Masters Degrees (Fermentation)

Biochemical Engineering concerns the use of biological organisms or processes by manufacturing industries. It is a multidisciplinary subject, requiring the integration of engineering and bioscience knowledge to design and implement processes used to manufacture a wide range of products; from novel therapeutics such as monoclonal antibodies for treating cancer, vaccines and hormones, to new environmentally-friendly biofuels. It is also essential in many other fields, such as the safe manufacture of food and drink and the removal of toxic compounds from the environment..

This course will provide you with the skills you need to start an exciting career in the bioprocess industries, or continue research in the area of bioprocessing or industrial biotechnology.

Industry involvement

As this is a highly industrially-led subject area, we have secured guest lectures from Cobra Biologics (contract manufacturing), Biocats Ltd (Enzyme manufacture) and the Centre for Process Innovation Ltd (biological process development) and are currently seeking additional industrial lectures.

Academics working at Birmingham have strong links with industry, through collaborative projects, so allow students to make contact with companies. Graduates from the MSc programme have gone on to careers in biochemical engineering world-wide, in large and small companies working in diverse areas.

There are also guest lectures from academics working at other institutions.

Practical experience

You will gain practical experience of working with industrially applicable systems, from fermentation at laboratory scale to 100 litre pilot scale, in the Biochemical Engineering laboratories. Theory learned in lectures will be applied in practical terms. In addition, theoretical aspects will be applied in design case studies in a number of modules, including the Design Project.

All MSc students complete a summer research project, working on a piece of individual, novel research within one of the research groups in the school. These projects provide an ideal experience of life as a researcher, from design of experimental work, practical generation of data, analysis and communication of findings. Many students find this experience very useful in choosing the next steps in their career.

Special Features

The lecture courses are supplemented with tutorials, seminars and experimental work. Industrial visits and talks by speakers from industrial and service organisations are also included in the course programme.

Pilot Plant

The Biochemical Engineering building houses a pilot plant with large-scale fermentation and downstream processing equipment. The newly-refurbished facility includes state-of-the-art computer-controlled bioreactors, downstream processing equipment and analytical instruments.

Course structure

The MSc is a 12-month full-time advanced course, comprising lectures, laboratory work, short experimental projects and a research project. You will take an introductory module, four core modules, and then choose 50 credits of optional themed modules. The course can also be taken on a part-time basis. The Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) lasts for 8 months from the end of September until June.

For the first eight months you have lectures, tutorials and laboratory work. Core module topics include:

Fermentation and cell culture
Bioseparations
Process monitoring and control
Systems and synthetic biology approaches
Optional module include:

Biopharmaceutical development and manufacture
Food processing
Business skills for the process industries
The programme is strongly design-orientatedand you complete a full process plant design exercise. You also have practical experience of working in the newly-refurbished pilot plant of the Biochemical Engineering building.

From June to September you gain research training on your own project attached to one of the teams working in the bioprocessing research section.

About the School of Chemical Engineering

Birmingham has one of the largest concentrations of Chemical Engineering expertise in the UK, with an excellent reputation in learning, teaching and research.
Investment totalling over £3.5 million in our buildings has resulted in some of the best teaching, computing and laboratory facilities anywhere in the UK.
We have achieved an excellent performance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) – the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. 87% of the research in the School was rated as world-leading or internationally excellent. It was ranked joint fourth overall in the UK for its research prowess and first nationally for research impact.
The enthusiasm that the academic staff have for their research comes through in their teaching and ensures that they and you are at the cutting edge of chemical engineering.

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance your postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. To see what funding and scholarships are available, please visit: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Open Days

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at our on-campus open days.
Register to attend at: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/visit

Virtual Open Days

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: http://www.pg.bham.ac.uk

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Our established programme in Biotechnology, which has been extensively updated, includes a wide range of modern molecular biology techniques and how biotechnology can be used by today's society. You will complement your theoretical studies with hands on experience of fully controlled fermenters that are up to pilot-plant scale, and are linked to modern monitoring and control systems.

You will study a range of subjects in considerable depth, including bioactive compounds, industrial bioprocesses, microbial physiology and fermentation technology, microbial production of novel metabolites, monitoring and control of fermentation, topics in biotechnology, and types of bioreactors.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.

