MICR40060 Microbial and Mammalian Cell Bioprocessing

Academic Year 2023/2024

This module focuses on the basic science of bioprocessing offering an integrated approach to microbial physiology, fermentation technology and bioprocess engineering. How microbial processes are managed at commercial scale including the importance of fermentation economics is discussed. A number of bioprocess variables including nutrient limitation and immobilisation are considered. Variations in bioreactor design are discussed in depth and are used to examine the aeration, agitation and cost requirements of specific bioprocesses featuring industrially important microorganisms. How bioprocesses are controlled and optimised is discussed including a description of how to derive kinetic models of fermentation processes. Finally, current trends in bioprocessing are considered which encompasses mammalian cell based technologies.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able:
1. To describe the requirements for a successful bioprocess in pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical industry, food processing and environmental processes.
2. To describe the types of microorganisms/mammalian cells used in industrial bioprocesses and discuss the maintenance of the producing strains.
3. To describe the importance of media design and sterilisation.
4. To demonstrate an understanding of the techniques for measurement and monitoring of parameters relevant to industrial fermentation.
5. To discuss trends in bioprocessing.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

10
Specified Learning Activities

32
Autonomous Student Learning

70
Total

112
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The module includes traditional didactic lectures, and two short answer-type assessments throughout the trimester. Finally, each student will conduct a case study focusing on principles required for a successful industrial bioprocess. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Equivalents:
Bioprocessing (INDM40060)


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Continuous Assessment: Short answers I Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

30
Assignment: Case study Coursework (End of Trimester) n/a Graded No

40
Continuous Assessment: Short answers II Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

30

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Students can e-mail the module coordinator after each assessment to get individual feedback if required.

Name Role
Professor Eoin Casey Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Susan McDonnell Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor Cormac Murphy Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Tadhg Ó'Cróinín Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 
Spring
      
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 24, 25, 26, 29 Fri 09:00 - 09:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 24, 25, 26, 29 Mon 10:00 - 10:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 26 Thurs 11:00 - 11:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 24, 25, 26, 29 Wed 10:00 - 10:50
Spring