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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS............................................................................................................................................ 4

MASTER OF BIOTECHNOLOGY: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 5

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR MASTER OF BIOTECHNOLOGY AND RELATED PROGRAMS................. 6

STAFF CONTACT LIST ............................................................................................................................................ 7

Program Leader/Coordinator (A/Prof. Peter Smooker) ............................................................................................... 7 Academic Services Coordinator (Shivalee Lees) ......................................................................................................7

WHERE IS THE PROGRAM OFFERED?................................................................................................................. 7

SUB-PROGRAMS AND THEIR CODES................................................................................................................... 8

PROGRAM STRUCTURE......................................................................................................................................... 8

Program rules ............................................................................................................................................. 15

Bridging courses......................................................................................................................................... 16

Exemptions and recognition of prior learning............................................................................................. 16

Teaching and learning methods ................................................................................................................. 16

TIMETABLE............................................................................................................................................................. 20

IMPORTANT DATES .............................................................................................................................................. 20

STUDENTS COMMENCING IN MARCH 2010....................................................................................................... 23

YOU MUST ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING COURSES........................................................................................ 24

STUDENTS COMMENCING IN JULY 2010 ........................................................................................................... 24

STUDENTS COMMENCING IN FEBRUARY 2011: ............................................................................................... 25

STUDENTS COMMENCING IN JULY 2011: .......................................................................................................... 26

CAPABILITIES FOR THE PROGRAM.................................................................................................................... 27

STUDENT INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................................... 28 Enrolment Online (EOL) ............................................................................................................................30 Study & Learning Centre ...........................................................................................................................33 Submission of Assignments ......................................................................................................................36

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STUDY TIME MANAGEMENT................................................................................................................................ 37

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS.............................................................................................................................. 39

COPYRIGHT AND OUR LEARNING PRODUCTS................................................................................................. 39

EXAM TIPS ............................................................................................................................................................. 40

APPLICATION FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH PROJECT ..................................................................... 41

APPLICATION FOR WORK EXPERIENCE PRACTICUM 2..................................................................... 42

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The original version of this booklet was written by Dr Terry Piva for students in the Bachelor of Biotechnology & Biomedical Sciences program. This version has been adapted for the Master of Biotechnology and related programs, by including or adapting some of the original material and adding material specific to postgraduate students in biotechnology. Disclaimer

All information provided in this information booklet is current at the time of its publication. The information contained within it should be used in conjunction with the information contained within your student diary, the Degree Handbook and your Course Guides. It is the student’s responsibility to remain informed of all Program and Course requirements that are contained in the section of your student diary entitled “Policies and Procedures”. Students will be informed of pertinent information and changes via the Program Level Black Board on the DLS and/or via your official RMIT student email address. Contact with the student via these two methods constitute an official communication according to RMIT policy, and students are reminded to check these electronic notices regularly, and ensure that any email forwarding protocol is set up to a working, current and accessible email account.

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MASTER OF BIOTECHNOLOGY: INTRODUCTION This program is presented by staff from RMIT Applied Sciences (Biotechnology) and by research staff from various external institutions. The program incorporates a variety of learning methods including lectures, laboratory classes, and oral presentation by students, web-based learning and critical review of scientific literature. This program offers students a choice of courses in four programs: Clinical Microbiology, Food Microbiology, Environmental & Agricultural Biotechnology and Food Science & Technology. Alternatively, the generic program can be undertaken with courses from all programs. High achieving students have the opportunity to do either one semester of full time research or work experience in year two of the Master of Biotechnology. Intakes are in February and July each year. The commencement date for all students is: (Semester 1) 1

st March 2010 and (Semester 2) 19

th July 2010.

Contact details: A/Prof. Peter Smooker Telephone: +61-3-9925 7129 email: [email protected] Mode and Duration: Two years full-time or four years part-time. This duration incorporates Graduate Diploma: one year full-time or two years part-time and Graduate Certificate: six months full-time or one year part-time.

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ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR MASTER OF BIOTECHNOLOGY AND RELATED PROGRAMS Entrance requirements for the Master of Biotechnology are a degree in Biological Sciences, Food Science/Technology or Biotechnology, with Chemistry to at least first year level. Applicants with degrees in Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Agricultural Science or Chemical Engineering are also considered for specific programs. Specific requirements are as follows: Clinical microbiology: Clinical microbiology requires Microbiology and Biochemistry or Molecular Biology to at least second year undergraduate level. Microbiology at final year level is preferred. Food microbiology: Food Microbiology requires Microbiology and Biochemistry or Molecular Biology to at least second year undergraduate level. Microbiology at final year level is preferred. Food science and technology: Food Science and Technology requires a degree in Biological Sciences or Food Technology with Microbiology to at least second year. A degree in Food Technology or in Science or Engineering with appropriate experience in the food industry is preferred. Agricultural and environmental biotechnology: Agricultural Biotechnology requires Plant Science (Physiology) and Genetics to second year level. A major in Genetics or Biotechnology is preferred. Environmental Biotechnology requires Biology and Chemistry (or Biochemistry) to at least second year level.

Scholarships:

Two scholarships will normally be awarded each semester to new students commencing studies at RMIT in the February and July semesters of each calendar year, in one of the following programs:

RMIT Code Program Name

MC111 Master of Biotechnology

MC154 Master of Biotechnology (Clinical Microbiology)

MC155 Master of Biotechnology (Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnology)

MC156 Master of Biotechnology (Food Microbiology)

MC157 Master of Biotechnology (Food Science and Technology)

Scholarships will be initially of one year’s duration but will be re-assessed at the end of the student’s first year of study at RMIT.

Eligibility Students with a first class undergraduate degree or the equivalent will be ranked by the Scholarship Selection Committee on the basis of academic results in relevant courses. Decisions will be made and successful students will be emailed two weeks after the scholarship closing date.

Application Process There is no scholarship application form; your application for the Master of Biotechnology (by coursework) program will be used for selection into the program and also as a scholarship application form.

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STAFF CONTACT LIST Academic Services Coordinator (Shivalee Lees)

Shivalee Lees may be contacted for matters regarding the administration of your studies such as fees, enrolment, proxy and other academic forms, and AMS administrative issues. Contact details and office hours are as follows:- School of Applied Sciences, Academic Administration Student Services Building 3 Level 1 Room 8 City Campus Tel: +61-3-9925 2533 Fax: +61-3-9639 1321 Office hours are between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm Program Leader/Coordinator (A/Prof. Peter Smooker)

A/Prof. Peter Smooker is responsible for the leadership of the Master of Biotechnology Program. Peter provides leadership and support to the Program Team and oversees the overall progress of all students throughout the program. You should contact your Program Coordinator with questions involving the management of your studies. Tel: +61-3-9925 7129 Fax: +61-3-9925 7110 email: [email protected] Consultation by appointment

WHERE IS THE PROGRAM OFFERED? The program is offered mainly from the City campus. Most lectures are held in the city, but practical classes are held in the new State-of-the-Art research facility at Bundoora. If you are doing the medical stream of the program, you will have to travel to Bundoora for Molecular Biology (semester one) and Molecular Cell Biology (semester two), which are on Fridays (all day, most weeks). Campus maps can be found on the RMIT University webpage located at http://www.rmit.edu.au/students > Campus maps.

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SUB-PROGRAMS AND THEIR CODES

Program code Program name

CRICOS code

GC093 Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology 045504D

GC124 Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology (Clinical Microbiology) 045505C

GC125 Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology (Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnology)

045506B

GC126 Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology (Food Microbiology) 045507A

GC127 Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology (Food Science and Technology) 055289A

GD101 Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology 045508M

GD154 Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (Clinical Microbiology) 045509K

GD155 Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnology)

045510F

GD156 Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (Food Microbiology) 045511E

GD157 Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (Food Science and Technology) 055290G

MC111 Master of Biotechnology 045512D

MC154 Master of Biotechnology (Clinical Microbiology) 045513C

MC155 Master of Biotechnology (Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnology) 045514B

MC156 Master of Biotechnology (Food Microbiology) 045515A

MC157 Master of Biotechnology (Food Science and Technology) 055291G

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

Overview of Master of Biotechnology Structure

Year level Semester: Credit points

Individual blocks represent 12 credit point courses:

Sem 1: 48

Gene

Technologies 1

Immunology

Scientific Skills and Tools

12 CP from Part B / Part C

1

Sem 2: 48 12 CP from Part B / Part C




Sem 1: 48 12 CP from Part B / Part C




2

Sem 2: 48

12 CP from Part B / Part C OR Research Methods OR 48 credit points from Part D

12 CP from Part B / Part C OR 12 CP from Part D



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DETAILED STRUCTURE/MASTER OF BIOTECHNOLOGY

Full Program Structure

PART A COMPULSORY COURSES; SELECT 36 CREDIT POINTS

FOR MC154 SELECT 60 CREDIT POINTS

Course Codes

Course Name

CP Main Stream Clinical Micro Food Micro Envi. & Agri. Food Science

and Technology

36 credit points from

BIOL2310 Scientific Skills and Tools

12

ONPS1052 Gene Technologies 12

ONPS1050 Immunology 12

BIOL2118 Advanced Immunology

12

Master of Biotechnology (Clinical Microbiology) MC154 and Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology (Clinical Microbiology) GD154

