Objetivos e Competências

Knowledge:
1.Students should be able to acquire and master solid knowledge in Bioethics. 
2.Students should be able to develop critical reflection skills and be familiar with instruments and models of ethical deliberation and decision-making applied to topics with ethical implications in the field of Biotechnology. 

Understanding:
1.Students should be able to understand a new scientific field with strong and interdisciplinary links between Bioethics and Biotechnology. 
2.Students should be able to effectively mobilise and apply newly acquired knowledge to concrete situations. 

Analysis:
1.Students should be able to analyse specific ethical cases and problems, mobilising and applying the instruments and models of ethical deliberation and decision-making learned. 
2.Students should be able to identify and apply relevant legislation, regulation, and policies for the analysis of specific ethical cases and problems within the scientific field of Biotechnology.

Metodologias de ensino

The course adopts a student-centered pedagogical model, integrating different teaching and learning methodologies that promote active participation, critical reflection, and the practical application of knowledge.
The participatory lecture method forms the basis of the sessions, enabling the structured presentation of key content, combined with moments of interaction, guided questioning, and debate. This approach aims not only at knowledge transmission but also at actively engaging students in the construction of knowledge.
Group and plenary discussions are systematically used to deepen topics, analyze ethical dilemmas, and confront different perspectives, fostering skills in argumentation, active listening, and ethical deliberation. These dynamics are particularly relevant in the analysis of case studies and real or simulated situations in the fields of bioethics and biotechnology.
For each topic, specific documents and supporting texts will be provided, complementing the recommended general bibliography and encouraging critical reading and prior preparation. Individual and group research will be guided by the instructor, with clearly defined objectives, research questions, and analytical criteria, promoting students’ progressive autonomy and the development of scientific research skills.
Additionally, active methodologies such as case analysis, problem-based learning, and collaborative work may be incorporated, strengthening the link between theory and practice. This set of strategies aims to develop not only knowledge but also ethical, analytical, and decision-making competencies aligned with the course objectives and the adopted pedagogical model.

Conteúdos programáticos

Part 1. Introduction to Bioethics
• Concepts and foundations
• Ethics, Morality, Deontology, Justice, Law, Biolaw
• Basic ethical principles and values in bioethics
• The main foundation of bioethics: key reference documents

Part 2. Ethics and Integrity in Scientific Research
• Concepts and foundations
• Research and practice in biotechnology
• Bioethical policies and procedures applied to research

Part 3. The Ethical Decision-Making Process
• Models of ethical deliberation and decision-making
• Informed consent and the right to information

Part 4. Ethics in Biotechnology and the Sciences: Emerging Issues
• Biotechnology and artificial intelligence
• Genetics, biotechnology, and the environment