Biological Sciences - CIT Course Handbook

biological sciences @cit

biological sciences @citThank you for taking the time to read our departmental brochure. We hope that you find the information you need to plan the next step of your scientific career. Our departmenthas always been one of the premier providers of biology related courses in the country, and we look forward to training the next generation of future biologists.

Dr Brendan O’Connell (Head of Department)

Department of Biological Sciences …

• Experienced provider of career focused education • Expert training with high practical content in all our courses• Modern teaching facilities• 16 week work placement programme• Innovative research and development ethos• Strong industry collaborations• Small class sizes

www.cit.ie/biologicalsciences

biological sciences @citThank you for taking the time to read our departmental brochure. We hope that you find the information you need to plan the next step of your scientific career. Our departmenthas always been one of the premier providers of biology related courses in the country, and we look forward to training the next generation of future biologists.

Dr Brendan O’Connell (Head of Department)

Department of Biological Sciences …

• Experienced provider of career focused education • Expert training with high practical content in all our courses• Modern teaching facilities• 16 week work placement programme• Innovative research and development ethos• Strong industry collaborations• Small class sizes

Level 7CR 006 BSc in Applied Biosciences (Common Entry) 4 * BSc in Applied Biosciences & Biotechnology or BSc in Food & Health Science

Level 8 CR 335 Biological Sciences (Honours) (Common Entry) 6Depends on specialisation. Choose from:> BSc (Honours) in Herbal Science> BSc (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology> BSc (Honours) in Nutrition and Health SciencePotential Areas of Employment Depends on specialisation:• Biopharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries• Food and Healthcare Industries• Natural Product Ingredient Manufacture

CR 320 BSc (Honours) in Biomedical Sciences 8Potential Areas of Employment• Medical Scientist in Hospitals• Biopharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries• Public Health• Sales & Marketing of Medical Products

CR 330 BSc (Honours) in Herbal Science 10Potential Areas of Employment• Healthcare, Biopharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industry• Food and Nutraceutical Industry• Plant Production and Natural Product ingredient manufacture• Clinical Herbal Medicine after further training

CR 333 BSc (Honours) Nutrition & Health Science 12Potential Areas of Employment• Research Scientist in food, nutraceutical, and related healthcare industries• Production, Management and Marketing in food, nutraceutical and related healthcare

industries• Governmental agencies responsible for food• Quality Assurance

CR 325 BSc (Honours) Pharmaceutical Biotechnology 14Potential Areas of Employment• Quality Analyst in Biotechnology or related industry• Research Scientist• Analytical Microbiologist• Bio-assay Specialist• Environmental Biotechnologist

Further Studies 16

Research 17

Graduate Testimonials 18

Employer focused courses

We place a great emphasis on training biologists for real world positions. With this in mind, we incorporate significant practical content into all our courses. Additionally, in 3rd year, all our students participate in a 16 week work placement programme based in a relevant scientific industry or company, either locally or internationally. Consequently our graduates have a distinct advantage when applying for full time positions.

Applied Biosciences

CR 006 Level 7 Award

Application: CAOAward Title: Depends on Specialisation. Choose from:• Bachelor of Science in Food & Health Science • Bachelor of Science in Applied Biosciences & BiotechnologyDuration: 3 Years (6 Semesters)Places: 40

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What is Applied Biosciences?Applied Biosciences is the study of complex biological systems, and how they work, for example how bacteria generate energy from the breakdown of sugars. Applied Biosciences also involves the use of living organisms and bioprocesses in engineering, technology, medicine and agriculture – in other words, the application of scientific and technical advances in the life sciences to develop commercial products.

Helpful Leaving Certificate Subjects

Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Mathematics.

“The course provides a fantastic range of both lectures and labs that are delivered by dedicated and approachable lecturers who are both interested in what they teach and up-to-date in their course material. The work placement element in Year 3 provides a great opportunity to experience a real working environment.” Chloe Huseyin

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Work PlacementThere is a mandatory work placement of a minimum of 16 weeks in Year 3.

>> Progression to Honours Degrees & Postgraduate Programmes▲ Higher Certificate Option

Possible Areas of Employment • Pharmaceutical Industry • Food and Healthcare Industries

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Minimum Entry RequirementsLeaving Certificate in 5 Subjects

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First Year at a GlanceAs well as learning the main core science subjects in first year,new students will also be exposed to modules in Biotechnologyand Food and Healthcare. The student will have the opportunityto study the different aspects of the following areas:

Biotechnology: the application of biological systems to produceuseful products.