48 credit points from

BIOL2310 Scientific Skills and Tools

12

ONPS1052 Gene Technologies 12

ONPS1050 Immunology 12

ONPS1054 Medical Microbiology 1

12


12

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PARTS B, C AND D: 156 CREDIT POINTS FROM PARTS B, C AND D, WITH NO MORE THAN 24 CREDIT POINTS FROM

SECTION C. PERMISSION TO DO COURSES FROM PART D DEPENDS ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

PART B

Course Codes

Course Name

CP Main Stream Clinical Micro Food Micro Envi. & Agri. Food Science and

Technology

BIOL2226 Protein Technologies 12

BIOL 2034 Bioinformatics 12

BIOL 2119 Computational Biology

12

ONPS 1045 Bacterial Infections 24

BIOL2340 Veterinary Bacteriology

12

BIOL2341 Veterinary Virology 12

ONPS1059 Medical Mycology 24

BIOL 2178 Parasitology 24

ONPS2179 Medical Parasitology 12

BIOL2109 Biopharmaceuticals 12

ONPS1042 Food Microbiology 24

ONPS1043 Microbial Evaluation of Food

24

ONPS2082 Fermentation Technology

24

CHEM1226 Food Chemistry

ONPS2377 Food Safety Plans 12

BIOL 2126 Molecular Approaches to Plant Pathology

24

ONPS2095 Plant Cell and Tissue Culture

24

ENVI1173 Water policy and management

12

ENVI1154 Environmental policy and law

12

ONPS2378 Food Quality Assurance

12

ONPS2326 Food Processing Technologies

12

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ONPS2327 Advanced Dairy Science

24

ONPS2328 Advanced Food Processing Technologies

12

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PART C: A MAXIMUM OF 24 CREDIT POINTS FROM

Course Codes

Course Name


Technology


12


12

ONPS1060 Industrial Microbiology

12

ONPS1066 Plant Biotechnology and Plant Breeding

12

ONPS2086 Plant Microbiology 12

ONPS2083 Molec Approaches to Plant Breeding

12

ONPS2386 Product Development

12

ONPS2331 Sensory Evaluation of Food

12

BIOL 1068 Ecology 12

ENVI 1004 Ecotoxicology 12

BIOL2193 Enzymology and Cellular Regulation

12

BIOL2194 Analytical and Industrial Biochemistry

12

ENVI1167 Soil Sediments and Water (sem 1)

12

ENVI1166 Environ impacts: agric/mining (sem 2)

12

GEOM1159

GIS Fundamentals 12

GEOM1163

GIS Principles 12

ONPS2130 Grain Technology 12

ONPS2127 Dairy science and Technology

12

ONPS2131 Confectionery and Lipid Technology

12

ONPS2183 Fruit, vegetables, beverages

12

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PART D. STUDENTS MAY BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO DO 48 CREDIT POINTS FROM SECTION D, BASED ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

AVAILABLE TO MASTER LEVEL STUDENTS ONLY

Course Codes

Course Name


Technology

SELECT 12 CREDIT POINTS FROM

BIOL1070 Research Methods 12

AND SELECT 36 CREDIT POINTS FROM

BIOL2230 Research Project 1 12

BIOL2231 Research project 2 24

OR SELECT 48 CREDIT POINTS FROM

BIOL1302 Work Experience Practicum 2

48

• To graduate from a specific stream, students must complete the compulsory courses and no more than

48 credit points from a different stream.

• Not all of the courses listed in the program run every year. Whether courses run or not is dependent on student demand.

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GRADUATE DIPLOMA

The Graduate Diploma requires completion of 96 credit points from the list above, including the compulsory courses but not including Part D courses.

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE

The Graduate Certificate completion of 48 credit points selected from Part A or Part B courses. It is not essential to include the compulsory courses. Part D courses are not included in the Graduate Certificate. Students intending to progress from the Graduate Certificate to the Graduate Diploma should consider including the compulsory courses in their program.

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Program rules

• A full time year consists of 48 credit points per semester (96 per year)

• If you are an international student your visa requires that you are enrolled full time and that you attend classes regularly. Please refer to http://www.rmit.edu.au/international/enrolment for all information regarding international students’ enrolment.

• To graduate from a specific stream, students must complete the compulsory courses and no more than 48 credit points from a different stream.

• The program will generally be conducted in two years of full-time study, or up to four years if undertaken part-time.

• There are exit points at the levels of Graduate Certificate of Biotechnology and Graduate Diploma of Biotechnology.

• Students are not permitted to include more than 24 credits points towards the completion of their award from Part C.

• Students may not enrol in the same course for a second semester, unless a FAIL is recorded for that course. If you do inadvertently enrol in the same course twice, the first enrolment will be recorded as FAIL.

• Students are not permitted to include credit points from Part C towards a Graduate Certificate award.

• Students may only enroll in Research Methods and Research Project if they have attained a Distinction average in preceding coursework. The same applies to work experience; however, if a student finds their own work experience, enrolment will be approved provided the work experience is consistent with their program of study. If you find you own work experience you must contact the program leader to have the work experience approved and to get the appropriate papers signed. Applications for Research and Work Experience are called for in the previous mid semester. Applications are ranked by academic results.

• Students enrolling in Research Project must also enrol in Research Methods.

• If taking the research option, students must enrol in Research Project 1, Research Project 2 and Research Methods. These courses can be taken in any order and may be taken in the same semester or over two semesters.

• Students may not enrol in both Parasitology and Medical Parasitology.

• Students may not enrol in Veterinary Virology and Medical Microbiology 1 as there is overlap between practical classes

• Students may not enrol in Immunology (ONPS1050) and Advanced Immunology (BIOL2118) - unless permission is given by program coordinator, students should enroll in Advanced Immunology.

• Students will not be permitted to enrol in courses for which they do not have the required prerequisites. Refer to the following webpage to view Course Guides (short) http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/courses

• Students may not enrol in any course that does not appear in this program structure, unless they have specific permission from the Program Leader.

• During their first semester, students must enroll in the course specified in this handbook in the section headed “Students commencing …” “You must enrol in the following courses”.

• Students are advised to go into the Student Timetabling System on the web to ensure that there are no clashes between the courses selected. In particular, check that you are not enrolled in courses offered on two different campuses on the same day. Also check block practical classes – these are normally held on five separate days on the Bundoora campus.

• The following courses require permission to enrol. Note that biochemistry requires a good undergraduate background in biochemistry, to at least second year level:

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Course Codes

Course Name

Credit Points

Permission from

BIOL 2230 Research Project 1 12 Program Leader

BIOL 2231 Research Project 2 24 Program Leader

BIOL 1070 Research Methods or 12 Program Leader

BIOL 1302 Work Experience Practicum 2 48 Program Leader

BIOL 2110 Diagnostics and Biotherapies 12 A/Prof Gina Nicoletti

BIOL2317 Biomolecules & Cellular Regulation 12 A/Prof Theo Macrides

BIOL 2322 Applied Biochemical Methods 12 A/Prof Theo Macrides

Courses require a sufficient number of enrolled students in order to be offered. If you enrol in a course that we subsequently find cannot be offered, you will be informed and advised on alternative courses

Bridging courses Students are expected to have an understanding of Microbiology at an undergraduate level in order to prepare them for the postgraduate programs in Biotechnology. Students, who have not successfully completed Microbiology at undergraduate level, or an equivalent, will be required to enroll in 2

nd Year

Microbiology during their first semester. Credit points from the 2nd

Year Microbiology will not count towards the completion of the program.

Exemptions and recognition of prior learning Exemptions and recognition of prior learning are normally not available for this program, but there are some exceptions. Students who have previously completed a Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology at another institution may receive up to 96 credit points towards the Master of Biotechnology, depending on the equivalence of courses. Students with appropriate work experience at graduate level in a NATA accredited laboratory or equivalent may be eligible for exemptions from Work Experience Practicum and/or Research Skills and Tools.

Teaching and learning methods Students will experience a wide range of learning environments – lectures, tutorials, online delivery and individual and group work. Of particular importance is the high proportion of time spent in the laboratory and undertaking project and field work which will give practical emphasis, develop teamwork and time-management skills and provide context for the student learning process. Support is available for students with special needs.

