Core Module Information
Module title: Microbial Biotechnology

SCQF level: 10:
SCQF credit value: 40.00
ECTS credit value: 20

Module code: MIC10106
Module leader: Halina Vaughan
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Life Sciences
Prerequisites

Requisites: AND Pre-requisite: Level 9 Microbiology/ Molecular Biology modules AND AND Pre-requisite: [Module MIC09103] Food Microbiology & Biotechnology AND Pre-requisite: [Module MIC09105] Applied Environmental Microbiology

Description of module content:

In this module, you will work collaboratively to develop a biotechnological process for the production of a commercially valuable compound/microorganism such as an antibiotic, an industrial enzyme or single-cell-protein for food. This will be supported by student-centred workshops and practical activities, which will provide opportunities for you to integrate your theoretical and practical knowledge of microbiology with the graduate/employability skills essential for either an industry- or research-based career.Biotechnology is relevant in many aspects of our lives. For example, it plays a key role in developing products and technologies to combat disease, reducing our environmental footprint, helping to feed the global population and making industrial processes safer, cleaner and more efficient. Biotechnological approaches have become even more important with the increased emphasis on sustainability and the resultant interest in replacing unsustainable chemical processes and/or commodities with biologically-mediated or -derived ones. You will learn about the development, design and operation of such microbial biotechnologies and develop an understanding of the microbial growth kinetics and bioprocessing involved. We will also examine the ways in which the productivity, efficiency and yield of bioprocesses are optimised. The various stages in the development of microbially-mediated biotechnologies, from bioprospecting for useful microorganisms, to the research and development phase and industrial-scale application, will be explored. Important aspects such as entrepreneurship, regulation, ethics, sustainability, quality control and good manufacturing practice (GMP) may also be considered.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Demonstrate competence in microbiological practical skills; including appropriate experimental design, proficient performance of laboratory work, optimisation and trouble-shooting of a technique/experiment, and accurate recording of data.

LO2: Plan, execute and critically evaluate a microbial bioprocess to synthesise a bioproduct (for example, an antibiotic, enzyme or biosurfactant).

LO3: Relate microbial growth kinetics and fermentation technology to the design, optimisation and operation of bioprocesses and the nature of the biological entity/entities involved.

LO4: Identify the key stages in a bioprocess and critically reflect on relevant quality control issues.

LO5: Critically evaluate a microbial biotechnology with reference to its commercial viability (scale-up), ethical implications and regulatory considerations.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Halina Vaughan
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Seminar 24 These are lecturer-facilitated sessions that will allow you to learn about and explore both fundamental and applied aspects of microbial growth kinetics and fermentation, and link this with the design, development, and operation of microbial biotechnologies in a diverse range of industries/sectors. You will be expected to engage with material on Moodle and other reading in advance of these sessions.
Online Guided independent study 341 This time is allocated for you to reflect on the learning undertaken in seminars, workshops, and practical classes. It includes recommended reading, and your own survey of relevant literature. It will also involve engaging with Moodle activities and resources, as well preparing for your assessments.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 35 Workshops: 20 hours Practical Classes: 15 hours Workshops will begin in Week 2 and focus on linking knowledge with application. You will be expected to come prepared having done the required reading and/or activities. We will explore key concepts through discussion, problem-solving, and data analysis. Practical classes will start in Week 5 and run for 5 weeks. Structured laboratory activities will embed key scientific skills, and allow application of learning in a practical context.
Total Study Hours400
Expected Total Study Hours for Module400


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Laboratory report 50 1~2~3~4 Week 12 , WORDS= 4000 words You will produce a laboratory report detailing findings from practical activities with in-depth data analysis and interpretation, and critical evaluation of methods and results. A background/rationale based on review of relevant literature will also be required. Other pertinent considerations such as bioprocess design, regulatory requirements, ethical approval, and quality assurance may also be discussed. This assessment will ensure that you know and understand the principles of microbial growth kinetics, and are able to apply and contextualise them.
Report 30 5 Exam Period , WORDS= 2000 words Short critical review of the use/application of molecular tools and technology in a specific biotechnology/bioprocess.
Practical Skills Assessment 20 1 Week 6 HOURS= 1000 words This assessment comprises three parts: a short experimental plan, competence in performing key microbiological laboratory skills, and data recording/presentation.
Component 1 subtotal: 70
Component 2 subtotal: 30
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
MIC10106: Microbial Biotechnology