Food Science: the science relating to the production of highquality, safe and nutritious food.

There is a very significant emphasis placed on the practicallaboratory aspect of the modules studied in first year, where thestudents are expected to perform experimental investigationsunder supervision, collate data, interpret results, and writescientific reports.

Applied BiosciencesAbout the CourseIn CR 006 Applied Biosciences, Years 1 and 2 are common. Students will not be required to choose their preferred qualification (Food & Health Science or Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology) until the beginning of Year 3.

Knowledge of environmental science, analytical techniques, quality management and bioprocessing are seen as key requirements and these disciplines are studied in detail. Laboratory work forms a substantial part of the course. The development of high-level laboratory skills and the ability to use them in the service of advanced industrial biology are key aims of the course. Opportunities currently exist for a number of students on courses to participate in EU funded exchange programmes involving colleges and enterprises in Europe.

The Bachelor of Science in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology meets the demands of biotechnology,food and pharmaceutical industries for technologists and analysts. In addition, the requirements of the services andresearch laboratories for staff trained in advanced biologically based analytical techniques are met by graduates of the course.

The Bachelor of Science in Food & Health Science meets the changing needs of the Food, Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology industries for technicians and analysts. Graduates are in great demand from multinationalpharmaceutical companies, as well as the traditional employers in the food and drink sectors.

Advanced manufacturing in the food, healthcare, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and chemical industries have beenemployment destinations for graduates of this course as well as state and local authority laboratories.

Further StudiesFor details, see www.cit.ie/biologicalsciences

Suitably qualified graduates of the BSc in Food & Health Science may apply for entry to Year 4 of> BSc (Honours) in Nutrition & Health Science

Suitably qualified graduates of the BSc in Applied Biosciences & Biotechnology may apply for entry to Year 4 of> BSc (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Career Opportunities Graduates from this course have traditionally gained employment in the Pharmaceutical, and Food and Healthcare industries, where graduates function in a variety of roles including; quality analysts, microbiologists, purification specialists, researchers and technicians. Graduates also have the option to progress to further academic studies at Level 8 within the Department of Biological Sciences.

Contact InformationAnna MurphyDepartment of Biological SciencesT: 021 433 5293E: [email protected]

Question Time If I am not sure what area of Biological Sciences I’d like to specialise in, would this be a good course choice for me? This course provides a broad grounding in the core principles of the biological sciences; allowing students to gain a solid understanding of core concepts and techniques for two years before deciding to specialise in their chosen field in Year 3.

What personal skills are most suited to the course and subsequent careers?The best students and professional biotechnologists all possess a keen interest in biology and a desire to understand how complex biological processes work.

CIT has developed a website which gives full details of all modules for all courses. The website also has information on recommended textbooks, average weekly workload, assessments and exams.

Mark FentonPostgraduate Student

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“I completed the BSc (Hons) in Applied Biosciences in 2006 and qualified for a research grant from Science Foundation Ireland. I joined the research group in CIT’s Department of Biological Sciences. Here, I undertook research into the purification, characterisation and therapeutic applications of a novel cloned protein for the control of antibiotic resistant bacteria, namely MRSA.

In 2011, on completion of my PhD, I began work as a Bioprocess Scientist at Eli Lilly. This role involves technical support and writing to support the development, validation, and commercialisation of novel biomedicines for the treatment of a range of diseases from diabetes to cancer.

I had encountered and gained valuable practical experience to many of these topics during both my undergraduate and postgraduate studies in CIT.”

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www.cit.ie/course/CR006

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Biological Sciences (Honours)(Common Entry)CR 335 Level 8 Award

Application: CAOAward Title: Depends on Specialisation. Choose from:• BSc (Honours) in Herbal Science• BSc (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology• BSc (Honours) in Nutrition and Health ScienceDuration: 4 Years (8 Semesters)Places: 20

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What is Biological Sciences?Biological Sciences is an exciting and rapidly developingsubject area, with many applications in the pharmaceutical,food and healthcare, and natural product industries.