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RESEARCH PROJECT AND WORK EXPERIENCE OPTIONS Optional courses in the coursework Masters Program include work experience (Work Experience Practicum 2) and a minor research project (Research Project). Research Project and Work Experience Practicum are alternate ways of obtaining laboratory experience. The research option leads to a career in research or may be a pathway to a higher degree (for students with excellent grades). The work experience option is designed to enhance employment opportunities by providing students with laboratory experience in the chosen discipline. See Appendix B for application form. These courses are only available to students who have completed, or expect to complete at the end of the current semester, at least 96 credit points before applying for a research project or work experience. Research Project is offered full time and part time. In one semester, full time students enroll in Research Project (36 credit points) and Research Methods only. Part time students enroll in Research Project 1 (12 credit points) and Research Project 2 (24 credit points) over two semesters. These two courses can be taken in any order. Research Methods is taken in the first research semester. The additional credit points in both semesters are made up with coursework. If you are enrolled in Work Experience Practicum 2 or undertaking a research project that is conducted externally, it is your responsibility to find out what immunizations (if any) the workplace requires and to arrange to have any necessary immunizations yourself.

SSeelleeccttiioonn CCrriitteerriiaa As the number of places in the research and work experience courses is limited, selection is based on academic results and the availability of places in the research group or type of external laboratory nominated by the student. An average grade of Distinction in both coursework and practical work, in the first year or first two stages of the program is normally required for acceptance into work experience or minor thesis courses. The selection panel will also look favorably at students who show marked improvement in their second semester compared with their first semester. Students whose employer agrees to allow them to do a research project in the workplace would normally expect to be offered a place. Students with at least 6 months work experience at graduate level in an accredited laboratory (e.g. NATA accredited) may apply for an exemption from the work experience course.

RReesseeaarrcchh PPrroojjeecctt

Before applying for a place in Research Project, examine the list of the projects offered by the School on the website or obtain a hard copy from the office of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology, choose two to three topics and speak to supervisors of those projects about availability of places. There is also the possibility of doing a project in an overseas location, including India or Singapore. If are interested in this option, please speak to A/Prof Margaret Deighton the Program Leader. If you are already employed in a suitable local laboratory, it may be possible to undertake a project at your place of employment. Once you have made a decision, fill in the application form and submit it to the Biotechnology Office.

WWoorrkk eexxppeerriieennccee

Applications for work experience will be considered using the same criteria as those for research.

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STAFF RESEARCH INTERESTS MICROBIAL BIOTECHNOLOGY/HUMAN & ANIMAL DISEASE Prof. Peter Coloe (PVC)

Molecular biology and microbiology; virulence factors and vaccines for enteric disease in animals, particularly pigs and poultry

Dr Taghrid Istivan Molecular microbiology and bacterial pathogenesis including virulence genes in Campylobacter spp. and molecular detection of pathogens.

A/Prof. Margaret Deighton

Our main focus is on detection and enumeration of human pathogens in sewage sludge, with the ultimate aim of determining the microbiological safety at various stages during treatment so that the treated material can be recycled beneficially. We also work on the molecular pathogenesis and epidemiology of coagulase-negative staphylococcal infections in humans and streptococcal mastitis in dairy cattle.

Dr Duncan Rouch Pathogen die-off in biosolids (treated sewage) Dr Danilla Grando Diagnostic bacteriology and infection control, especially staphylococci Dr Brian Meehan Virology, especially porcine viruses; rapid diagnosis methods and vaccines A/Prof. Gina Nicoletti Antimicrobial agents and mechanisms; bacterial toxin inhibitors BIOINFORMATICS/NANOTECHNOLOGY A/Prof. Peter Smooker

Vaccines (protein, DNA, attenuated) against infectious agents. Targeting the immune system. Structure and function of proteins. Bioinformatics.

Prof. Stefan Kasapis

Structure and function studies of proteins, peptide synthesis, proteomics and protein technology

FOOD SCIENCES/FOOD BIOTECHNOLOGY/FOOD MICROBIOLOGY A/Prof Andreas Lopata

Adverse reactions to food with special focus on fish, crustacean and mollusks and the molecular characterisation of allergenic proteins for diagnosis and therapy

Ms Prue Bramwell Food microbiology, especially the use of molecular and cultural methods to diagnose pathogens in foods.

Dr Frank Sherkat Dairy Science (prebiotic yoghurt, kishk and kefir, fetta, cottage and cheddar cheeses); Functional Foods (soybean-based functional foods including soymilk extraction and ultrafiltration, tofu yield and texture, value-adding to soy pulp (Okara) and soy-bovine milk-based Synbiotics); Non-thermal preservation of foods (Pulsed Electric Field and Ultra High Pressure treatment); Cereals Science and Technology (malting barley, bread improvers and dough rheology)

PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY Prof. David Stalker Molecular biology and biotechnology of plants, in expression and stability of

foreign proteins involved in cellulose biodegradation and blue genes in cotton A/Prof. Trevor Stevenson

Molecular biology and biotechnology of plants, in the high level expression and stability of foreign proteins expressed in genetically engineered plant chloroplasts

Dr Greg Nugent Plant tissue culture and transformation of model species and brassicas, esp. expression of genes that alter chloroplast number or confer abiotic stress tolerance.

A/Prof. Eddie Pang Use of molecular biology in plant breeding, in particular molecular markers for crop improvement and disease resistance; regeneration systems from tissue culture

Dr. Nitin Mantri Functional Plant Biology: transcriptomics to study stress related genes in plants. Pharmacogenomics: transcriptomics to study mode-of-action of traditional herbal medicine.

Prof. Ann Lawrie Plant-microorganism interactions: nitrogen fixation, mycorrhizae, plant pathology, use of molecular biology for diagnosis/control of pathogens and weeds, mycology

Dr Tien Huynh Orchidology: Tissue culture, propagation, mycorrhizal associations, molecular biology, immunoblotting, microscopy

ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY/ECOTOXICOLOGY Prof. Dayanthi Nugegoda

Ecotoxicology of heavy metals, pesticides and organics esp. in fish and invertebrates. Aquaculture, nutrient pollution. Hormones in fish development and as biomarkers

Dr Ben Kefford Rapid ecotoxicology testing, comparing laboratory results to effects of toxicants in nature, effect of salinity on freshwater invertebrates and ocean acidification.

Dr Jeff Shimeta Microbial ecology in impacted coastal sediments, emphasizing protozoa

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Course coordinators

Code

Course

Contact

BIOL 1070 Research Methods A/Prof Ann Lawrie

ONPS 2340 Veterinary Bacteriology A/Prof M Deighton

ONPS2341 Veterinary Virology Dr Brian Meehan

BIOL 1302 Work Experience Practicum 2 A/Prof M Deighton

BIOL 2034 Bioinformatics Dr Peter Smooker

BIOL 2231 Research Project 1 A/Prof M Deighton

BIOL 2231 Research Project 2 A/Prof M Deighton

BIOL 2119 Computational Biology Dr Peter Smooker

BIOL 2123 Molecular approaches to Plant Pathology A/Prof Ann Lawrie

BIOL 2170A Enzymology and Cellular Regulation A/Prof Theo Macrides

BIOL 2170B Analytical and Industrial Biochemistry A/Prof Theo Macrides

BIOL 2178 Parasitology TBA

BIOL 2179 Medical Parasitology TBA

BIOL 2118 Advanced Immunology A/Prof Andreas Lopata

BIOL2109 Biopharmaceuticals A/Prof G Nicoletti

BIOL2226 Protein Technologies TBA

ONPS2377 Food Safety Plans Prue Bramwell

ENVI 1004 Ecotoxicology Dr Dayanthi Nugegoda

ONPS 1040 Molecular Biology & Immunology Dr B Fry/John Fecondo

ONPS 1042 Food Microbiology Prue Bramwell

ONPS1043 Microbial Evaluation of Food Prue Bramwell

ONPS 1044 Fermentation Technology Jim Holbeche

CHEM1226 Food Chemistry Dr Daryl Small

ONPS 1045 Bacterial Infections A/Prof M Deighton

ONPS 1048 Medical Microbiology 2 A/Prof M Deighton

ONPS 1050 Immunology Dr Peter Smooker

ONPS 1052 Gene Technologies 1 A/Prof Trevor Stevenson

ONPS 1052 Gene Technologies /Prof Trevor Stevenson

ONPS 1054 Medical Microbiology 1 A/Prof M Deighton

ONPS 1059 Medical Mycology A/Prof Ann Lawrie

ONPS 1060 Industrial Microbiology TBA

ONPS 1066 Plant Biotechnology & Plant Breeding Dr Eddie Pang

ONPS 2083 Molecular Plant Breeding Dr Eddie Pang

ONPS 2086 Plant Microbiology A/Prof Ann Lawrie

ONPS 2095 Plant Cell and tissue culture A/Prof Ann Lawrie

ONPS2324 Food Quality Assurance Elizabeth Gorczyca

ONPS2326 Food Processing Technologies Dr Frank Sherkat

ONPS2327 Advanced Dairy Science Dr Frank Sherkat

ONPS2328 Advanced Food Processing Technologies Dr Frank Sherkat

ONPS2331 Sensory Evaluation of Food TBA

ONPS2130 Grain technology Peter Cooper

ONPS2127 Dairy science and technology Dr Frank Sherkat

ONPS2131 Lipids and Lipid Technology Dr Bee May

ONPS2183 Fruit, vegetables, beverages TBA

ONPS2386 Product Development Elizabeth Gorczyca

In addition to this list, there will be additional support for International students through mentoring provided by a panel of staff experienced in the issues faced by International students.

