Science and technology, business and transitionary modules are taught in each term, integrating commercial know-how with advances in research, and demonstrating the many complex issues associated with bringing discovery and innovation from the laboratory to the market.Ê
The programme is highly participatory and includes practical elements in the form of interdisciplinary projects, workshops, case studies and business planning activities.Ê Students have opportunities to undertake a consulting project and a technology company internship placement, and gain an international perspective during a (self-funded, optional) study tour to the USA.
Environment
The MBE programme is a component part of the Biotechnology teaching and research theme within the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology. Now in its sixteenth year, more than 300 students have graduated from the course and have progressed their careers to occupy positions in every aspect of the life science business sector.
Image of West Cambridge Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology front entranceBuilding on its origins in the Institute of Biotechnology with its global reputation for a practical and successful approach to entrepreneurship and the exploitation of bioscience inventions, the MBE programme now occupies purpose built facilities in the DepartmentÕs newly opened headquarters in the University's West Cambridge science site.
The programme enjoys strong connections with the biotech industry in both the UK and overseas. Students benefit from a unique combination of teaching and mentoring delivered by business and academic contributors, who bring their diverse and first hand knowledge of life science research commercialisation and business activities to the course.Ê
Case-studies of biotech firms, frequently described by senior executives from the companies themselves, illustrate the commercial exploitation of scientific discoveries from a practical standpoint and provide an insight into the managerial challenges that arise in high tech companies. Cambridge is Europe's leading biotech cluster and excellent business networking opportunities are available to all course participants.
