

B-TECH in Biotechnology at National Institute of Technology Rourkela


Sundargarh, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Biotechnology at National Institute of Technology Rourkela Sundargarh?
This Biotechnology program at National Institute of Technology Rourkela focuses on integrating engineering principles with biological sciences. It addresses critical areas like bioprocess technology, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics, essential for India''''s growing pharmaceutical, healthcare, and agricultural sectors. The curriculum emphasizes cutting-edge research and innovation to meet current industry demands.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers and scientists eager to apply scientific knowledge to biological systems. It suits fresh graduates passionate about molecular biology, genetic research, and bioprocess development. Individuals aiming for careers in pharmaceutical, food, environmental, or medical technology industries will find this specialization highly rewarding and career-advancing.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in R&D, manufacturing, quality control, and academia. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in companies like Dr. Reddy''''s, Biocon, Serum Institute, and various government research labs, fostering robust growth trajectories and skill specialization.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Science and Math Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand core Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and introductory Biotechnology concepts. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL and Khan Academy for supplementary learning and problem-solving practice to build a strong analytical base.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Reference textbooks
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are crucial for advanced biotechnology subjects and form the bedrock for problem-solving in R&D and process development roles, enhancing employability.
Develop Programming and Lab Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in programming labs (C/C++) and basic biology/chemistry practicals. Seek opportunities for extra lab hours or projects to gain hands-on experience, which is vital for bioinformatics and experimental biotechnology.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, Jupyter Notebooks, Departmental labs
Career Connection
Proficiency in coding and laboratory techniques is highly valued in biotech R&D, diagnostics, and data analysis roles, directly impacting internship and placement chances.
Engage in Peer Learning and Study Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, share notes, and solve challenging problems together. This fosters collaborative learning and clarifies doubts, improving overall academic performance.
Tools & Resources
College library, Online collaborative tools, Classmates
Career Connection
Effective teamwork and communication skills developed through group studies are essential for future professional environments and cross-functional projects in industry.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Internships and Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively pursue summer internships at biotech companies, research institutes (e.g., ICMR, DBT labs), or participate in faculty-led research projects. This provides practical exposure to industry and research methodologies.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, Departmental faculty, Industry contacts
Career Connection
Internships are critical for gaining industry-specific skills, building professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting career prospects.
Specialize through Electives and Certifications- (Semester 3-5)
Identify areas of interest (e.g., Bioinformatics, Bioprocess Engineering) and choose relevant department electives. Pursue online certifications in niche areas like Python for bioinformatics or bioreactor design.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL advanced courses
Career Connection
Specialized skills differentiate you in the job market, making you a more attractive candidate for specific roles in R&D, process development, or data science in biotech firms.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Join biotechnology-focused hackathons, design challenges, or workshops organized by technical clubs or external organizations. This enhances problem-solving, innovation, and practical skill application.
Tools & Resources
College technical clubs, Biotech industry events, Online challenge platforms
Career Connection
Showcasing practical project experience and competitive achievements demonstrates initiative and capability to potential employers, improving placement opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Capstone Projects and Thesis Research- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate significant effort to your final year projects (Project I & II). Aim for innovative solutions, publishable research, or industry-relevant prototypes, showcasing independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Lab facilities, Faculty mentors, Research journals
Career Connection
A strong project portfolio or research publication enhances your resume for both higher studies (MS/PhD) and top-tier R&D positions in India and abroad.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 6-8)
Begin placement preparation early, focusing on aptitude, technical interviews, and soft skills. Network with alumni and industry professionals through LinkedIn and career fairs to explore opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Mock interview platforms, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Thorough preparation and a strong network are paramount for securing desirable placements in core biotech, pharma, or IT companies seeking biotech graduates in India.
Explore Entrepreneurship and Higher Education- (Semester 6-8)
For those inclined, explore entrepreneurship support cells at NIT Rourkela or consider entrance exams (GATE, GRE) for advanced degrees. Build a strong profile for academic or startup ventures.
