Department of Biotechnology
School of Life Sciences (SLS) • Federal University of Technology, Akure
About the Department
The Department of Biotechnology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) is a premier center for biotechnology education and research within the School of Life Sciences (SLS). Our department is dedicated to developing innovative biotechnology applications and producing highly skilled professionals who will advance biological sciences and biotechnology in Nigeria and contribute meaningfully to global scientific knowledge.
Biotechnology is the application of biological systems and organisms in technological innovations for healthcare, agriculture, food processing, and industrial applications. Our comprehensive curriculum integrates molecular biology, genetic engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. Students gain expertise in DNA technology, cell culture, fermentation processes, enzyme technology, and analytical techniques through intensive coursework and hands-on laboratory work.
The department emphasizes practical training with modern equipment including fermentation systems, DNA sequencers, PCR machines, incubators, and biosafety facilities. We maintain strong linkages with pharmaceutical companies, food processing industries, research institutes, and agricultural organizations, providing students with real-world industrial exposure and professional development opportunities through SIWES and collaborative research projects.
Our graduates are recognized for their expertise in applying biotechnology to solve real-world problems. They demonstrate proficiency in genetic engineering, bioprocess design, quality control, and product development. Graduates pursue careers in pharmaceutical industries, food companies, research institutions, healthcare, agricultural agencies, and biotechnology startups, contributing significantly to Nigeria's bioeconomy development.
What We Offer
Academic Programs
- B.Tech in Biotechnology - 4-year undergraduate program
- M.Tech in Biotechnology - Postgraduate studies
- M.Phil in Biotechnology - Research-based Masters
- Ph.D in Biotechnology - Doctoral research program
Specialized Areas
- Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering
- Industrial Biotechnology
- Food Biotechnology
- Agricultural Biotechnology
- Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
- Environmental Biotechnology
- Enzyme Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
Laboratory Facilities
Molecular Biology Laboratory
DNA extraction, PCR machines, DNA sequencers, gel electrophoresis, molecular analysis
Fermentation Laboratory
Bioreactors, fermentation vessels, incubators, culture media preparation
Analytical Laboratory
HPLC, spectrophotometers, chromatography, enzyme assays, biochemical testing
Research Focus Areas
Our department conducts cutting-edge research in various biotechnology applications:
Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering
DNA technology, gene cloning, genetic modification, CRISPR-Cas9, marker-assisted selection, strain improvement, transgenic organisms.
Industrial Biotechnology
Bioprocess design, fermentation optimization, bioreactor operation, biorefinery development, biofuel production, industrial enzyme production.
Agricultural Biotechnology
Crop improvement, plant breeding, disease resistance, plant tissue culture, micropropagation, crop productivity enhancement.
Pharmaceutical and Medical Biotechnology
Drug development, vaccine production, therapeutic proteins, monoclonal antibodies, diagnostic reagents, biomedical applications.
Food Biotechnology
Food fermentation, probiotic development, food quality improvement, biopreservation, microbial food processing, functional foods.
Environmental Biotechnology
Bioremediation, environmental monitoring, waste treatment, biorefinery, sustainability, ecosystem conservation.
Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
Genome analysis, sequence alignment, protein structure prediction, data analysis, bioinformatics tools, systems biology.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Biotechnology enjoy diverse and rewarding career paths:
Pharmaceutical Industry
Drug development, vaccine production, quality control, regulatory affairs
Bioprocess Engineer
Fermentation scale-up, bioreactor operation, process optimization, production
Research Scientist
Academic research, biotechnology research, drug discovery, innovation
Agricultural Biotechnologist
Crop improvement, plant breeding, agricultural innovation, productivity
Food Technologist
Food processing, quality control, product development, fermentation
Quality Assurance Officer
Quality control, testing, compliance, standards, inspection, validation
Academic & Teaching
University lecturers, researchers, lab coordinators, curriculum development
Bioinformatician
Genome analysis, data analysis, software development, computational biology
Biotech Entrepreneur
Startup founder, biotech innovation, product development, business leadership
Course Materials & Resources
Access comprehensive learning materials, textbooks, lecture notes, and study resources organized by academic level.
100 Level Resources
Foundation courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology.
First Semester
Comprehensive Study Resources Available
All 100 Level first semester materials including lecture notes, past questions, textbooks, and practical guides are available in our offline study packs.
Access Offline Study PacksSecond Semester
Complete Course Materials
Second semester study materials covering basic sciences and introductory concepts are fully available.
Go to Offline Study PacksFoundation Year
100 Level focuses on basic sciences and engineering foundations. Courses include General Mathematics, General Physics, General Chemistry, General Biology, Use of English, Introduction to Computing, and Nigerian Peoples and Cultures.
200 Level Resources
Core biotechnology courses including biochemistry, microbiology, and introductory biotechnology.
Download 200 Level Materials
Complete course materials, lecture notes, practical manuals, and past examination questions available in offline study packs.
Access Study PacksGeneral Biochemistry
Protein, carbohydrate, lipid metabolism, enzyme kinetics
General Microbiology
Bacterial culture, identification, classification, microbial physiology
Introductory Biotechnology
Biotechnology overview, applications, techniques introduction
Organic Chemistry
Organic compounds, reactions, synthesis, biomolecules
Computer Programming
Programming basics, data structures, problem solving
Genetics
Inheritance patterns, genetic variation, chromosomes
300 Level Resources
Advanced biotechnology courses and SIWES I industrial training experience.
Download 300 Level Materials
Advanced course materials, practical guides, and comprehensive study resources for specialization courses.
Access Study PacksMolecular Genetics
DNA replication, gene expression, regulation, genetic engineering
Industrial Biotechnology
Bioprocess design, fermentation, scale-up, optimization
Food Biotechnology
Fermented foods, probiotics, food safety, preservation
Agricultural Biotechnology
Crop improvement, plant tissue culture, plant breeding
Enzyme Biotechnology
Enzyme production, immobilization, application, biocatalysis
SIWES I
Industry internship, practical training, professional exposure
400 Level Resources
Final year courses, SIWES II, electives, and research project.
Download 400 Level Materials
Final year resources including research methodology, project guides, and comprehensive revision materials.
Access Study PacksBioinformatics
Genome analysis, sequence alignment, bioinformatic tools
Biopharmaceutical Technology
Drug development, vaccine production, therapeutic proteins
Environmental Biotechnology
Bioremediation, waste treatment, environmental applications
Biosafety and Regulations
Biosafety protocols, regulatory compliance, ethical issues
SIWES II
Extended industry internship, technical report writing
Research Project
Independent research, thesis writing, oral defense
Admission Requirements
UTME Requirements
- Minimum UTME score of 160-200+ (varies by university)
- Subject combination: English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics/Mathematics
- Five O'Level credits in two sittings maximum
- Credit passes must include: English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Direct Entry Requirements
- Two A'Level passes in Biology/Botany/Zoology and Chemistry or Physics
- ND/HND upper credit in Biotechnology or related science field
- NCE merit in Biotechnology or related subjects
- Plus O'Level requirements as stated above
Contact the Department
Department Office
Department of Biotechnology
School of Life Sciences
Federal University of Technology, Akure
PMB 704, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
gabriel@legacybygabriel.com.ng
+234 (0) 913-209-1205
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: By Appointment
Sunday: Closed