Two new biotechnology majors have been introduced by QUT in recognition of its critical role in addressing some of the world's most pressing current and future challenges.
The Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) and Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) (Biotechnology) are now open for enrolment and will provide students pathways into areas including health, agriculture, manufacturing and the environment.
Dr James Behrendorff, a chief investigator in the Australian Research Council's Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology and the QUT Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy is the course coordinator. He says the new majors represent an exciting new direction for the science courses offered by QUT with the added advantage of creating opportunities for industry working on campus.
“Biotechnology creates real-world solutions to a wide range of problems that must be addressed, from sustainable manufacturing and environmental rehabilitation, to decarbonising the energy and mining sectors, and providing greater access for all to advanced medicines,” Dr Behrendorff said.
“Students of these two new majors will develop advanced skills and knowledge in molecular biosciences as applied to microbial and plant biotechnologies, including using and modifying living organisms and biological components to make products.
“They will also gain a deep understanding of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the commercialisation of biotechnology. The courses will cover how biotechnologies are developed, how they are brought to market, the ethical use of genetic technologies and the societal impacts of emerging biotechnologies.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at QUT, Professor Ian O’Hara, led the development of the QUT Pioneer BioPilot Plant, which opened last year and is the only pilot-scale precision fermentation facility in Australia to support the transition from lab scale to industrial biotechnology start-ups. He said QUT was already a magnet for biotechnology companies seeking a university partner to develop new methods and concepts.
“QUT is internationally recognised for its strengths in microbial and plant biotechnologies and there are multiple biotechnology start-ups present on campus. Students will be able to learn from leading researchers and these industry partners which will give them a head start in their careers,” Professor O’Hara said.
“There is a rapidly growing need for the skills and expertise in biotechnology, in government and across a range of industries including agri-tech, mining and biopharmaceutical manufacturers.”
Visit QUT - Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) or QUT - Bachelor of Science Advanced (Honours) (Biotechnology)to find out more about the new majors and how to enrol.
Media contact:
Amanda Weaver
QUT Media
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