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B-SC in Biotechnology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Biotechnology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This B.Sc. Biotechnology program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on equipping students with a robust foundation in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and bioprocess technology. It addresses the growing demand for skilled biotechnologists in India''''s expanding pharmaceutical, agricultural, and healthcare sectors. The program emphasizes research, innovation, and practical applications relevant to Indian industrial needs, fostering both theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring scientists and researchers with a strong interest in life sciences, particularly those looking to delve into genetic engineering, industrial biotechnology, or pharmaceutical R&D. It suits fresh 10+2 graduates passionate about scientific inquiry and problem-solving in a biological context. Professionals seeking to transition into the burgeoning biotech industry or pursue higher studies in specialized fields such as a Master''''s or PhD would also greatly benefit.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in R&D labs, quality control, manufacturing, and sales in pharmaceutical, food, and environmental industries. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. Opportunities exist in government research institutions, private biotech firms, and startups. The program also prepares students for competitive exams and higher education, both domestically and internationally.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Scientific Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong understanding of fundamental concepts in cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, and microbiology. Utilize online resources like NPTEL, Coursera, and standard textbooks for supplementary learning. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and solve problems collaboratively, ensuring a solid base for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning), Coursera, Standard biology/biochemistry textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for advanced subjects, enables clearer understanding of specialized biotech applications in industry and research, and forms the bedrock for competitive examinations.
Cultivate Laboratory Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical sessions, understanding the principles behind each experiment, proper aseptic techniques, and instrument handling. Document observations meticulously and seek feedback from lab instructors. This early, consistent hands-on experience builds essential technical skills invaluable for any biotech role.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Virtual lab simulations (e.g., Amrita University Virtual Labs), Lab safety guidelines, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Develops critical practical skills required for R&D, quality control, manufacturing, and analytical roles in pharmaceutical, food, and environmental biotech companies.
Enhance Communication and Soft Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving scientific writing, presentation skills, and professional English, which are integrated into the curriculum. Participate in departmental seminars and group discussions. Engaging in debates or public speaking helps build confidence and articulate complex scientific ideas effectively, a key professional asset.
Tools & Resources
University language labs, Toastmasters clubs (if available), Online platforms for public speaking, Professional English courses
Career Connection
Essential for scientific communication, technical report writing, and effective teamwork in any professional setting, significantly boosting employability and career progression.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Research Projects and Mini-Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to work on mini-projects with faculty, starting from semester 3 or 4. This provides early exposure to research methodology, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific literature review, preparing students comprehensively for major projects and potential research careers.
Tools & Resources
University research labs, Faculty mentorship, Scientific journals (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar), Research methodology workshops
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent research skills highly valued in R&D roles, academic positions, and for pursuing higher studies like M.Sc./Ph.D.
Explore Electives and Specializations- (Semester 4-5)
Carefully choose elective subjects based on personal career interests, whether it''''s plant, animal, industrial, medical, or environmental biotechnology. Deepen knowledge in chosen areas through additional readings, online specialized courses, and participation in relevant seminars to build a focused niche specialization.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL advanced courses, edX/Coursera specialized tracks, Career counselors, Industry expert talks
Career Connection
Helps in carving a specific career path and gaining specialized knowledge that is directly applicable to targeted job roles in specific biotech sectors, making graduates more marketable.
Build Professional Network and Industry Awareness- (Semester 3-5)
Attend industry workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or local biotech associations. Connect with alumni and industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to understand current trends, industry demands, and emerging career opportunities within the Indian biotech landscape.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry conferences (e.g., BioAsia), Alumni network events, Department career fairs
Career Connection
Facilitates internship and placement opportunities, provides invaluable insights into industry demands, and helps in making well-informed career decisions aligned with market needs.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Industrial Internship and Major Project- (Semester 5-6)
Secure a relevant industrial internship in the summer after Semester 4 or during Semester 5 to gain invaluable practical experience and exposure to real-world biotech operations. Dedicate significant effort to the major project/dissertation in Semester 6, aiming for publishable quality research and innovative solutions.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Industry contacts, Research databases, Advanced laboratory equipment, Faculty supervisors
Career Connection
Internships often lead to pre-placement offers or direct recruitment, while a strong major project is a key differentiator for R&D jobs, higher studies, and scholarship applications.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Begin rigorous preparation for job interviews, aptitude tests, and competitive entrance exams (e.g., GATE Biotechnology, CSIR-NET JRF, entrance exams for M.Sc./Ph.D.) from Semester 5. Focus on technical knowledge, general aptitude, and refined soft skills. Utilize mock interviews and resume building workshops.
