

B-TECH-M-TECH in Biotechnology at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)


Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Biotechnology at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Thanjavur?
This Integrated B.Tech. + M.Tech. Biotechnology program at Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy focuses on a comprehensive understanding of biological systems and their engineering applications. It equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge crucial for India''''s growing biotech and pharmaceutical sectors, covering areas from genetic engineering to bioprocess technology, addressing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in biomedical research and industrial production.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for ambitious 10+2 science graduates with strong aptitude in Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, seeking to delve into advanced biotechnological research and industrial applications. It also suits individuals aspiring for leadership roles in R&D, manufacturing, or quality control within the biotechnology sector, providing a robust foundation for innovation and problem-solving in India''''s dynamic bio-economy.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Bioprocess Engineers, Research Scientists, Quality Control Analysts, or Bioinformatics Specialists in pharmaceutical, food, and environmental industries. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-20 lakhs. The program prepares students for advanced studies and leadership, aligning with certifications in areas like clinical research and regulatory affairs.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Scientific and Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus rigorously on core subjects like Engineering Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Basic Electrical & Electronics, and Cell Biology. Master problem-solving techniques and understand the interconnections between these disciplines, as they form the bedrock for advanced biotechnology concepts. Utilize textbooks, online tutorials, and peer study groups for conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Specific subject textbooks, University library resources, Peer study circles
Career Connection
A solid foundation ensures better comprehension of complex biotechnological processes, which is essential for analytical roles in R&D and process development.
Develop Foundational Programming and Lab Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Programming in C labs to build logical thinking and computational skills, crucial for bioinformatics and data analysis later. Simultaneously, hone practical lab techniques in Physics, Chemistry, and Cell Biology labs, emphasizing precision, data recording, and safety protocols, which are vital for experimental biotechnology.
Tools & Resources
C compilers (e.g., GCC, CodeBlocks), Lab manuals, YouTube tutorials for specific lab techniques, Scientific journals
Career Connection
Proficiency in programming and lab work is directly applicable to research assistant roles, data science in biotech, and hands-on experimental positions.
Cultivate Professional Ethics and Communication- (Semester 1-3)
Engage deeply with the Professional Ethics course, understanding its relevance in scientific research and industry. Actively participate in Technical English and Soft Skills modules to improve written and verbal communication. Practice presenting ideas clearly and working effectively in teams, preparing for future academic and professional interactions.
Tools & Resources
University communication workshops, Toastmasters International, Online presentation tools (Canva, PowerPoint), Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Strong ethical grounding and communication skills are critical for collaborative research, effective team management, and professional advancement in any biotech organization.
Intermediate Stage
Master Core Biotechnological Techniques- (Semester 3-5)
Dive deep into Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetic Engineering, and Bioprocess Principles. Focus on understanding the theoretical concepts and gain hands-on expertise in associated labs. Actively seek opportunities to perform advanced experiments, troubleshoot, and analyze results.
Tools & Resources
Lab equipment manuals, Advanced biotechnology textbooks, Online courses from edX/Coursera on molecular biology techniques, Research papers
Career Connection
Expertise in these core areas directly translates to roles in R&D, process development, and manufacturing in biotech, pharma, and food industries.
Seek Early Industry Exposure and Network- (Semester 4-6)
Actively look for summer internships or short-term projects in biotechnology companies, research institutions, or university labs during breaks. Attend industry seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to understand current trends and build a professional network. Connect with faculty mentors for guidance on career paths and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), University career services, Professional bodies (e.g., ABLE - Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises), Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Early exposure helps in identifying career interests, gaining practical experience, and securing better placement opportunities upon graduation.
Participate in Technical Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 4-6)
Engage in biotechnology-focused quiz competitions, hackathons, or project contests, either internally or nationally. These platforms enhance problem-solving skills, encourage innovative thinking, and provide exposure to cutting-edge research. Utilize workshops to gain proficiency in specific software or advanced lab techniques.
Tools & Resources
iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine) competition, Technical fests, Workshops organized by industry experts or academic bodies
Career Connection
Participation demonstrates initiative, specialized skills, and teamwork, making a candidate more attractive to employers and for higher studies.
Advanced Stage
Specialization & Research Project Excellence- (Semester 7-8)
Leverage professional electives (e.g., Metabolic Engineering, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology) to specialize in areas of interest. Dedicate significant effort to the B.Tech. Project Work (Sem 7-8), aiming for a high-quality research outcome. Focus on experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing, potentially leading to a publication or patent.
Tools & Resources
Research journals (e.g., Nature Biotechnology, PNAS), Statistical software (R, Python, SPSS), Project management tools, Academic writing resources
Career Connection
A strong research project is crucial for securing R&D positions, Ph.D. admissions, or showcasing innovation for entrepreneurial ventures.
