Interdisciplinary Studies
   (IDST)

Faculty of Arts and Science

Interdisciplinary Studies 3200

Genetically Engineered Machines

Credit hours: 3.00

Other hours per term: 8-200-0

Interdisciplinary approach combining the field of synthetic biology with other disciplines such as computational modelling, design, ethics, management (small business development), and new media. Case-driven learning environment; basic training in state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques; working with and constructing novel genetic building blocks (biobricks). The team will be organized on the lines of a technology start-up company: along with developing a genetically engineered machine, students will be involved in developing business/marketing plans and fundraising.

Prerequisite(s):​Second-year standing (a minimum of 30.0 credit hours) AND
Application to the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry AND
Successful interview

Recommended Background:
Biochemistry 2000
OR
One of Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Mathematics 30-1, Pure Mathematics 30, or Science 30 and a strong interest in the course

Lib Ed Req:​Science

Note:​This course is only open to students selected for the University of Lethbridge sponsored team participating in the International Genetically Engineered Machines competition (iGEM) held annually (October) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). For further details contact the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. The course requires eight hours of orientation lectures and 200 hours in the laboratory. Student selection is based on the assumption that, upon completion of the course, students will participate in the iGEM competition.