Core modules
-APPLIED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
-FERMENTATION TECHNOLOGY
-INDUSTRIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
-POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH METHODS
-POSTGRADUATE PROJECT
-SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND COMMERCIALISATION

Option modules
-COMMUNICATING SCIENCE
-EXTENDED POSTGRADUATE PROJECT
-MOLECULAR BIOINFORMATICS
-MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR THERAPEUTICS
-REGENERATIVE MEDICINE
-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY

Associated careers

The course is aimed at those aspiring to be researchers and managers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries or other biosectors.

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About the course

The Biotechnology MSc within the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) provides you with key skills, specialist knowledge and essential training for a career in industrial or academic bioscience. Increasingly, biotechnology companies are recruiting Master’s students with specialised skills to perform jobs previously the reserve of Doctorate level scientists.
At the end of the course you will be able to meet the challenges of biotechnology, demonstrate critical thinking and solve problems, exploit opportunities, and know how ideas can be turned into viable businesses or a successful grant application.

Why study Biotechnology at IBERS?

You want specialist experience and knowledge in biotechnology research and commercial application to give you a competitive edge in the job market and underpin your successful career. IBERS has the credentials to deliver these goals.

With 360 members of staff, 1350 undergraduate students and more than 150 postgraduate students IBERS is the largest Institute within Aberystwyth University. Our excellence in teaching was recognised by outstanding scores in the National Student Satisfaction Survey (2016), with three courses recording 100% student satisfaction and a further 10 scoring above the national average. The latest employability data shows that 92% of IBERS graduates were in work or further study six months after leaving Aberystwyth University. The most recent joint submission to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) displayed that 78% of our research as world-leading or internationally excellent, 97% of our research is internationally recognised, and 76% judged as world-leading in terms of research impact.

IBERS is internationally-recognised for research excellence and works to provide solutions to global challenges such as food security, sustainable bioenergy, and the impacts of climate change. IBERS hosts 2 National bioscience facilities: The National Plant Phenomics Centre –a state of the art automated plant growth facility that allows the high throughput evaluation of growth and morphology in defined environments, and the BEACON Centre of Excellence for Biorefining - a £20 million partnership between Aberystwyth, Bangor and Swansea Universities set up to help Welsh businesses develop new ways of converting biomass feedstocks and waste streams into products for the pharmaceutical, chemicals, fuel and cosmetic industries.

IBERS has a track record of working with academic and industrial partners to develop and translate innovative bioscience research into solutions that help mitigate the impacts of climate change, animal and plant disease, and deliver renewable energy and food and water security.

Course structure and content

In the first 2 semesters the course focuses on 2 key areas of biotechnology: industrial fermentation (manufacturing processes, feedstock pretreatment, fermentation, and the biorefining of low cost feedstocks to high value products) and plant biotechnology (synthetic biology, gene editing, precision genome modification, transformation technologies, up and down gene regulation and silencing, and gene stacking). In addition you will receive practical training in state of the art molecular and analytical bioscience techniques and technologies, and learn of marine, food and health biotechnology, and how the sustainable use of bio-resources and bioscience can help meet the needs of the growing human population. All course modules are delivered by academics and professional practitioners at the forefront of activity in the field.

In the final semester you will work on your own research project with your dissertation supervisor. This could be a project of your own design and will focus on an aspect of biotechnology that you found particularly interesting; it may even be something that you want to develop as a business idea in the future. During your dissertation project you will use the knowledge and the skills that you gained during the first 2 semesters. Your dissertation project will give you an opportunity to become an expert in your topic and to develop research skills that will prepare you for your future career in biotechnology. Your tutor will mentor you in hypothesis driven experimental design, train you in analytical techniques e.g. gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, vibrational spectroscopy, fermentation, product isolation, biomass processing, analysis of complex experimental data, and the formation of robust conclusions. You will also be guided in writing your dissertation.