Tools & Resources
NITRKL Innovation Centre, GATE/GRE prep materials, University application guides
Career Connection
This path prepares you for leadership roles, specialized research careers, or founding your own biotech startup, contributing to India''''s innovation ecosystem.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) with minimum required marks (typically 75% or top 20 percentile of respective board) and a valid JEE Main score as per JOSAA/CSAB guidelines.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 156 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Theory: 20% (Quizzes/Assignments/Attendance), 30% (Mid-semester Exam); Lab/Project: 60% (Continuous Evaluation), External: Theory: 50% (End-semester Exam); Lab/Project: 40% (End-semester Viva/Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1001 | Mathematics-I | Core | 4 | Single Variable Calculus, Sequences and Series, Vector Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations |
| PH1001 | Physics | Core | 3 | Oscillations and Waves, Electromagnetic Theory, Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Lasers and Fiber Optics |
| PH1002 | Physics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Experiments on Optics, Mechanics Principles, Electricity and Magnetism, Semiconductor Devices, Measurement Techniques |
| CH1001 | Chemistry | Core | 3 | Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry, Reaction Kinetics, Organic Stereochemistry, Spectroscopy |
| CH1002 | Chemistry Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Volumetric Analysis, Organic Synthesis, Instrumental Analysis, Qualitative Analysis, Chemical Kinetics Experiments |
| CS1001 | Introduction to Computing | Core | 3 | Computer Fundamentals, Programming Basics (C/C++), Data Types and Operators, Control Structures, Functions and Arrays, Algorithms |
| CS1002 | Computer Programming Laboratory | Lab | 1 | C/C++ Programming Exercises, Basic Algorithm Implementation, Debugging Techniques, Data Structure Implementation, Problem-Solving through Coding |
| ME1101 | Engineering Drawing | Core | 2 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, AutoCAD Basics, Assembly Drawing, Perspective Views |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1002 | Mathematics-II | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series, Partial Differential Equations, Complex Analysis |
| BT1001 | Introduction to Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Biotechnology History and Scope, Cell Structure and Function, Biomolecules Overview, Basic Genetics, Applications in Medicine and Agriculture, Industrial Biotechnology |
| BT1002 | Basic Biology Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Microscopy Techniques, Cell Staining and Observation, Basic Biochemical Tests, DNA Extraction Methods, Microbial Culturing |
| HS1001 | Technical English | Core | 3 | English Grammar Review, Professional Communication, Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary Building |
| CE1001 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Statics of Particles, Rigid Body Equilibrium, Friction and its Applications, Kinematics of Particles, Kinetics of Particles, Moment of Inertia |
| ME1003 | Basic Mechanical Engineering | Core | 3 | Thermodynamics Laws, IC Engines Principles, Refrigeration Cycles, Power Transmission Systems, Material Science Basics, Fluid Mechanics Principles |
| EC1001 | Basic Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | Semiconductor Diodes, Transistors (BJT, FET), Rectifiers and Filters, Amplifier Circuits, Digital Logic Gates, Operational Amplifiers |
| ME1002 | Manufacturing Practices (Workshop) | Lab | 1 | Carpentry and Joinery, Welding Techniques, Machining Operations, Foundry Processes, Fitting Operations, Sheet Metal Work |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA2001 | Applied Mathematics for Biotechnologists | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Statistical Methods, Numerical Techniques, Optimization Methods, Regression Analysis, Biostatistics |
