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

The development of novel methods and technologies serves as a major catalyst for the rapidly expanding field of Synthetic Biology. In particular, the rigorous application of engineering principles, involving standardisation, modularisation and computational modelling of biological systems has transformed the scale and speed at which we can now engineer living cells with novel functionalities. Examples include the development of standardised chassis organisms, cell-free expression systems, synthetic genetic components and DNA assembly techniques that enable high-throughput engineering of new-to-nature proteins, gene regulatory logic circuits, RNA switches, metabolic pathways and even entire synthetic chromosomes. SCIE5509 focuses on the theory behind state-of-the art methodologies and technologies in Synthetic Biology and encourages a level of understanding that stimulates critical thinking of new applications in the fields of molecular biology and biotechnology.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of state-of-the-art technologies in the field of Synthetic Biology; (2) critically evaluate the tools and techniques currently used in Synthetic Biology applications; and (3) apply current Synthetic Biology concepts to design and create novel technologies.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) online quizzes; (2) oral presentations; and (3) poster presentation. 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)
  • 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.