Bachelor of ScienceBiotechnology

This is an introductory course to nanobiotechnology, which is the use of existing elements of natural systems to develop new technologies. The concepts of how nano-structures are characterized are defined and a review is conducted of the applications of this new technology. The course includes a laboratory component in addition to lecture component.

Biotechnology explores biological processes to produce raw materials, foodstuffs, and medical treatments for use by humans. The industry is key for generating income worldwide and feeds into the pharmaceutical, textile, food and agricultural industries. The course centers on three main goals: 1) to understand the biological processes involved in biotechnology methods; 2) to identify and criticize the benefits and drawbacks of current methods; and 3) to review new emerging technologies that focus on ecological solutions.

This course provides an overview of the diet and nutritional requirements of protein, energy, whole grains, major vitamins and minerals and other food groups that are determinants of health and diseases in human populations. The sources, recommended intake, role of major nutrients, and metabolism are explored, in addition to case studies that address the impact of nutrition on human growth and development of chronic or acute diseases (i.e. cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.).

This course addresses applications of nanobiotechnology for various fields such as medicine, drug-delivery, food and environment. The student explores how various nanostructures can be “functionalized” to perform targeted interactions. The need, application, limitations, and ethical positions for these topics are covered through a multimodal approach of lecture, lab, presentations, group discussions and interactive modules.

The field of biotechnology is evolving quickly with innovative technologies. The course covers the concept of biomarkers, its application in diagnostics and therapeutics. Topics such as pharmacogenomics, gene therapy, medical imaging, regenerative medicine, prosthetics, and point of care devices are at the interface of emerging medical technologies and applied biotechnology. This course serves to introduce the student to these emerging trends and technologies in the field of medical biotechnology. Offered Spring Semester, annually, or as needed.

This course studies how specific small molecules can impact and affect body behavior and responses. Small molecules or drugs made by man or from nature can modulate special gates and enzymes. These concepts are the first step into the world of pharmacology. The understanding of this course depends heavily on knowing what is considered normal for the body. Consequently, human physiological systems are featured as an integral part of this course.

This course develops the skills, competencies, and fundamentals of research procedures in biotechnology. The student is exposed to a variety of relevant biotechnology techniques in the laboratory at research or commercial centers.

This laboratory-intensive course examines the various applications in the field of biotechnology at a molecular level, which aids the understanding of cellular mechanisms. The power, limitation, proper use and theoretical framework around biotechnology applications are explored. Biotechnology-related workforce growth, and the area corporations involved in this field, provide case study illustrations.

This course explores the impact of plant and animal biotechnology on food nutrition and provides an understanding of the techniques and methods in genetically-modified food products. The advantages and disadvantages of genetically modified foods are explored, in addition to cultivation, production, processing, and manufacturing issues that are related to genetically modified foods. A broad knowledge of the current laws governing use of genetically modified foods, the ethical discussions surrounding production of these foods, and the global impact of those laws will be studied.

The course covers aspects such as: what is a biosensor, the types of biosensors, and how to develop a specific assay for a specific detection system. Also covered are the major techniques used in developing and functionalizing nanoparticles for specific biosensor assays. Applications of biosensor technology in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, bioremediation and quality control in food industry are reviewed.

The course provides insight into the most recent developments of food-borne pathogens, toxins, and contaminents that may occur in a food production plant environment. The course is delivered in classroom and laboratory environments and includes a mixture of theory, demonstrations, and practical sessions on the fundamentals of food microbiology and food safety. Offered as needed.

Conducting drug research in a directed and specific manner previously relied on how many small molecules could be tested per unit time. Over recent years, more and more drug design is coordinated with available literature and modern databases containing overwhelming amounts of information. To identify new potential drug molecules, automation has become essential to narrow the field before embarking on a biological screening process.

Nanofabrication processing equipment and materials handling procedures with a focus on safety, environment, and health issues. Course is available only at The Pennsylvania State University – University Park campus.

Step-by-step description of equipment and processes needed in top-down, bottom-up, and hybrid nanofabrication. Course available only at The Pennsylvania University – University Park campus.

The use of materials for nanotechnology as well as the unique material properties available at the nano-scale. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University – University Park campus.

Lithographic process from substrate preparation to exposure; process from development through inspection; advanced optical lithographic techniques. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University – University Park campus.

Processing steps used in modifying material properties in nanofabrication. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University – University Park campus.

Measurements and techniques essential for controlling device fabrication. Course available only at The Pennsylvania State University – University Park campus.