BIOTECHNOLOGY ADVANCED

Do you love all things science? Investigating questions? Setting up experiments? The Biotechnology Advanced program at St. Lawrence College is a predominantly hands-on, laboratory, and practical based course. As a student you will perform genetic assays, investigate contaminated soil and water, determine food-borne illnesses, clone for proteins, ferment antibiotics, and create plant hybrids.

According to Statistics Canada, Biotechnology is one of the fastest growing global industries with Canada providing a strong and growing employer base in the biotech sector necessitating the demand for well-trained laboratory personnel. Our program employs contemporary molecular biology, microbiology, immunology, chemistry, biochemistry, fermentation and protein technology, applied genetics, cell culture, environmental and analytical instrumentation labs that offer practical training in all aspects of biotechnology with a focus on the hands-on applied skills that ensure our students are ready for immediate integration into the work force. The final 14-week semester of our program is dedicated to providing a real-world learning opportunity by placing our students in a research or industrial work site as an entry-level Biotechnologist.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Biotechnologists:

• Perform DNA genotyping for disease diagnostics and forensic analyses
• Genetically engineer bacteria for bioremediation and plants for phytoremediation
• Conduct world class research in order to identify and combat diseases such as HIV, COVID-19, cancer and rabies
• Develop new antibiotics to combat drug resistant pathogens or new and emerging diseases
• Craft beer, wine, cheese and other food products
• Produce therapeutic drugs
• Research and design new assays and control methods for environmental contaminants/pollutants
• Oversee the Quality Control/Quality Assurance programs that ensure food, beverage and pharmaceutical safety
• Utilize microbial processes to produce 'green' alternative fuels
• Use molecular and biochemical tools to assess and monitor the ecology of endangered species

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Biotechnology may be the best career for you if you are interested in:

• A career that allows you to work in science from a hands-on perspective
• Working to solve a broad variety of agricultural, medical, and environmental issues
• An education that prepares you for a broad spectrum of science-related jobs
• An advanced diploma that is part of an international growth industry and that provides you with direct pathways to earn a university degree

Biotechnology graduates are employed in:

• Academic research laboratories e.g. disease and medical research, ecology, bioremediation, genomics and proteomics
• Commercial research, development and production of biological products such as pharmaceuticals, foods, alcoholic beverages, bulk chemicals and bio-pesticides
• Microbiological, chemical and instrumental analyses of raw materials and finished products
• Environmental protection through waste management, detection of soil and water contaminants/pollutants and application of bioremediation techniques. Graduates are eligible to take the OWWCO (Ontario Water/Wastewater Certification Office) exams
• The possibilities are endless!