Tools & Resources
Placement cells, Career guidance counselors, Online aptitude test platforms, Previous year question papers, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly translates to successful placements in desired companies or admission into prestigious postgraduate programs and research fellowships in India and abroad.
Develop Entrepreneurial Mindset and IPR Awareness- (Semester 6)
Explore the commercial aspects of biotechnology, including product development, intellectual property rights (IPR), and regulatory affairs. Attend workshops on entrepreneurship and innovation to identify market gaps and potential startup ideas within the dynamic Indian biotech ecosystem, fostering an innovative outlook.
Tools & Resources
Startup incubators (university-affiliated or external), IPR workshops, Business plan competitions, Ministry of MSME resources
Career Connection
Opens avenues for entrepreneurship, product management, and roles in technology transfer or regulatory compliance within the rapidly evolving Indian biotech industry, fostering leadership skills.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in H.Sc. (10+2) or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Biology / Botany & Zoology / Biotechnology / Agricultural Science as subjects.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22LAA101T | Professional English I | Core | 3 | Reading Comprehension, Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Sentence Structure, Paragraph Writing, Listening Skills |
| 22LAA102P | Professional English I - Practical | Lab | 1 | Pronunciation Practice, Conversational Skills, Group Discussions, Presentation Practice, Role Plays |
| 22MAS101T | Foundation Mathematics for Biologists | Core | 3 | Basic Algebra, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Statistics for Biologists |
| 22PHY101T | Physics for Biologists | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of Mechanics, Properties of Matter, Optics and Microscopy, Electricity and Magnetism, Atomic and Nuclear Physics |
| 22BTI101T | Cell Biology | Core | 3 | Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells, Cell Organelles Structure and Function, Cell Membrane and Transport, Cell Cycle and Cell Division, Cell Signaling |
| 22BTI102L | Cell Biology Lab | Lab | 2 | Microscopy Techniques, Cell Staining Methods, Observation of Cell Division, Estimation of Cell Count, Cell Viability Assays |
| 22LAA103L | Soft Skills Lab I | Lab | 1 | Self-Introduction, Body Language, Time Management, Goal Setting, Basic Interview Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22LAA201T | Professional English II | Core | 3 | Advanced Reading Strategies, Report Writing, Technical Communication, Public Speaking, Presentation Skills |
| 22LAA202P | Professional English II - Practical | Lab | 1 | Advanced Conversational Practice, Debates and Discussions, Mock Interviews, Role-playing Professional Scenarios, Oral Presentations |
| 22CHE101T | Basics of Organic Chemistry | Core | 3 | Nomenclature of Organic Compounds, Isomerism, Reaction Mechanisms, Chemistry of Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, Aromatic Compounds |
| 22BTI201T | Biochemistry | Core | 3 | Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic Acids Structure and Function, Enzymes and Coenzymes, Metabolic Pathways (Glycolysis, Krebs Cycle), Bioenergetics |
| 22BTI202L | Biochemistry Lab | Lab | 2 | Qualitative Tests for Biomolecules, Quantitative Estimation of Biomolecules, Enzyme Assays, Chromatography Techniques, Spectrophotometry |
| 22BTI203T | Microbiology | Core | 3 | Microbial Diversity and Classification, Bacterial, Fungal, Viral Structures, Microbial Nutrition and Growth, Sterilization and Disinfection, Antimicrobial Agents |
| 22BTI204L | Microbiology Lab | Lab | 2 | Microbial Culturing Techniques, Staining Methods (Gram, Acid-fast), Isolation of Microorganisms, Identification of Bacteria, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing |
| 22LAA203L | Soft Skills Lab II | Lab | 1 | Interpersonal Skills, Conflict Resolution, Teamwork and Collaboration, Problem-Solving Techniques, Stress Management |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVS101T | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change and Global Warming, Sustainable Development, Environmental Policies |
| 22BTI301T | Genetics | Core | 3 | Mendelian Genetics, Extensions of Mendelian Principles, Chromosomal Basis of Inheritance, Gene Mutations, Population Genetics |
| 22BTI302L | Genetics Lab | Lab | 2 | Drosophila Culture and Crosses, Pedigree Analysis, Karyotyping, DNA Extraction, Gel Electrophoresis |
| 22BTI303T | Molecular Biology | Core | 3 | DNA Replication, Transcription, Translation, Gene Expression Regulation, Molecular Techniques |
| 22BTI304L | Molecular Biology Lab | Lab | 2 | Isolation of Plasmid DNA, Restriction Digestion, PCR Amplification, Southern Blotting, Western Blotting (Principles) |
