Faculty: INSTITUTE OF SCIENCES This major prepares students for careers in molecular biology, focusing on the study of biological molecules, cellular processes, genetics, and biotechnology. Students develop practical laboratory skills and theoretical knowledge to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying life processes. Graduates are equipped for roles in research laboratories, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical industries, and academic institutions. **Learning Objectives:** - Understand fundamentals of molecular biology, genetics, and cellular processes. - Develop skills in laboratory techniques, genetic engineering, and biotechnology. - Learn techniques for molecular cloning, gene expression, and protein analysis. - Explore principles of bioinformatics, genomics, and proteomics. - Analyze challenges and opportunities in molecular biology research and applications. - Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills for scientific research. **Major Outline:** 1. **Introduction to Molecular Biology** - Overview of key concepts and industry trends in molecular biology. - Fundamentals of molecular biology, genetics, and cellular processes. 2. **Cellular Biology** - Principles of cellular biology, including cell structure, function, and metabolism. - Techniques for studying cellular processes and molecular mechanisms. 3. **Genetics** - Fundamentals of genetics, including inheritance, gene expression, and genetic regulation. - Techniques for genetic analysis and manipulation. 4. **Molecular Biology Techniques** - Fundamentals of molecular biology techniques, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing. - Techniques for molecular cloning, gene expression, and protein analysis. 5. **Biotechnology** - Principles of biotechnology, including genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology, and bioprocessing. - Techniques for developing and applying biotechnological solutions. 6. **Bioinformatics** - Understanding and applying bioinformatics tools for genetic and protein analysis. - Techniques for data analysis, genomics, and proteomics. 7. **Research Methods** - Principles of scientific research methods, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis. - Techniques for conducting and presenting molecular biology research. 8. **Practicum in Molecular Biology** - Real-world research experiences, including observations, internships, and hands-on projects in laboratory settings. - Application of learned skills in practical molecular biology research. 9. **Capstone Project in Molecular Biology** - Comprehensive project applying skills in molecular biology techniques, genetic engineering, or bioinformatics. - Delivery of a polished molecular biology research project or case study. **Assessment Methods:** - Research proposals, laboratory reports, genetic analysis projects, molecular biology technique presentations, bioinformatics analyses, practicum reports, capstone projects, group projects, and internship evaluations. **Recommended Textbooks:** - "Molecular Biology of the Cell" by Bruce Alberts et al. - "Genetics: From Genes to Genomes" by Leland Hartwell et al. - "Recombinant DNA: Genes and Genomes" by James D. Watson et al. - "Bioinformatics: Sequence and Genome Analysis" by David W. Mount. - "Biotechnology: Principles and Applications" by Colin Ratledge and Brian Kristiansen. - "Scientific Research Methods" by various authors. **Prerequisites:** Basic knowledge of biology, chemistry, and laboratory techniques. Suitable for students interested in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology, and related fields. **Major Duration:** Typically 4 years for a bachelor's degree, including coursework, projects, practicum, and internships. **Certification:** Graduates may receive a degree in Molecular Biology and pursue further education or professional certifications in related fields, such as a Master's or Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Genetics. **Target Audience:** Aspiring molecular biologists, geneticists, biotechnologists, and individuals seeking careers in molecular biology research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and related fields. This major equips students with the practical, theoretical, and analytical skills needed to excel in molecular biology, supporting careers in research, biotechnology, and related fields.