Introduction to Biotechnology and Bioinformatics

Entry requirements

Physics B, Chemistry A, Mathematics E

Learning outcomes

The course should give a good basis for further studies within molecular biotechnology and bioinformatics. After completing the course, the student should be able to

• describe basic biotechnical methods and the cellular and molecular mechanisms and processes on which the methods are based
• describe important questions within current biotechnology and bioinformatics and be familiar with possibilities, limitations and ethical problems within these fields
• describe the role of biotechnology for sustainable development and give examples of biotechnical applications within renewable energy, food production and degradation of waste and poison
• give examples of different professional roles within biotechnology and bioinformatics and have a general understanding of conditions and qualifications that influence these professional roles
• use the computer systems that are needed on the introductory courses within the program and be able to apply the rules of the IT-system of the university.

Content

Introduction to biotechnology and its applications. Introduction to bioinformatics. From gene to protein. Macromolecules. Information retrieval, popular scientific writing, work in small groups. The ethics of biotechnology. The importance of biotechnology for sustainable development. Gender and technology. Biotechnology and bioinformatics in professional life: Study visits. Introduction to the computer system: UpUnet-S and regulations, how to connect to the university's computer system from other computers. E-mail/webmail. Common applications, file management and web resources. Course evaluation.

Instruction

Lectures and seminars, a written assignment, study visits.

Assessment

Written examination (3 credits) seminars (1 credit) and a written assignment (1 credit)