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TIMETABLE

The online Student Timetabling System (STS) allows students to access and construct their personal timetable by viewing the available options and selecting the class or classes they prefer. It is available to all onshore higher education students studying across the City, Brunswick and Bundoora campuses. Further information can be found at the web link http://www.rmit.edu.au/students, click on Student Timetabling System (STS) and follow the instructions outlined.

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the courses you are enrolled in do not clash.

IMPORTANT DATES The academic calendar sets out starting and finishing dates for terms, semesters and exam periods; deadlines for enrolment variations and other student administration processes; public holidays that will be observed by the university; and student holidays. Academic calendar can be found on the RMIT University webpage located at http://www.rmit.edu.au/students, under New and Current > Important Dates. Note: Students are reminded that they may be required for additional assessment during the Additional Assessment period, and as such the booking of holidays over this period is discouraged. No consideration will be made for students ignoring this advice and subsequently requiring additional assessment. Midyear and end of year examination results will be available on the RMIT website. Please remember that the last days that you may withdraw from courses corresponds to the HECS cut off dates in each of the semesters and the last day you may add courses is the end of week 2 for each semester. As visa requirements, international students may not add to or withdraw from courses after the end of week 2. See your program leader if you require assistance.

The following courses require permission to enrol. Note that biochemistry requires a good undergraduate background in biochemistry, to at least second year level: Course Codes

Course Name

Credit Points

Permission from

BIOL 2230 Research Project 1 (B)* 12 Program Leader

BIOL 2231 Research Project 2 (B) 24 Program Leader

BIOL 1070 Research Methods or (B) 12 Program Leader

BIOL 1302 Work Experience Practicum 2 (B) 48 Program Leader

BIOL2317 Biomolecules & Cellular Regulation (B)

12 A/Prof Theo Macrides

BIOL 2322 Applied Biochemical Methods (B) 12 A/Prof Theo Macrides

Courses require a sufficient number of enrolled students in order to be offered. If you enrol in a course that we subsequently find cannot be offered, you will be informed and advised on alternative courses

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WHICH SEMESTER AND YEARS ARE COURSES OFFERED?

Sem 1 March Class #

Sem 2 July Class #

Course Code

Course Title Credit Points

Pre/co requisites

Compulsory Courses: Complete all 24 credit points in the first semester of year one.

2693 2652 BIOL2310 Scientific Skills and Tools (B) 12

2716 ONPS1052 Gene Technologies 1 (B) 12

AND Select 156 credit points from Course List: (Students may be given the opportunity to do 48 credit points from Research Methods and Research Project or Work Experience Practicum in year 2 of program based on academic performance)

2638 BIOL2226 Protein Technologies (C) 12

2626 BIOL2034 Bioinformatics (C) 12 ONPS1052 BIOL2102

2868 PUBH1358 OHS Hazards and Control 1 (C) 12

2575 BIOL2119 Computational Biology (C) 12 COSC1381 or BIOL2034

2715 ONPS1045 Bacterial Infections (C) 24 ONPS1054 ONPS1048

2677 ONPS1050 Immunology (B) 12

2678 ONPS1059 Medical Mycology 24

2627 BIOL2109 Biopharmaceuticals 12

2714 ONPS1042 Food Microbiology 24

2692 CHEM1226 Food Chemistry (C) 12

2820 ONPS2377 Food Safety Plans 12

3040 ONPS2095 Plant Cell and Tissue Culture (C) 24

2589 (FF) 2590 (IN)

ENVI1173 Water Policy and Management 12

2580 (IN) ENVI1154 Environmental Legal Contexts 12

2961 ONPS2378 Food Quality Assurance (C) 12

2771 ONPS2326 Food Processing Technologies (C) 12

3051 ONPS2328 Advanced Food Processing Technologies (C) 12

2943 ONPS2331 Sensory Evaluation of Food (C) 12

2676 ONPS1048 Medical Microbiology 2 (B) 12 ONPS1054

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TBA ONPS1043 Microbial Evaluation of Food 24

2717 ONPS1054 Medical Microbiology 1 (B) 12

2718 ONPS1060 Industrial Microbiology (B) 12

2718 ONPS2083 Molec Approaches to Plant Breeding (C) 24

2719 ENVI1004 Ecotoxicology (B) 12

1681 BIOL2317 Biomolecules & Cellular Regulation (B) 12

1714 BIOL2322 Applied Biochemical Methods (B) 12

3424 3365 GEOM1159 GIS Fundamentals (C) 12

3425 3366 GEOM1163 GIS Principles (C) 12

2696 ONPS2130 Grain Technology (C) 12

2733 ONPS2127 Dairy Science and Technology (C) 12

2698 ONPS2131 Confectionery and Lipid Technology (C) 12

2624 2574 BIO1070 Research Methods (B) 12

2688 2641 BIOL2230 Research Project 1 (B) 12

2689 2642 BIOL2231 Research project 2 (B) 24

3024 2933 BIOL1302 Work Experience Practicum 2 (B) 48

*Please note that all courses labeled “(B)” are held at Bundoora Campus, all others are held at the City Campus.

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STUDENTS COMMENCING IN MARCH 2010 YOU MUST ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING COURSES

Stream

Main MC111 Clinical MC154 Food Micro MC156

Envir & Agric MC155

Food Sci & Tech MC157

Semester 1 2010

Scientific Skills and Tools BIOL2310 (12)





Gene Technologies 1 ONPS1052 (12)





Plus another: Another 24 credit points

Bacterial Infections ONPS1045 (24)

Food Microbiology ONPS1024 (24)

Plant Cell and Tissue Culture ONPS2095 (24)

Food Microbiology ONPS1024 (24)

Semester 2 2010

Immunology ONPS1050 (12)





Another 36 credit points

Medical Microbiology 2 ONPS1048 (12) Medical Mycology ONPS1059 (24)

Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12) Another 24 credit points

Molecular Approaches to Plant Breeding ONPS2083 (24) Another 24 credit points

Food Chemistry CHEM1226(12) Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12) Food Processing Technologies ONPS2326 (12)

Semester 1 2011

Choose 48 credit points

Pathogenesis of Enteric Infections ONPS1057 (24) Medical Microbiology 1 ONPS 1054 (12) Another 12 credit points

Microbial Evaluation of Food ONPS1043 (24)




Semester 2 2011





Food Quality Assurance ONPS2324 (12) Another 36 credit points

STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO TAKE COURSES OUTSIDE THE PROGRAM STRUCTURE IN THEIR FIRST SEMESTER

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STUDENTS COMMENCING IN JULY 2010 YOU MUST ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING COURSES

Stream

Main MC111

Clinical MC154 Food Micro MC156

Envir & Agric MC155


Semester 2 2010












Medical Mycology ONPS1059 (24)


Molecular Approaches to Plant Breeding ONPS2083 (24)

Food Chemistry CHEM1226 (12) Food Processing Technologies ONPS2326(12)

Must enroll in Semester 1 2011







Medical Microbiology 1 ONPS1054 (12)




Pathogenesis of Enteric Infections ONPS1057 (24)






Medical Microbiology 2 ONPS1048 (12)

Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12)


Food Processing Technologies ONPS2326(12)

Viral Infections ONPS1045 (24) Another 12 credit points


Food Quality Assurance ONPS2324 (12) Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12) Another 12 credit points



Bacterial Infections ONPS1045 (24) Another 24 credit points

Food Microbiology ONPS1042 (24) Another 24 credit points



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STUDENTS COMMENCING IN FEBRUARY 2011:

YOU MUST ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING COURSES

Program


Envir & Agric MC155


Semester 1 2011












Pathogenesis Of Enteric Infections ONPS1057 (24)



Another 24 Credit points

Semester 2 2011

Immunology ONPS1050 (12) Another 36 Credit points

Immunology ONPS1050 (12) Medical Microbiology 2 ONPS1048 (12) Viral Infections ONPS1047 (24)

Immunology ONPS1050 (12) Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12) Another 24 credit points

