BTEC

Stem Cell Technology

A general introduction to the principles of stem cell biology. Topics include embryonic stem cells in early development, adult stem cells, and potential applications of stem cell culture and ethical issues involved in stem cell research. Current research methods involving cell differentiation and fluorescent technology will be presented. Emphasis on laboratory techniques including culture of mouse embryonic stem cells, analysis of stem cells by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.

Mol and Cell Biotechnology

Introduction to the principles and techniques of molecular and cell biology and protein analysis. Emphasis on lab techniques, such as spectroscopy, preparation of cell lysates, Western blot, immunoprecipitation, enzyme assays, analysis of signal transduction, and stable transfection of mammalian cells. Design and analysis of molecular and cell biology experiments is taught.

GLP and GMP Principles

A general overview of Food and Drug Administration regulations as they pertain to the biotechnology field. Knowledge of Current Good Laboratory Practices (cGLP) and Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) is needed to work in biotechnology manufacturing and preclinical research laboratories. The course will emphasize those practices as they pertain to the biopharmaceutical industry.

Immunoassay: ELISA

Underlying principles of immunoassay with focus on ELISA. Examples of ELISA techniques and applications in the pharmaceutical, environmental, biotechnology, and clinical laboratory settings will be discussed. Laboratory exercises and discussions cover qualitative and quantitative data analysis and direct, indirect, sandwich, and competitive ELISA methods.

Intro Stem Cell Intern Support

Provides the necessary communication tools for beginning students placed in off-campus stem cell biology internships. Emphasis is put on demonstrating how their work contributes to the overall scientific research being conducted at their internship site. Types of internships may include, but are not limited to, differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, FACS analysis, primary cell culture, propagation of iPS cells, immunolocalization, microarray analysis, and tumor cell characterization.

Career Exploration in Science

Students will explore various careers in bioscience through online research, informational interviews and interactions with industry professionals. Students will present a summary of a chosen bioscience topic at a scientific meeting. Students will communicate and network with industry professionals, and attend professional workshops and seminars to gain career skills needed for finding internships and jobs in the biotechnology fields.

Biotechnology Lab Techniques

An introduction to laboratory techniques needed for entry-level positions in the biotechnology industry and research laboratories. The course covers basic lab skills such as solution making, bacteria cultures, plasmid DNA and protein purification. Intended as an introductory class for the students in preparation of the more advanced biotechnology classes and/or an internship in a biotechnology lab.

Stem Cell Technology

A general introduction to the principles of stem cell biology. Topics include embryonic stem cells in early development, adult stem cells, and potential applications of stem cell culture and ethical issues involved in stem cell research. Current research methods involving cell differentiation and fluorescent technology will be presented. Emphasis on laboratory techniques including culture of mouse embryonic stem cells, analysis of stem cells by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry.

Mammalian Cell Culture

Introduction to techniques for culturing and maintaining mammalian cells, including proper use of equipment, aseptic technique, media formulation, storage, counting and subculturing of cells. Contents include proper growth conditions, cell cycle regulation, cellular responses to DNA damage, growth patterns, viability assays, transfection and an introduction to the use of fluorescent molecules in visualization of cellular structures.