MSc in Biotherapeutics

Program Overview

The MSc in Biotherapeutics at Dublin City University equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to develop and apply biotherapeutics in academia, healthcare, and industry. The program features an industry-focused curriculum, multidisciplinary approach, and practical experience through research projects or a MasterClass. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in bioprocess engineering, biopharmaceutical science, clinical research, and other fields within the biotherapeutics industry.

Program Outline

MSc in Biotherapeutics - DC776

Degree Overview:

(Overall Aim)

The multidisciplinary MSc in Biotherapeutics aims to equip graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to make a significant impact in the development and application of biotherapeutics across various sectors, including academia, healthcare, and industry. The program focuses on enhancing postgraduate students' employability and career advancement opportunities by improving their understanding of disease pathophysiology and the development of next-generation biologics therapies.

(Program Distinctive Features)

• Industry-focused curriculum: The program's curriculum is designed to align with the evolving needs of the biotherapeutics industry, ensuring graduates are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills relevant to current industry practices.
• Multidisciplinary approach: The MSc in Biotherapeutics attracts students from diverse backgrounds, including life scientists, healthcare professionals, and individuals from the Biopharma and Pharmaceutical industries.
This diverse student body fosters a collaborative and stimulating learning environment.
• Experienced faculty: The program is taught by renowned faculty with extensive expertise in biotherapeutics research and development.
This ensures students receive high-quality instruction from industry leaders.
• Practical experience: Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a 12-week research or design project in DCU or in a relevant industry setting.
Additionally, a MasterClass option allows students to engage in a unique set of experiments related to the design, purification, and validity testing of monoclonal antibodies.
• Career support: The program provides students with valuable career support, including guidance on resume writing, interview skills, and networking opportunities.

(Program Learning Outcomes)

Upon successful completion of the MSc in Biotherapeutics program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of biotherapeutics development.
• Apply scientific knowledge and research skills to address complex problems in biotherapeutics research and development.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing about biotherapeutics to a variety of audiences.
• Collaborate effectively within a team environment to achieve common goals.
• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the context of biotherapeutics development.
• Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in all aspects of their work.

Outline:

(Program Structure)

The MSc in Biotherapeutics program consists of a combination of taught modules and a research project or MasterClass. Students are required to complete 90 credits, with 60 credits awarded for taught modules and 30 credits for the research project or MasterClass.

(Taught Modules)

The program comprises ten taught modules, each with a specific focus on different aspects of biotherapeutics development.

• Introduction to Cell Biology and Biotechnology: Provides a foundation in cell biology and its applications in biotechnology, including the manipulation of cells for the production of therapeutic medicines.
• Immuno- and Onco-Therapeutics: Focuses on how targeted therapeutics have revolutionized medical practice, particularly in the treatment of cancer, inflammatory diseases, and inherited diseases.
• Introduction to Bioprocess Engineering: Introduces the principles and techniques used in bioprocessing within the pharmaceutical and related industries.
• Animal Cell Culture Technology: Investigates the role of cell culture in bioprocessing engineering, specifically in the context of producing biotherapeutics.
• Biotherapeutic Pipeline: Provides students with the knowledge and skills to design biotherapeutic agents and analyze their mode of action using bioinformatics tools.
• Regulatory Affairs Sc.
• for Biotech Products: Explores the regulatory context surrounding the development and availability of biotherapeutic products, including international and local licensing requirements.
• Bioseparations: Offers a detailed understanding of the theory and practice of purifying biotherapeutics such as monoclonal antibodies.
• Neuro & Cardiovascular Therapeutics: Provides students with a thorough understanding of pathophysiology in the nervous and cardiovascular systems and introduces novel biotherapeutic treatment options for these diseases.
• Case Studies in Biotherapeutic Development: Offers firsthand experience in producing biotherapeutic products in a laboratory setting by utilizing the existing bioprocess engineering pilot plant, the pre-GMP facility, and the state-of-the-art facilities in NIBRT.
• Professional Skills for Scientists: Enhances students' career development by focusing on essential soft skills such as science communication, innovation, entrepreneurship, ethics, research integrity, networking, and career development.
• Practical on Laboratory Techniques: Provides hands-on training in key laboratory techniques used in fundamental cellular assays for monitoring therapeutic drugs.

(Research Project or MasterClass)

Students can choose to complete either a 12-week research project focused on a novel research topic related to biomedical science or a 12-week MasterClass in Biotherapeutics.

(Research Project)

The research project allows students to engage in independent research under the supervision of experienced faculty members. The project can be conducted in DCU's laboratory facilities or in collaboration with an external research organization.

(MasterClass in Biotherapeutics)

The MasterClass provides students with a unique learning experience through a series of experiments related to the design, purification, and validity testing of a monoclonal antibody therapeutic. Students will also be required to write a grant proposal, further enhancing their research and writing skills.

