Faculty: Engineering

This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of genetics and bioengineering, focusing on the application of engineering principles to biological systems. Students explore key areas such as genetic engineering, synthetic biology, biomaterials, and biomedical devices. The program emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary research to prepare students for careers in biotechnology, healthcare, and environmental engineering.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the basics of genetics and bioengineering.
• Develop skills in genetic manipulation and synthetic biology techniques.
• Learn techniques for designing and engineering biomaterials and biomedical devices.
• Explore the ethical and societal implications of advances in genetics and bioengineering.
• Understand the principles of bioprocessing and industrial applications of bioengineering.
• Analyze challenges and opportunities in the fields of genetics and bioengineering.
• Develop teamwork and communication skills for collaborative research and development.

Main Outline:

1. Introduction to Genetics and Bioengineering - Overview of genetics and bioengineering and their applications across various industries.
2. Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering - Study of DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. - Gene editing, cloning, and CRISPR techniques.
3. Synthetic Biology - Principles for designing and constructing new biological parts and systems. - Techniques for creating synthetic organisms and pathways.
4. Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering - Fundamentals of material design for medical applications. - Techniques for developing synthetic tissues and organs.
5. Biomedical Devices and Equipment - Study of devices such as biosensors, implants, and diagnostic tools. - Techniques for designing and testing biomedical equipment.
6. Bioprocessing and Industrial Bioengineering - Principles of large-scale production of biological products. - Techniques for optimizing fermentation processes and bioreactors.
7. Ethics and Regulatory Issues in Bioengineering - Exploration of ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks in bioengineering. - Techniques for ensuring responsible innovation and compliance.
8. Computational Biology and Bioinformatics - Use of computational tools for analyzing biological data. - Techniques for modeling biological systems and predicting outcomes.
9. Emerging Trends in Genetics and Bioengineering - Study innovations such as personalized medicine, gene therapy, and environmental bioengineering. - Techniques to adapt to new trends and technologies in the field.
10. Final Research Project - Real-world research project to apply acquired skills. - Techniques for delivering a comprehensive bioengineering solution.

Assessment Methods:

• Laboratory experiments and research projects.
• Written assignments on genetic engineering, biomaterials, and bioethics.
• Group projects and collaborative research exercises.
• Participation in internships or fieldwork with biotechnology companies.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Principles of Genetics" by Dr. Peter Snustad and Michael J. Simmons.
• "Introduction to Bioengineering" by S.A. Berger, W. Goldsmith, and E.R. Lewis.
• "Synthetic Biology: A Primer" by Paul S. Freemont and Richard I. Kitney.
• "Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine" by Buddy D. Ratner et al.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge in biology, chemistry, and mathematics is recommended. Suitable for students in biology, engineering, and related fields.

Duration:

Typically 4 years, including lab work, research projects, and internships.

Certification:

Graduates may earn a degree in genetics and bioengineering or a related field, depending on the program and institution.

Target Audience:

Aspiring geneticists, bioengineers, and researchers seeking innovation in biotechnology, healthcare, and environmental engineering. This major equips students with the technical, analytical, and research skills necessary to excel in genetics and bioengineering, advancing progress in medicine, industry, and sustainability.