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  3. Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology

Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (BOTA30005)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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The subject focuses on the functional biology of plants and how it can be modified by biotechnology. Students will explore topics through a series of vignettes including plant diseases and microbiomes; plant water productivity; cell wall biosynthesis for climate change mitigation; photosynthesis and enhancement for food security; nutrient uptake and fertiliser reduction; and the genome in plants and its modification by biotechnology and biodiversity. The practical class experiences and assessments form a capstone experience in which students apply theoretical knowledge to answer complex research questions. Students will design and carry out practical work using leading-edge techniques including using CRISPR for gene editing. By the end of the subject students are prepared for applying their knowledge and skills in both the workplace and further study.

Intended learning outcomes

At the completion of the subject, students should be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of the functional biology specific to plants;
  • apply concepts of biotechnology to agriculture, horticulture, forestry and the food industries;
  • evaluate current benefits or limitations for converting plant molecular biology to applied biotechnological outcomes; and
  • demonstrate practical skills to perform plant molecular biology experiments, including data analysis and evaluation.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject students should have developed the following generic skills:

  • Critical-thinking skills: Demonstrate an appreciation of how modern fundamental science can be applied;
  • Research skills: Capacity to undertake the generation and assessment of original research data;
  • Communication skills: Display the ability to communicate information in writing;
  • Collaborative skills: Display skills in cooperative teamwork in small group based practical work;
  • Safe practice skills: Exercise the safe use of appropriate laboratory equipment and techniques for experiments.

Last updated: 15 January 2025