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B-E in Biotechnology Engineering at Acharya Institute of Technology
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Biotechnology Engineering at Acharya Institute of Technology Bengaluru?
This Biotechnology Engineering program at Acharya Institute of Technology, affiliated with VTU, focuses on integrating engineering principles with biological sciences. It delves into molecular biology, bioprocess technology, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics, crucial for modern bio-industries. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demands of the Indian biotechnology sector, fostering innovation in areas like pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers with a strong aptitude for biology and an interest in applying scientific knowledge to real-world problems. Fresh graduates from 10+2 with PCM/B background looking for entry into cutting-edge biotech fields, or those seeking advanced research opportunities in life sciences, will find this program rewarding. It also caters to individuals passionate about solving global challenges related to health, food, and sustainability.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India''''s booming biotechnology sector, including roles in R&D, manufacturing, quality control, and process development. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5-6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. Growth trajectories are high in biopharma, diagnostics, and environmental biotech companies, often leading to specialized roles and management positions. The program also aligns with certifications in bioprocess, bioinformatics, and regulatory affairs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Science and Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, and basic programming (C/C++). Utilize online platforms like NPTEL and Khan Academy for supplementary learning. Form study groups with peers to clarify doubts and practice problem-solving regularly. This robust base is critical for understanding advanced biotechnology concepts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Khan Academy, Reference textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures academic excellence and prepares you for complex engineering challenges in later years, which is highly valued by recruiters in core engineering and R&D roles.
Develop Programming and Data Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, practice C/C++ programming by solving problems on platforms like HackerRank or GeeksforGeeks. Start exploring basic data analysis tools like Excel or Python libraries (NumPy, Pandas) with simple biological datasets. Early exposure builds computational thinking essential for bioinformatics.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, GeeksforGeeks, Python (Anaconda distribution), Excel tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in programming and data analysis is a sought-after skill in bioinformatics, computational biology, and R&D, opening doors to diverse tech-driven biotech roles.
Engage in Departmental Orientation and Clubs- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental orientation programs and join relevant student clubs (e.g., Biotechnology Students'''' Association, Coding Club). Attend introductory seminars on biotechnology applications and career paths. This helps in networking with seniors and faculty, gaining early insights into the specialization.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Student clubs, Mentorship from seniors
Career Connection
Early engagement fosters a sense of belonging, builds networking skills, and provides clarity on career options, which is crucial for informed academic and career planning.
Intermediate Stage
Intensify Lab Skills and Project Participation- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on excelling in core biotechnology labs (Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology). Seek opportunities for mini-projects under faculty guidance or participate in science fairs. Hands-on experience with equipment and protocols is invaluable for understanding theoretical concepts and developing practical expertise.
Tools & Resources
College labs, Faculty mentors, Basic lab manuals, Online protocol videos
Career Connection
Strong lab skills are fundamental for research and development roles in biopharma, diagnostics, and academic research, making you a more desirable candidate for practical positions.
Explore Bioinformatics and Software Tools- (Semester 4-6)
Dedicate time to master bioinformatics tools and databases (e.g., BLAST, NCBI, UniProt, PyMOL). Learn scripting in Python or R for biological data analysis. Consider completing online certifications in bioinformatics to boost your profile. This is crucial for handling large biological datasets.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX (Bioinformatics courses), Python/R programming, Online biological databases
Career Connection
Expertise in bioinformatics tools is highly valued in drug discovery, genomics, and personalized medicine, leading to specialized computational biologist roles in India and abroad.
Seek Industry Exposure through Workshops and Internships- (Semester 5-6)
Attend industry workshops, guest lectures, and technical fests to understand current trends. Actively search for short-term internships or industrial training opportunities during summer breaks. Even a 2-4 week exposure can provide valuable insights into real-world applications of biotechnology.