Core modules:

- Bioconversion and Biorefining
- Frontiers in Biosciences
- Research Methods in the Biosciences
- Current Topics in Biotechnology
- Crop Biotechnology
- Biotechnology for Business
- Dissertation

Employability

There is great demand nationally and internationally for skilled graduates in Biotechnology, indeed the UK Biotechnology and Biological research Council (BBSRC) have made ‘Bioenergy and Biotechnology’ a strategic priority for science funding. The sector is expanding rapidly and provides excellent employment opportunities for biotechnology graduates. A recent report for the British research councils estimated that in the financial year 2013/14, British industrial biotechnology and bioenergy activities involved around 225 companies and generated £2.9billion of sales. The biotechnology industry makes a significant contribution to the United Kingdom’s net exports, equivalent to £1.5 billion and offsetting 4% of the country’s total trade deficit. In this year alone, biotechnology attracted £922 million in investment (4.6% of investment in the UK by the private sector). In the same year the biotechnology industry employed approximately 8,800 jobs in the UK in jobs ranging from scientists, technicians and analytical staff, and an extimated 11,000 additional jobs in UK suppliers and support industries - see http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/documents/capital-economics-biotech-britain-july-2015/. These figures are typical of international trends and students graduating from the Biotechnology MSc at IBERS will be very well placed to follow a career in the Biotechnology sector.

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The MSc Biotechnology programme aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop advanced level theoretical knowledge, understanding, practical experience and training, with a particular focus on modern molecular and systems biology approaches to emerging biotechnologies.

The course is designed provide a good grounding in core biotechnology, and specialist training in medical, industrial, environmental and fermentation biotechnology with the opportunity to complete a research project within one of these areas.

The programme also seeks to provide training and support in developing a variety of key professional skills, including communication, critical analysis and thinking, project and time management, scientific writing, teamwork, ethics, information technology and career management.

Teaching staff are research active with the majority belonging to two major research groups within the School of Life Sciences:

- Drug Design and Delivery

- Molecular Basis of Disease

They can offer expertise in molecular, cell and system biology, recombinant DNA technology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, fermentation, bioengineering and many other areas. In addition to this, students can also hear from external guest speakers from industry and other schools within the University.

As a consequence of the research driven character of the School, students are expected to become research engaged. They are encouraged to interact with prospective final research project supervisors from the beginning of the course and they are invited to the School’s weekly research seminars.

Please note that this course is only available in the full-time format.

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With an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to real-world challenges, this course is designed for graduates looking to prepare themselves for a career in the biotechnology field, as well as for those in relevant employment. You will be able to use our excellent laboratories, such as analytical and fermentation facilities (plus a molecular biology research laboratory), to carry out advanced studies in applied microbiology and related aspects of biotechnology.

You will gain experience of applying up-to-date scientific knowledge in these areas to industrial situations and the analysis of environmental problems. Through a substantial research project, you will develop high-level skills in cutting-edge technologies, strengthen your problem-solving abilities and study a topic of your choice in greater depth. This modular course incorporates methods of sampling, analysis and data handling, investigation management, critical appraisal of literature, and the communication of scientific ideas.

What will you study?

Typical modules may include:
- Fermentation Biotechnology
- Molecular Genetics and Genomics
- Bioremediation
- DNA Data Mining
- Food Production and Deterioration
- Masters Laboratory Techniques
- Microbial Biotechnology
- Research Methods
- Research Project

Career path

Career paths vary from technical to managerial in the areas of general microbiology, environmental science, medical science and biotechnology (including pharmaceuticals). Many students progress to postgraduate research at academic or private sector institutions or embark on science teaching careers.

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If you have a Bachelors degree in the biosciences, biochemistry, pharmacy or biological chemistry and you want to develop specialist knowledge in molecular biology then this postgraduate programme is for you. It will allow you to gain new skills and enhance your employability in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries or allow you to progress to a research degree.

About the course

The MSc Molecular Biology will give you hands on practical experience of both laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. You will also be trained in molecular biology research strategies. A strong practical foundation is provided in the first semester (Semester A) when you will study two modules:
-Cellular Molecular Biology - This module aims to help you develop a systematic understanding and knowledge of recombinant DNA technology, bioinformatics and associated research methodology.
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology - This module will provide you with an advanced understanding of genetics, proteins, the area of proteomics and the molecular basis of cellular differentiation and development.