| 22BTI305T | Immunology | Core | 3 | Components of Immune System, Innate Immunity, Adaptive Immunity, Antigens and Antibodies, Vaccines and Immunization |
| 22BTI306L | Immunology Lab | Lab | 2 | Blood Grouping, ELISA Technique, Radial Immunodiffusion, Agglutination Reactions, Immunoelectrophoresis (Principles) |
| 22HSS301T | Universal Human Values and Ethics | Core | 3 | Understanding Harmony, Human Values in Relationships, Ethics in Professional Life, Societal Responsibility, Holistic Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BTI401T | Genetic Engineering | Core | 3 | Restriction Enzymes and Vectors, Gene Cloning Techniques, Gene Transfer Methods (Plants & Animals), Gene Therapy, CRISPR-Cas System |
| 22BTI402L | Genetic Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Recombinant DNA Construction, Transformation and Selection, Screening of Recombinants, Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation (Demonstration), Gene Expression Analysis (Basic) |
| 22BTI403T | Bioprocess Engineering | Core | 3 | Fermentation Processes, Bioreactor Design and Operation, Sterilization Methods, Downstream Processing, Kinetics of Microbial Growth |
| 22BTI404L | Bioprocess Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Batch Fermentation, Continuous Fermentation (Principles), Enzyme Immobilization, Product Recovery Techniques, Analysis of Fermentation Products |
| 22BTI405T | Bioinformatics | Core | 3 | Biological Databases (NCBI, EMBL), Sequence Alignment (BLAST, FASTA), Phylogenetic Analysis, Protein Structure Prediction, Drug Discovery and Design (Computational) |
| 22BTI406L | Bioinformatics Lab | Lab | 2 | Database Searching and Retrieval, Sequence Alignment Tools, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Molecular Docking Simulations, Protein Data Bank Analysis |
| 22BTE4XXE | Elective I (e.g., Pharmaceutical Biotechnology) | Elective | 3 | Drug Discovery and Development, Biologics and Biosimilars, Vaccine Production, Quality Control in Pharma, Regulatory Affairs |
| 22BTI407P | Mini Project | Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Experimental Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BTI501T | Animal Cell Culture & Technology | Core | 3 | Aseptic Techniques, Culture Media and Supplements, Cell Lines and Primary Cultures, Cell Proliferation Assays, Tissue Engineering Principles |
| 22BTI502L | Animal Cell Culture & Technology Lab | Lab | 2 | Sterilization Techniques, Preparation of Culture Media, Cell Line Maintenance, Cell Counting and Viability, Cytotoxicity Assays |
| 22BTI503T | Plant Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Plant Tissue Culture Techniques, Micropropagation, Plant Genetic Engineering, Transgenic Plants, Molecular Breeding |
| 22BTI504L | Plant Biotechnology Lab | Lab | 2 | Plant Tissue Culture Media Preparation, Callus Induction, Regeneration of Plantlets, Agrobacterium Co-cultivation, PCR for Transgenic Analysis |
| 22BTE5XXE | Elective II (e.g., Nanobiotechnology) | Elective | 3 | Nanomaterials in Biology, Synthesis of Nanoparticles, Biosensors and Diagnostics, Nanomedicine, Environmental Nanotechnology |
| 22BTE5XXE | Elective III (e.g., Food Biotechnology) | Elective | 3 | Fermented Foods, Food Additives and Preservatives, Food Safety and Quality Control, Nutraceuticals, Biotechnology in Food Processing |
| 22BTI505I | Industrial Internship | Internship | 2 | Industry Exposure, Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Professional Work Ethics, Report Writing, Presentation of Internship Experience |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22BTI601T | Environmental Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Bioremediation, Waste Water Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Bioenergy Production, Pollution Monitoring (Biomarkers) |
| 22BTI602T | Bioproducts and Biosafety | Core | 3 | Production of Therapeutic Proteins, Enzyme Production, Antibiotic Production, Biosafety Guidelines, Ethical Issues in Biotechnology |
| 22BTE6XXE | Elective IV (e.g., Medical Biotechnology) | Elective | 3 | Molecular Diagnostics, Gene and Cell Therapy, Stem Cell Technology, Drug Delivery Systems, Personalized Medicine |
| 22BTE6XXE | Elective V (e.g., Bioentrepreneurship and IPR) | Elective | 3 | Basics of Entrepreneurship, Business Plan Development, Intellectual Property Rights, Patents, Copyrights, Trademarks, Regulatory Compliances for Biotech Startups |
| 22BTI603P | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 6 | Advanced Research Methodology, Experimental Design and Execution, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Oral Presentation and Viva Voce |
| 22BTI604R | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Research, Formulation of Research Problem, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Report Writing and Publication Ethics |