Tools & Resources
College career cell, LinkedIn, Industry-specific job portals, Biotechnology companies
Career Connection
Practical industry exposure helps in clarifying career interests, building professional networks, and making your resume competitive for full-time roles or further studies.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Capstone Project- (Semester 7-8)
Choose a challenging final year project that aligns with your career goals (e.g., genetic engineering, bioprocess optimization, drug design). Collaborate with faculty, industry experts, or research labs. Document your work meticulously, aiming for publications or patent applications if feasible. This is your flagship accomplishment.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Faculty advisors, Industry partners, Scientific journals
Career Connection
A strong project demonstrates problem-solving skills, research aptitude, and technical competence, significantly enhancing your chances for placements in R&D, higher studies, or entrepreneurship.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 7-8)
Regularly attend placement training sessions on aptitude, soft skills, and technical interviews. Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. For higher studies, prepare for competitive exams like GATE (Biotechnology) or GRE/TOEFL. Focus on core subject revisions and mock interviews.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, GATE/GRE coaching materials, Mock interview platforms, Networking events
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation is key to securing coveted positions in top biotech firms or gaining admission to prestigious postgraduate programs in India and internationally.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial Thinking and Networking- (Semester 7-8)
Explore bio-entrepreneurship concepts, participate in startup competitions, and network with entrepreneurs and investors. Understand the regulatory landscape for biotech startups in India. Leverage alumni networks and professional societies (e.g., ABLE - Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises) for mentorship and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Startup incubators (e.g., from Department of Biotechnology), ABLE, Alumni network, Startup India portal
Career Connection
Developing an entrepreneurial mindset opens avenues for launching your own venture, joining high-growth startups, or taking leadership roles in innovation-driven companies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with Chemistry/Biotechnology/Biology/Electronics/Computer Science as optional subjects with English as one of the languages. Obtained at least 45% marks (40% for SC/ST/OBC of Karnataka) in the above subjects taken together. Valid score in an approved entrance exam (e.g., KCET/JEE Mains).
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 142 (Note: Official document states 160, but sum of listed courses is 142) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% for Theory, 50% for Lab/Project, External: 60% for Theory, 50% for Lab/Project
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMAES101 | Calculus and Differential Equations | Basic Science Course | 3 | Differential Equations of First Order, Higher Order Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Vector Calculus, Infinite Series |
| BCHES101 | Engineering Chemistry | Basic Science Course | 3 | Water Technology, Batteries and Fuel Cells, Corrosion and its Control, Polymers and Composites, Nano-materials |
| BMECS101 | Elements of Mechanical Engineering | Engineering Science Course | 3 | Energy Sources, Steam and Hydraulic Turbines, IC Engines, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning, Machine Tools, Welding Processes |
| BELEN101 | Basic Electrical & Electronics Engineering | Engineering Science Course | 3 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Semiconductor Diodes, Transistors, Operational Amplifiers, Digital Logic |
| BCHEL102 | Engineering Chemistry Laboratory | Basic Science Lab | 1 | Water Analysis, pH Metry, Potentiometry, Conductometry, Viscosity Determination |
| BCADEL103 | Computer Aided Engineering Graphics | Engineering Science Lab | 1 | Introduction to CAD, Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Development of Surfaces |
| BCC104 | Communicative English | Audit Course | 0 | Basic English Grammar, Vocabulary Building, Reading Comprehension, Basic Writing Skills, Oral Communication |
| BHTL105/BHUL105 | Technical Kannada / Language and Communication (Kannada) | Audit Course | 0 | Basic Kannada Grammar, Conversational Kannada, Understanding Technical Texts in Kannada, Communication in Kannada, Kannada Culture |