Master Bioprocess Design and Regulatory Compliance- (Semester 6-9)
Focus on subjects like Downstream Processing, Bioreactor Design and Analysis, and Professional Ethics and IPR (M.Tech.). Understand the principles of scaling up biotechnological processes and the regulatory framework governing product development. This includes biosafety guidelines and intellectual property protection, critical for industry roles.
Tools & Resources
Bioprocess simulation software (e.g., SuperPro Designer), Regulatory guidelines (DCGI, USFDA, EMA), Patent databases (Google Patents, WIPO)
Career Connection
Essential for roles in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, process engineering, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and product development in India.
Advanced Bioinformatics and Career Strategy- (Semester 7-10)
Deepen expertise in Bioinformatics, applying computational tools for genomic, proteomic, and drug discovery applications. Simultaneously, begin intensive career planning, including resume building, mock interviews, and exploring specific job roles in India. For M.Tech. students, the Semester 10 project should be a capstone experience leading to significant research contribution.
Tools & Resources
Bioinformatics software (BLAST, NCBI databases, PyMOL), Career counseling services, Professional networking events, Company websites, Placement cell resources
Career Connection
Critical for securing positions in data-driven biotech roles, advanced research, or becoming a sought-after professional in India''''s growing bio-IT sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, Maths / Biology / Biotechnology / Computer Science and minimum 60% aggregate marks.
Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years
Credits: 190 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSB101 | Technical English | Core | 3 | Communication Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
| MAC101 | Engineering Mathematics – I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Vector Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms |
| PHC101 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Properties of Matter, Optics, Modern Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Lasers and Fiber Optics |
| CYC101 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Water Technology, Electrochemistry, Corrosion, Fuel Technology, Green Chemistry |
| CSC101 | Programming in C | Core | 3 | C Fundamentals, Control Structures, Arrays and Functions, Pointers, Structures and Unions, File Handling |
| EEC101 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | DC and AC Circuits, Transformers, Diodes and Transistors, Operational Amplifiers, Digital Electronics |
| PHP101 | Physics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Rigidity Modulus Experiment, Sonometer Experiment, Air Wedge Experiment, Spectrometer Experiment, Laser Diffraction |
| CYP101 | Chemistry Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Titration Methods, pH Metry, Conductometry, Colorimetry, Viscosity Measurement, Water Hardness Determination |
| CSP101 | Programming in C Laboratory | Lab | 1 | C Program Implementation, Debugging Techniques, Problem Solving through C, Conditional Statements, Looping Constructs |
| MEP101 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 2 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Development of Surfaces, AutoCAD Basics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSB201 | Professional Ethics | Core | 3 | Human Values, Ethics in Engineering, Ethical Theories, Corporate Ethics, Global Issues |
| MAC201 | Engineering Mathematics – II | Core | 4 | Matrices and Eigenvalues, Vector Spaces, Fourier Series, Partial Differential Equations, Complex Analysis |
| BSC201 | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Waste Management, Climate Change, Sustainable Development |
| BIC201 | Cell Biology | Core | 3 | Cell Structure and Organelles, Cell Cycle and Division, Cell Signaling, Membrane Transport, Cancer Biology |
| BIF201 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid Properties, Fluid Statics, Fluid Kinematics, Fluid Dynamics, Flow Measurements, Pumps and Turbines |
| BIE201 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 4 | Statics of Particles, Equilibrium of Rigid Bodies, Friction, Dynamics of Particles, Work-Energy Principle, Kinematics of Rigid Bodies |
| BIP201 | Cell Biology Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Microscopy Techniques, Cell Staining, Cell Counting, Observation of Mitosis and Meiosis, Biochemical Assays |
| BIP202 | Fluid Mechanics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Flow Measurement Devices, Friction Loss in Pipes, Pump Performance Characteristics, Verification of Bernoulli''''s Theorem, Minor Losses |
| GEP201 | Engineering Practices Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Carpentry and Fitting, Welding Techniques, Foundry Operations, Sheet Metal Work, Basic Electrical Wiring |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC301 | Probability and Statistics | Core | 4 | Probability Theory, Random Variables and Distributions, Sampling Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression |
| BEC301 | Biochemistry | Core | 3 | Biomolecules Structure and Function, Metabolic Pathways, Enzyme Kinetics, Bioenergetics, Molecular Biology Principles |
| BIM301 | Microbiology | Core | 3 | Microbial Diversity, Microbial Growth and Metabolism, Control of Microorganisms, Immunology Basics, Industrial Microbiology Applications |
| BIG301 | Genetics and Molecular Biology | Core | 3 | Mendelian Genetics, Gene Structure and Function, DNA Replication, Transcription and Translation, Gene Expression Regulation |
| BIP301 | Bioprocess Principles | Core | 4 | Stoichiometry and Balances, Mass and Energy Balances, Transport Phenomena, Bioreactor Design Principles, Downstream Processing Overview |
| BEC302 | Biochemistry Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Qualitative Analysis of Biomolecules, Quantitative Enzyme Assays, Spectrophotometry Applications, Chromatographic Separations, Electrophoresis Techniques |
| BIM302 | Microbiology Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Sterilization Techniques, Media Preparation, Microbial Staining, Pure Culture Techniques, Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing |
| BIP302 | Bioprocess Principles Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Mass and Energy Balance Calculations, Rheology of Fermentation Broths, Batch Fermentation Kinetics, Fluid Flow in Bioprocesses |
| HSP301 | Soft Skills | Core | 1 | Communication Skills, Teamwork and Collaboration, Leadership Qualities, Problem Solving, Interview Preparation, Time Management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC401 | Linear Algebra and Numerical Methods | Core | 4 | Vector Spaces, Linear Transformations, Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors, Numerical Solutions of Equations, Interpolation and Approximation, Numerical Integration |
| BIT401 | Thermodynamics and Bio-energetics | Core | 4 | Laws of Thermodynamics, Chemical Potential, Free Energy in Biological Systems, Enzyme Kinetics, ATP Production, Metabolic Pathways |
| BIC401 | Bioseparation Technology | Core | 3 | Filtration and Centrifugation, Liquid-Liquid Extraction, Chromatography Techniques, Electrophoresis, Membrane Separations |
| BIE401 | Bioinstrumentation | Core | 3 | Spectroscopic Techniques, Chromatographic Instruments, Electrophoretic Systems, pH Meters and Biosensors, Microscopy and Imaging |
| BIM401 | Immunology | Core | 3 | Components of Immune System, Antibody Structure and Function, Antigen-Antibody Reactions, Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immunity, Vaccines and Immunodiagnostics |
| BIP401 | Bioseparation Technology Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Solid-Liquid Separation, Batch Extraction, Ion Exchange Chromatography, Gel Filtration, Membrane Filtration |
| BIE402 | Bioinstrumentation Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Spectrophotometer Operation, pH Meter Calibration, Centrifuge Operation, Chromatography Techniques, Electrophoresis Setup |
| BIP402 | Industrial Visits / Technical Seminar | Project/Seminar | 1 | Industrial Processes Observation, Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Industry Best Practices |
| BIX401 | Principles of Genetic Engineering | Professional Elective | 3 | Recombinant DNA Technology, Cloning Vectors, Gene Transfer Methods, CRISPR-Cas System, DNA Fingerprinting, Ethical Considerations |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSB501 | Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 3 | Entrepreneurial Process, Business Plan Development, Market Research, Funding and Venture Capital, Legal Aspects of Business, Innovation and Creativity |
| BIC501 | Bioreactor Design and Analysis | Core | 4 | Ideal Reactor Models, Mass Transfer in Bioreactors, Heat Transfer in Bioreactors, Sterilization Techniques, Bioreactor Operation Modes, Scale-up and Optimization |
| BIG501 | Genetic Engineering | Core | 3 | Gene Cloning Strategies, DNA Sequencing Technologies, Gene Expression Systems, Proteomics and Genomics, Transgenic Organisms |
| BIF501 | Food Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Food Fermentation, Food Additives and Ingredients, Food Quality and Safety, Food Processing Technologies, Genetically Modified Foods |
| BIM501 | Environmental Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Bioremediation of Pollutants, Wastewater Treatment, Bioenergy Production, Pollution Control Technologies, Environmental Biosensors |
| BIC502 | Bioreactor Design and Analysis Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Sterilization Kinetics, Batch Fermentation Optimization, Oxygen Transfer Rate Measurement, Bioreactor Operation and Control |
| BIG502 | Genetic Engineering Laboratory | Lab | 1 | DNA Isolation and Purification, Restriction Digestion and Ligation, Bacterial Transformation, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Gel Electrophoresis |
| BIX501 | Bioethics and Biosafety | Professional Elective | 3 | Ethical Principles in Biotechnology, Biosafety Levels and Guidelines, Risk Assessment in Bioengineering, Regulatory Frameworks, Intellectual Property Rights, Ethical Review Processes |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAB601 | Operations Research | Core | 4 | Linear Programming, Simplex Method, Transportation Problem, Assignment Problem, Network Models, Queuing Theory |
