Innovating Biotechnologies

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

STIA biotechnology and global health; STIA sceince, tech, and security; STIA business, growth and development Course Inactivation: Course Description: There is a growing recognition that biotechnology applications in health, the environment, agriculture and energy production can be a driver for sustainable growth and development worldwide. Because of their novelty and their rapidly evolving nature, their advantages and challenges are not sufficiently understood by consumers, industry, governments and policymakers. This course examines the fundamental scientific research and concepts utilized in the creation and development of biotechnology products and processes. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the major industrial areas of biotechnology. Students will address the opportunities as well as the ethical, security and societal concerns relevant to controversial applications of biotechnology and the context of the international treaties and regimes in place. While addressing the strategies used by industrialized countries through major clusters of innovation, the course will also emphasize on the efforts made by emerging economies looking to attract both businesses and human talent to drive their domestic industry. It will evaluate strategies used by developing nations to build their strength in biotechnology, focusing on identifying fundamental policy challenges through a multidisciplinary approach allowing for the perspectives of various stakeholders, of relevance for foreign policy and international development.