| BHSCL106 | Scientific Foundations of Health | Audit Course | 0 | Holistic Health, Nutrition Basics, Stress Management, Basic Yoga Practices, Mental Well-being |
| IND100 | Induction Program | Mandatory Non-credit Course | 0 | College Orientation, Mentoring, Universal Human Values, Creative Arts, Literary Activities, Physical Activity |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMAES201 | Linear Algebra and Complex Analysis | Basic Science Course | 3 | Matrices and Determinants, Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors, Vector Spaces, Complex Numbers, Analytic Functions, Conformal Mapping |
| BPHES201 | Engineering Physics | Basic Science Course | 3 | Quantum Mechanics, Lasers and Applications, Optical Fibers, Dielectric Materials, Magnetic Materials, Superconductivity |
| BCVES201 | Elements of Civil Engineering and Mechanics | Engineering Science Course | 3 | Surveying, Building Materials, Mechanics of Rigid Bodies, Forces and Equilibrium, Friction, Moment of Inertia |
| BCPS201 | Programming for Problem Solving | Engineering Science Course | 3 | C Language Fundamentals, Control Flow Statements, Functions and Recursion, Arrays and Strings, Pointers, Structures and Unions |
| BPHYL202 | Engineering Physics Laboratory | Basic Science Lab | 1 | Photoelectric Effect, LASER Diffraction, Semiconductor Diode Characteristics, Series and Parallel Resonance, Torsional Pendulum |
| BCPSL204 | Programming for Problem Solving Laboratory | Engineering Science Lab | 1 | C Programming Exercises, Conditional Statements Implementation, Loop Control Structures, Array and String Operations, Function Calls and Pointers |
| BWSPL203 | Workshop Practice | Engineering Science Lab | 1 | Carpentry, Fitting, Welding, Foundry, Sheet Metal Operations, Basic Machine Shop |
| BCKL207 | Constitution of India and Professional Ethics | Audit Course | 0 | Indian Constitution Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles, Engineering Ethics, Professionalism, Cyber Ethics |
| BHTL208/BHUL208 | Technical Kannada / Language and Communication (Kannada) | Audit Course | 0 | Advanced Kannada Communication, Technical Terms in Kannada, Kannada Literature, Official Kannada Correspondence, Cultural Aspects |
| BHSCL209 | Scientific Foundations of Health | Audit Course | 0 | Advanced Health Concepts, Disease Prevention, Stress Management Techniques, Mindfulness Practices, Ergonomics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBT301 | Transforms, Complex Analysis and Linear Algebra | Basic Science Course | 3 | Laplace Transforms, Fourier Transforms, Z-Transforms, Complex Functions, Linear Transformations, Vector Spaces |
| BBT302 | Cell Biology and Genetics | Professional Core | 4 | Cell Structure and Organelles, Cell Cycle and Division, DNA Replication and Repair, Mendelian Genetics, Gene Expression, Chromosomal Aberrations |
| BBT303 | Engineering Thermodynamics | Engineering Science Course | 4 | Laws of Thermodynamics, Thermodynamic Properties of Fluids, Phase Equilibria, Heat Engines and Refrigerators, Gibbs Free Energy, Chemical Reaction Equilibria |
| BBT304 | Principles of Bioreaction Engineering | Professional Core | 4 | Enzyme Kinetics, Microbial Growth Kinetics, Ideal Bioreactor Design, Mass Transfer in Bioreactors, Heat Transfer in Bioprocesses, Sterilization Techniques |
| BBTL305 | Cell Biology and Genetics Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Microscopy Techniques, Cell Staining and Counting, DNA Isolation, Gel Electrophoresis, Karyotyping, Pedigree Analysis |
| BBTL306 | Bioreaction Engineering Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Enzyme Activity Measurement, Batch Fermentation Studies, Effect of Temperature on Growth, Mass Transfer Coefficient Determination, Sterilization Kinetics, Bioreactor Operation |
| BBT307 | AICTE Activity Points | Mandatory Course | 1 | Community Engagement, Skill Enhancement Activities, Mentoring, Sports and Culture, Professional Society Activities |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBT401 | Probability, Statistics and Numerical Methods | Basic Science Course | 3 | Probability Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression, Numerical Solution of Equations, Numerical Integration, Solution of ODEs |
| BBT402 | Biochemistry | Professional Core | 4 | Biomolecules (Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids), Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanism, Metabolism (Glycolysis, TCA, Oxidative Phosphorylation), Photosynthesis, Nucleic Acid Structure, Hormone Action |
| BBT403 | Microbiology | Professional Core | 4 | Microbial Structure and Classification, Microbial Growth and Nutrition, Sterilization and Disinfection, Industrial Microorganisms, Virology, Basic Immunology |
