Concepts of Biotechnology
Overview
To provide students with an introduction to genetics, molecular biology, tools and applications of biotechnology, biochemistry, applied microbiology and immunology. To provide a strong foundation essential for subjects in the later years of the Biotechnology Science Major.
Requisites
Assumed Knowledge
Basic knowledge of molecules, cells and organisms
02-November-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Describe the fundamental biochemical processes of cells such as ion/molecule uptake, energy transfers, metabolism and the immune system
- Describe the fundamentals of cell division and genetics, including the role of DNA as genetic material
- Describe the basic principles and techniques used for the study and manipulation of DNA
- Appreciate the application of biotechnology in diverse areas such as health and medicine, agriculture and/or the environment
- Conduct and/or observe a variety of laboratory exercises where some of the above theoretical knowledge is applied to practical situations
- Demonstrate the ability to work safely and communicate effectively
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus Lecture | 3.00 | 12 weeks | 36 |
| On-campus Lab | 3.00 | 6 weeks | 18 |
| Unspecified Activities Independent Learning | 8.00 | 12 weeks | 96 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laboratory Practicals | Individual | 25 - 30% | 5,6 |
| Online Quizzes | Individual | 10 - 15% | 1,2,3,4,6 |
| Online Tests | Individual | 45 - 60% | 1,2,3,4,6 |
Hurdle
As the minimum requirements of assessment to pass a unit and meet all ULOs to a minimum standard, an undergraduate student must have achieved:
(i) An aggregate mark of 50% or more, and(ii) Complete a minimum of 80% of laboratory (practical) work based on the criteria for successful completion as explained in the lab handout(s).Students who do not successfully achieve hurdle requirements (ii) will receive a maximum of 45% as the total mark for the unit.
Content
- Principles of cell division and genetics at chromosomal level
- Introduction to molecular genetics: Overview of DNA structure, gene structure and function
- Tools of biotechnology: introduction to select methods of DNA, RNA and/or protein analysis
- Applications of biotechnology: introduction to applications of biotechnology in diverse fields such as medicine, forensics, agriculture, environmental aspects
- Cellular transport: overview of transport proteins, cellular uptake of water, ions, molecules
- Energy transformations in cells: overview of key biochemical pathways such as cell respiration and photosynthesis
- Principles of the immune system and applications of immunology in disease diagnosis and/or control
- Practical work related to selected topics from above areas
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.