Training in biotechnology research with a strong emphasis on development of advanced practical skills and research methods.
The overall purpose of the course is to provide advanced education in biotechnology research. The main objective of the course is to improve the pool of knowledge and technological skills available to support biotechnology-based industry and research nationally and internationally. The course has a strong practical element, with laboratory classes integrated in the modules across the first two semesters. Over the summer semester students also have the opportunity to undertake their own independent research project within one of the research groups in the internationally renowned Biomedical Sciences Research Institute (BMSRI) at Ulster. The BMSRI research covers biomedicine from the molecular to the whole human including disease development, prevention, diagnosis and therapy. BMSRI is ranked within the top five out of 94 universities submitted in the UK REF2014 panel in terms of research power in biomedical science. Significantly, in REF2014 our research environment was awarded an unprecedented 100% 4* (world-leading) and 95% of our research impact was scored world leading (4*) and internationally excellent (3*) while 81% of research published papers were judged to be world leading and internationally excellent (4* and 3*).
The course is primarily designed for those who wish to develop their career in the biosciences with particular emphasis on biotechnology research; including either academia or bio-pharmaceutical and bio-industries.
More info: Click here
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Advanced biotechnology and bioinformatics
Year: 1
The module aims to give students an appreciation of the systems and concepts applied in Biotechnology research and provides relevance to the biomedical and biotechnology industries. Teaching is primarily through interactive lecture sessions, tutorials, and database mining.
Current Topics in Biotechnology Research
Year: 1
This module involves an in depth study of selected topics in biotechnology research which are the subject of considerable current interest. This module examines a diverse range of topics encompassing areas such as stem cell technology, genetic modification techniques, novel diagnostic technologies and innovations in biofuels and bioprotein. Case studies, augmented by laboratory practical work, are used to illustrate current applications of microbial diagnostics and future directions of diagnostics are discussed.
Scientific Methods and Communication
Year: 1
This module consists of independent pieces of work designed to develop key skills in the areas of literature searching, poster and grant writing, presentation skills, and the critical analysis of disciplines relevant to biotechnology research.
Professional Practice
Year: 1
This module is designed to facilitate personal development and a deeper understanding of professional practice in the growing and evolving global bio-sector, further developing personal core concepts, skills, and attributes to enhance graduate employability.
Biotechnology Research Project
Year: 1
Students are expected to apply theoretical knowledge to a problem of a practical nature. They will carry out experiments with the object of solving the problem. They will present their material in oral and written formats.
This course aims to prepare students for employment in specific bioscience sectors and to equip them for continuing personal, professional and intellectual development throughout their careers.
On completion of this course, students will have gained experience of advanced laboratory techniques, problem-solving and research design in a range of Biotechnology areas and be well prepared to work in research positions or to proceed on to do a research degree in a related area.
Insurance Single :300 GBP/year