| BT2001 | Biochemistry | Core | 4 | Structure of Biomolecules, Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanisms, Metabolic Pathways (Glycolysis, TCA), Bioenergetics, Photosynthesis, Signal Transduction |
| BT2003 | Microbiology | Core | 4 | Microbial Classification, Bacterial Growth and Nutrition, Microbial Metabolism, Microbial Genetics, Sterilization Techniques, Pathogenesis and Antimicrobials |
| BT2002 | Biochemistry and Microbiology Lab | Lab | 2 | Enzyme Activity Assays, Protein and Carbohydrate Estimation, Bacterial Culturing Methods, Gram Staining and Microscopy, Microbial Identification, Sterilization Practices |
| BT2005 | Genetic Engineering | Core | 4 | DNA Structure and Replication, Gene Cloning Techniques, Restriction Enzymes and Vectors, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Gene Expression Regulation, Transgenic Organisms |
| BT2004 | Genetic Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | DNA Isolation from Bacteria, PCR Amplification, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis, Ligation and Transformation, Recombinant Plasmid Selection, DNA Manipulation Techniques |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT2007 | Cell Biology | Core | 4 | Cell Organelles and Functions, Cell Cycle and Regulation, Cell Division (Mitosis, Meiosis), Cell Signaling Pathways, Apoptosis and Necrosis, Cancer Biology |
| BT2009 | Immunology | Core | 4 | Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Antibody Structure and Function, Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), Hypersensitivity Reactions, Autoimmunity, Vaccines and Immunization |
| BT2006 | Cell Biology and Immunology Lab | Lab | 2 | Animal Cell Culture Techniques, Cell Viability Assays, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Western Blotting, Immunofluorescence, Flow Cytometry Basics |
| BT2011 | Bioprocess Engineering Principles | Core | 4 | Fermentation Kinetics, Bioreactor Design and Operation, Mass and Energy Balances, Sterilization of Bioreactors, Heat Transfer in Bioprocesses, Downstream Processing Introduction |
| BT2008 | Bioprocess Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Fermenter Operation, Enzyme Immobilization Techniques, Product Recovery Methods, Bioreactor Parameters Measurement, Microbial Growth Kinetics, Scale-up Principles |
| EC2003 | Principles of Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | DC and AC Circuits, Transformers and Motors, Semiconductor Devices, Transducers and Sensors, Analog and Digital Systems, Signal Processing Basics |
| ID2001 | Industrial Management | Core | 2 | Principles of Management, Organizational Structures, Project Management, Quality Control, Marketing Concepts, Human Resource Management |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT3001 | Molecular Biology | Core | 4 | DNA Replication, Transcription Mechanisms, Translation Process, Gene Regulation, Mutagenesis, Recombinant DNA Technology |
| BT3003 | Bioinformatics and Computational Biology | Core | 4 | Sequence Alignment Algorithms, Phylogenetic Analysis, Protein Structure Prediction, Genomics and Transcriptomics, Proteomics, Biological Databases |
| BT3002 | Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics Lab | Lab | 2 | DNA Sequencing Data Analysis, Primer Design, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Protein Modeling Software, Database Querying (NCBI), Bioinformatics Tools Usage |
| BT3005 | Enzyme Engineering | Core | 4 | Enzyme Structure-Function, Enzyme Kinetics and Thermodynamics, Enzyme Immobilization, Directed Evolution, Industrial Enzyme Applications, Enzyme Biocatalysis |
| BT3004 | Enzyme Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Enzyme Purification Techniques, Enzyme Activity Assays, Immobilization Protocols, Kinetic Parameter Determination, Thermal Stability Testing, Batch Reactor Studies |
| BT3007 | Bioinstrumentation | Core | 4 | Spectrophotometry Principles, Chromatographic Techniques, Electrophoresis Methods, Biosensors and Transducers, Microscopy (Light, Electron), Flow Cytometry |
