Biotechnology (BIOT)
BIOT-200 Introduction to Biotechnology 3 Credits
An introductory course to the field of biotechnology and application of biotechnology methodologies in emerging areas. Topics of discussion will include microbial biotechnology, animal biotechnology, forensic biotechnology, agriculture biotechnology, bioremediation and medical biotechnology. Emphasis will be placed on ethical and social considerations and opportunities for improvements in the field.
BIOT-200L Introduction to Biotechnology Laboratory 1 Credit
An introductory laboratory course to the field of biotechnology and application of biotechnology methodologies in emerging areas. Laboratories include aseptic technique, pipetting and measurement, DNA extraction and restriction digestion, gel electrophoresis and PCR. Lab fee required.
BIOT-403 Adv. Research Methods in Biotechnology 3 Credits
Methodology and application in biotechnology. The following topics will be covered: genetic engineering techniques for introducing a gene for a desired protein into a cell with vectors, techniques for growing bacteria and yeast to produce a desired protein, cell transformation by electroporation, blue/white screening for selection of a colony with successful transformation with the desired vector, identification of a plasmid with PCR and DNA sequencing, use of enzyme assays to measure protein concentration in solutions, fed-batch yeast fermentation, mammalian cell culture techniques, and analysis of protein expression by Western blot. Lab fee.
BIOT-405 Bioinformatics 3 Credits
Introduction to bioinformatic resources/methods for biologists. Topics include: biological databases, sequence alignment, gene and protein structure prediction, molecular phylogenetics, genomics and proteomics. Students will gain practical experience with bioinformatics tools and develop basic skills in the collection and presentation of bioinformatics data.
BIOT-405L Bioinformatics Laboratory 1 Credit
Introduction to bioinformatic resources/methods for biologists. Topics include: biological databases, sequence alignment, gene and protein structure prediction, molecular phylogenetics, genomics and proteomics. Students will gain practical experience with bioinformatics tools and develop basic skills in the collection and presentation of bioinformatics data. This lab course must be taken concurrently with lecture BIOL-405.
BIOT-413 Cell Culture Techniques 3 Credits
This course is primarily lab based and will focus on teaching the techniques necessary to maintain mammalian cells in culture and manipulating stem cells. Exercises will include hands-on training isolating, maintaining, characterizing, cryopreserving, and manipulating in vitro cells in addition to independent research experience. Additional skills will include Basic Aseptic Technique; Media Preparation; Cell counting; Survival assays, Live Cell Identification and Transfection. These skills are crucial for individuals seeking career opportunities in the biotechnology field.