Immunology ONPS1050(12) Molecular Approaches to Plant Breeding ONPS2083(24) Another 12 credit points

Immunology ONPS1050 (12) Food Chemistry CHEM1226(12) Food Quality Assurance ONPS2324(12) Or Food Processing Technologies ONPS2326(12)

Semester 1 2012


Bacterial Infections ONPS1045 (24) Medical Microbiology 1 ONPS1054 (12) Another 12 credit points




Semester 2 2012


Medical Mycology ONPS1059 (24) Another 24 credit points



Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12) Another 36 credit points


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STUDENTS COMMENCING IN JULY 2011:

YOU MUST ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING COURSES

Program


Envir & Agric MC155


Semester 2 2011












Viral Infections ONPS1047 (24)

Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12) Microbiology background required Another 12 credit points

Molecular Approaches to plant breeding ONPS2083 (24)

Food Processing Technologies ONPS2326 (12) Food Chemistry CHEM1226 (12)

Semester 1 2012


Gene Technologies ONPS1052 (12)





Medical Microbiology 1 ONPS1054 (12) Bacterial Infection ONPS1045 (24)


Plant Cell and Tissue Culture ONPS2095 (24) Another 12 credit points


Semester 2 2012


Medical Mycology ONPS1059 (24) Medical Microbiology 2 ONPS1048 (12)

Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12)


Food Quality Assurance ONPS2324 (12) Food Safety Plans ONPS2377 (12)




Semester 1 2013


Pathogenesis Of Enteric Infections ONPS1057 (24) Another 24 credit points

Microbial Evaluation of Food ONPS1043 (24) Another 24 credit points




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CAPABILITIES FOR THE PROGRAM Graduates of this program have the following capabilities:

General capabilities Ability to apply advanced scientific principles to solve complex problems in the field of biotechnology, demonstrating creativity, flexibility and independence.

Stream-specific Knowledge & Technical Capabilities

A Master of Biotechnology (MC111) A1 Ability to apply principles of molecular biology/biotechnology to solve problems in diverse areas of

biology A2 Ability to develop and perform molecular procedures for a variety of biological applications.

B Clinical Microbiology (MC154 CLIN) B1 Ability to apply principles of microbial pathogenesis and molecular biology to determine transmission

patterns and novel virulence mechanisms of microbial pathogens. B2 Ability to develop and evaluate molecular methods for the diagnosis and prevention of microbial

disease in humans and animals. B3 Ability to work safely and effectively in a microbiology diagnostic or research laboratory; including the

ability to design experiments and critically evaluate laboratory data.

C Food Microbiology (MC156 FOOD) C1 Ability to evaluate the microbial ecology of food to assess the likely occurrence of food-borne

disease and spoilage and develop methods to control microbial growth and design food safety plans to ensure microbiologically safe food in a hygienic environment.

C2 Ability to develop and apply traditional and molecular methods for the detection and quantification of microorganisms and their toxins in food.

C3 Ability to apply genetic engineering of microorganisms for use in biotechnology and develop methods of monitoring and control of fermentation processes.

D Environmental and Agricultural Biotechnology (MC155)

D1 Ability to evaluate Ecological Risk from pollutants and develop new principles and practices in

managing environmental pollution. D2 Ability to develop and apply methods in biotechnology to monitor and remediate contaminated sites

and to protect threatened species. D3 Ability to develop appropriate methods in plant breeding and aquaculture to improve food production.

E Food Science and Technology (MC157)

E1 Ability to develop new principles and practices that underpin the efficient and effective production of safe, nutritious and appealing food products.

E2 Ability design program to monitor and control food manufacture in accordance with HACCP and Quality Assurance principles.

E3 Ability to develop appropriate technology for the manufacture of food.

F. Critical Analysis & Problem Solving

F1 Ability to analyze, and critically evaluate scientific literature and present oral and written reviews. F2 Ability to apply scientific principles and methods at an advanced level to diagnose and solve complex

problems.

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G Scientific and Professional Practice

G1 Awareness of relevant regulatory bodies and the ability to interpret and implement relevant regulations and legislation.

G2 Ability to ensure all aspects of professional practice are maintained.

H Socially and Environmentally Responsible Practice

H1 Ability to develop a safe working environment within an appropriate ethical and legal framework.

I Teamwork and Leadership

I1 Ability to actively communicate with and lead a range of people within an organization for mutual benefit.

J Communication and Presentation

J1 Ability to communicate in a range of forms (written, electronic, graphic, oral) appropriate to the audience. J2 Ability to constructively give and receive feedback.

K Responsive and Integrated Practice

K1 Ability to contribute as scientists to the wider community. K2 Ability to recognize and appreciate the influence of current commercial, environmental, social and

cultural factors on a specific discipline.

STUDENT INFORMATION

AAsssseessssmmeenntt The range of marks and grades are as follows:

Mark Grade Description

0-49 NN Fail

50-59 PA Pass

60-69 CR Credit

70-79 DI Distinction

80-100 HD High Distinction

EX Exemption Granted

RWT RWT Result Withheld

AAssssiiggnnmmeenntt RReettuurrnn TTiimmeess It is the aim of the Program Team to have all assessment of submissions marked within the period of two weeks of the due date. Like the students, lecturers also experience unforeseen time management issues, and as such we may not always meet this deadline, especially when dealing with major assignments of over 3000 words. We appreciate your patience on this issue during these times, and would like to advise that we are constantly working to support your learning in the most positive ways possible.

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SSuupppplleemmeennttaarryy//DDeeffeerrrreedd EExxaammiinnaattiioonnss Supplementary examinations for first semester courses will be offered as early as possible in the second semester. Supplementary/Deferred examinations will be held: Semester 1 - 2-4 weeks after the results are published and Semester 2 - end of January. It is the responsibility of students to ensure they are available at those times. Failure to attend a supplementary examination will result in conversion of RWT to NN (fail).

BBooookklliissttss ffoorr tthhee mmaaiinn ccoouurrsseess iinn tthhee pprrooggrraamm Course guides can be viewed at the following website: http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/courses

BBooookksshhooppss RMIT University has two major bookshops. RMIT Union Bundoora Bookshop URL: http://www.rmitbookshop.com.au Email: [email protected] Location: Bundoora West Campus Building 202 Level 2 Phone: +61 3 9925 7237 RMIT Bookshop (City Campus) URL: http://www.rmitbookshop.com.au Email: [email protected] Location: 17/25 Little La Trobe St Melbourne 3000 Phone: +61 3 9663 5855

CChhaannggee ooff AAddddrreessss

It is essential that RMIT University have your up to date address and telephone number. RMIT sends all correspondence to your mailing address. If you change your mailing address or telephone number you must update your information online or complete a Change of Personal Information form available from your School Student Administration Office, the Hub or at:

http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/forms

If you fail to keep your mailing address up-to-date you will not receive important information relating to your enrolment, results, fees, HECS/PELS, graduation, library messages etc.

CChhaannggiinngg CCoouurrsseess If you wish to change your courses you can do so online, provided you choose courses within the standard program structure. It is extremely important that your enrolment is finalized by the census dates: Semester 1 – 10

th March (last day to add classes), 31

st March (last day to withdraw classes), Semester 2 – 4

th August

(last day to add classes), 31st August (last day to withdraw from classes). After the census dates have

passed, the university does not permit changes to courses, i.e. Withdrawals/Additions. This means that failure to withdraw from a course, even if you are not attending classes, will incur fees as well as academic penalty (DNS did not sit) or (NN fail) on your academic transcript.

CCoommppuutteerr LLaabboorraattoorryy AAcccceessss ffoorr PPoossttggrraadduuaatteess Further information can be obtained at the following website: http://www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=rroqxcz4r8br

CCoouurrsseess GGuuiiddeess All course guides are available at the commencement of the semester via the RMIT website. http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/courses

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DDLLSS HHeellpp DDeesskk Phone and email contacts are available from the website. Contact the DLS for information regarding the Learning Hub, including difficulties logging on to the Learning Hub, and access to appropriate courses and programs once logged in. Please refer to the help pages located at the URL below for information regarding the DLS and Blackboard based products. URL: http://www.rmit.edu.au/learninghub Email: [email protected] Phone: (+61 3) 9925 8888 Fax: (+61 3) 9925 3137

EE--mmaaiill AAccccoouunntt All RMIT students are entitled to a free e-mail account. All RMIT students are expected to regularly check their email for updates on the management of their program, key student administration matters (e.g. census dates, results, re-enrolment, fees, etc) and individual emails from lecturers. Please visit http://www.student.rmit.edu.au/ to obtain your free e-mail account.

