Synthetic Biology

Participants will obtain broad knowledge on the main subject areas of synthetic biology with emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and sustainability. A wide variety of topics in metabolic engineering, biochemistry, protein engineering, biotechnology, nano-technology, and structural biology will be covered. These insights will stimulate participants for creative thinking, will provide them the ability to work across disciplines, and inspire them on how we can implement our knowledge for more environmentally friendly applications and solutions. By introducing advanced techniques from various research areas, students will acquire practical skills that can be applied to other research fields. The course will enhance group collaboration and interdisciplinary communication. The course will emphasize the impact synthetic biology can have to innovative and sustainable approaches and strategies in order to mitigate climatic changes. In parallel,  show how synthetic biology can contribute to improved human health, clean energy, or improved foods.

Knowledge
1. Understanding of the basic concepts of synthetic biology.
2. Acquisition of the common vocabulary essential for synthetic biology (e.g. standard part, chassis, etc.).
3. Familiarization with specific scientific, ethical, and regulatory aspects.
4. Knowledge of the prospects of combining biology with engineering and technology.
5. Broad insight and coherent knowledge on interdisciplinary research.
6. Familiarization with the most recent published literature in the field and insight into ongoing research.

7.Acquire digital competences in relation to scientific information search

                             Data source criticism

                             Search strategies and techniques

8. Obtain skills in communicating scientific data

Skills
1. Understand how fundamental tools can be applied to the engineering of biology.
2. Identify aspects of biotechnology that faciltate or prevent the faster, reliable programming of natural systems.
3. Understand current and future applications of synthetic biology.
4. Apply fundamental laboratory approaches into engineering biology.
5. Ability to engage in interdisciplinary research.
6. Preparation of reports and proper handling of scientific literature.

7. Preparation of digital scientific presentations and science dissemination.

Competences
1. Ability to apply synthetic biology concepts and principles to solve a real life problem or develop new applications.
2. Ability to discuss the public concerns and ethical dilemmas and the potential solutions offered by synthetic biology.
3. Capability to find a solution for a problem and work independently.
4. Able to apply the concepts and techniques of synthetic biology to other subjects at a high academic level.
5. Able to work efficiently in a collaborative work situation.

6. Digital competences, such as scientific information search, evaluation of data sources, search strategies and search techniquesspecific to obtaining information relating to synthetic biology, identification of data in connection with synthetic biology problem-solving strategies, and synthetic biology results and data communication in oral and written form.