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>> Progression to Postgraduate Programmes

Possible Areas of Employment Depends on specialisation:• Biopharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries• Food and Healthcare Industries• Natural Product Ingredient Manufacture

MathsGrad


First Year at a GlanceAs well as learning the main core science subjects in first year,new students will be exposed to the following:• Evaluating the role of food in health, wellness, and nutrition space• Making biological medicines: learn the basics of how cells can be used to make modern medicines• Understanding the natural products industry from functional foods to medicinal, healthcare, and cosmetics products• Perform experimental laboratory procedures

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Biological Sciences (Honours)(Common Entry)

About the CourseThe Common Biological Sciences programme is a two-yearcourse designed for students interested in Biological Sciencesas a career, but who may be unsure of which disciplineto follow.

The scheme gives students the opportunity to see the threedisciplines areas, first hand, through the various modules onoffer, interaction with lecturers, and industrial site visits.This allows the student to make an informed decision ontheir discipline of study.

On successfully completing this 2-year programme, studentscan enter the third year programme from any of the followingHonours Biological Science Degrees:

• CR330 BSc (Honours) in Herbal Science• CR333 BSc (Honours) in Nutrition and Health Science• CR325 BSc (Honours) in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Contact InformationDr. Karen FinnDepartment of Biological SciencesT: 021 433 6136E: [email protected]

Question Time Am I guaranteed my choice of study at the end of Year 2?Yes. Successful completion of the Common Entry BiologicalSciences programme ensures guaranteed entry to Year 3 ofthe BSc (Honours) programme of choice from the list given.

Do I need to have studied Chemistry at Leaving Certificate to apply for this course?No. Students study Biological Chemistry 1 and BiologicalChemistry 2 modules in first year which are designedfor students who do not have Chemistry as a LeavingCertificate subject.

In addition, the CIT Academic Learning Centre providestutorial support for first year Chemistry modules.


Module Information www.cit.ie/modules/cr335


Common Entry

Common 2-Year Platform

Year 3 Nutrition & Health Science

Year 3 Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Year 3 Herbal Science

Schematic Representation of Common Entry Route

Biomedical Science (Honours)CR 320 Level 8 Award

Application: CAOAward Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical ScienceDuration: 4 Years (8 Semesters)Places: 30Campus: CIT and UCC

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Science Grade

English and Irish Grade

4 2 O6/H7H4(Note N1)

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What is Biomedical Science?Biomedical Science is the term for the investigations carried out by Biomedical Scientists on samples of tissue and body fluids to diagnose disease and monitor the treatment of patients.


Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics and English.

The extensive laboratory training incorporated throughout the course combined with the clinical placement in a teaching hospital, allows me to become proficient in all disciplines of medical science. Each student was well known by lecturing staff which aids the learning process immensely as information and advice can be obtained easily.” Laura O’Brien

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Potential Areas of Employment• Medical Scientist in Hospitals• Biopharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries• Public Health• Sales & Marketing of Medical Products

Work PlacementThis work placement (clinical placement) is offered post-graduately and is optional. However, in order for graduates to be eligible to work as Medical Scientists in hospitals in Ireland, they must have completed a clinical placement training which takes a full academic year.


Note 1: A H4 must be obtained in a laboratory Science Subject (from Chemistry, Physics, Biology, or Physics & Chemistry (joint))NB: Please note the H4 grade in a relevant science subject can also be used to satisfy one of the H5 entry requirements.NB: Agricultural Science is accepted as a subject and attracts CAO points, but does not meet the requirement for the Laboratory Science subject.


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First Year at a GlanceAs well as learning the main core science subjects in first year, new students will also be exposed to the following disciplines:• Clinical Biochemistry: study of the chemical profiles of

body fluids in normal and diseased states• Haematology: study of blood cells in the normal and

diseased individual• Histology/Histopathology: study of cells and cellular

arrangement in normal and cancerous tissue• Diagnostic Microbiology: study of microorganisms

encountered in infectious diseases• Transfusion Science: the science relating to transfusing

fluid (as blood) into a vein or artery• Health Science: introduction to a selection of “hot topics”

relating to health

Biomedical Science (Honours)

About the CourseThis Honours Degree course is offered jointly by Cork Institute of Technology and University College Cork. Biomedical scientists work in partnership with doctors and other health-care professionals to perform many different roles in medical laboratories. Biomedical Science is a continually changing dynamic profession and involves study of the diverse areas of medical science including Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cellular Pathology, Haematology and Transfusion Science. It provides training in state-of-the-art technologies to facilitate investigation of disease and medical research.