EEnnrroollmmeenntt OOnnlliinnee ((EEOOLL))

Students will be able to enrol and re-enrol online, with the benefit of the convenience and flexibility this provides. Students will be advised directly in the mail that they will be enrolling online, and will be provided with a package of information to support the process. Further information can be found at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment

Note: If you are an international student, you may not enrol in a fully on-line course. International students must be enrolled in a fulltime load (48 credit points per semester). Students should also ensure that they enrol as though they have passed everything.

Please also note: In accordance with current policy, you will not be able to undertake re-enrolment processes or access the Enrolment Online facility if you have an outstanding debt to the University.

Students expected to complete: If you are in your last semester and expect to graduate, you do not need to enrol online for the following year or semester; however if you are granted a supplementary or deferred examination, you MUST enrol assuming you DO NOT PASS the additional assessment. Once the results are out, if you pass, you should go online and withdraw from those courses you have passed.

You are advised to have this booklet available to refer to the detailed program structure and list of courses offered by year and semester when enrolling online.

GGrraadduuaattiioonn Students who believe they are or will be eligible to graduate are responsible for advising the University when they have completed their program or are in their final year of study. Students who do not wish to attend a graduation ceremony must still submit an application so that they can receive their award in absentia (i.e., not attending a ceremony). Students can do this at the following web site to download the appropriate form: http://www.rmit.edu.au/graduation

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HHiigghheerr DDeeggrreeee bbyy RReesseeaarrcchh Entry to a Ph.D. requires at least the equivalent of a four-year Honours degree or a Master degree including at least one full semester of research. Entry to a Master by research does not need more than a three-year degree, but an applicant would be expected to have several years' work experience in a relevant field, preferably a research laboratory. Students enrolled in the Master of Biotechnology wishing to be considered for a research degree will be considered only after completion of at least one semester if they have achieved the following grades:

Exit Point

Requirement

Completion of Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology

Distinction in all courses attempted

Completion of Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology

Distinction in all courses attempted in your second semester

Completion of Master of Biotechnology with minor thesis

Distinction in all courses attempted in your last three semesters

The other requirement for acceptance into a research degree is to obtain agreement from a supervisor to accept you as a research student. A list of potential supervisors is provided in this handbook under “Staff Research Interests”. Further details can be found on the Department/Division of Biotechnology and Environmental Biology website or may be obtained from the Department/Division office (Building 223, level 1) on the Bundoora campus. It is the responsibility of the student to contact potential supervisors. Students should be aware that transfer to a PhD from a Masters by Coursework involves a change of visa subclass, i.e. a new visa application is required and an additional cost will be incurred.

IInncciiddeenntt RReeppoorrttss aanndd IInnssuurraannccee Students are reminded it is in their best interest to advise Biotechnology/Environmental Biology in writing of any deleterious incident that occurs whilst they are participating in any RMIT based activities including work placement. Incident reports must be completed on the day of the incident, and if incidents occur at a placement, BOTH RMIT and the external centre must receive a completed incident report form. RMIT has an insurance policy covering all RMIT students and staff 24 hours a day, every day of the year in the case of accident or injury relating to RMIT sanctioned activities. This does not cover students or staff for illnesses not related to RMIT business, and the insurance policy does not apply where other compensation (i.e. Medicare, workers compensation etc.) applies. RMIT also holds a “public liability and professional indemnity liability” insurance policy that covers students and employees when acting on behalf of RMIT (e.g. in a clinical centre, at a conference) worldwide. Students on a work placement or undertaking an external research project are covered under RMIT’s General and Products Legal Liability policy and Professional Indemnity policy, and the Professional Indemnity Medial Malpractice Legal Liability policy.

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IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall SSttuuddeennttss

International students should be aware that you must maintain at least 48 credit points per semester otherwise you will be under the required credit point load to be a full time student which in turn affects your visa. Only in exceptional circumstances can international students enrol in less than 48 credit points. This should be discussed with your Academic Program Coordinator or Adviser. All applications for less than a full time load must be approved by the Head of Department/School or the Head of Department's nominee.

If you have any visa enquiries please contact RMIT International Services Pty Ltd. Level 4, 239 Bourke Street, Melbourne 3000. Tel. 61 3 9925 5156; Fax. 61 3 9663 6929; Email: [email protected] or visit the web site http://www.rmit.edu.au/international. If you arrive after first week of semester, it is your responsibility to contact lecturers in charge of each of the your courses, obtain a course guide, copies of any missed lecture, find out what practical manuals you need to buy and ensure you name is on the list for practical classes.

IITT HHeellpp DDeesskk

RMIT has university wide help to assist the RMIT community in its information technology queries. It is available to all students. Each area has a dedicated helpdesk that is the first point of call for IT related matters. For those who do not have a dedicated helpdesk, the ITS Helpdesk can help.

Phone 9925 8888 Fax 9925 3177 Email [email protected] Hours of Operation

8am – 6pm Monday to Friday

ITS Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

LLaattee AAtttteennddaannccee aanndd MMiisssseedd CCllaassss:: Laboratory classes are held at specific times and cannot be repeated due to the time involved in preparation. If you have missed a laboratory, you will be asked to seek advice from the course co-coordinator on how best to make up for the missed work. If you are late for a lecture, we would ask that you respect the time of your fellow students and the lecturer by moving quickly and quietly to the nearest available seat.

LLeeccttuurree//TTuuttoorriiaall//LLaabboorraattoorryy TTiimmeettaabblleess Notices regarding changes of venue and cancellations will be posted via email or the course DLS site. Please ensure that you look at the DLS, and check your email on a regular basis in case last minute changes occur.

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SSttuuddyy && LLeeaarrnniinngg CCeennttrree The Study & Learning Centre offers customized study skills workshops and one-to-one appointments free of charge for RMIT students. The centre provides assistance with reading and note-taking skills, assignments, writing, referencing and oral presentation to local students and students from non-English speaking backgrounds. The Study & Learning Centre website is now located at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/studyandlearningcentre Contact details

• Mail: GPO Box 2476V Melbourne, 3001

• Email: [email protected]

City campus

• Phone: (03) 9925 4488

• Fax: (03) 9925 4892

• Visit: Building 94, Level 3, 23-27 Cardigan St, Carlton.

Learning Resource Centre @ the Hub

• Phone: (03) 9925 4488

• Fax: (03) 9925 4892

• Visit: The Hub, Building 12, Level 4

Bundoora

• Phone: (03) 9925 7525

• Visit: Building 220, Level 2, Room 3 Bundoora East and West students can make appointments by visiting The Hub, Building 202, Level 2, or call 9925 4488

LLiibbrraarriieess RMIT University libraries are consistently updating their books and arranging licensing agreements for online journals. Please check the catalogue to verify if the materials that you require are available in online format, or are only available in book format. URL: http://www.rmit.edu.au/library

MMoobbiillee PPhhoonneess:: Many of us have and indeed rely on mobile phones as a valuable form of communication. They may however be a distraction during a lecture and a safety risk during a laboratory. The use of mobile phones during any class is therefore disallowed. If you are expecting a call that you cannot miss (such as an ill relative) and you still wish to participate in the lecture or laboratory, please inform the staff member in charge so that arrangements may be made for you. Your consideration of others in this matter is appreciated.

NNoonn--ssttaannddaarrdd pprrooggrraamm ssttrruuccttuurree Students interested in a course from another program at RMIT, first discuss with the program leader. Any courses not listed in the program structure of the Master of Biotechnology or related programs require approval from the Program Leader through a non-standard program form.

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OOccccuuppaattiioonnaall HHeeaalltthh aanndd SSaaffeettyy

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, the University "...must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that persons other than employees are not exposed to risks to their health or safety arising from the conduct of the undertakings of (RMIT)". That is, all students and visitors to RMIT University are to be afforded an environment which is safe and without undue risk to them. Furthermore RMIT Safety Policy No. 4.9.1.1.2 states: "Adequate instruction is given to students in safe working procedures and that students are informed of any hazard to their well-being and health which may be known to be associated with the work in which they are involved". Students also have a responsibility and legal obligation to never intentionally put themselves or others at risk of injury. Under the OH&S Act 2004, "A person who, without lawful excuse, recklessly engages in conduct that places or may place another person who is at the workplace in danger of serious injury is guilty of an indictable offence." Hence all students must be aware of the operation of any and all equipment they use, and must ensure that safety devices are not bypassed or removed. The student must also be aware of the emergency shutdown procedure for the equipment, and must wear safety/protection equipment if necessary. Students must at all times follow the instructions of their supervisors. A copy of the OH&S Act and RMIT OH&S Policy and Procedures is kept in the Biotechnology and Environmental Biology Office, and may be viewed at any time. You will be given instruction in safety procedures during the compulsory course, Scientific Skills and Tools.

PPaasssswwoorrddss It is extremely important that you do not give your student password to another person and that you change the password regularly.

