This course will consider fundamental cellular processes from multiple perspectives: biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, molecular biology and genetics, and plant biology. Topics will vary from semester to semester but a multi-disciplinary approach to advanced concepts and experimental strategies will be a common theme.

This course explores structural biology from three perspectives: 1) the fundamental concepts in structural biology; 2) the methods used to determine structures (including x-ray crystallography, NMR, electron microscopy, and computational modeling); 3) the bioinformatic concepts and tools used to compare, contrast and assign biochemical function to protein structures and sequences. The course emphasizes building a conceptual and practical skill set that will be applicable to any structure related problem.

This mandatory two semester course emphasizes the development and refinement of the skills of scientific communication. Students submit a written thesis proposal and present a public seminar on a contemporary subject in the molecular biosciences. MCB MSc students normally complete this course within the first two semesters of their program. Students will register in each semester and receive a grade of INP (in progress) at the end of the first semester and a grade at the end of the second semester.

This course offers an in-depth examination of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern gene regulation, signal transduction, and protein function. Students establish a foundational understanding of how these processes contribute to health and disease. The course highlights advanced molecular techniques, regulatory pathways, and emerging therapeutic applications. This essential knowledge equips students for future studies in stem cell biology, biomanufacturing, and therapeutic design.

This course introduces students to computational methods and bioinformatics tools for drug discovery and protein engineering. Students learn how AI-driven molecular modelling, molecular docking, and structural biology contribute to the development of therapeutics. Topics include genome and protein sequence analysis, molecular docking, protein structure prediction, and computational drug screening. This course equips students with essential skills for advancing into therapeutic development, protein engineering, and AI-based biomedical applications in later semesters.

This course provides an advanced understanding of immune system function, host-pathogen interactions, and immunological defense mechanisms. Students explore the molecular and cellular components of innate and adaptive immunity and how pathogens evade immune responses. Special attention is given to immunotherapeutics, vaccine strategies, and immune system modulation, preparing them for subsequent coursework in vaccinology, therapeutic design, and biopharmaceutical development.

This lab-intensive course offers hands-on training in stem cell culture, differentiation, and genetic modification. Students investigate stem cell biology, applications in regenerative medicine, and gene editing techniques. The course combines experimental and computational methods for characterizing stem cell function and therapeutic potential. A special focus is placed on employing induced pluripotent and adult stem cells in disease modelling, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.

This lab-intensive course centers on mammalian cell culture techniques, biomanufacturing, and therapeutic protein production. Students cultivate expertise in 3D cell culture, bioreactor systems, and gene therapy applications. Key topics encompass viral vector production, cell-based therapies, and immune cell engineering. This course equips students with the practical skills for biopharmaceutical development and precision medicine applications.

This course provides an in-depth examination of vaccine development, immunotherapy, and therapeutic design strategies. Students explore the molecular and immunological principles behind modern vaccine platforms, including mRNA, viral vector, recombinant protein, and live-attenuated vaccines. The course also covers immune modulation strategies, adjuvant development, and emerging therapeutic applications in oncology and infectious diseases. Students engage in case studies of real-world vaccine successes and failures and practical applications in therapeutic development.

This course examines the transition of biomedical discoveries into clinical and commercial applications, focusing on protein-based therapeutics, gene therapies, and biologics. Students evaluate the development, manufacturing, and regulatory approval processes for monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, RNA-based drugs, and gene therapies. The course also investigates clinical trial design, biopharmaceutical industry strategies, and personalized medicine approaches. Case studies on therapeutic breakthroughs in cancer, infectious diseases, and rare genetic disorders are highlighted.

Leadership in biomedicine encompasses not just the ability to guide teams and organizations, but also a strong commitment to ethical principles and effective communication. As professionals in this field navigate complex challenges, ethical leadership becomes crucial in ensuring that decisions prioritize patient welfare, research integrity, and community trust. Clear and open communication fosters collaboration and transparency, enabling teams to work together effectively while also ensuring that stakeholders are informed and engaged. By integrating ethical considerations with strong leadership and communication skills, biomedicine professionals can create positive environments that encourage innovation, accountability, and a shared vision for advancing healthcare.

This is a modular course in which faculty present novel and complex concepts in the field of Systems Biology. Students review literature, analyze data, engage in discussions, examine case studies, and prepare oral presentations and written reports.

This mandatory two semester course emphasizes the development and refinement of the skills of scientific communication. Students submit a written thesis proposal and present a public seminar on a contemporary subject in the molecular biosciences. MCB PhD students normally complete this course within the first two semesters of their program. Students will register in each semester and receive a grade of INP (in progress) at the end of the first semester and a grade at the end of the second semester.