AccreditationThis Honours Degree course with clinical placement is fully accredited by the Academy of Clincial Science and Laboratory Medicine.


The CIT/UCC joint BSc (Honours) Degree in Biomedical Science is one of only three Honours Degrees in the Republic of Ireland which are recognised by the Academy of Clincial Science and Laboratory Medicine (professional body) as enabling graduates to practise in hospitals in the State. However, this BSc (Honours) must be accompanied by clinical placement training. Graduates of the BSc (Honours) will be offered the opportunity to complete this placement in a designated hospital laboratory.

Suitably qualified graduates are eligible to apply for a postgraduate degree at CIT:> MSc in Biomedical Science (Taught)> MSc in Computational Biology (Taught)> MSc (by Research) > PhD

Career Opportunities Biomedical Science prepares the student for a career in laboratory medicine and related areas in the health-care industry and biopharmaceutical industry. Biomedical Science graduates work as Medical Scientists in hospitals, and in research, the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, public health and sales and marketing of medical products.

Contact InformationMichael HealyDepartment of Biological sciencesT: 021 433 5407E: [email protected]

Question Time What do you need to work as a Biomedical Scientist in Ireland? Graduates with a BSc (Honours) in Biomedical Science from CIT/UCC, GMIT, or DIT, who have completed clinical placement are eligible for membership of the Academy of Medical Laboratory Science, which qualifies the graduate to practice as a Biomedical Scientist.

Is it an advantage to have Chemistry and Physics coming into the course?It is always an advantage to have Chemistry and Physics coming into a course such as Biomedical Science. However, it is feasible to take up one or both of these subjects on entry to the course, and the first year programme is tailored to support students who enter the programme without prior knowledge of these subjects.

What kind of person should you be? This profession requires scientists who are mindful of their responsibility when dealing with human health. It also means that they are often privy to information concerning patients that they cannot divulge for ethical reasons other than in the course of their work.

What is the time divide between CIT and UCC?The programme for the BSc (Honours) in Biomedical Science is taught equally by CIT and UCC, so this means that the students will expect to spend some days in one institution or the other. The timetable is arranged to minimise travel between the two colleges.


Dr. Annmarie BurnsLecturer

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Having completed the BSc (Honours) in Biomedical Science in Cork, Annmarie began work as a Medical Scientist in the Microbiology Department of St. James’s Hospital in Dublin until she embarked on a postgraduate research scholarship at CIT in 2008.

During the intervening period, until her graduation in October 2011 with a PhD in Molecular Biology, Annmarie also undertook short part-time locum positions as a Medical Scientist in the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) in Cork, and in the Microbiology Department of the Bon Secours Hospital in Cork. She is currently employed as a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences.


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Herbal Science (Honours)CR 330 Level 8 Award

Application: CAOAward Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Herbal ScienceDuration: 4 Years (8 Semesters)Places: 20

SubjectsO6/O7Subjects Subjects

H5MathsGrade


4 2 O6/O7 O6/O7

What is Herbal Science?The Herbal Science programme covers all aspects of herbs and natural products with applications in the healthcare, food, cosmetic and biopharmaceutical industries.


Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.“Although this course specialises in the science of herbs and natural products it offers a broad range of subjects that can be applied to other fields of science. I cannot recommend this course highly enough, the skills and knowledge learned are very valuable.” Niamh O’Brien

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Potential Areas of Employment• Healthcare, Biopharmaceutical and Cosmetic

Industry• Food and Nutraceutical Industry• Plant Production and Natural Product Ingredient

Manufacture • Clinical Herbal Medicine after further training

Work PlacementThere is a mandatory work placement of 10 weeks in Year 3.


Non-Standard ApplicantsEncouragement will be given to non-standard applicants, including mature students, to enter the course. In the case of these applicants, their academic qualification and recognised prior learning (RPL) will be assessed and evaluated by the Department of Biological Sciences. It is anticipated that up to 30% of places will be offered to non-standard applicants.


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First Year at a GlanceHerbal Science covers the science of natural products and their use in human and animal food, medicinal and healthcare products. The first year is the foundation on which you build your skills and includes topics in:• Understanding the natural product industry from

functional foods to medicinal, healthcare and cosmetic products

• Plant science and their use as natural products• Human biology and health• Microbiology• Laboratory practical skills • Fundamentals of maths and chemistry

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Herbal Science (Honours)

About the CourseThe main core of the programme is focused on the production, characterisation and applications of herbal extracts and natural products that are ingredients used in medicinal, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. The Herbal Science course is structured along streams of study based on plant science and plant production, human body systems, food and nutrition, and herbs and natural product applications.

