91142 Biotechnology

Description

Biotechnology can be defined as the use of biological systems (whether living cells or cell components) for the efficient manufacture or processing of products that help improve lives and the health of the planet. The biological processes of microorganisms have been exploited for thousands of years to make useful food products, such as bread and cheese, and to preserve dairy products. Modern biotechnology uses these traditional practices of fermentation for the industrial production of many compounds such as vaccines, hormones, antibiotics and enzymes. The genomic era has provided information allowing for the controlled and deliberate manipulation of genes for the production of recombinant medical and industrial products and in the synthesis of novel crops to respond to emerging pressures on global food supplies and for the management of pests and diseases. Genetic manipulation has also been applied to microorganisms used in bioremediation processes to enhance the removal of toxic contaminants from soil or groundwater. However, biotechnology is more than just innovative research and discovery; in reality it is a hybrid of business and science. Biotechnology is about translating research ideas into products on the market; making money out of molecules.

Typical availability

Autumn session, City campus