Biotechnology

Explore the World of Biotechnology

Job Outlook

biotechnology2 Biotechnology has been identified as a high growth industry by the U.S. The Lexington region, which serves as a governmental, medical and educational hub in the state has particular workforce needs in which biotechnology careers play a key role.

Are you interested in learning how to clone microorganisms and harvest their proteins? Check out BT 202: Biotechnology techniques II.

 

What is Biotechnology?

biotechnology4Biotechnology is the use of biological processes, organisms, or systems to manufacture products intended to improve the quality of human life. Biotechnology can involve medical processes such as getting organisms to produce new drugs, or using stem cells to regenerate damaged human tissues and perhaps re-grow entire organs.

biotechnology1Biotechnology in the industrial setting includes the production of new chemicals or the development of new fuels for vehicles. In agriculture, biotech can involve such processes as the development of pest-resistant grains or the accelerated evolution of diseaseresistant animals.

Learn how to measure volume and weight, prepare solutions and keep a true laboratory notebook in BT 201: Biotechnology Techniques I.

 

biotechnology3Biotechnology courses are new to BCTC. These courses emphasize skills necessary for entry-level employment in bioscience laboratories. The courses focus on techniques basic to the commercial development of products from biological systems . Students acquire proficiency in laboratory skills, effective communications and employment skills. Individuals who like the challenge of laboratory work are encouraged to enroll.

Students that complete BT (Biotechnology) courses may seek entry-level employment in public or private laboratories for positions frequently titled laboratory assistant, laboratory technician, laboratory tester or laboratory worker. These laboratories are found in universities, pharmaceutical companies, food processing industries, companies performing research and development, and companies involved in plant and animal breeding.

 

Biotechnology Courses offered

BTN 101: Introduction to Biotechnology

Introduces current and future applications of biotechnology. Covers biotechnology career opportunitiess and bioethics. 1 credit hour

BTN 201: Biotechnology Techniques I

Introduces theory and techniques for media and solution preparations, use of analytical equipment, and laboratory safety. Included various nucleic acid techniques, gene expression and purification, and bioinformatics. 4 credit hours

BTN 202: Biotechnology Techniques II

Covers various protein techniques, extraction and purification, and assays. Prerequisite: BT 201. 4 credit hours

BTN 110: Nucleic Acid Methods

Covers theory of DNA structure and function. Emphasizes laboratory skills in a variety of DNA manipulations. Prerequisite: One semester of college biology with lab or college chemistry with lab or consent of instructor. 4 credit hours

BTN 210: Cell Culture and Function

Covers the use of cell culutre in modern biotechnological applications with emphasis on laboratory skills in a variety of cell culture techniques. Prerequisite: BTN 110 with a grade of C or better or consent of instructor. 4 credit hours

BTN 220: Immunological Methods

Covers immunological theory and applications with focus on techniques such as isolation, purification, and labeling of antibody molecules. Prerequisite: BTN 110 with a grade of C or better or consent of instructor. 4 credit hours

We offer three credentials: Basic Biotechnician Certificate, Advanced Biotechnician Certificate, and and AAS in Biotechnology. Click here for detailed program plans.

If you would like to develop or enhance your laboratory skills and want additional information contact:

Deborah Davis

(859)246-6451
deborah.davis@kctcs.edu

Tammy Liles

(859)246-6449
tammy.liles@kctcs.edu

Keith Allen

(859)246-6767
keith.allen@kctcs.edu