Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Synthetic biology aims to apply engineering principles to a broad range of biological disciplines, including biochemistry and molecular biology, genetics, genomics, evolutionary biology and computational biology. Through standardisation and modularisation, synthetic biology enables the rational (re-)design of biological systems with novel functionalities. Examples include the construction of synthetic biosensors and regulatory circuits enabling smart cellular decisions in bioremediation and biotechnology; the implementation of novel biosynthetic pathways and enzymes enabling the production of innovative materials, pharmaceuticals, biofuels, renewable chemicals, flavours and fragrances; and the re-programming of cells for advanced immunotherapies. This unit will focus on the presentation and discussion of the building blocks of synthetic biology, including current and future organisms, methods, platforms, and target uses.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate advanced knowledge of the concepts and latest applications in the field of Synthetic Biology; (2) critically evaluate the targets and ethical implications of state-of-the-art Synthetic Biology applications; and (3) apply current Synthetic Biology concepts and technologies to design and create novel solutions to global challenges.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) online quizzes; (2) oral presentations; and (3) funding proposal. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Georg Fritz
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
71580 Master of Biotechnology (ID 389)
or 71520 Master of Biomedical Science (ID 359)
or 70550 Master of Bioinformatics (ID 1490)
Contact hours
lectures, tutorials / workshops
5 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.