Introduction to Engineering Biological Systems

Introduction to Engineering Biological Systems

Ready to revolutionize biology? Explore engineering and manipulating living systems—the bedrock for innovation.

Course Instructor

Prof. G. K. Suraishkumar

Duration

8 Weeks

Course Fee

500

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About The Course

Introduction to Engineering Biological Systems, an 8-week course by Prof. G.K.Suraishkumar (IIT Madras), explores the convergence of biology and engineering. This dynamic field focuses on the design, construction, and modification of biological components, devices, and systems. With applications ranging from novel therapies to sustainable energy, it holds immense potential to address critical global challenges by applying engineering principles to the complexities of life. This introduction highlights the foundational concepts and exciting horizons of this transformative discipline.

Course Instructor

Prof. G. K. Suraishkumar

Prof. G. K. Suraishkumar
Professor, IIT Madras

G. K. Suraishkumar is a Professor in the Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM). His major area of research is reactive species – currently, the relevance of them in improving cultivations under microgravity in space. Earlier, his research group had made significant, original contributions in the area of reactive species applied to improve cancer treatment/management, bioreactor productivities and bio-oil. He is passionate about improving student learning, and has published papers in reputed international journals on the methods that he developed to improve learning.

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Content Overview

Course Duration: 8 Weeks

Week 1-2: Foundations of Bioproducts and Cell Biology

  • Initial Comments
  • What Makes Bioproducts?
  • The What, Why, and How of Experiments (Practicals/Demo)
  • Basic Biotech Lab - Virtual Tour, Tools and Instruments (P/D)
  • What Are the Different Cell Types?
  • Introduction to Microscopy (P/D)
  • Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes
  • Bacterial & Mammalian Cells (P/D)

Week 3-4: Bioprocessing and Biomolecules

  • How is the Bioproduct Made on a Large Scale?
  • Introduction to Bioprocessing (P/D)
  • The Need to Look at the Cell Level
  • Cell Membrane and Lipids
  • Why Does a Cell Make a Bioproduct?
  • Carbohydrates
  • What Are Biomolecules and Why Do We Test for Them? (P/D)

Week 5-6: Proteins, Enzymes, and DNA

  • Proteins
  • Testing for the Presence of Proteins (P/D)
  • Enzymes
  • How Are Proteins Made in the Cell?
  • DNA Isolation and Visualization (P/D)
  • Understanding the Cell
  • Introduction to Bioinformatics (P/D)
  • DNA Alignment Tools - BLAST (P/D)

Week 7-8: Advanced Topics in Molecular Biology

  • Fundamental Biomolecules
  • Introduction to DNA Amplification (PCR) (P/D)
  • Glucose Sources
  • Engineering Metabolism and Genetics
  • Introduction to rDNA Technology - Interactive Activity (P/D)

Live Sessions: Weekly live interactive sessions on Saturdays

Course Eligibity

Students from partnered schools in any stream of Class X, XI and XII

Assessment Layout

Assignments: The course includes the release of 4 bi-weekly online assignments (every alternate week). Students need to attempt at least 3 of these assignments and must achieve a minimum score of 40 marks in each to be eligible for the certificate.

Take-Home Project: An optional project consisting of questions that cover all the topics from the theory videos, accompanied by a small project report.

Final Exam: An optional online final exam designed to assess the knowledge gained throughout the course, which can only be attempted after completing and submitting the required assignments and the take-home project.

Certificate Acquisition

Participation Certificate - Check Sample Certificate

To receive this participation certificate, a student must pass 3 out of 4 assignments with an average score of at least 40 marks.

Completion Certificate - Check Sample Certificate

To receive this completion certificate, a student must fulfill the following criteria:

  1. A student must pass 3 out of 4 assignments with an average score of at least 40 marks.
  2. Submission of the take-home project is mandatory for the student.
  3. Once the above two conditions are satisfied, the student should attempt the final exam and must receive a minimum score of 40 marks.