Biopharmaceutical Technology - Athlone

TUS has successfully produced highly employable biotechnology graduates at NFQ level 7 and 8 since the programmes were initially offered in 1996. The Master of Science/ Postgraduate Diploma (MSc/PgD) in Biopharmaceutical Technology builds on the expertise and industry links TUS has developed over this time. The programme was conceived in response to significant job opportunities within Ireland’s large and expanding biopharmaceutical sector. In addition to lectures and laboratory sessions at TUS, and site visits to local biopharmaceutical plants, students on the MSc/PgD will receive practical training at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT) in Dublin.

NIBRT is a replica of a functional bioprocessing plant, equipped with all of the manufacturing equipment you would expect to find in a modern bioprocessing facility (for example, upstream, downstream, fill finish and bioanalytical facilities). The NIBRT placement will allow students to gain hands-on experience of the processes involved in biopharmaceutical production.

The MSc in Biopharmaceutical Technology runs at the Athlone campus of TUS from September to August.

Course Modules
Year 1 – Semester 1
Protein Biochemistry
Credits: 5
Biosynthesis, composition, higher order structure and post-translational modification of protein biopharmaceutical products are reviewed within this module, along with stabilising forces which lead to correct folding and biological functionality. Various classes of protein biopharmaceuticals currently in use are investigated along with typical biological targets.

Analytical Tools for Characterising Biopharmaceuticals
Credits: 5
An authoritative resource on how biological drug products are characterised, using instrumental and molecular methods, is provided by this module.

Research Methods and Professional Development Skills
Credits: 5
Focusing on the skills needed to develop a research project (semester 3), this module provides tools to further career development and research capability. The module has three components: Research Methods, Professional and Transferable Skills and Career Development and Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

Cell Culture & Cell Line Development
Credits: 5
Traditional and current methods involved in developing cell lines and their growth in culture are explored within this module, while engaging with the more novel methods to improve biopharmaceutical production. Providing knowledge and skills required to develop and grow mammalian cells in vitro, the module focuses on culture optimisation, with a view to scale up for industrial protein production.

Lean Six Sigma
Credits: 5
Concepts of both Lean and Six Sigma are addressed by this module. The aim of Lean methodologies is to reduce waste, the goal of Six Sigma is to reduce variation for optimal quality control. The Lean Six Sigma (LSS) discipline blends these two approaches. The module content is aligned with the American Society of Quality (ASQ) Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Green belts are skilled team players, their aim is to improve process quality, helping to bridge the gap between Six Sigma theory and real-world application.

Methods in Biopharmaceutical Production (Year-long)
Credits: 15
This year long-lab-based module provides practical training in a range of upstream and downstream biopharmaceutical processes, including CHO cell culture, cell line development, protein recovery and analysis. Development of teamwork, troubleshooting and critical thinking skills in areas relevant to the biopharmaceutical industry is a key focus. An industry training opportunity at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT) occurs in semester II. On completion students can apply for a TUS digital badge to highlight this training on CV/LinkedIn profiles.

Year 1 – Semester 2
Methods in Biopharmaceutical Production (Year-long)
Credits: 15
This year long-lab-based module provides practical training in a range of upstream and downstream biopharmaceutical processes, including CHO cell culture, cell line development, protein recovery and analysis. Development of teamwork, troubleshooting and critical thinking skills in areas relevant to the biopharmaceutical industry is a key focus. An industry training opportunity at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research & Training (NIBRT) occurs in semester II. On completion students can apply for a TUS digital badge to highlight this training on CV/LinkedIn profiles.

Immunobiologics
Credits: 5
Immunobiologics as protein therapeutics is explored within this module, including their development, toxicity, and regulation, and the evolution of biosimilars. More novel immune based therapeutics are investigated, including cells and nucleic acids, highlighting the ever-expanding potential of the immune system in disease treatment and prevention.

Contemporary Issues in Biopharma
Credits: 5
A unique feature of the module is the incorporation of guest speakers from the Biopharmaceutical industry, to address current trends in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, including real life scenarios. Career focused talks by visiting Masters alumni and TUS academic staff/postgraduate researchers take place throughout the semester.

Bioprocess Technology
Credits: 5
This module focuses on upstream and downstream processes currently used in the industrial manufacture of biopharmaceuticals, with a particular emphasis on mammalian cell lines producing therapeutic biologics.

Quality by Design and Project Management
Credits: 5
The critical importance of consistent implementation of Quality By Design (QBD) concepts for effective long term project management is emphasised within this module. A high-level overview of the requirements of Quality Control (QC) and Quality Systems Management (QSM) is provided, with the appropriate tools to implement QBD and optimise manufacturing processes for biotechnological/biological entities.

Year 1 – Semester 3
Research Project
Credits: 30
The Research Project (30 credits), a crucial element of the M.Sc in Biopharmaceutical Technology, is carried out in semester 3. Preparatory work for projects begins in September, through the module Research Methods and Professional Development Skills, where research titles/topics are assigned, research questions are defined, and project plans developed. A focused literature review is carried out in Semester 2 and laboratory-based research is carried out under supervision in semester 3. This research opportunity enables students to adapt various techniques to overcome research challenges, and to gain experience and develop skills in the analysis and interpretation of data. Research findings are presented in written (thesis) and oral format at the beginning of August.

Minimum Entry Requirements:
Eligible candidates should have a first or a second class honours grade or an international equivalent in a Biology or Chemistry-related primary degree (for example Biotechnology, Toxicology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Genetics, Neuroscience, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Physiology, Medicinal Chemistry or an equivalent qualification).

Graduates who hold equivalent qualifications in related science and technology disciplines or who have relevant industrial experience will be considered for places on a case-by-case basis.

Non-EU nationals must provide evidence of ability to follow classes in English (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). Applicants may be required to attend TUS for an interview. An online Zoom/Skype/MS Teams interview may be arranged for international students.

1 year full-time

Course Commencement Date: September

Career Opportunities
Nine of the top ten global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies have significant operations in Ireland and seven of the ten worldwide ‘blockbuster’ drug products are manufactured in Ireland. The Irish Government’s Expert Group on Future Skills Needs has identified the Biopharma sector as one which will continue to require highly qualified and skilled scientists over the coming years. The modules offered on the Master of Science/Postgraduate Diploma in Biopharmaceutical Technology were designed to meet these identified current and future skills shortages in the Irish and international Biopharmaceutical sector. The programme also provides a route towards a career in Research and Development within academia and industry. Graduates from this programme can expect to develop careers in a variety of roles in the Biopharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotechnology and Medical Diagnostics sectors.

Further Study
Students can progress to an appropriate Level 10 on completion.