Course overview
Recombinant proteins offer ever-increasing commercial value to medicine and science, as pharmaceuticals, medical diagnostics, and as research tools. They also find more industrial applications as enzymes for energy production, cleaning, and waste management. Generation of high-value recombinant proteins requires specialised techniques to separate, or purify, the protein from the cells they are produced in. In this predominantly practical-based course, students will use and compare a range of protein purification techniques, such as affinity and ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration to produce a selected purified recombinant protein. Throughout the course, you will be introduced to protein handling and separation science in the laboratory, while complementary lectorials will reinforce the theories and procedures that are essential for protein purification. The skills acquired in this course will be applicable to a variety of industries, including biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and research institutions.
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate sound knowledge of current protein purification techniques used in biomedical research and the biotechnology industry
- Demonstrate practical laboratory skills in chromatography and protein purification.
- Document laboratory procedures and data effectively in an electronic notebook
- Interpret and critically analyse experimental data relating to protein purification
- Effectively communicate results and conclusions to a broad audience