| HS3001 | Professional Ethics and Human Values | Core | 2 | Ethical Theories, Professionalism in Engineering, Social Responsibility, Environmental Ethics, Human Rights and Values, Moral Dilemmas |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT3009 | Metabolic Engineering | Core | 4 | Metabolic Pathways, Metabolic Flux Analysis, Pathway Reconstruction, Genetic Algorithms in Metabolic Design, Synthetic Biology Principles, Biofuel Production |
| BT3011 | Downstream Processing | Core | 4 | Cell Disruption Methods, Filtration and Centrifugation, Chromatographic Separations, Crystallization Techniques, Drying Operations, Product Polishing |
| BT3006 | Metabolic Engineering and Downstream Processing Lab | Lab | 2 | Product Recovery Experiments, Protein Purification, Bioreactor Performance Optimization, Fermentation Product Analysis, Chromatography Applications, Membrane Separation |
| BT3XXX | Department Elective – I | Elective | 3 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from department list |
| BT3XXX | Department Elective – II | Elective | 3 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from department list |
| OE3XXX | Open Elective – I | Elective | 3 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from institute''''s open elective list |
| EN3001 | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Waste Management, Climate Change Impacts, Renewable Energy Sources, Environmental Impact Assessment |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT4002 | Bioseparation Technology | Core | 4 | Unit Operations in Bioprocesses, Membrane Separations, Chromatographic Techniques (HPLC, GC), Electrophoresis (PAGE, 2D), Crystallization and Precipitation, Drying and Evaporation |
| BT4004 | Biomedical Engineering | Core | 4 | Biomaterials and Biocompatibility, Biomechanics Principles, Medical Imaging Techniques, Biosignal Processing, Prosthetics and Orthotics, Tissue Engineering Applications |
| BT4006 | Biorefinery and Bioenergy | Core | 4 | Biofuels Production, Biogas and Biodiesel, Biomass Conversion Technologies, Fermentation Products, Biorefinery Concepts, Sustainability in Bioenergy |
| BT4XXX | Department Elective – III | Elective | 3 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from department list |
| BT4008 | Project – I | Project | 2 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Experimental Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Interim Report Writing, Problem Identification |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT4XXX | Department Elective – IV | Elective | 3 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from department list |
| OE4XXX | Open Elective – II | Elective | 3 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from institute''''s open elective list |
| BT4010 | Project – II | Project | 9 | Advanced Research and Development, Prototype Building, Data Interpretation and Presentation, Thesis Writing, Final Viva Voce, Innovation and Commercialization |
Semester electives
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OE3001 | Entrepreneurship and Project Management | Elective | 3 | Entrepreneurial Mindset, Business Plan Development, Project Life Cycle, Risk Management, Funding Strategies, Team Building |
| OE3003 | Financial Management | Elective | 3 | Financial Accounting Basics, Investment Decisions, Capital Budgeting, Working Capital Management, Financial Markets, Risk and Return |
| OE3005 | Marketing Management | Elective | 3 | Marketing Concepts, Market Segmentation, Product Life Cycle, Pricing Strategies, Promotion and Advertising, Digital Marketing |
| OE3007 | Supply Chain Management | Elective | 3 | Supply Chain Design, Logistics and Warehousing, Inventory Management, Procurement Strategies, Supply Chain Analytics, Global Supply Chains |
| OE3009 | Industrial Safety and Hazards Management | Elective | 3 | Occupational Health and Safety, Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, Safety Regulations, Emergency Preparedness, Accident Investigation |
Semester electives
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BT3013 | Bioinformatics Applications | Elective | 3 | Genomic Data Analysis, Proteomic Data Analysis, Drug Target Identification, Molecular Docking, Clinical Bioinformatics, Systems Biology Applications |
