Get ready to pioneer new frontiers in health, food science, conservation and beyond.
Synthetic biology is transforming how we develop new medicines, enhance human nutrition and create a more sustainable world.
It is a growing field of science that applies engineering design principles to chemistry, bioinformatics and genetics.
These principles allow scientists to create or modify biological processes in living organisms and then develop new innovations across agriculture, health, energy production and environmental management.
Alongside leading biotechnology educators, you will study all aspects of the product development process. You'll be equipped to translate discoveries from the laboratory into new products, technologies or research methodologies implemented across the globe.
Take advantage of opportunities to network and gain practical experience with our extensive network of industry partners.
You can choose to study a minor in innovation and entrepreneurship alongside this major to develop your business knowledge and entrepreneurial skills.
Specialising in synthetic biology will prepare you for employment opportunities in Australia’s thriving life sciences sector, which includes the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food, medical and agricultural technology industries.
You will be well placed to continue into an honours or master's degree and establish the foundations for a rewarding career in research.
Career possibilities
Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:
- Bioprocess scientist
- Biochemist
- Research scientist
- Research and development manager
Graduate salary
Science and mathematics (undergraduate)
compared.edu.au
Graduate salary
Agriculture & environmental studies (undergraduate)
compared.edu.au
Events
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Queensland Biology Winter School, Year 11
Stories
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What’s it like to study health technology and practice as a postgraduate?
5-minute read
UQ people
Fighting fire with science: new tech to protect firefighters
6-minute read
Stories
See all storiesUni life
What’s it like to study health technology and practice as a postgraduate?
5-minute read
UQ people
Fighting fire with science: new tech to protect firefighters
6-minute read
How you'll learn
Your learning experiences are designed to best suit the learning outcomes of the courses you choose.
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Research experience
- Laboratory work
- Workshops
What you'll study
At UQ, subjects are called 'courses'. Here's a sample of the courses you could study:
- Introduction to Biotechnology
- Commercialisation of Biotechnology Products
- Quality Management Systems in Biotechnology: GMP, GLP, GCP
- Genetics
- Cell Structure & Function
- Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Genomics & Bioinformatics
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