| BBT404 | Bioanalytical Techniques | Professional Core | 4 | Spectroscopic Methods (UV-Vis, IR, NMR), Chromatography (HPLC, GC, Ion Exchange), Electrophoresis (Agarose, SDS-PAGE), Centrifugation Techniques, Immunological Assays (ELISA, RIA), Microscopy Techniques |
| BBTL405 | Biochemistry Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Qualitative Tests for Biomolecules, Quantitative Estimation of Proteins (Bradford, Lowry), Enzyme Activity Assay, Chromatographic Separation of Amino Acids, Estimation of Vitamins, Spectrophotometric Analysis |
| BBTL406 | Microbiology Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Microbial Staining Techniques (Gram, Acid-Fast), Sterilization Methods, Microbial Culture and Isolation, Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing, Microbial Motility, Colony Morphology and Counting |
| BBT407 | AICTE Activity Points | Mandatory Course | 1 | Social Internship, Skill-based Workshops, Entrepreneurship Development, Sports and Fitness, Technical Competitions |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBT501 | Molecular Biology | Professional Core | 3 | Gene Structure and Function, DNA Replication, Transcription and RNA Processing, Translation and Protein Synthesis, Regulation of Gene Expression, Molecular Techniques |
| BBT502 | Bioinformatics and Computational Biology | Professional Core | 4 | Biological Databases (NCBI, UniProt), Sequence Alignment Algorithms (BLAST, FASTA), Phylogenetic Analysis, Protein Structure Prediction, Genomics and Proteomics, Drug Discovery Approaches |
| BBT503 | Immunotechnology | Professional Core | 4 | Components of Immune System, Antigens and Antibodies, Hypersensitivity Reactions, Vaccine Technology, Immunodiagnostic Techniques, Transplantation Immunology |
| BBT504XX | Professional Elective - I (Options: Animal Biotechnology / Plant Biotechnology / Environmental Biotechnology / Food Biotechnology) | Professional Elective | 3 | For Animal Biotechnology: Animal Cell Culture, Embryo Transfer Technology, Transgenesis, Animal Cloning, Vaccine Production, For Plant Biotechnology: Plant Tissue Culture, Genetic Transformation, Transgenic Crops, Molecular Breeding, Plant Disease Resistance, For Environmental Biotechnology: Bioremediation, Waste Treatment, Biosensors for Pollution, Bioenergy, Microbial Ecology, For Food Biotechnology: Fermented Foods, Food Additives, Enzyme Applications in Food, Food Safety, Probiotics |
| BBT505 | Bioprocess Control | Professional Core | 3 | Process Dynamics, Feedback Control Systems, PID Controllers, Bioreactor Instrumentation, Process Modelling and Simulation, Optimization Techniques |
| BBTL506 | Molecular Biology Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Plasmid DNA Isolation, PCR Amplification, Restriction Digestion, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis, DNA Ligation, Transformation |
| BBTL507 | Bioinformatics Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Database Searching (GenBank, PDB), Sequence Alignment using BLAST/FASTA, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Primer Design, Protein Structure Visualization, Molecular Docking Basics |
| BBTS508 | Skill Development Course | Skill Development Course | 1 | Technical Writing Skills, Presentation Skills, Soft Skills for Engineers, Interpersonal Communication, Teamwork and Leadership |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBT601 | Genetic Engineering | Professional Core | 4 | Recombinant DNA Technology, Cloning Vectors, Gene Cloning Strategies, CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing, Gene Therapy, Ethical and Regulatory Aspects |
| BBT602 | Downstream Processing | Professional Core | 4 | Cell Disruption Techniques, Solid-Liquid Separation (Filtration, Centrifugation), Protein Purification (Chromatography, Electrophoresis), Product Concentration (Evaporation, Membrane Processes), Crystallization, Product Formulation and Finishing |
| BBT603XX | Professional Elective - II (Options: Biofuels and Renewable Energy / Bioinstrumentation / Entrepreneurship and Management / Tissue Engineering) | Professional Elective | 3 | For Biofuels: Bioethanol, Biodiesel, Biogas Production, Algal Biofuels, Fermentation Technology, Renewable Energy Policies, For Bioinstrumentation: Biosensors, Biopotential Electrodes, Medical Imaging, Clinical Laboratory Instruments, Flow Cytometry, Spectrophotometers, For Entrepreneurship: Business Plan Development, Market Analysis, Funding Sources, Legal Aspects, Project Management, Innovation, For Tissue Engineering: Cell-Scaffold Interactions, Biomaterial Scaffolds, Stem Cells, Regenerative Medicine, Organ Culture, Bioreactors for Tissue Growth |