The specific biological subjects are supported by more general analytical techniques and foundation skills that provide our graduates with broad scientific education while retaining an appropriate level of specialisation to offer a wide range of opportunities in industry, in research or in business development. Further StudiesFor details, www.cit.ie/biologicalsciences

Suitable qualified graduates may progress to academic qualifications in a number of areas which include plant science, pharmacy, ethnobotany, microbiology, and pharmacognosy at Master’s and Doctoral Degree level.

The course gives the educational foundation necessary to pursue a career as a medical herbalist. The IIMH accepts and recognises this BSc Honours Degree as constituting Part 1 of its professional training requirement for qualification as a medical herbalist/practitioner in Ireland. Further study/training is required to achieve Part 2 of the IIMH professional requirements. The course also provides the student with an enormous opportunity to develop the skills necessary to commence herbal research or clinical training at an advanced level.

Career Opportunities Graduates can expect to work in a variety of sectors including the Healthcare/Cosmetic Industry; Food Industry/ Nutraceutical Industry; Biopharmaceutical Industry; Quality Control/Analysis; and Medicinal Plant Production.

Contact InformationAnna-Maria KeaveneyDepartment of Biological SciencesT: 021 433 5402E: [email protected]

Question Time When I graduate, will I be based in a Lab?Graduates can work in a variety of settings from growing herbs and extracting natural products to manufacturing and production in a range of industries (cosmetic, biopharmaceutical, food, etc.). You can chose to work in a lab undertaking research and product development or quality control. You can make other choices based on the modules covered in this course for a wide variety of career options and work placements.

What postgraduate qualification do you need to be qualified as a Herbalist?There are a number of options available to graduates when it comes to postgraduate study, including professional training in Herbal medicine. If you chose to specialise in Herbal Medicine you will need further specialist postgraduate training accredited by the professional body that can be contacted for further information.

Alternatively you can pursue a research Master’s through CIT’s Graduate School which can be based in any one of a number of life science disciplines. From this you may choose to pursue a structured PhD such as the ED4LIFE programme which includes the tradition of original research but offers graduates a range of generic and subject specific skills so that they are industry ready upon graduation. Generic modules include entrepreneurship, communications, personal effectiveness, and research methodology.

Many other postgraduate opportunities can be availed of in other third level institutions in Ireland and abroad.


Tracey graduated in 2011 and has set up her own business, Bia Beauty.

“I really enjoyed the broad range of subjects studied on the Herbal Science Degree, from Botany to Biochemistry. But what really helped me was the emphasis on Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Product and Process Development.

It was here that I got a taste of business from which I have now set up my own company making and selling natural cosmetics. This Degree has prepared me in many ways to run my business, from selecting appropriate herbs, to researching their benefits and creating a suitable manufacturing environment.”

Tracey Ryan Company Owner

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www.cit.ie/course/CR330 www.cit.ie/course/CR330

Nutrition & Health Science (Honours)CR 333 Level 8 Award

Application: CAOAward Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nutrition & Health ScienceDuration: 4 Years (8 Semesters)Places: 40


C3 (H)MathsGrade


4 2 O6/H7 O6/O7

What is Nutrition & Health Science?This course is designed to meet the need for technically competent managers, analysts and officers in the design, development, production, and upgrading of products which are ingested, injected, implanted, inhaled, inserted or topicallyapplied to the bodies of humans or animals for the maintenance, restoration and promotion of their health and wellbeing.


Biology and Chemistry.

I’m delighted I chose this science course as it is very broad with modules ranging from Animal Physiology and Nutrition to Bio-Analytical Science. It offers great experience in laboratories where we get to carry out experiments nearly five days a week. It’s always nice when a lecturer recognises you by name, something very common in CIT. Anne Bourke

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Work PlacementThere is work placment of a minimum of 16 weeks in Year 3.


Possible Areas of Employment • Research Scientist in food, nutraceutical, and related

healthcare industries• Production, Management and Marketing in food,

nutraceutical and related healthcare industries• Governmental agencies responsible for food • Quality Assurance


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First Year at a GlanceAs well as learning the main core science subjects in first year, new students will also be exposed to the following:• Studying the different groups of food and healthcare

products produced in industry• Evaluating the role of food in the health, wellness and

nutrition space• Describing the basic principles of sports and exercise

nutrition• Performing experimental laboratory procedures on

different food and healthcare products

Nutrition & Health Science (Honours)

About the CourseFirst and second year modules provide the student with a strong foundation in nutrition as well as other biological science modules such as cells, microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology and science of food and health.

