Course syllabus for Genetically engineered foods

Course syllabus adopted 2019-02-12 by Head of Programme (or corresponding).

Overview

  • Swedish nameGenetiskt modifierade nyttoväxter
  • CodeKMG076
  • Credits7.5 Credits
  • OwnerMPBIO
  • Education cycleSecond-cycle
  • Main field of studyBioengineering
  • DepartmentBIOLOGI OCH MILJÖVETENSKAP (GU)
  • GradingTH - Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail

Course round 1

  • Teaching language English
  • Application code 08115
  • Maximum participants20
  • Open for exchange studentsYes

Credit distribution

0114 Examination 7.5 c
Grading: TH		 7.5 c
  • Contact examiner
  • Contact examiner
  • 25 Aug 2021 am J

In programmes

Examiner

  • Adrian Clark
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Eligibility

General entry requirements for Master's level (second cycle)
Applicants enrolled in a programme at Chalmers where the course is included in the study programme are exempted from fulfilling the requirements above.

Specific entry requirements

English 6 (or by other approved means with the equivalent proficiency level)
Applicants enrolled in a programme at Chalmers where the course is included in the study programme are exempted from fulfilling the requirements above.

Course specific prerequisites

Basic knowledge in cell and molecular biology (corresponding to UCM010, KMG050 or similar  ) and molecular biotechnology (corresponding to KMB056 or similar). KMG041 Methods in molecular biology or similar knowledge on model organisms is recommended.

Aim

The aim of this course is to give a deeper insight into present and future applications of modern biotechnology on the production of food and feed crops.

Learning outcomes (after completion of the course the student should be able to)

  • Have knowledge in how plant genetic engineering is performed in practice and the theoretical background to this.
  • Have knowledge about which genetically engineered crops are currently available on the market and the positive and negative consequences of their use
  • Have knowledge in potential future applications of genetically modified crops and how these will affect currently over- or underfed human populations
  • Have knowledge in how a risk analysis for a genetically modified crop is performed and understand the potential ecological and toxicological risks associated
  • Have a general understanding of the legal regulation surrounding genetically modified crops in the EU, USA and other important countries
  • Be knowledgeable in the main features of the current popular debate surrounding genetically modified crops

Content

  • The course gives an introduction and presents the biological background to current gene modification technologies used in plants’
  • The course gives an in depth presentation about currently used genetically modified crops in terms of herbicide tolerance and insect resistance as well as both positive and negative consequences of their use
  • The course gives an overview of potential future applications of genetic modification of crop plants to tackle major problems in agricultural production
  • Politics around genetically engineered foods are presented
  • Project works will also be done in groups of two students to deepen the understanding by investigating a currently field tested or commercially used genetically modified crop
  • A practical concerning some molecular aspects of plant genetic engineering

Organisation

The course includes lectures, project work and a practical

Literature

Current reviews and research reports on the courses subject, handed out during the course.

Examination including compulsory elements

Written exam, lab report and oral presentation.