Core Module Information
Module title: Cell Technology

SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: MIC11103
Module leader: Fiona Stainsby
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Life Sciences
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

In this module you will be introduced to various techniques and strategies used in handling microorganisms and mammalian cell lines that are important in cell technologies. This will include different methods and approaches for culturing, preserving, and manipulating various cell types including microbial, human/animal primary, and immortalised cell lines. Key aspects of cell handling will be explored including media design, isolation and purification, sterility, inoculum development, and cell quantification. We will delve into different approaches for manipulating cells and improving strains for bioprocessing, including genetic modification and stress fermentation, illustrated through case studies. You will develop an understanding of bioprocessing technologies, the units of operation and factors influencing optimisation, including bioreactor design, mode of operation and scale-up, as well as product separation and analysis. Both theoretical and applied aspects of fermentation growth kinetics will be explored, providing you with a comprehensive understanding. You will also explore commercial aspects including regulatory requirements and quality assurance processes involved in cell technologies, including COSSH, GMP, GLP, biosafety and containment, as well as product approval, validation, and auditing. Laboratory experiments and demonstrations will complement your theoretical learning and enhance your practical skills and confidence in the laboratory. Your practical sessions will cover various aspects of cell technology and bioprocessing, such as cell culture methods, media preparation, fermentation set-up, operation and monitoring, product separation and analysis, experimental design, and data-handling.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Evaluate various techniques used for culture, preservation, and manipulation of microorganisms and mammalian cell lines that are utilised in cell technologies.

LO2: Analyse and evaluate the various factors that influence the optimisation and efficiency of bioprocesses, including the cell type, fermentation conditions, and product separation procedures.

LO3: Critically reflect on the regulatory and quality assurance frameworks of relevance to bioprocessing and cell technologies.

LO4: Evaluate the design and operational parameters of a bioprocess that influence the synthesis and characteristics of the biological entities involved.

LO5: Determine the efficiency of product formation and output in a bioprocess using appropriate handling and interpretation of growth kinetics data.

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: Fiona Stainsby
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 11 Weekly lectures will provide you with the theoretical knowledge required to undertake both tutorial activities and laboratory practical sessions.
Face To Face Tutorial 18 Theoretical concepts introduced to you in lectures will be applied to case studies and research articles, and you will undertake data analysis and interpretation exercises, independently, in pairs and in groups. You will also undertake formative assessment tasks and engage in peer assessment. This is intended to support all students in the tutorial to learn from each other fostering an assessment for learning approach.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 20 Your practical classes, delivered in microbiology and cell culture laboratories on campus, are designed to enhance your practical skills, and provide experience in various methods and techniques relevant to cell technology. You will be expected to attend these sessions and to prepare in advance by read materials including laboratory manual and risk assessments.
Online Guided independent study 151 Throughout the trimester, you are expected to schedule time to reflect upon the learning you have undertaken in timetabled classes and to complete essential reading and other activities set by the tutor. You are encouraged to read more widely around the topics you are studying, engage in Moodle activities and be ready to discuss these during tutorials. This time should also be used to plan and prepare for your assessment tasks.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Class Test 40 4~5 Week 7 HOURS= 3 hours The test paper focuses on bioprocessing technologies and fermentation kinetics and is open book.
Report 60 1~2~3 Week 13 , WORDS= 2500 words Focusing on recent research and developments relating to a particular cell technology you will undertake a critical review. This will draw upon recently published literature, case studies and/or laboratory activities as advised by the tutor.
Component 1 subtotal: 40
Component 2 subtotal: 60
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
MIC11103 Cell Technology