The second semester (Semester B) has a problem-based learning approach to the application of the knowledge you gained in Semester A. You will study two modules:
-Molecular Medicine - You will study the areas of protein design, production and engineering, investigating specific examples of products through the use of case studies.
-Molecular Biotechnology - You will gain an in-depth understanding of the application of molecular biological approaches to the characterisation of selected diseases and the design of new drugs for their treatment.

In semester C you will undertake a research project to develop your expertise further. The research project falls into different areas of molecular biology and may include aspects of fermentation biotechnology, cardiovascular molecular biology, cancer, angiogenesis research, diabetes, general cellular molecular biology, bioinformatics, microbial physiology and environmental microbiology.

Why choose this course?

-This course gives in-depth knowledge of molecular biology for biosciences graduates
-It has a strong practical basis giving you training in molecular biology research strategies and hand-on experience of laboratory and bioinformatics techniques
-It equips you for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, as well as a wide range of non-research roles in industry
-Biosciences research facilities cover fermentation biotechnology, high performance liquid chromatography, (HPLC), cell culture, molecular biology and pharmacology
-There are excellent facilities for chemical and biomedical analysis, genetics and cell biology studies and students have access to the latest equipment for PCR, qPCR and 2D protein gel analysis systems for use during their final year projects
-The School of Life and Medical Science will move into a brand new science building opening in September 2016 providing us with world class laboratories for our teaching and research. At a cost of £50M the new building provides spacious naturally lit laboratories and social spaces creating an environment that fosters multi-disciplinary learning and research

Careers

Graduates of the programme will be qualified for research and development positions in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, to progress to a research degree, or to consider non-research roles in industry such as management, manufacturing and marketing.

Teaching methods

The course consists of five modules including a research project. All modules are 100% assessed by coursework including in-class tests.
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Molecular Medicine Research
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Methods and Project

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This programme will give you hands-on practical experience of both laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. You will also be trained in biotechnology research strategies. A strong practical foundation is provided in the first semester (Semester A) when you study two modules: 'Cellular Molecular Biology' and 'Core Genetics and Protein Biology'. These modules concentrate on the basic principles and the techniques used in modern molecular biology investigations, and on aspects of cellular molecular biology and development.

The second semester (Semester B) has a problem-based learning approach to the application of the knowledge you gained in Semester A. You will study two modules: 'Industrial Biotechnology' and 'Molecular Biotechnology'. These modules will give you an in depth understanding of the application of molecular biological approaches to the production of industrial and medicinal proteins. You will also learn how to apply and design industrial and environmental biotechnology processes, such as process kinetics and design, reactor design and oxygen transfer, sterilization kinetics and the application of biotechnology processes for the bioremediation of contaminated sites.

In the third semester (Semester C) you undertake a research project to develop your expertise further. The research project falls into different areas and may include aspects of fermentation biotechnology, genetic manipulation and protein engineering, bioinformatics, microbial physiology and environmental biotechnology.

Why choose this course?

-This course gives in-depth knowledge of biotechnology and molecular biology for biosciences or biological chemistry graduates
-It has a strong practical basis giving you training in biotechnology research strategies and hand-on experience of laboratory and bioinformatics techniques
-It equips you for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, as well as a wide range of non-research roles in industry
-Biosciences research facilities cover fermentation biotechnology, high performance liquid chromatography, (HPLC), cell culture, molecular biology and pharmacology
-There are excellent facilities for chemical and biomedical analysis, genetics and cell biology studies and students have access to the latest equipment for chemical synthesis and purification, PCR, qPCR and 2D protein gel analysis systems for use during their final year projects
-The School of Life and Medical Science will move into a brand new science building opening in September 2015 providing us with world class laboratories for our teaching and research. At a cost of £50M the new building provides spacious naturally lit laboratories and social spaces creating an environment that fosters multi-disciplinary learning and research

Careers

On successful completion of the programme you will be well qualified for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, to progress to a research degree or to consider non-research roles in industry such as management, manufacturing and marketing.

Teaching methods

The course consists of five modules including a research project:
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Industrial Biotechnology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Research project

All modules are 100% assessed by coursework which includes in-course tests.

