Component

MA Public Opinion and Political Behaviour
MSc Biotechnology options

Year 1, Component 07

BS937-7-AU or BS323-7-AU
BS323-7-AU
Plant Biotechnology
(15 CREDITS)

In the next 30 years, agricultural crop productivity must double to meet increased demand from a growing population. At the same time, climate change is already taking a bite out of global yields of our major food crops.  So how can we use our knowledge of modern plant science to improve agricultural productivity? From genetically-engineered disease resistance, to using water and nutrients more efficiently, you consider the potential impact and implications of the latest thinking and technology, and discover career opportunities within agricultural research

BS937-7-AU
Industrial Biotechnology
(15 CREDITS)

In recent years, a drive toward sustainable development has led to a green revolution in chemistry. Renewable raw materials, and even waste products, can be worked by microorganisms to create useful products ranging from fuels to food supplements, reducing reliance on non-sustainable, petroleum-based products. In this module you explore the advantages and disadvantages of biological vs traditional chemical processes, learn about the fundamental mechanisms that underpin industrial biotechnology, consider the importance of biological diversity, and gain an understanding of the main applications of biotechnology in industry, focusing on novel technologies.

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