Loading...

Course Structure Overview

The Biotechnology program at Dayananda Sagar University Bangalore is structured over eight semesters, with a blend of core subjects, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory components designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills.

Detailed Elective Course Descriptions

Advanced departmental elective courses form a crucial part of the Biotechnology program, offering students specialized knowledge and practical skills tailored to specific areas of interest. These courses are designed to complement core subjects and prepare students for advanced research or industry roles.

Drug Discovery and Development (BIO601)

This course delves into the entire process of bringing new drugs from concept to market. Students explore early-stage discovery techniques, lead optimization strategies, preclinical testing methods, clinical trial design, regulatory pathways, and post-marketing surveillance. The curriculum includes case studies of successful drug launches and failures, providing insights into risk management and decision-making in pharmaceutical development.

Quality Control in Biotechnology (BIO602)

Focusing on maintaining product integrity throughout the biotech manufacturing cycle, this course covers quality assurance principles, good manufacturing practices (GMP), analytical methods validation, contamination control, and documentation standards. Students learn to implement QC systems that ensure compliance with international regulatory requirements.

Synthetic Biology (BIO603)

This cutting-edge course explores the design and construction of biological systems using engineering principles. Topics include genetic circuit design, metabolic pathway engineering, biocontainment strategies, and synthetic biology applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation. Students engage in hands-on projects involving CRISPR-based gene editing and engineered microbial systems.

Regulatory Affairs in Biotech (BIO604)

This course provides an overview of regulatory frameworks governing biotechnology products globally. Students examine the roles of agencies like the FDA, EMA, and WHO, understand submission processes, review clinical data, and learn how to prepare for inspections. The curriculum emphasizes ethical considerations in regulatory decision-making and emerging trends in global harmonization.

Biotechnology in Agriculture (BIO504)

This course examines the application of biotechnology in agriculture, covering topics such as genetically modified crops, biopesticides, plant breeding techniques, and sustainable farming practices. Students explore case studies of successful agricultural biotech innovations and discuss challenges related to public acceptance and environmental impact.

Advanced Biochemistry (BIO501)

Building upon foundational biochemistry concepts, this course explores complex biochemical pathways, enzyme kinetics, protein structure-function relationships, and post-translational modifications. Students engage in advanced laboratory techniques for protein purification and characterization, gaining skills essential for research and industrial applications.

Metabolic Pathways (BIO502)

This course investigates metabolic networks within living organisms, focusing on energy production, biosynthesis, and regulation mechanisms. Students study pathways such as glycolysis, TCA cycle, and fatty acid oxidation, integrating computational modeling with experimental data to understand metabolic flux control.

Biochemical Engineering (BIO503)

Combining principles of biochemistry with engineering concepts, this course addresses the design and operation of bioreactors, fermentation processes, and downstream processing. Students learn to optimize bioprocess parameters for maximum efficiency and yield in large-scale production environments.

Protein Engineering (BIO402)

This advanced course focuses on modifying protein properties through rational design and directed evolution techniques. Topics include protein structure prediction, site-directed mutagenesis, enzyme engineering, and applications in biocatalysis. Students gain experience with computational tools for protein modeling and experimental validation.

Recombinant DNA Technology (BIO401)

This foundational course covers the principles and techniques of recombinant DNA manipulation, including plasmid cloning, PCR, restriction enzyme digestion, gene expression systems, and vector construction. Students perform hands-on experiments using modern molecular biology techniques to create recombinant organisms.

Immunology (BIO204)

This course provides a comprehensive overview of immune system function, including innate and adaptive immunity, antigen recognition, immune cell interactions, and immunopathology. Students learn how immunological principles are applied in diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutic interventions.

Bioprocess Engineering (BIO301)

This course introduces students to the design and operation of bioprocess systems used in industrial biotechnology. Topics include fermentation kinetics, bioreactor design, process control, scale-up strategies, and economic analysis of bioprocessing operations.

Bioinformatics (BIO302)

Integrating biology with computational methods, this course covers sequence alignment, database searches, genome annotation, protein structure prediction, and evolutionary analysis. Students gain proficiency in bioinformatics tools and databases essential for modern biological research.

Enzyme Technology (BIO303)

This course explores the properties and applications of enzymes in industrial processes. Topics include enzyme classification, catalytic mechanisms, immobilization techniques, enzyme stability, and optimization strategies for industrial applications. Students conduct experiments to characterize enzyme activity and performance.

Cell Biology (BIO203)

This course provides an in-depth study of cellular structure and function, including organelle biology, cell signaling pathways, and cellular metabolism. Students examine how cellular processes contribute to health and disease, with emphasis on current research methodologies and applications.

Genetics (BIO202)

This course covers the fundamentals of genetics, including Mendelian inheritance, gene expression regulation, chromosomal abnormalities, and genetic engineering techniques. Students explore ethical issues in genetic modification and gain experience with genetic analysis tools.

Molecular Biology (BIO201)

This foundational course introduces students to molecular mechanisms underlying life processes. Topics include DNA replication, transcription, translation, gene regulation, and molecular diagnostics. Students learn to apply molecular techniques to solve biological problems.

Project-Based Learning Philosophy

The Biotechnology program at Dayananda Sagar University Bangalore emphasizes project-based learning as a cornerstone of student development. This approach encourages active engagement with real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and innovation skills essential for professional success in the biotech industry.

Mini-Projects

Mini-projects are integrated throughout the curriculum from the second year onwards, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts in practical settings. These projects typically span one semester and involve small teams of 3-5 students working under faculty supervision. Students select topics related to their interests or industry needs, ensuring relevance and engagement.

Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project

The capstone project represents the culmination of student learning experiences, requiring them to conduct independent research or develop a comprehensive solution to a complex problem in biotechnology. This multi-semester endeavor involves selecting a mentor, designing methodology, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings through written reports and oral presentations.

Project Selection Process

Students begin choosing their capstone project topics during the sixth semester, with guidance from faculty mentors and industry partners. The selection process considers student interests, career goals, available resources, and potential for publication or commercialization. Regular progress meetings ensure that projects stay on track toward successful completion.

Evaluation Criteria

Projects are evaluated based on multiple criteria including scientific rigor, innovation, presentation quality, teamwork effectiveness, and contribution to the field. Final grades reflect both individual performance and group outcomes, encouraging collaboration while maintaining accountability for personal contributions.