In this course, you will learn about the principles and methods of biotechnology, as well as its applications in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, biofuels, bioremediation, biosensors, and bioinformatics. You will also explore the ethical, social, and legal implications of biotechnology and its impact on society.

The course is divided into four modules:

Module 1: Introduction to Biotechnology
- What is biotechnology and why is it important?
- History and development of biotechnology
- Basic concepts and tools of biotechnology
- Types and examples of biotechnology products and processes

Module 2: Biotechnology in Medicine
- How biotechnology is used to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases
- Genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology
- Gene therapy and gene editing
- Stem cells and regenerative medicine
- Vaccines and immunotherapy
- Biopharmaceuticals and biosimilars

Module 3: Biotechnology in Agriculture
- How biotechnology is used to improve crops and animals
- Transgenic plants and animals
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their safety
- Plant tissue culture and micropropagation
- Biofertilizers and biopesticides
- Biotechnology for food processing and preservation

Module 4: Biotechnology in Industry and Environment
- How biotechnology is used to produce biofuels and bioplastics
- Biocatalysis and enzyme technology
- Fermentation and industrial microbiology
- Bioremediation and biodegradation
- Biosensors and biochips
- Bioinformatics and computational biology

The course will consist of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, assignments, quizzes, projects and exams. You will be expected to participate actively in class discussions, work in groups, conduct experiments, write reports, present your findings, and demonstrate your understanding of the course material. You will also be required to read relevant articles, books, and websites to supplement your learning.

The course objectives are:

- To provide you with a comprehensive overview of biotechnology and its applications in various fields.
- To equip you with the knowledge and skills to perform basic biotechnological techniques and experiments.
- To enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
- To foster your awareness and appreciation of the ethical, social, and legal aspects of biotechnology.