Biotechnology
Do you have an inquisitive mind, learn quickly, and like to solve complex problems? If so, our Biotechnology program is right for you. Come, and explore the science and interplay of living organisms, their components for human benefit, and the technical applications used to turn biological knowledge into products. Curious students passionate about biology, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and engineering will enjoy exploring this interdisciplinary field. Working with their instructor, students learn about scientific theory and technical training, resulting in a broad range of industry and academic research skills relevant to the emerging demand in today’s dynamic workplace. Ultimately, this program prepares students for scientifically diverse careers in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, one of the fastest-growing commercial sectors, with Massachusetts being a significant center for growth and innovation in this field.
- Genetic engineering and cloning
- Genetically modified organisms
- Bacterial cell culture and transformation
- Mammalian cell culture and transfection
- Gene therapy
- Bioethics
- Gel electrophoresis (nucleic acids and proteins)
- Forensic techniques
- Industry-grade instrumentation
- Bioinformatics
- Regulatory affairs
- Independent research
Hands-on Projects
Crime Scene Investigators: Forensics has become an important and exciting discipline in science, often capturing worldwide attention. Our freshmen discover what it’s like to be a crime scene investigator while learning the science behind evidence analysis. Putting their skills and logic to the test, teams of students create mock crime scenes to solve: Who did it? How did they do it? And Why? Students use fluorescent fingerprint powder and a black light source to analyze fingerprints as they investigate staged crime scenes. They learn to identify hairs and fibers from different sources and evaluate fake bloodstain patterns to reconstruct the events. Interactions with the State Police Crime Lab reveal behind-the-scenes realities of working in the field.