LLaabboorraattoorryy RReeqquuiirreemmeennttss:: All laboratories conducted within the School of Applied Sciences have strict rules to ensure your safety and the safety of others during the session. You will be given extensive instruction prior to any laboratory with regard to your roles and responsibilities, but you might like to follow this checklist prior to every laboratory to ensure that you are ready to start.

1. Am I wearing closed toe shoes? 2. Am I wearing appropriate clothing, (i.e. a lab coat if required)? 3. Do I have the correct laboratory manual or worksheet? 4. Do I have an appropriate laboratory notebook for recording results and observations? 5. Do I know where emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers are kept?

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PPllaaggiiaarriissmm aanndd RReeffeerreenncciinngg Plagiarism is the submission of work done by someone else, claiming that the work is your own. The work may be written, graphical or electronic. According to RMIT policy, if an academic detects plagiarism he or she is obliged to report the matter to the Head of School, for appropriate action to be taken. Plagiarism is a serious form of academic misconduct. Some examples of plagiarism are:

• Copying sentences or paragraphs from any source

• Summarizing sentences or paragraphs without referencing the source of the material

• Submitting the work of another student

• Submitting work that another person did for you

• Giving your own work to another student. This is called enabling plagiarism

• Submitting the same work as another student. This could be an entire assignment or part of an assignment.

It is vital that all students submitting work for assessment in ANY format, be presenting work that is appropriately referenced. It is recommended that all students consult the RMIT library website or the individual course guides for advice in this important area. Any material that is submitted for assessment, and is not referenced appropriately will be considered plagiarized, and will therefore be awarded a fail. Ignorance of this guideline will not be accepted as an excuse under any circumstance. Academic misconduct charges may also be laid as circumstances warrant.

SSttuuddeenntt FFoorrmmss A list of forms for students use is located at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/students > Student Forms.

SSttuuddeennttss aatt RRiisskk A student who has failed >50% of their courses in one semester, is considered to be “at risk”. These students will be asked to attend an interview with the Program Leader to discuss what may be available in terms of support, to assist the student in completing the program. Students will receive after the interview, a letter outlining the procedures in the event that no improvement is seen in the subsequent semester. Students are reminded that they may be excluded from the program in accordance with RMIT’s policy on students who show no improvement in their grades after the “at risk” procedure has been enacted.

SSttuuddeenntt SSttaaffff CCoonnssuullttaattiivvee CCoommmmiitttteeee ((SSSSCCCC)) Representatives of each year level will be called towards the beginning of the semester for the student staff consultative committee. These representatives meet once per semester (for no longer than one hour) with staff for feedback on issues relating to the content and conduct of the program. The Program Leader will chair this meeting, and each of the elected students will have an opportunity to raise issues on behalf of their colleagues for feedback and/or activity. The terms of reference for the SSCC are available from the Administrative Officer. Nomination forms will be emailed to students.

SSttuuddeenntt eexxppeennsseess aanndd cchhaarrggeess Students are expected to provide their own safety glasses. In line with OH&S regulations, RMIT provides laboratory gowns. Students are required to pay a fee to cover hire of gown and laundry. Students are strongly advised to purchase laboratory manuals, but manuals are also available through RMIT library. Students undertaking the program without the pre-requisite Microbiology will be required to enrol and pay the appropriate fees to undertake the Microbiology as outlined in the Entrance Requirements.

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RReessppoonnssiibbiilliittiieess ooff SSttuuddeennttss As an enrolled student in the Graduate Certificate, Diploma or Masters in Biotechnology please be reminded of the following issues. It is your responsibility to check that you are enrolled into the correct courses. You will need to check each ‘Confirmation of Enrolment Form’ you receive. If you are enrolled in an incorrect course, you must go online and change your enrolment. If you wish to cancel from the program you must complete a ‘Cancellation of Enrolment’ form. Failure to withdraw from a course or cancel your enrolment by the census date will mean that you will have to pay fees for the course/program and a grade of (‘Fail’ or ‘Did Not Sit’) will be entered on to your record. This is in line with RMIT regulations. The census dates to return any changes to your enrolment are normally the end of March for first semester courses and the end of August for second semester. For the exact dates please refer to 2010 Student Diary. You need to ensure that you have completed the compulsory courses in this program. Refer to the Program Structure in this booklet. Each student will need to have a student identification card for the end of semester exams. Without a student card you are not entitled to sit for any exam. If you do not have one you will need to go to the Student Hub (City 12.4 or Bundoora 202.2.36) to obtain one.

SSttuuddeenntt TTiimmeettaabblliinngg SSyysstteemm ((SSTTSS))

The online Student Timetabling System (STS) allows students to access and construct their personal timetable by viewing the available options and selecting the class or classes they prefer. Students are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Students must be enrolled in the course before STS timetable access is available. STS class selection is normally available three days after enrolling. Refer to the following webpage to view timetable http://www.rmit.edu.au/students > Timetables.

SSuubbmmiissssiioonn ooff aassssiiggnnmmeennttss aanndd SSppeecciiaall CCoonnssiiddeerraattiioonn Unless otherwise indicated by your lecturer, all submissions of work other than those through the “Digital DropBox”, submitted to the Biotechnology & Environmental Biology Administration Office on level 1, Building 223 or to the School of Applied Sciences Office in Building 3 in the city. A signed cover sheet must be included, with the name of the lecturer responsible clearly stated. All care is taken to ensure that your work is sent directly to the appropriate lecturer, but this can only be assured if your cover sheet is complete and accurate. Please complete and have the cover sheet receipt stamped and keep it as proof of your submission. The cover sheet must be signed, confirming ownership of the assignment. Assignments may be collected from the same office once your lecturer has informed you that they are marked and ready for collection. Assignment cover sheets are located online at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/appliedsciences/students All Course Guides provide information on assessment, including due dates for submission of assignments. Unless otherwise stated in the Course Guide, assignments submitted after the due date will lose marks at the rate of 5% for each working day after the due date. If you have a legitimate reason for late submission of an assignment, a ‘Special Consideration’ form should be submitted together with appropriate documentation. Special consideration in assessment may be granted when factors beyond your control have affected your academic performance in an exam or assignment, or during the semester. Reasons for applying for special consideration might be illness, bereavement or family commitments. Students with ongoing disabilities need to apply for special consideration through the Disability Liaison Unit. Forms to support your special consideration application together with supporting evidence, (e.g. medical certificate) must be submitted prior to or within 48 hours of the scheduled time of examination. If you wish to seek advice about obtaining special consideration, speak first to your program coordinator or a lecturer. If you are unhappy about the outcome of your discussion, please contact Counseling Services or a student rights officer. Misreading the official examination timetable will not entitle you to special consideration in assessment so be careful when checking your exam dates, times and locations. Assignments received after other students in the class have received feedback/return of marked assignments will not be marked.

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TTeeaacchheerr--gguuiiddeedd aanndd lleeaarrnneerr--gguuiiddeedd hhoouurrss All Course Guides specify Teacher-Guided hours and Learner Directed hours. Teacher-guided hours include face-to-face teaching through lectures and practical classes in the laboratory, set assignments such as literature reviews, reports on laboratory work and group work that requires students to arrange group meetings to research and orally present a topic. Student directed hours include the time spent on revising and rearranging lecture material, reading textbooks and journal articles. The mix of face-to-face teaching and other activities will vary between different courses in the program. The number of hours of individual study needed to pass a course will depend on a student’s background in that area, English language skills and other factors. Most students will find that the number of hours of individual study needed to pass a course is at least equal to the stated number of teacher-guided hours PLUS the student-directed hours. If enrolled full time (48 credit points per semester), you should expect to study at least 40 hours per week in total. This includes approximately 20 teacher-guided hours and 20 student-directed hours. Therefore of a 12-credit point course, you should expect to spend at least 5 teacher-guided hours and 5 student-guided hours in order to obtain a pass level. Students wishing to achieve higher grades usually need to put in extra hours of study.

WWoorrkk:: oouuttssiiddee wwoorrkk ccoommmmiittmmeennttss.. International students are required to be enrolled full-time; this is equivalent to at least 40 hours study per week. While your visa allows you to work up to 20 hours per week, statistics show that students who work more than 10 hours per week risk failure. Remember you are here primarily to study, so it is very important not to commit yourself to more than 10 hours work per week and that your work does not prevent you from attending class.

STUDY TIME MANAGEMENT

WWhhyy ssttaarrtt ssttuuddyy aatt tthhee bbeeggiinnnniinngg ooff tthhee sseemmeesstteerr?? All students selected for this program have good academic records and are capable of successful completion in the minimum time. If you wish to succeed and obtain good grades, however, you will need to work consistently throughout the semester. Students, who leave serious study until the last few weeks of semester, do not reach their full potential and are at risk of failure.

