Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit explores how scalable, commercially viable process-unit operations are harnessed by the biotechnology industry for the production of valuable biomolecules (eg recombinant proteins, peptides, vaccines, enzymes, and nucleic acids). The design, operation and economic issues surrounding large-scale biomolecular process equipment including bioreactors, filtration systems, chromatographic columns, sterilisation and aseptic operation, auxiliary equipment and the associated control systems will be considered. The wider biotechnology environment will be considered especially with regards to GxP, national and international regulatory bodies, biosafety and commercialisation.

Objectives

At the completion of the unit students will: have an understanding of biological systems and molecules and how these are harnessed in biotechnology; have an understanding of how scalable, commercially viable process-unit operations are employed in bioprocessing for the production of biotechnology products; understand the design, operation and economic issues surrounding large-scale biomolecular process equipment including fermenters/bioreactors, filtration systems, chromatography, aseptic operation, auxiliary equipment and the control systems; be able to read, understand, critically evaluate and develop process flow diagrams; have an understanding of the wider influences on the biotechnology industry: regulatory compliance, ethics and societal expectations; have had direct exposure to the industry through talks from industry representatives and site visits.

Assessment

Industry assignment: 10%
Plant visit reports: 10%
Research assignment: 30%
Examination (3 hours): 50%
Students are required to achieve at least 45% in the total continuous assessment component (assignments, tests, mid-semester exams, laboratory reports) and at least 45% in the final examination component. Students failing to achieve this requirement will be given a maximum of 45% in the unit.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Paul Webley

Contact hours

2 hours lectures, 3 hours tutorials/practice sessions and 7 hours of private study per week

Prerequisites

CHE2165 (or BCH2011 or BMS1011 or BIO1011) and CHM1011 (or CHM1022 or CHM2735 or VPS1021 or VPS1022)