A New Course in Genetic Engineering and Fermentation Technology

This project will support the establishment of a new course (BIOL3200/3201). The laboratory intensive coursework proposed will serve as a continuation of Basic Laboratory Methods for Biotechnology (BIOL2100/2101) and will build on the skills and knowledge developed in that prerequisite. The curriculum is designed to develop theoretical and practical knowledge of bacterial cells and the techniques used to genetically engineer and maintain them in culture (i.e., ?fermentation?). BIOL3200/3201 will be oriented to the role of fermentation in the synthesis and purification of enzymes for use in industry and incorporate an understanding of the importance of Good Laboratory Practices. The students will gain hand-on experience working aseptically with bacterial and yeast cells as well as the various equipment, instrumentation and vessels used in fermentation including a stir-tank bioreactor. This coursework will more thoroughly train students for the biotechnology workforce and serve to expand ECU?s biotechnology offerings at the undergraduate level.

Scholars @ ECU