Biotechnology is central to our lives. The use of plants, animals and bacteria, enhanced by areas such as genetics and genomics, gives rise to new food, fibre and chemical production routes, and new strategies for environmental protection and stewardship, all central requirements as the global population increases over the coming decades. You will train in the theory of genetics and molecular biology and receive training in ‘next generation’ practical techniques such as proteomics, metabolomics, and genomics. These core skills will be complemented by bioinformatics practices.

Specialisations:

• AQUAtech
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnology
• Genetics and Genomics

This is a signature program that set us apart from other universities by offering a thorough grounding in state-of-the-art biotechnology and combining this with training in enterprise and commercialisation. This includes developing the theory of genetics and molecular biology in parallel with skills training in practical techniques such as genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, recombinant DNA methods, and basic and advanced bioinformatics. Current streams include the application of biotechnology to Plant and Animal Breeding, Environmental Biotechnology, Genetics and Genomics, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Commercialisation.

This cross-Faculty course draws on the expertise of staff in the UWA Business School, business angels and mentors in biotechnology businesses to provide the academic and business skills you’ll need to make a significant contribution to the biotechnology sector now and in the future. You can also pursue options from other faculties. You will be well positioned to pursue careers in international research laboratories, government agencies and the private sector.

You can find employment in academia, through either a higher degree or research/teaching post. The commercial sector is also a key future employer and the mix of analytical, scientific rationale and business skills will see you well placed within selection criteria for biotechnology industries. Core business training will also give you a full understanding of idea development into spin out companies, and as such, biotechnology start-up ventures are a likely destination for some graduates. Governmental and non-governmental organisations are also key employment areas, for fields such as environmental monitoring, legislative development and advisory bodies concerned with biotechnology development.