SDG Detail

SCIENT 703 : Frontiers in Biotechnology

Postgraduate course

Project description

This course describes the most important technology driving innovation in biotechnology and provides examples of how this technology flows through to business. It combines specialist academic lectures on a number of hot areas of biotechnology with guest lectures from scientists and business leaders currently commercialising biotechnology discoveries within New Zealand. It also provides background information necessary to understanding major focus areas in contemporary biotechnology, with summaries of key knowledge in human biology, plant biology, and microbiology. Case examples of biotechnology discoveries are examined in group work, from first publication of scientific discovery through to commercialisation. Although the focus of the course is on applications to human health, reflecting the sector of greatest value, the course also covers biotechnology in agriculture and food science, as well as industrial and environmental applications. The skills developed in this course are particularly useful for those wishing to have a career involving both science and business. With ample exposure to leading scientists and business leaders, the course also provides opportunities for networking and relationship building which could lead to an internship for those enrolled in the Bioscience Enterprise Programm

Year 2022

Location New Zealand

Organization University of Auckland

Project aims

Project outcome

By the end of this course, students will be able to: Analyse a prospective biotech product from a scientific perspective and summarise its potential on the market to stakeholders. (Capability 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) Describe the journey of a scientific discovery from its first appearance in the scientific literature through to a viable biotech product. (Capability 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) Critically discuss biotechnology innovations covered in the course. (Capability 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) Demonstrate effective scientific communication skills when interacting with both scientists and industry leaders. (Capability 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) Demonstrate awareness of matauranga Maori and Maori concerns relating to commercialisation of biotechnology in New Zealand. (Capability 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6)