Third and fourth year cover more specialised topics such as food and healthcare chemistry, toxicology and microbiology, clinical nutrition and population health, health products regulation, biomanufacturing and food processes as well as food innovation. The lectures are supplemented with relevant case studies, projects, assignments and there is a strong focus on gaining in depth practical experience in the laboratory.

The work placement module is an integral and essential part of the course programme in which the student is introduced to a structured work environment. The student develops an understanding of the organisation, practices and procedures current in the organisation and the area of activity in which it is involved.


This course is an excellent platform for further studies, both in terms of short add-on courses, and more structuredpostgraduate degrees such as Master of Science and PhD programmes.

Career Opportunities It is envisaged that a graduate of this course will be employed in any sector of the Food/Nutraceutical or Healthcare Industries. Areas such as: management, development, production, quality assurance or marketing of products and/or services for the Food, Nutrition, Medical Devices, Cosmetic, Pharmaceutical, Animal feed and Veterinary Care sectors. In addition, there are employment opportunities within governmental agencies responsible for food. Nutrition & Health Science Degree graduates have many opportunities to engage in continued education and training (e.g. pursue a career in Dietetics).

Contact InformationDr. Aoife McCarthyDepartment of Biological Sciences T: 021 433 6135E: [email protected]

Question Time Can I become a Dietician from CR 333?Completion of the BSc (Honours) in Nutrition & Health Science does not qualify the graduate to practice as a Dietician. However, graduates of the course CR 333 can undertake further studies in other third-level institutes to pursue a career as a Dietician.

What personal skills are most suited to the course and subsequent careers?Individuals pursuing a career in Nutrition & Health Science should be dedicated, logical, analytically minded, good with people, a team player, have good attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.


“I found first and second year covered a wide range of subjects which gave me a great understanding and foundation in Nutrition & Health Science.

I gained excellent laboratory experience, which I was able to demonstrate in my third year work placement in Canada. I am currently studying for a Master’s in Food Science, from which I hope to gain employment in the area of quality assurance in a food related industry.

Overall, I would highly recommend this course and thoroughly enjoyed my time in CIT.”

Julie GracePostgraduate Student

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Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Honours)CR 325 Level 8 Award

Application: CAOAward Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmaceutical

BiotechnologyDuration: 4 Years (8 Semesters)Places: 25CAO Points in 2015: Round 1: 350 / Final: 350


H5MathsGrade


4 2 O6/H7 O6/O7

What is Pharmaceutical Biotechnology?Many modern medicines such as vaccines, hormones, anti-cancer drugs are now made using biological cells. Insulin for example, which is used by diabetic patients worldwide is made using living cells as opposed to more traditional chemical synthesis based methods. This means there is a strong demand for biologists who can design innovative new medicines using biological approaches, and who have the skills to work with cells and the bio-active compounds they produce. This biotechnology course will teach students how to grow and engineer biological cells in order to make safe and effective medicines using the most up-to-date information and technologies available.


Biology and Chemistry.

“This course provides you with great career opportunities. After graduation, I qualified for a research grant which allowed me to pursue my dream of getting a PhD.” Monika Koziel

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Potential Areas of Employment• QC Analyst• Microbiologist• Bio-assay Specialist• Research and Development

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First Year at a GlanceAs well as learning the main core science subjects in first year, new students will also be exposed to the following:• Growing biological cells: what makes biological cells

healthy and how are they grown in a laboratory.• How do cells work: what structures are needed by

cells to stay alive.• Working with DNA: what is DNA and how can we

use it in biotechnology.• Making biological medicines: learn the basics of how

cells can be used to make modern medicines.• Laboratory studies: use the latest equipment and

technologies in a modern laboratory facility.• Experimental analysis: carry out your own

experiments in a laboratory setting and learn how tocreate and analyse your own data.

Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Honours)

About the CourseThe course content is specifically designed to meet the needs of the many relevant employers both nationally andinternationally, and contains topical, cutting edge, industry specific material. The lectures are supplemented with in-depth analysis of relevant case studies, projects, assignments, interactive videos, web tools and site visits. At least 50% of the contact time is spent in the laboratory gaining practical experience.

