BB2460 Biocatalysis 7.5 credits

The course gives an introduction to and an overview of the Biocatalysis field. It provides theoretical knowledge about the environmentally sustainable technical usage of enzymes for the production of high-value chemical products, and it covers various enzyme classes with the focus on enzyme reaction mechanisms and usage in chemical processing. The course describes important experimental techniques such as using enzymes in non-aqueous media, employing enzyme cascades and methods to optimize the stereochemical outcome of the reactions. Several industrial processes are discussed as examples. The course also covers current strategies for enzyme engineering and modification of enzymes for catalytic applications.

After passing the course, the student should be able to:

• demonstrate in-depth knowledge and analytical skills in the field of biocatalysis
• exploit and apply knowledge from basic biotechnology and chemistry courses to design environmentally sustainable enzymatic processes for industrial production of chemical products.
• formulate and discuss how biocatalysis can be applied in industry to create more environmentally sustainable biotechnological and chemical processes and, to reflect on sustainable societal development

A bachelor's degree, corresponding to at least 180 ECTS, including at least 6 ECTS in Biotechnology, 20 ECTS in Chemistry, and 20 ECTS in Mathematics.

Passed biotechnology courses at basic level, organic chemistry at basic level, and eligibility to study at the advanced level.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

• LAB1 - Laboratory work, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
• TEN1 - Written exam, 4.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
• ÖVN1 - Exercises and seminarium, 1.5 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

The requirement for a final grade is grade E or above on TEN1 and ÖVN1 and grade P on LAB1.

The final grade will be calculated from 75% based on TEN1 and 25% based on ÖVN1.

The grade on ÖVN1 will not give a final grade lower than the grade on the written examination.

Per Berglund

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

The course replaces BB2030. Students are required to sign up at least two weeks in advance for examination. The course is given provided at least seven students are admitted.