WWhhyy aatttteenndd lleeccttuurreess?? Most lecturers post a summary of the material presented in lectures on the Distributed Learning System (DLS). It should be noted that this is a summary only. During lectures there is explanation and discussion of the material and the opportunity to ask questions of the lecturer. If you miss a lecture, you miss out on this opportunity and it will be more difficult to acquire a good understanding of the topic. International students - please refer to your visa conditions regarding attendance requirements

WWhhyy sseett uupp aa ssttuuddyy ttiimmee mmaannaaggeemmeenntt ppllaann?? In the course of your studies you will have many study tasks to perform and only limited time in which to perform them. It is therefore essential that you manage your time efficiently to complete all tasks on time with minimum personal stress. Planning your time management will help you allocate appropriate amounts of time to each task and avoid conflict of assignment commitments and a last minute rush (nobody consistently produces their best work at 3 am the night before the assignment is due). Expertise in time management is highly valued by employers, so as well as helping you succeed with your postgraduate study, practicing time management planning will give you a highly marketable skill.

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HHooww ddoo II sseett uupp aa ttiimmee mmaannaaggeemmeenntt ppllaann?? Here are some steps to follow:

• Identify the tasks that have to be done;

• Rank these tasks, according to what needs to be done first, what is most important, what is most time-consuming;

• Be aware of the natural human tendency to give time to tasks we find easy or agreeable and not enough to those we find difficult or disagreeable;

• Sequence the work, giving a realistic allocation of time to each activity. Discipline yourself to stick to this allocation;

• Remember to allow time for social and personal commitments;

• Become aware of time-wasting activities (talking on the phone, watching TV) and avoid them or keep them under control; and

• Be realistic about how much you can achieve in each study session and remember to schedule short breaks every hour or so. If you work for too long without a break your concentration may begin to flag. However make sure that you keep breaks to about 10 minutes.

WWhheenn iiss tthhee bbeesstt ttiimmee ttoo ssttuuddyy?? Here are some suggestions:

• After lectures. This allows you to review and reflect on what you have just learned.

• Before tutorials. This allows you to do required reading and to prepare you to learn from and contribute to the session.

• Before exams. Avoid last-minute 'cramming'. If you have been following a well-designed study time management plan you should need only a general revision to remind you of what you have learned over the semester.

• Observe your own personal preferences. For instance, are you a 'night person' or a 'day person'? Plan your heaviest study for the time when you are most productive.

SSSeeemmmeeesssttteeerrr ppplllaaannnnnniiinnnggg Look at the significant RMIT dates (this gives details of important university dates, exam times and holidays).

• Check the RMIT Calendar in your student diary or at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/students to make sure that there are no further changes.

• Draw up a semester timetable – see semester timetable in your student diary.

• In the first week of semester each of your course coordinators will give you the study guide for their course. Referring to this, mark on your timetable dates when lectures and tutorials/practicals are held, tests are set, assignments are due, and any other significant events. Devise a colour-coding system to avoid confusion. This should give you at a glance an overview of your commitments for the semester.

• Consider the study preparation time required for lectures, tutorials, tests, assignments and so on and indicate these on your timetable.

• If you do have a serious clash of course commitments, this will show up on your timetable. You can then prepare for a study overload during part of the semester.

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COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS All course co-coordinators will require that you submit all work in a printed form, which requires the use of a computer. Computer laboratories (including printing facilities) are positioned for your use on the Bundoora and City campuses, and you will receive more information regarding these at the start of your program. If you do wish to purchase a computer for your use at home, here are our recommendations: An Internet Service Provider (ISP) A web-browser. Microsoft Internet Explorer 4 or greater is recommended. Virus Protection (highly recommended), once installed, keeping the software updated is vitally important in keeping your system virus free. Additional Plug-ins such as QuickTime, Windows Media Player and the Macromedia Flash and Shockwave players may also be required, depending on the learning materials provided. Additional image manipulation and video recording software may be required for image and video submission. Please refer to your co-coordinator if you think you may need these types of software. You will also require a word or office based program/s to work up your submissions.

Minimum hardware requirements are as follows: IBM or Compatible Computer Minimum Computer: 350Mhz Intel Pentium processor or equivalent 128MB of RAM 28.8Kpbs modem Video display card. Windows 98 or above operating system Hard Drive disk space. (This requirement will vary depending on which course/s you undertake. The disk space is for downloading articles and installing the required software and plug-ins.) CD-ROM Drive (Some courses may provide supplemental materials available form the library using CD's) Sound card and speakers Printer - Students wanting to print notes from online resources at home will require a printer

Students are advised the Microsoft Office Products are recommended for software requirements.

COPYRIGHT AND OUR LEARNING PRODUCTS The learning materials provided to you throughout your studies at RMIT University must comply with the laws of copyright. These laws may mean that materials cannot always be presented to you in a way that you expect, such as many of the images and multimedia learning tools we use in our lectures, but do not provide to you in downloadable form. We cannot always provide materials to you as directly as we would like to, but we do our best to restrict any additional cost to you, while maintaining your access to essential learning materials. We will always adhere to copyright laws and regulations to protect the intellectual product of others, and we expect you to do the same. (Refer to Citation and Reference guide earlier in this information booklet.) If you have any questions about the practices involving copyright law, please contact the people at the following URL: http://www.rmit.edu.au/copyright or your program co-coordinator.

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EXAM TIPS SOME TIPS FOR THE EXAMS Here are some points that should helpful to students preparing for exams. These notes are especially for new students who are about to do their first RMIT exams. Consult the Part B Course Guide for the course you are enrolled in. You can access Course Guides through the DLS or by searching the RMIT website. For example, if you want the Course Guide for Veterinary Microbiology, search for Part B Course guide BIOL1300. You need to be logged in as an RMIT student to do this. All Course Guides have a detailed section on assessment. Most Course Coordinators put sample questions or old examination papers on the DLS. Make use of this resource by attempting to answer the questions. If requested, your coordinator will mark one or two sample questions and give feedback on how your answer would be marked and suggest improvements that could be made. Exams may take several different forms, depending on the course and the material to be covered. Details of which type/s of questions are used for your course/s are given in Part B of the Course Guide. Multiple choice questions are designed to assess knowledge or understanding of specific topics. They have one correct answer. It is very important to read the question and each of the possible answers very carefully, as there may be subtle differences between the correct and incorrect answers. Short answer questions are also designed to test your knowledge or understanding of specific topics. Again, it is very important to read the question carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked. Remember that your answer to a short answer question should be short; either one word, one sentence or several dot points. The question and the amount of space provided (for exams where answers are written on the examination paper) will give you an indication of the length expected. Do not be tempted to write a long answer covering the general area without answering the specific question – this will get you no marks. Long essay questions are usually used for most courses at postgraduate level. They aim to test understanding, ability the organise information and present a logical response. You are expected to write an essay in clear English. Part of the answer may be a series of points and labeled diagrams but the main body of the answer should be in essay format. The best way to approach such a question is to begin by writing down and organising all the points and sub-points you intend to cover as a list, flow chart or diagram. Once you are satisfied that everything relevant to the question has been covered and anything irrelevant is excluded and that points are listed in logical order, write a few sentences or paragraphs expanding on each of your points. If you are rushed for time, you will obtain some marks for writing a list of points only, but marks will be higher for a properly thought through essay answer. Simply regurgitating points from a Power Point presentation is unacceptable as the examiner cannot assess understanding of the area. Image-based exams. These exams are used in Medical Microbiology and related courses. They are designed to test recognition and interpretation skills of material covered in practical classes. They consist of a case history or short problem accompanied by an image (Gram stain, culture plate, test result) that is displayed on a computer screen and reproduced (in black and white) on the question paper. You will be asked to answer a small number of short questions to test you interpretation and recognition skills.

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APPLICATION FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH PROJECT

Student Name:

Student Number: Project Start Semester: List courses completed and marks obtained

Name of course Number of course, e.g. ONPS 1048

Credit points

Mark

Average mark to date (must be at least 70%, 75% is preferred)

Describe any previous research or work experience Please circle preference: Part-time or Full-time If applying for Research Project, please list research topics and supervisors (please select three different supervisors

Rank Supervisor Topic

1

2

3

Student signature: Date:

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APPLICATION FOR WORK EXPERIENCE PRACTICUM 2 Student Name:

Student Number: Work Experience Start Semester: List courses completed and marks obtained

Name of course Number of course, e.g. ONPS 1048

Credit points

Mark

Average mark to date (must be at least 75%)

Describe any previous work experience: Preferred place of work. Please select three placements. Shivalee Lees has a list of workplaces where past students have done work experience.

Rank Type of work, e.g. food microbiology, food technology,

plants, medical microbiology Place

1.

2.

3.

Please circle preference: Part-time or Full-time Student signature: Date:

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