| BT3015 | Nanobiotechnology | Elective | 3 | Nanomaterials Synthesis, Nanoparticle Characterization, Drug Delivery Systems, Biosensors at Nanoscale, Tissue Engineering with Nanomaterials, Nano-diagnostics |
| BT3017 | Biosensors | Elective | 3 | Biosensor Principles, Transducer Mechanisms, Enzyme and Immunosensors, DNA Biosensors, Fabrication Techniques, Applications in Healthcare |
| BT3019 | Tissue Engineering | Elective | 3 | Cell Culture Principles, Scaffold Materials, Growth Factors and Cytokines, Bioreactors for Tissue Growth, Organ Regeneration, Clinical Applications |
| BT3021 | Biopharmaceutical Technology | Elective | 3 | Recombinant Protein Production, Monoclonal Antibodies, Vaccine Development, Gene Therapy Products, Drug Formulation, Regulatory Affairs |
| BT3023 | Food Biotechnology | Elective | 3 | Food Fermentation, Enzymes in Food Processing, Genetically Modified Foods, Food Additives, Food Safety and Quality, Nutraceuticals |
| BT3025 | Agricultural Biotechnology | Elective | 3 | Plant Tissue Culture, Transgenic Crops, Molecular Breeding, Biofertilizers and Biopesticides, Crop Improvement, Stress Tolerance Engineering |
| BT3027 | Environmental Biotechnology | Elective | 3 | Bioremediation, Biodegradation, Wastewater Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Bioenergy Production, Pollution Monitoring |
| BT4001 | Bioreactor Design and Analysis | Elective | 3 | Bioreactor Types, Design Principles, Mass and Heat Transfer, Sterilization Kinetics, Instrumentation and Control, Scale-up and Scale-down |
| BT4003 | Genomics and Proteomics | Elective | 3 | Genome Sequencing Technologies, Functional Genomics, Transcriptomics, Protein Identification, Quantitative Proteomics, Systems Biology Integration |
| BT4005 | Systems Biology | Elective | 3 | Biological Networks, Mathematical Modeling, Omics Data Integration, Flux Balance Analysis, Control Theory in Biology, Synthetic Biology Design |
| BT4007 | Drug Design and Discovery | Elective | 3 | Drug Targets Identification, Lead Discovery, QSAR, Molecular Docking, Clinical Trials Phases, Pharmacogenomics |
| BT4009 | Industrial Microbiology | Elective | 3 | Microbial Fermentation, Strain Improvement, Antibiotics Production, Enzyme Biocatalysis, Biofuel Microbes, Food and Beverage Industry |
| BT4011 | Stem Cell Technology | Elective | 3 | Stem Cell Types, Pluripotency and Differentiation, Cell Reprogramming, Stem Cell Niche, Therapeutic Applications, Ethical Considerations |
| BT4013 | Medical Biotechnology | Elective | 3 | Molecular Diagnostics, Recombinant Therapeutics, Gene Therapy, Personalized Medicine, Drug Delivery, Vaccine Development |
| BT4015 | Plant Biotechnology | Elective | 3 | Plant Cell and Tissue Culture, Genetic Transformation, Crop Improvement, Secondary Metabolite Production, Molecular Farming, Disease Resistance |
| BT4017 | Animal Cell Culture Technology | Elective | 3 | Aseptic Techniques, Cell Line Maintenance, Growth Media Optimization, Cell Viability Assays, Bioreactors for Animal Cells, Therapeutic Protein Production |
| BT4019 | Biomaterials | Elective | 3 | Material Properties, Biocompatibility, Polymeric Biomaterials, Ceramic and Metallic Biomaterials, Biodegradable Materials, Applications in Medical Devices |
| BT4021 | Computational Genomics | Elective | 3 | Genome Assembly, Gene Prediction, Comparative Genomics, Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis, Variant Calling, Genomic Databases |
| BT4023 | Biological Data Mining | Elective | 3 | Data Preprocessing, Machine Learning Algorithms, Clustering and Classification, Pattern Recognition, Network Analysis, Data Visualization |
| BT4025 | Chemoinformatics | Elective | 3 | Chemical Databases, Molecular Descriptors, Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR), Virtual Screening, Chemical Library Design, Drug-Likeness Prediction |
| BT4027 | Biosafety and Bioethics | Elective | 3 | Biosafety Levels, Risk Assessment, Good Laboratory Practices, Ethical Principles in Biotechnology, GMO Regulations, Intellectual Property Rights |




