Bioinformatics and Biotechnology
Why study with us?
In Scotland alone, there are now over 250 dedicated biotechnology companies and this
sector is growing extremely rapidly, at around 30% per annum. Scotland is a genuine
centre of excellence for science, and Scotland's life sciences industry is one of the most
vibrant in Europe - employing over 25,000 people.
Scotland has secured a place as a global leader in life sciences and technology, and we
work closely with industry and government, through research and consultancy, and share
in that global excellence.
Graduates of the biotechnology courses at Abertay University are well placed to secure
employment in this rapidly growing sector, where both private companies and
governments across the world are investing huge amounts of money. Our strong focus on
biotechnological techniques gives Abertay graduates more practical knowledge than
many other universities, making them even more competitive for these jobs – which will
be crucial to the future of our planet.
Research Overview
The research strategy for Abertay's School of Contemporary Sciences (SCS) is focused
on the analysis of complex systems using predictive modelling and visualisation.
In particular, the studies on soil structure and function taking place in SIMBIOS (Scottish
Informatics, Mathematics, Biology and Statistics Centre), development of sustainable city
environments in ACE (Abertay Centre for the Environment), and a novel methodology for
studying cell processes in cancer cells being developed by our Systems Pathology Group
are all closely associated with the modelling and visualisation agenda.
Each area of research is closely linked with our undergraduate and graduate degree
programmes, and many of our projects are being developed in conjunction with potential
end-users.
Key Research Staff
Bioethics researchers at Abertay are synthesising the available science with ethical
principles surrounding the prospect of genetically modified humans to ascertain what
issues might arise and their implications. Much of this research is being conducted by Dr
Kevin Smith from SCS in collaboration with researchers from Manchester University.
Abertay University is also exploring the ethical status of complementary and alternative
therapies, such as homeopathy, acupuncture and faith-healing. Our recent research
includes an investigation into the inclusion of these therapies in UK medical school
curricula, and the ethics of permitting homeopathy to be funded by the NHS.
The cancer systems biology research in Abertay University focuses on two overlapping
areas: quantitative cancer biology and computational modelling. Our quantitative cancer
biology research, led by Professor Nikolai Zhelev, aims to understand the regulation of
the signal transduction pathways related to tumorigenesis, through the development of
methods that can provide quantitative information about the complex interactions of such
pathways in real time in a single cell. For example, Abertay scientists have developed
one of the first live-cell biosensors for monitoring activity on cancer targets such as cyclindependent kinases in tumours. Our computational modelling research, led by Professor
Jim Bown, develops and implements models using optimised quantitative pathology to
understand the basis of drug resistance to treatment, and so contribute to discovery
programmes that identify new targets.
MSc Bioinformatics
There is a growing demand for scientists with the ability to analyse biological
data by means of state-of-the-art information technology and this course
presents the cutting edge of this new discipline. The course brings modern
quantitative and computer-aided techniques to the study of biological
processes. Whether you are interested in drug design, gene expression
profiling, microarrays, manipulation of databases, analysis of genome data or
gaining expertise in an essential skill of the modern bioscientist, then this
course is for you.
“My first choice was the University of
Abertay Dundee, which offered me a range
of well equipped and modern laboratories
but more importantly it is situated in the
centre of many world renowned industry
and public research centres.”
Abraham George,
MSc Bioinformatics
MSc Biotechnology
This course is designed for bioscience graduates who wish to further their
careers in biotechnology. The taught course modules include theoretical,
practical and applied elements of biotechnology and provide the opportunity
for students to specialise in areas such as plant, animal (including human),
and microbial biotechnology. Students may select one of two optional project
structures. The first, for those who wish to use the MSc award as a steppingstone to a research career, involves a specialised research project, often
undertaken in a research institute or biotechnology company outwith the
University. The second option offers practical investigative skills
encompassing a broad range of cellular and molecular biological, analytical
and data processing systems, and is recommended for students who wish to
maximise their potential for employment or further study.
MSc Food Biotechnology
This course will provide students with the knowledge, skills and competencies
required to gain employment within the food and drink industry in a range of
areas such as production, quality control, product development and
innovation, and to manage change in a complex market. Students have an
opportunity to undertake exciting real-life projects within a research institute
or food biotechnology company, or in collaboration with
FoodInnovation@Abertay (FIA).
MSc Medical Biotechnology
This course is designed for bioscience graduates who wish to further their
careers in medical biotechnology. The taught course modules include
theoretical, practical and applied elements of medical biotechnology and
provide the opportunity for students to specialise in areas such as human
disease, human reproductive biology and microbial biotechnology. Students
undertake a research project that may act as a stepping-stone to a research
career and involves undertaking a specialised research project, often taken in
a research institute or medical biotechnology company outwith the University.
MSc Renewable Bio-Energy
This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge that effectively
integrates biotechnology, renewable energy technologies, environmental
management and entrepreneurial skills to efficiently harness, develop, exploit
and utilise sustainable energy systems and supply networks in an
environmentally sustainable manner. The course offers both conventional and
innovative solutions to problems associated with bioenergy production,
sustainability, management and utilisation.
“The course is a good blend of theory and
practice. Location wise the University is in
the heart of the city and that makes life
much easier for all students. Dundee is a
really nice city, with good transport facilities
and most importantly it is an absolutely
safe city for students. People here are
brilliant, very social and helpful..”
Nimish Kulkarni,
MSc Biotechnology