| BBT604XX | Professional Elective - III (Options: Biopharmaceutical Technology / Nano Biotechnology / Medical Biotechnology / Metabolic Engineering) | Professional Elective | 3 | For Biopharmaceutical Technology: Biologics, Monoclonal Antibodies, Recombinant Proteins, Vaccine Development, Drug Delivery Systems, Quality Control, For Nano Biotechnology: Nanomaterials Synthesis, Nanoparticles in Medicine, Biosensors, Drug Delivery, Imaging, Toxicity of Nanomaterials, For Medical Biotechnology: Diagnostic Tools, Therapeutics, Gene Therapy, Stem Cell Therapy, Molecular Diagnostics, Personalized Medicine, For Metabolic Engineering: Pathway Analysis, Flux Analysis, Gene Manipulation, Strain Optimization, Biorefinery Concepts, Biofuel Production |
| BBTOE605XX | Open Elective - A (As per university list) | Open Elective | 3 | General engineering/management topics, Interdisciplinary concepts (e.g., IoT, AI, Entrepreneurship, Digital Marketing), Cross-disciplinary skills |
| BBTL606 | Genetic Engineering Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Genomic DNA Isolation, PCR and RT-PCR, DNA Fingerprinting (RFLP, RAPD), Gene Transfer Techniques, Southern Blotting, CRISPR-Cas9 Fundamentals |
| BBTL607 | Downstream Processing Lab | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Cell Disruption Methods, Centrifugation for Cell Separation, Protein Purification by Chromatography, Membrane Filtration, Dialysis, Concentration Techniques |
| BBTS608 | Skill Development Course | Skill Development Course | 1 | Employability Skills, Interview Preparation, Resume Building, Group Discussion Techniques, Leadership and Project Management |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBT701 | Biomaterials | Professional Core | 4 | Types of Biomaterials (Metals, Ceramics, Polymers), Biocompatibility, Surface Modification of Biomaterials, Biodegradable Materials, Applications in Tissue Engineering, Medical Implants |
| BBT702XX | Professional Elective - IV (Options: Omics Technologies / Biosafety and Bioethics / Food Process Technology / Biostatistics) | Professional Elective | 3 | For Omics Technologies: Genomics, Transcriptomics, Proteomics, Metabolomics, Next-Generation Sequencing, Data Analysis, For Biosafety and Bioethics: Biosafety Levels, Risk Assessment, GMO Regulations, Ethical Dilemmas in Biotechnology, IP Rights, Patenting, For Food Process Technology: Food Preservation, Heat Processing, Freezing, Drying, Non-Thermal Processing, Packaging, For Biostatistics: Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics, Hypothesis Testing, ANOVA, Regression Analysis, Experimental Design |
| BBT703 | Internship | Internship | 3 | Industrial Training, Research Project in Industry/Academia, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Practical Application of Knowledge, Professional Networking |
| BBTOE704XX | Open Elective - B (As per university list) | Open Elective | 3 | Advanced interdisciplinary subjects, Emerging technologies, Humanities and social sciences applications, Specific domain expertise outside core engineering |
| BBTP705 | Project Work Phase - I | Project Work | 2 | Literature Review, Problem Definition and Formulation, Methodology Design, Experimental Plan, Ethical Considerations, Preliminary Data Collection |
| BBT706 | Research Methodology & IPR | Humanities and Social Sciences | 1 | Research Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Writing, Intellectual Property Rights, Patents, Copyrights, Trademarks, Plagiarism and Ethics in Research |
| BBTS707 | Skill Development Course | Skill Development Course | 1 | Entrepreneurial Skills, Innovation and Creativity, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Data Visualization, Advanced Software Tools |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BBT801XX | Professional Elective - V (Options: Bioentrepreneurship / Biorefinery / Pharmaceutical Engineering / Synthetic Biology) | Professional Elective | 3 | For Bioentrepreneurship: Business Planning, Market Research, Funding Strategies, Regulatory Approvals, Startup Ecosystem, IP Management, For Biorefinery: Biomass Conversion, Bioproducts, Bioenergy Integration, Sustainability, Circular Economy, Process Economics, For Pharmaceutical Engineering: Drug Manufacturing, Quality by Design, GMP, Process Validation, Sterile Product Manufacturing, Regulatory Affairs, For Synthetic Biology: Genetic Circuit Design, Gene Synthesis, Pathway Construction, Biosensors, Directed Evolution, Applications in Medicine |
| BBTP802 | Project Work Phase - II | Project Work | 8 | Experimental Execution, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Result Discussion, Technical Report Writing (Thesis), Project Presentation, Viva-Voce Examination |
| BBTS803 | Skill Development Course | Skill Development Course | 1 | Career Planning and Development, Global Industry Trends, Advanced Interview Techniques, Professional Networking Strategies, Mentorship Guidance |