Assessment:

(Assessment Methods)

The MSc in Biotherapeutics program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate students' knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

• Examinations: Written examinations are used to assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories covered in the taught modules.
• Coursework: Throughout the program, students are required to complete various coursework assignments, including essays, reports, presentations, and practical exercises.
• Research Project or MasterClass: Students are assessed on their ability to conduct independent research or successfully complete the MasterClass experiments and write a grant proposal.

(Assessment Criteria)

Assessments are graded based on a variety of criteria, including:

• Accuracy: Students' responses should demonstrate a clear understanding of the relevant concepts and theories.
• Completeness: Students should provide comprehensive answers that address all aspects of the question or task.
• Critical thinking: Students should demonstrate the ability to analyze and evaluate information critically.
• Communication skills: Students' written and oral communication skills should be clear, concise, and well-organized.
• Originality: Students' work should be original and demonstrate independent thought.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The MSc in Biotherapeutics program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These methods include:

• Lectures: Lectures are used to introduce key concepts and theories, and to provide students with a broad overview of the subject matter.
• Tutorials: Tutorials provide students with an opportunity to engage in small group discussions, ask questions, and receive feedback on their coursework.
• Laboratory practical sessions: Practical sessions allow students to gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques relevant to biotherapeutics development.
• Guest lectures: Industry experts are invited to deliver guest lectures on specific topics related to biotherapeutics research and development.
• Case studies: Case studies are used to explore real-world examples of biotherapeutic development and application.
• Independent study: Students are expected to engage in independent study to deepen their understanding of the subject matter and to prepare for assessments.

Faculty:

The MSc in Biotherapeutics is taught by a team of experienced faculty members with expertise in biotherapeutics research and development. The faculty includes:

• Dr. Janosch Heller: Program Director and Associate Professor in Biopharmaceutics.
Dr. Heller's research focuses on the development of novel biotherapeutics for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases.
• Dr. Sarah Burke: Senior Lecturer in Bioprocess Engineering.
Dr. Burke's research interests include cell culture technology, bioseparation processes, and the development of sustainable biomanufacturing technologies.
• Dr. David Brayden: Lecturer in Pharmacology.
Dr. Brayden's research focuses on the mechanisms of action of biotherapeutics and the development of new drug delivery systems.
• Dr. Emma Gallagher: Lecturer in Immunology.
Dr. Gallagher's research interests include the role of the immune system in biotherapeutic development and the development of immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases.
• Dr. Niamh O'Donovan: Lecturer in Molecular Biology.
Dr. O'Donovan's research focuses on the genetic and molecular basis of disease and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

Unique Teaching Approaches:

• Industry-focused curriculum: The program's curriculum is designed to align with the latest industry trends and practices, ensuring graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills sought after by employers.
• Problem-based learning: Students are encouraged to engage in problem-based learning activities, which allows them to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Teamwork and collaboration: The program emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, preparing students for success in the collaborative environment of the biotherapeutics industry.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the MSc in Biotherapeutics program can pursue a variety of careers in the biotherapeutics industry and related fields. Some potential career paths include:

• Bioprocess Engineer: Responsible for designing and developing processes for the production of biotherapeutics.
• Biopharmaceutical Scientist: Conducts research and development of novel biotherapeutics.
• Clinical Research Associate: Manages clinical trials for biotherapeutics.
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Ensures biotherapeutics comply with regulatory requirements.
• Medical Writer: Prepares scientific documents related to biotherapeutics.
• Science Communicator: Communicates scientific information about biotherapeutics to the public.
• Academic Researcher: Conducts research on biotherapeutics in an academic setting.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the MSc in Biotherapeutics program are well-positioned to pursue career opportunities in various settings, including:

• Pharmaceutical companies: Large pharmaceutical companies are actively involved in the research, development, and production of biotherapeutics.
• Biotechnology companies: Smaller biotechnology companies often focus on developing innovative biotherapeutics for specific diseases.
• Contract research organizations (CROs): CROs provide research and development services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
• Hospitals and medical centers: Hospitals and medical centers are increasingly involved in the clinical trials and administration of biotherapeutics.
• Government agencies: Government agencies play a role in regulating biotherapeutics and funding research.
• Academic institutions: Academic institutions conduct research on biotherapeutics and train future scientists.

Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the MSc in Biotherapeutics program have a strong track record of securing employment in the biotherapeutics industry. Recent graduates have been employed by leading pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, and Merck, as well as smaller biotechnology companies and CROs.

Other:

Additional Information:

• Program duration: The MSc in Biotherapeutics is a one-year full-time program or a two-year part-time program.
• Program fees: The fees for the MSc in Biotherapeutics program vary depending on student status (EU or non-EU).
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have an undergraduate degree with a minimum of a second-class honors (H2.1) in a life science, pharmaceutical, or chemistry-related discipline.
• Application deadline: The deadline for applications varies depending on student status (EU or non-EU).
• Program location: The MSc in Biotherapeutics program is offered on the Dublin City University campus.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Full time EU Status Fee €8,500 Non EU Fee. €17,000 Modular EU Status Fee - Modular 5 Credit module fee €480 - 30 credit module €2880 Non EU Fee, 5 credit module fee €976 - 30 credit module €5875