Biotechnology

Biotechnology is the union of fundamental biology, engineering, and technology that results in the development of products that have economic benefit and the potential to improve society and the environment. The lifesciences/biotechnology sector has remained resilient after emerging from the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with theLos Angeles region generating $60.8 billion in economic activity during that time and hosting more than 1,000 life science innovation companies. It is projected that 16,000 technical jobs will be added to this rapidly growing sector by 2025. The acceleration of the widening supply-and-demand gap, along with the need for highly skilled technicians, emphasizes the necessity to prepare students to become the next generation of highly skilled workers in this dynamic sector. The stackable Biotechnology Certificate and AS Degree Program focusing on cell science and immunological testing will align academic offerings with industry needs and students will be trained in a curriculum that focuses on essential knowledge, state-of-the-art technical skills, and industry-required soft skills. Students will also receive an introduction to nano biotechnology concepts and their applications in the biomedical, cell therapy, and immunological testing industries.Program Learning Outcomes:Upon completion of this program, students will demonstrate knowledge of the broad scope of the biotechnology industry as well as the structure of a company and the importance of project management, workflow, and ethical practices.Students will also be able to describe and perform foundational molecular biology techniques that include quantifying, manipulating, and purifying biological molecules. Students will be able to demonstrate and articulate the importance of aseptic techniques for maintaining and cryopreserving eukaryotic cells as well as perform advanced cellular and immunological techniques to assess and characterize cells and biomolecules. Students will articulate the major advancements and challenges impacting the nano biotechnology field; describe nano science applications in molecular, medical, and environmental contexts; and apply foundational knowledge of chemistry to understand nano material interactions and their impact on the environment. Through these cumulative laboratory experiences, students will be able to apply the scientific method to design controlled experiments and perform data analysis and graphing skills to generate quality figures. Also, students will demonstrate their technical knowledge of the different types of documents and records used in a regulatory environment and communicate novel scientific findings through written and oral communication.

Upon completion of this program, students will demonstrate knowledge of the broad scope of the biotechnology industry as well as the structure of a company and the importance of project management, workflow, and ethical practices. Students will also be able to describe and perform foundational molecular biology techniques that include quantifying, manipulating, and purifying biological molecules. Students will be able to demonstrate and articulate the importance of aseptic techniques for maintaining and cryopreserving eukaryotic cells as well as perform advanced cellular and immunological techniques to assess and characterize cells and biomolecules. Students will articulate the major advancements and challenges impacting the nanobiotechnology field; describe nanoscience applications in molecular, medical, and environmental contexts; and apply foundational knowledge of chemistry to understand nanomaterial interactions and their impact on the environment. Through these cumulative laboratory experiences, students will be able to apply the scientific method to design controlled experiments and perform data analysis and graphing skills to generate quality figures. Also, students will demonstrate their technical knowledge of the different types of documents and records used in a regulatory environment and communicate novel scientific findings through written and oral communication. Finally, students will become aware of equipment and laboratory space modifications that will promote inclusivity and accommodations for scientists living with disabilities.