Degree Program in Applied Biotechnology Opens Pathways to Sustainable Technologies

The study of Applied Biotechnology includes many laboratory practicals. (Photo: HBC/Stefan Sättele)

Applied Biotechnology is a dynamic field that forms an interface between engineering sciences, natural sciences, and process engineering. Specialists in this area play a crucial role in optimizing and sustainably designing biotechnological processes. This encompasses a wide range of applications – from developing environmentally friendly production methods to manufacturing bio-based materials and therapeutics. Biberach University of Applied Sciences (HBC) has responded to these changing requirements by realigning its Industrial Biotechnology program.

Under the name Applied Biotechnology, interested students will find a diverse range of offerings starting from the upcoming winter semester in the field of sustainable innovation, combined with a strong practical and application-oriented focus. The current curriculum includes digitalization subjects such as modeling and simulation as well as bioinformatics. Additionally, the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) course is covered in greater depth, emphasizing the assurance of quality standards for good manufacturing practices of pharmaceuticals.

The faculty has also expanded the elective area of the program and surveyed students, alumni, and future employers, such as companies in the Biberach region that are active in the biotechnology industry or research institutes. Future offerings will include Data Science and Artificial Intelligence as well as Synthetic Biology and Ethics. "We will gradually expand the offerings so that students can choose from a comprehensive range of topics and tailor their study path and thus their career trajectory more individually than ever before," explains Jürgen Hannemann.

Biotechnology is a field with endless possibilities, and HBC aims to contribute to harnessing this potential, summarizes Oliver Peters-Hädicke: "Our ability to produce bioplastics biotechnologically, treat wastewater, and convert CO2 into valuable raw materials are just a few examples of the sustainable innovations we can develop."

With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary training and through collaborations such as the master's program in partnership with the University of Ulm, the Faculty of Biotechnology offers outstanding opportunities – both in industry and academic research, the professors are convinced. The academic path up to a doctoral degree is also open to students at Biberach University of Applied Sciences, which is involved in the newly founded Baden-Württemberg Doctoral Association.

The seven-semester Applied Biotechnology program concludes with a Bachelor of Science and includes a practical semester as well as the possibility of studying abroad. Applications for a start in autumn 2024 are welcome until July 15. The program begins each year in the winter semester.