Structure

Core Modules
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Industrial Biotechnology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Project-Mol Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmacology

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The programme aims to provide students with training and learning opportunities in the skills and specialised knowledge needed to equip them for a career in biotechnology, molecular biotechnology or molecular biology, in particular in industry.

Practical skills will include sessions on fermentation, molecular biology, immunology, cell biology and protein chemistry, and you will go on to complete a major, supervised laboratory or computer-based research project.

Transferable skills gained via this programme will include written and oral presentation skills, statistics, and the ability to plan and write a grant application or a business plan. Subject-specific skills will include key techniques used in molecular biotechnology, specialist knowledge in theoretical and practical aspects of the subject, including: process engineering, molecular biology, functional genomics, 'omics' technologies, protein expression systems and antibody engineering. Practical skills will include fermentation, molecular biology, immunology, cell biology and protein chemistry.

Careers

While many graduates will go on to employment in biotechnology companies, you will also be employable in other life sciences industries or able to go on to further study and research.

About the School of Biosciences

As one of the top biosciences departments in the UK, our research covers the entire spectrum of cutting-edge biosciences. We are home to the Institute of Microbiology and Infection and part of the University’s Systems Science for Health initiative.
Our research focuses on a number of important themes that run through modern biological and biochemical research: Biosystems and Environmental Change; Microbiology and Infection; Molecules, Cells, Signalling and Health; and Plant Science.
Our postgraduate students join a diverse international community of staff and students. For students on research degrees, the annual Biosciences Graduate Research Symposium, organised by PhD students, is an example of an event where the whole School comes together to talk about science.
We have extensive high-technology facilities in areas such as functional genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, including a world-class Advanced Mass Spectrometry Facility. Our cutting-edge facilities extend to protein structure determination and analysis, confocal microscopy, drug discovery, horticulture, structural biology and optical imaging. The £8 million Phenome Centre Birmingham is a large metabolic phenotyping facility led by internationally recognised metabolomics and clinical experts at the University of Birmingham, in collaboration with Birmingham Health Partners.

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance your postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. To see what funding and scholarships are available, please visit: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Open Days

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at our on-campus open days.
Register to attend at: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/visit

Virtual Open Days

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: http://www.pg.bham.ac.uk

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MSc Biotechnology

Biotechnology is defined as the industrial exploitation of living organisms or the exploitation of components derived from these organisms.

Programme summary

During the master Biotechnology you learn more about the practical applications of biotechnology, including age-old techniques such as brewing and fermentation, which are still important today. In recent decades, gene modification has revolutionized the biotechnology industry, spawning countless new products and improving established processes. Modern biotechnology has become an applied area of science with a multidisciplinary approach embracing recombinant DNA technology, cellular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, as well as process design and engineering.

Specialisations

Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology
This specialisation focuses on the practical application of cellular and molecular knowledge with the aim of enhancing or improving production in micro-organisms or cell cultures. Possible majors: molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, virology, enzymology and cell biology. The knowledge and skills gained can be applied in food biotechnology, medicine and vaccine development, environmental and bio-based technology.

Process Technology
This specialisation focuses on engineering strategies for developing, enhancing or improving production in fermentation, bioconversion and enzymatic synthesis. Possible majors: bioprocess engineering, food or environmental engineering, applied biotechnology and system and control techniques. The knowledge and skills gained can be applied in food biotechnology, medicine and vaccine development, environmental and bio-based technology.

Marine Biotechnology
This specialisation focuses on the use of newly- discovered organisms from the sea in industrial processes. Applications include production of new medicines, fine chemicals, bio-based products and renewable energy.

Medical Biotechnology
This specialisation focuses on the use of modern biotechnology in the development and production of new vaccines and medicines. Advanced molecular and cellular techniques are used to study diagnostic and production methods for vaccines and medicines. Possible majors: molecular biology, microbiology, virology and cell biology.

Food Biotechnology
This specialisation focuses on the application from biotechnology to food processing. The approach includes microbial and biochemical aspects integrated with process engineering and chemistry. Possible majors: food microbiology, food chemistry and process engineering.

Environmental and Biobased Technology
This specialisation focuses on the design and development of biotechnological processes for solving environmental problems by removing waste products or by producing renewable energy. Possible majors: environmental technology, bioprocess engineering, microbiology and biobased chemical technology.

