Overview
This 24-month M.Phil Molecular Cell Biology of Infectious Diseases is designed to train the next generation of biomedical scientists in contemporary molecular and cellular biology techniques while providing advanced knowledge of major pathogens of relevance to sub-Saharan Africa. The curriculum encompasses bacterial, viral, fungal, helminthic, and protozoan pathogens, with emphasis on epidemiology and biostatistics, pathogen biology, disease pathogenesis, host immune responses, and the identification of targets for drug and vaccine development. The programmes will develop skilled molecular cell biologists for careers in research institutions, industry, academia, and government agencies, while promoting research that addresses national priorities in health, agriculture, industry, and the environment, and contribute to community development through relevant extension activities.
Components of the Programme
Year 1
Semester 1: Core Courses
- MCBI 601: Bacterial and Viral Infections
- MCBI 603: Experimental Microbiology
- BCMB 603: Advanced Molecular Biology
- BCMB 609: Immune Response Mechanisms
- BCMB 630: Research Methodology & Scientific Communication
Semester 1: Elective Courses
- BCMB 605: Advanced Protein Chemistry
- BSTT 601: Methods in Biostatistics I
Semester 2: Core Courses
- MCBI 602: Eukaryotic Infections: Protozoan, Helminthic and Fungal
- MCBI 604: Host and Pathogen Genomics
- MCBI 606: Antimicrobial Therapeutics: Molecular Mechanisms and Concepts
- MCBI 608: Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases
Semester 2: Elective Courses
- BCMB 608: Signal Transduction
- BCMB 612: Applications of Biotechnology
- BCMB 614: Eukaryotic Cell Biology
- ENTO 606: Disease Vectors of Medical and Veterinary Importance
- BSTT 602: Methods in Biostatistics II
Year 2
Semester 1: Core Courses
- MCBI 600: Thesis
- MCBI 610: Seminar I
Semester 2: Core Courses
- MCBI 600: Thesis
- MCBI 620: Seminar II