Biotechnology major added file photo Biotechnology 'is part of a series of things that are rapidly changing in the field of biology. So, to have a Christian voice in that kind of technology is going to be critical,' said Koetje. Recently, Calvin took a step to prepare students to play roles in this field by implementing a new biotechnology major with the help of Professor David Koetje. Biotechnology research has many implications for society with the changes and innovations that it brings, he added. So, to have a Christian voice in that kind of technology is going to be critical.
Biotechnology is the application of biological systems towards the manufacture of useful products.
Koetje described several different areas of biotechnology that are affecting society today. One such area of research is the development of crop plants that produce human vaccines. This technology is especially beneficial for third-world countries, he said, where storage methods are insufficient for traditional forms of vaccines. Other areas of biotechnology examine how animals and livestock can be used as human organ donors, how animals and plants can be used as bio-processors and how to develop crops that are more resistant to certain pests and pesticides. Biotechnology is not without controversy, however.