Your future career

Graduates in biotechnology have excellent career prospects. More than 60 percent begin their careers in research and development. Many of these Master graduates go on to earn their PhD degrees and often achieve management positions within a few years. Approximately 30 percent of our graduates start working for biotechnology companies immediately. Relatively few begin their careers outside the private sector or in a field not directly related to biotechnology. In the Netherlands, some graduates work for multinational companies such as Merck Schering Plough, DSM, Heineken, Unilever and Shell, while others find positions at smaller companies and various universities or research centres such as NKI and TNO.

Alumnus Sina Salim.
In America and Brazil, production of maize and sugar cane for bio ethanol takes up enormous swathes of arable land that could otherwise be used for food production. This leads to the well-known food versus fuel dilemma. An alternative method for producing biodiesel is the use of algae. Currently, too much energy is consumed during the growth and harvesting of algae, but huge efforts are being made to reduce these energy requirements. Sina Salim is trying to develop a cheap and energy efficient harvesting method to ultimately produce biodiesel from algae, a competitor of fossil fuel. Now he is operational scientist at Bioprocess Pilot Facility B.V.

Related programmes:
MSc Molecular Life Sciences
MSc Food Technology
MSc Bioinformatics
MSc Plant Biotechnology
MSc Environmental Sciences.

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This course will enhance your understanding of key concepts in biotechnology and environmental sustainability and their practical application from innovation to commercialisation.

This course is designed to enhance your career in a wide range of sectors, such as biorenewables, bioremediation and bioprocessing in which environmental sustainability is a key consideration. It will enable you to undertake a variety of fulfilling roles from research, and product and technology development to environmental protection and other leadership positions.

Biotechnology for Environmental Sustainability will equip you with broad theoretical knowledge and critical understanding of advanced principles in biotechnology. You’ll also gain the practical skills required to underpin a career within an industrial or research setting.

You’ll be supported by an active research group with varied interests and links with relevant industries, research institutes and other organisations.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Biotechnology-for-Environmental-Sustainability-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides you with in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of key concepts in fermentation and bioprocessing, environmental microbiology, business planning and environmental policy which are relevant to the application of commercial-scale biotechnologies in an environmentally sustainable manner.

You’ll study the scientific concepts that underpin modern biotechnologies and how innovations can be exploited for the development of products and processes such as biofuels, novel bioactive compounds and waste conversion technologies. You’ll also explore the bioethical, socio-economic and regulatory aspects of environmental sustainability and the role of biotechnologies in environmental protection.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices such as fermentation and environmental monitoring. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project with one of our Edinburgh Napier start-up companies or externally in a relevant organisation or industry.

You’ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials, site visits, field trips and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This is a full-time programme over one year and is split up into three trimesters. You can choose to start in either January or September. There may also be some opportunities to study abroad.

Modules

• Cell technology
• Business and bioethics
• Biotechnology for sustainable renewables
• Research skills
• Biotechnology for sustainable remediation
• Environmental sustainability management
• Independent research project

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

Environmental sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in many aspects of our lives. Biotechnology underpins many of the solutions to existing unsustainable practices and offers the possibility of new products and as such is predicted to be a key driver in the future global economy.

This course provides a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as sustainable waste management, bioremediation, environmental protection and monitoring, biorenewables, and bioprocessing, as well as product/technology development. You'll be prepared for a variety of roles including those with a research focus and those with an emphasis on leadership in both multinational companies and smaller biotechnology enterprises.

Opportunities may also exist in contract research companies and service providers to the environmental and industrial biotechnology sectors, in addition to government and environment protection agencies.

Successful completion of the MSc programme also provides a sound platform for further study in a research setting; graduates will be qualified to continue to PhD studies in the biosciences.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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The programme introduces you to how the food industry works and offers the appropriate skills required for employment in the food and related industries.

The primary objective of the MSc is to provide a scientifically underpinned food programme that educates science graduates in the classical aspects of food science. As part of the programme, you will undertake a laboratory-based research project. The key element is to undertake independent evaluation of a food specific issue. While a range of topics are available you are actively encouraged to propose your own projects.

