Engineering Life: Synbio, Bioethics & Public Policy

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, founded in 1876, is a leading research university with a global reputation for excellence across medicine, public health, engineering, the arts and sciences. The university enrolls around 32,049 students, including approximately 5,233 international scholars, and offers an extensive portfolio of programs—about 238—across undergraduate, graduate and professional levels.

Johns Hopkins emphasizes research-led education, interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning through labs, clinics and community partnerships. International students can access comprehensive support services for admissions, visas, academic advising and career development, and can participate in research opportunities, internships and global exchange programs that enhance professional prospects and real-world experience.

Baltimore’s urban setting provides access to vibrant cultural life, medical centers and industry partners, making it well suited for students interested in translational research and public service. The university’s strong alumni network, career services and industry links help graduates move into competitive roles worldwide, while campus resources support wellbeing, student activities and a diverse international community.

This program is a non-degree course called Engineering Life: Synbio, Bioethics & Public Policy, offered by Johns Hopkins University in the United States. It's for students who want to learn about synthetic biology and its applications. The course lasts several weeks and helps students understand ethical and policy issues in synthetic biology.

The curriculum includes a short history of recombinant DNA technology, governance of science, and areas of application of synbio. Students learn through reading, lectures, recorded and live interviews, and discussions with scientists, ethicists, and policymakers. They also work on a final project to develop governance models for synbio.

After completing this program, students can pursue careers as bioethics specialists, science policymakers, research scientists, or public health officials. They can work in industries such as biotechnology, healthcare, or government agencies, including the National Institutes of Health or the World Health Organization.