This design team defines biotechnology as the application of modern molecular, computer and engineering techniques to answer basic biological questions and to develop products and practices based on biology for use by society.
Biotechnology is both an intellectual and an economic pursuit.
Biotechnology, in its many current and potential applications, is the outcome of a revolution in the biological sciences that will affect every aspect of human existence. The applications of biotechnology are broad and have already brought impressive results in agriculture, human health and environmental protection and restoration. Biotechnology is enabling these industries to make new or better products, often with greater speed, efficiency and flexibility. Biotechnology is also opening doors to better stewardship of the environment and biodiversity through new understanding of organisms and biological processes. The role of the major research universities in biotechnology is in the generation of new knowledge and innovations for the public benefit, in the training of undergraduate and graduate students for the biotechnology work force, and in public education about the appropriate use of biotechnology.