The Department is highly rated for its research interests which include food microbiology, food chemistry and composition, food texture and properties, food processing, food product development, fermentation and novel foods.

Career opportunities in this area are excellent and include: a wide range of food related companies; food manufacturing; food processing; new product development and research; food safety process development; quality assurance; technical; and marketing.

Accreditation

The programme is categorised by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) and also by the Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS).

MSc Food Bioscience meets REHIS’ entry requirements for training as a food officer with local authorities.

Placement Opportunities

Students undertake a three-month placement in food industry and allied fields such as research establishment, marketing, local authority, food standards.

Placements are an integral part of the programme and students get the opportunity to apply acquired academic skills in real work environment. As a prerequisite for the placement module you will undertake The Royal Environmental Health Institute of Scotland (REHIS) certified courses in Elementary Food Hygiene and Introduction to Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP).

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Take advantage of one of our 100 Master’s Scholarships to study Chemical Engineering at Swansea University, the Times Good University Guide’s Welsh University of the Year 2017. Postgraduate loans are also available to English and Welsh domiciled students. For more information on fees and funding please visit our website.

From authoring definitive text books on chemical engineering to finding solutions to the world's water shortages, Swansea University has a proud tradition of delivering pioneering innovative process engineering solutions. As we have a wide range of research in chemical engineering, Swansea University provides an excellent base for your research as an MSc by Research student in Chemical Engineering.

Key Features of MSc by Research in Chemical Engineering

There is a wide range of research in chemical engineering at Swansea University. This includes:

Membrane separation
Biochemical engineering
Biomanufacturing
Engineering applications of nanotechnology
Bioengineering, biomedical engineering
Cell and tissue engineering
Colloid science and engineering
Desalination
Pharmaceutical engineering
Polymer engineering
Rheology
Separation processes
Transport processes
Water and wastewater engineering

The MSc by Research in Chemical Engineering at Swansea University provides an opportunity to work with a member of academic staff in one of the above, or related, area of research.

The MSc by Research in Chemical Engineering typically lasts one year full-time, two to three years part-time. This is an individual research project written up in a thesis of 30,000 words.

Links with industry

One of the major strengths of Chemical Engineering at Swansea University is the close and extensive involvement with local, national and international engineering companies. The companies include:

Acordis
Astra Zeneca
Avecia
BP Chemicals
Bulmers
Dow Corning
GlaxoSmithKline
Nestle
Murco
Phillips 66
Unilever
Valero

Facilities

Our new home at the innovative Bay Campus provides some of the best university facilities in the UK, in an outstanding location.

Swansea University has resources specific to Chemical Engineering.

Research

Research in Chemical Engineering at Swansea is located within the Systems and Process Engineering Research Centre which has a number of focused research groups including the Centre for Water Advanced Technologies and Environmental Research (CWATER), the Centre for Complex Fluids Processing and the Multidisciplinary Nanotechnology Centre.

The Centre for Water Advanced Technologies and Environmental Research (CWATER) is an internationally leading centre of excellence for the development of advanced technologies in water treatment. The Centre benefits from world-leading expertise in the areas of desalination and membrane technologies for water treatment.

The Centre for Complex Fluids Processing is internationally recognised for its leading and innovative research on the processing of complex fluids which is a major feature of modern industry. Such fluids are extremely diverse in origin and composition - ranging, for example, from fermentation broths and food products to inks and mineral slurries. However, underlying this diversity are certain properties that must be understood if the processing is to be effective and efficient. These include flow behaviour in process equipment, how the components of the fluid determine its overall properties and how individual components may be selectively separated.

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 ranks Engineering at Swansea as 10th in the UK for the combined score in research quality across the Engineering disciplines.

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Study for a Masters in Industrial Biotechnology at Liverpool John Moores University and develop the skills and knowledge required for a career in this rapidly expanding field. This stimulating course includes a four month, full time research project.

•Complete this masters degree in one year (full time) or two years (part time)
•Unique in the North West, this recently re-launched course prepares you to work in Biotechnology – one of the world’s top five growth industries
•Study on a course developed and delivered by leading researchers and industry experts
•Enhance your theoretical knowledge and gain hands-on laboratory experience
•Carry out novel research in a university or industry setting

Developed to plug a skills gap identified by the Liverpool Enterprise Partnership and associated multi-national businesses, this programme balances theoretical learning and practical skills.