| BIC601 | Downstream Processing | Core | 3 | Cell Disruption Methods, Solid-Liquid Separation, Concentration Techniques, Purification Methods, Crystallization and Drying |
| BIG601 | Animal Cell Culture | Core | 3 | Cell Lines and Primary Cultures, Culture Media Preparation, Aseptic Techniques, Cell Proliferation Assays, Cytotoxicity Testing, Applications in Vaccine Production |
| BIP601 | Plant Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Plant Tissue Culture, Micropropagation, Plant Genetic Engineering, Crop Improvement Strategies, Production of Secondary Metabolites |
| BIC602 | Downstream Processing Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Microfiltration and Ultrafiltration, Protein Purification by Chromatography, Electrophoretic Separation, Liquid-Liquid Extraction, Product Concentration |
| BIG602 | Animal Cell Culture Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Maintenance of Cell Lines, Cell Counting and Viability Assays, Aseptic Handling of Cultures, Media and Reagent Preparation |
| BIP602 | Plant Biotechnology Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Plant Tissue Culture Techniques, Callus Induction, Micropropagation, Plant Regeneration, Agrobacterium-mediated Gene Transfer |
| BIX601 | Biosensors and Biochips | Professional Elective | 3 | Principles of Biosensors, Transducer Mechanisms, Bio-recognition Elements, Microfabrication Techniques, Applications in Diagnostics, Environmental Monitoring |
| OE6XX | Open Elective – I | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSB701 | Principles of Management | Core | 3 | Management Functions, Planning and Organizing, Staffing and Directing, Controlling and Decision Making, Leadership Styles |
| BII701 | Bioinformatics | Core | 3 | Biological Databases, Sequence Alignment Algorithms, Phylogenetic Analysis, Protein Structure Prediction, Drug Discovery Approaches, Genomics and Proteomics |
| BIC701 | Bioprocess Modelling and Simulation | Core | 4 | Mathematical Modeling of Bioprocesses, Enzyme Kinetics Models, Bioreactor Dynamic Models, Process Simulation Software, Parameter Estimation, Process Optimization |
| BIX701 | Project Design (B.Tech.) | Project | 1 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Experimental Design, Methodology Development, Data Analysis Plan, Technical Report Writing |
| BII702 | Bioinformatics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Database Searching (NCBI, UniProt), Sequence Alignment Tools (BLAST, ClustalW), Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Protein Structure Visualization, Primer Design |
| BIC702 | Bioprocess Modelling and Simulation Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Simulation Software for Bioprocesses, Parameter Estimation Techniques, Dynamic Behavior of Bioreactors, Model Validation |
| BIX702 | Bioreactor Engineering | Professional Elective | 3 | Types of Bioreactors, Sterilization of Bioreactors, Aeration and Agitation Systems, Mass Transfer in Bioreactors, Heat Transfer in Bioreactors, Instrumentation and Control |
| OE7XX | Open Elective – II | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIX801 | Project Work (B.Tech.) | Project | 6 | Research Methodology, Experimental Execution, Data Collection and Analysis, Interpretation of Results, Thesis Writing, Project Defense |
| BIX802 | Metabolic Engineering | Professional Elective | 3 | Metabolic Pathways Analysis, Flux Analysis, Enzyme Engineering, Pathway Optimization, Strain Improvement Strategies, Synthetic Biology Concepts |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIM901 | Advanced Bioprocess Technology | Core | 3 | Advanced Bioreactor Configurations, Bioprocess Economics, Process Intensification, Scale-up and Scale-down Strategies, Cell Culture Technology for Bioproducts |
| BIG901 | Advanced Genetic Engineering | Core | 3 | Advanced Gene Editing (CRISPR-Cas), Synthetic Gene Circuits, Genome Engineering, Gene Therapy Strategies, Epigenetic Modifications |
| BIP901 | Professional Ethics and IPR | Core | 3 | Ethical Frameworks in Biotechnology, Biosafety and Biosecurity Regulations, Intellectual Property Rights, Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, Technology Transfer and Commercialization |
| BIX901 | Pharmaceutical Biotechnology | Professional Elective | 3 | Biopharmaceuticals Development, Drug Discovery Process, Clinical Trials and Regulations, Gene Therapy Products, Vaccine Production Technologies, Quality Control in Pharma |
| BIX902 | Nanobiotechnology | Professional Elective | 3 | Nanomaterials Synthesis, Characterization Techniques, Bionanodevices, Nanomedicine Applications, Nano-diagnostics, Safety Aspects of Nanomaterials |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIX1001 | Project Work (M.Tech.) | Project | 12 | Independent Research Design, Advanced Experimental Execution, Sophisticated Data Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Scientific Publication Preparation, Defense of Research Findings |