Work Placement is a mandatory part of this course. In Year 3, students will spend a minimum of 16 weeks in a local, national or internationally approved work environment.

Many of the world’s top Biotechnology companies have a strong presence in Ireland. In general, the industry is moving towards a more “bio–based” approach to pharmaceutical manufacture. Consequently, there is a greater need to produce highly trained graduates who possess Pharmaceutical Biotechnology related skills. This course is designed to specifically meet this need.


This course is an excellent platform for further studies, both in terms of short add-on courses, and more structuredpostgraduate degrees such as Master of Science and PhD programmes.

Career Opportunities This course is very broad and is specifically designed to train students in all aspects of modern biotechnology. Graduates from this course are qualified to work in a number of areas within the biotechnology industry with many attaining employment immediately after graduating.

Contact InformationDr. Rosemary ReaDepartment of Biological SciencesT|: 021 433 5295E: [email protected]

Question Time Does this course qualify me as a Pharmacist?No. It trains you to work in the biotechnology industry where modern bio-medicines are discovered and made such as vaccines, hormones, antibodies and therapeutic enzymes.

What personal skills are most suited to the course and subsequent careers?Good organisational skills, technical ability, team-working and ability to work to deadlines.

Is the biotechnology industry secure?Pharmaceutical exports from Ireland typically exceed €24 billion per year. Approximately 25% of all US biotechnology based imports come from Ireland. Despite the current economic situation, biotechnology is still very vibrant and remains one of the biggest national employers.


Module Information http://modules.cit.ie/cr325

“The pharmaceutical biotechnology programme at CIT is a very well designed, challenging and highly interesting course delivered by an excellent team of lecturers who have the relevant experience and links with the biotechnology industry. The focus on laboratory practicals together with the work placement programme facilitates a much deeper understanding of the theory discussed in lectures.

This experience has proven invaluable for me as I completed my work placement in Eli Lilly which is based just outside Kinsale. Co. Cork. Shortly after graduating, I attained a position within Eli Lilly as a Quality Control Analyst. I would highly recommend pharmaceutical biotechnology to any student with a keen interest in science and in particular the biotechnology industry.”

Aisling O’NeillQuality Control Analyst

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Further StudiesSome of our best graduates continue onto further studies after they complete their honours degrees.Many attain teaching qualifications, while others pursue MSc or PhD awards.

As our qualifications are internationally recognised, graduates can complete their continuing education elsewhere or can re-register at CIT for the following postgraduate course:

• MSc in Computational Biology

Our MSc and PhD researchers are constantly searching for new discoveries in food, health and agriculture that will impact positively on our daily lives.

Graduates can also apply to join our MSc and PhD programmes conducted at the BIO-EXPLORE research centre located in CREATE, CIT Bishopstown Campus.

Research

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Our Department carries out research into many areas relevant to human and animal health. Our researchers are internationally renowned for their work which mainly focuses on investigating better ways to detect, analyse and treat infectious disease.

Researchers from our Department carry out their activities at the BIOEXPLORE Research Centre which is located on campus in our state-of -the-art CREATE research building.

Our research teams have strong collaborative links to other research centres nationally and internationally, and also work closely with industry to solve problems and find solutions important to them.

Each year our researchers compete for and secure between €0.5 million and €1 million in funding which allows them to carry out their work. This supports our postgraduate students as they undertake their research projects which lead to an award of MSc or PhD.

Our research is published in high profile journals around the world and is often covered in the national and international press, as well as on radio and television.

Below is an example of some of the research carried out by our team of 25 researchers:

Carl Rafferty James O’Connor Leanne Kearney Cliodhna Sargent

Carl Rafferty – is working with Janssen Biologics to improve the way in which they make bio-medicines (Research supported by the Irish Research Council and Janssen Biologics)

James O’Connor – is developing and validating a better method to help hospitals detect mycobacterial disease in collaboration with the Microbiology Dept., Cork University Hospital - (Research supported by the Irish Research Council)

Leanne Kearney – collaborates with CIT engineering departments and the School of Microbology in UCC for the investigation of natural antimicrobial agents to prevent and control biofilms on medical devices (funded by CIT’s RISAM scholarship scheme)

Cliodhna Sargent – is working on assessing and improving the way in which health and fitness can be monitored in the Irish naval services (funded by CIT’s RISAM scholarship scheme)

Our research active lecturing staff have secured almost €10 million in research funding over the last 10 years, allowing them to carry out world class public health based research at the CIT Department of Biological Sciences.