You can study for your MSc full time (one year) or part time (two years). As a full time student you will spend roughly two thirds of your time in timetabled sessions (26 hours a week, over three days) with the remainder of your time devoted to independent study.

The taught element of the programme runs from October to April. Following this, you will go on to carry out a novel, independent piece of research in May and June.
At the beginning of your course you will be allocated a personal tutor who will provide you with pastoral and academic support.

Further academic support is provided via embedded tutorials in the Research Methods module. During your independent research project, you will be appointed a LJMU-based supervisor as well as an industrial supervisor if you are carrying out your project externally.

This Industrial Biotechnology Masters is based at the Byrom Street site of the University’s City Campus, which is equipped with new state-of-the-art laboratories housing a range of advanced analytical and imaging equipment to support biotechnology.

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Level 7
Fermentation Technology Principles: Gives an insight into Industrial Microbiology and Biochemistry, showing how fundamental principles can be applied to industrial processes.
Recombinant DNA and Genomics: Provides in-depth coverage of developments in recombinant DNA technology and genomics, using examples from both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems.
Cell Technology: Provides an insight into the principles and practical techniques involved in the commercial exploitation of animal cell processes.
Biotechnology: Principles and Applications: Offers an understanding of some of the cutting edge techniques and their applications currently used in the field of biotechnology.
Research Methods: This area of study equips you with the necessary core skills to effectively design, plan, perform and report scientific research.
Research Project: This enables you to undertake independent, in-depth study on an agreed aspect of biotechnology and related areas.

Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled ‘What you will study’ is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Academic Framework reviews are conducted by LJMU from time to time to ensure that academic standards continue to be maintained. A review is currently in progress and will be operational for the academic year 2016/2017. Final details of this programme’s designated core and option modules will be made available on LJMU’s website as soon as possible and prior to formal enrolment for the academic year 2016/2017.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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This taught Masters prepares students for research and industry-based careers in biotechnology research and development. You will gain research experience and interdisciplinary training in state-of-the-art biomolecular and biochemical techniques. The programme is based in the Department of Biology, which is one of the UK’s top- ranked biological sciences departments for research, teaching and impact. Staff in the Centre for Novel Agriculture Products (CNAP) and Centre for Immunology and Infection (CII) contribute teaching, and research opportunities.

Key features

-Integrated training in modern recombinant DNA, fermentation and bioreactor technology
-Develop the skills to support an research or industry -based career across any area of modern biotechnology.

Taught modules

-Industrial Biotechnology
-Data Analysis and Programming in the Biosciences
-Research, Professional and Team Skills
-Optional modules include: Biocatalysis, Cell and Tissue Engineering, Bioremediation.

Research projects

Independent study module carried out as a placement either within the University or as an external placement. Recent external placement destinations include MicroLab Devices, Leeds; Cancer Research UK, London; Computomics GmbH & Co, Tübingen; and Forsite Diagnostics Ltd, York.

Research and transferable skills

-Appreciate the role of science in industry, eg commerce, IP issues and ethics
-Data analysis, programming and professional skills modules.

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Our MSc is for students from a variety of backgrounds with varied levels of biotechnology experience. You will develop an understanding of contemporary molecular biology and biotechnology principles and practices. You will also gain the skills and knowledge base required for employment in the biotechnology industry.

This course covers the scientific principles needed to give you an advanced understanding of contemporary industrial biotechnology. It helps you to develop generic practical skills in:
-Handling micro-organisms
-Molecular biological techniques
-Data analysis

You will examine:
-The production of novel biological compounds
-The fundamental role played by micro-organisms in the turnover of pollutants
-The search and discovery of commercially significant natural products
-Use and exploitation of genetically modified organisms (GMO)

The course also explores areas of related interest in biotechnology, such as:
-Bioethics
-Regulatory affairs
-The role of intellectual property and commercialisation

Facilities

The School of Biology has an outstanding range of facilities to support our research and teaching, including:
-Fully equipped teaching and research laboratories
-Lab scale fermentation of novel biological compounds

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