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From Lab to Life (SCIE90011)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1 - On Campus
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What does it take to develop something innovative and then move it from the laboratory out into the real world? Scientists must negotiate a labyrinth of hurdles, ranging from conducting bullet-proof data analysis, designing clinical trials, developing and managing intellectual property, assessing contracts, and setting up Total Quality Management systems in a biotech setting. Students will learn how to navigate these hurdles as applied to a range of possible inventions, such as therapeutics, diagnostics, medical devices, GMOs and other bio-science-related creations.

Intended learning outcomes

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

  • Categorise the Australian biotechnology research and evaluate the development of agricultural, life science and medical technology products from initial discovery through to market;
  • Analyse and critically debate the state of Australian and global biotechnology sectors;
  • Analyse company R&D programs and product development, including intellectual property, clinical trials, regulatory approval, and manufacturing;
  • Evaluate market and investment opportunities and commercialisation pathways for novel biotechnology innovations;
  • Synthesise knowledge and utilise evidence to create new arguments supporting biotechnology's role as a social, economic and technological driver.

Generic skills

At the completion of this subject, students should gain skills in:  

  • Analysis: applying advanced analysis, and critical analytical skills towards an industry-based practice; 
  • Information management: the ability to find, evaluate, and synthesize information pertaining to biotechnology in an inter-disciplinary approach;  
  • Problem solving: identifying real world problems and integrating multiple disciplines in order to solve problems;  
  • Critical thinking: exercising critical judgement, being capable of rigorous and independent thinking, being able to account for their decisions; 
  • Collaboration: the ability to work effectively in a team and share ideas, opinions and information.  

Last updated: 19 November 2025