Graduate Testimonials“My time in CIT is one that I will cherish forever. Nutrition and Health Science is an excellent, interesting and diverse course. The quality of the lecture material was excellent, and the lecturers were always willing to help.

After graduating, I went on to study for an MSc in Human Nutrition at the University of Ulster. CIT gave me a hunger for nutrition and it was a brilliant foundation for my masters. Since graduating, I have secured employment as a nutritionist.”

Ciara O’DonovanNutrition and Health Science graduate

“Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at CIT is a very well designed and highly interesting course delivered by an excellent department of lecturers. The focus on laboratory practicals together with the work placement programme facilitates a much deeper understanding of the theory discussed in lectures. This experience has proven invaluable for me as I completed my work placement in Eli Lilly and shortly after graduating I was offered and now hold a position within Eli Lilly where we make medicines for various diseases. I would highly recommend pharmaceutical biotechnology to any student with a keen interest in science and in particular the pharmaceutical industry.”

Aisling O’Neill Pharmaceutical Biotechnology graduate“The Pharmaceutical Biotechnology course at CIT is

a great combination of theory and practical work. The lecturers and staff give great support as they are all willing to do their best to help you to achieve all you can in the course. Like all Biology programmes, the degree also has a work placement module, which is one of the best features in that you get out into the real world.

I am currently working for Janssen Biologics as a technical scientist having attained a first class honours degree. CIT gave me the perfect college experience. Even after graduating the lecturers are on hand to help guide you down the right path. This combination along with all the societies, events and general atmosphere in CIT makes it an excellent choice of college.”

Jamie Ring Pharmaceutical Biotechnology graduate

Niall O’Mara – Biomedical Science graduate

“The Biomedical Sciences joint CIT/UCC programme provides an exceptional foundation in science with a strong clinical focus. Studying a diverse range of subjects and engaging with excellent tutors fostered nascent academic interests. The course is highly regarded and graduates are well positioned for work in clinical laboratories, industry or to undertake further studies. During the summer breaks I was lucky to gain experience in different types of laboratories and worked in industry, research and healthcare sectors. Additionally, the clinical aspect of the course gave me an appreciation for medicine and the impetus to pursue a medical career via graduate entry medicine. The experience and knowledge acquired from the degree has been of tremendous value in my current studies.

I even still have the opportunity to get back to the laboratory to undertake research. Biomedical science is an outstanding course and definitely worth considering if one has an interest in science and wants a widely recognised and respected qualification.”

“I studied Biomedical Science which is a joint CIT-UCC programme. The quantity and quality of practical laboratory sessions and clinical placement, and the support available to students matched all that I wanted and more when I chose this course. The camaraderie of a small class size added to my unforgettable experience in the CIT Department of Biological Sciences. Currently I am studying towards a PhD in Tyndall National Institute, UCC. I am working on developing a new medical device. The work I did for my final year project allowed me an avenue into research and I am continuing that work today. Every day I use the skills and expertise I acquired in the CIT Department of Biological Sciences to excel in this new and exciting field.”

Lisa Helen Biomedical Science graduate

“Applying for the degree in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at the CIT Department of Biological Sciences was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The course was well structured, with each new course year building on the previous year’s knowledge. The lab facilities were very impressive and the knowledge of the lecturers was excellent. The lecturers helped us through the whole process, they even organised interviews for us with many of the medical and pharmaceutical companies based in Cork and abroad. From the quality of the lecturers, the brilliant facilities, the lab training, and the work placement, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in college and I would recommend it to anyone.”

Robert Ahern Pharmaceutical Biotechnology graduate

“The course I chose was very practical and this was very helpful as the theory in class was demonstrated in practical classes making it easier to understand. All the lecturers were very approachable and the lectures were interesting and easy to follow. At present I am working in Trinity Biotech, Bray, Co Wicklow. Every day I use the practical skills I learned in CIT.”

Megan Carroll Pharmaceutical Biotechnology graduate

“I cannot recommend this course highly enough. The skills and knowledge learnt are very valuable.”

Niamh O’Brien – Herbal Science graduate

biological sciences @cit

www.cit.ie/biologicalsciences

Documents

Biological Sciences - CIT Course Handbook