Entry requirements

Alternative 1: 40 credits in the Engineering programme in molecular biotechnology.

Alternative 2: 30 credits biology including Molecular biology and genetics 10 credits together with Microbiology with infection biology 5 credits or Life and Interactions of Microorganisms 5 credits, and 30 credits chemistry.

Alternative 3: 35 credits chemistry including 5 credits biochemistry.

Learning outcomes

After passing the course the student should be able to

• contribute to plan and implement a laboratory project in synthetic biology
• apply basic subject knowledge in biology chemistry and biotechnology and/or bioinformatics in synthetic biology
• participate in a smaller project group with assignment to carry out a subproject in synthetic biology
• search compile and present basic information and knowledge that is required for project's implementation
• individually document and report result from experimental work in subproject
• contribute to create an informative Wiki for the project
• apply a scientific working method to plan, implement, interpret and present project's activities
• discuss scientific and technical literature in subject area
• describe models for how creativity influences innovation and entrepreneurship
• participate in risk assessment of subproject including ethical considerations.

Content

Choice and planning of a project in synthetic biology. Literature studies of relevant current scientific and technical literature in subject. Design of a technically and temporally feasible project plan. Planning and implementation of lecture around a project relevant subject. Molecular biological work (e.g. PCR, purifying of DNA/RNA and mutagenesis), including cloning with so called Bio-bricks. Biochemical purifying and categorisation of biomolecules. Phenotype categorisation of genetically modified organisms. Biosafety and bioethics.

Instruction

Teaching is given in the form of lectures, seminars/workshops and supervision. Participation in seminars/workshops as well as in experimental work is compulsory.

Assessment

Planning and preparation 3 credits; Experimental work 10 credits; Presentation and Wiki 2 credits

Module Planning and preparation requires active participation. Module Experimental work requires implemented and documented experimental work performed according to course's instructions. Module Presentation and Wiki is assessed through written and oral presentations.

Other directives

No more than two of courses Project in laboratory Synthetic biology I Project in laboratory synthetic biology II and synthetic biology may be included in qualification.