.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-SC in Molecular Medical Microbiology at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Molecular Medical Microbiology at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur Paschim Medinipur?
This Molecular Medical Microbiology program at IIT Kharagpur focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, diagnostics, and therapeutics. In the Indian context, this specialization addresses the critical need for advanced research and skilled professionals to combat infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and develop novel diagnostic and treatment strategies, aligning with national health priorities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated science, engineering, technology, or medical graduates (MBBS) seeking entry into advanced biomedical research. It attracts individuals passionate about combating infectious diseases, developing molecular diagnostic tools, and pursuing careers in academic research, public health, or pharmaceutical R&D in India. A strong foundation in biology and chemistry is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including research scientists in government labs (e.g., ICMR, NCDC), pharmaceutical companies, biotech startups, and clinical diagnostic labs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with significant growth potential. The rigorous training aligns with requirements for scientific leadership roles and further doctoral studies globally.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Core Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on mastering fundamental concepts in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Utilize textbooks, online lectures (NPTEL, Coursera), and peer study groups to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
Essential textbooks (e.g., Brock Biology of Microorganisms, Kuby Immunology), NPTEL courses on relevant subjects, Khan Academy
Career Connection
A robust foundation is critical for advanced courses, research projects, and solving complex problems in medical diagnostics and therapeutics, crucial for R&D roles.
Excel in Lab Techniques- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention during practical sessions, actively seek opportunities for hands-on experience beyond class hours, and maintain meticulous record-keeping. Understand the principles behind each experiment.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Online videos for experimental procedures, Open lab hours (if available), Faculty and senior student mentorship
Career Connection
Proficiency in molecular and microbiological lab techniques is a primary requirement for any role in research, diagnostics, or biotech industries.
Develop Scientific Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in seminars, present assigned topics, and practice clear, concise scientific writing. Engage in journal clubs to critically analyze research papers and articulate findings.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL for academic writing, Presentations software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Toastmasters for public speaking practice, Department journal club
Career Connection
Effective communication is essential for presenting research findings, writing project proposals, and collaborating in any scientific or industry setting.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Early Research Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Seek out opportunities to work on small research projects or assist faculty members in their labs. This builds practical research skills, network with mentors, and identify areas of interest.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research profiles, Department research seminars, Summer internship programs (e.g., SRIP at IITs), Research grants for students
Career Connection
Early research experience strengthens profiles for higher studies (Ph.D) and R&D positions, providing a competitive edge in the job market.
Specialize and Deepen Knowledge- (Semester 5-6)
Identify specific areas within molecular medical microbiology (e.g., virology, drug resistance, diagnostics) that resonate with your interests. Take relevant electives and read advanced literature in those areas.
Tools & Resources
Review articles, Specialized journals, Advanced online courses, Attending workshops or conferences related to your chosen niche
Career Connection
Specialization allows you to become an expert in a particular domain, making you highly valuable for targeted roles in biotech, pharma, or academia.
Network with Industry and Academia- (Semester 5-6)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and conferences. Connect with alumni and professionals on LinkedIn. Participate in inter-collegiate competitions or hackathons related to medical sciences.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional organizations (e.g., Indian Society for Clinical Microbiology), University career fairs, Departmental alumni meetups
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for internships, mentorship, and ultimately, securing placement opportunities and understanding industry trends in India.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact Thesis Project- (Semester 7-10)
Choose a research problem with significant potential for innovation and societal impact. Work diligently on your thesis, aiming for publishable results in reputable journals.
Tools & Resources
Access to state-of-the-art lab facilities, Statistical software (R, Python, SPSS), Scientific writing tools (e.g., Grammarly, LaTeX), Mentorship from thesis advisor
Career Connection
A strong thesis project and publications are paramount for securing post-doctoral positions, research scientist roles, or faculty positions in top institutions.
Develop Grant Writing and Project Management Skills- (Semester 8-10)
Work with your supervisor on grant proposals and learn how to manage research timelines, resources, and budgets. Understand the funding landscape for scientific research in India.
Tools & Resources
Funding agency websites (DBT, DST, ICMR), Project management software (Trello, Asana), Workshops on grant writing
Career Connection
These skills are vital for future independent research careers, leading projects in industry, or becoming a principal investigator in academia.
Prepare for Career Transition- (Semester 9-10)
Actively explore post-Ph.D career options (postdoc, industry R&D, entrepreneurship). Tailor your resume/CV and practice interview skills, including scientific presentations.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Professional networking events, Mock interviews, Online job portals (e.g., Naukri, LinkedIn Jobs), Industry reports
Career Connection
Strategic career planning ensures a smooth transition into desired roles, whether in advanced research, product development, or leadership positions in the Indian biomedical sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any branch of Science/ Engineering/ Technology/ Medicine (MBBS) with at least 55% marks (60% for unreserved categories) or equivalent CGPA/CPI in the qualifying examination.
Duration: 10 semesters (5 years)
Credits: 164 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS20001 | Professional Ethics and Communication | Core | 3 | Ethics and Professionalism, Communication Skills, Technical Report Writing, Scientific Presentations, Intellectual Property Rights |
| ML61001 | General Microbiology and Immunology | Core | 3 | Microbial Diversity and Classification, Bacterial Cell Structure and Function, Microbial Growth and Metabolism, Principles of Immunology, Innate and Adaptive Immunity |
| ML61003 | Biological Chemistry and Biophysics | Core | 3 | Biomolecules Structure and Function, Enzymology and Metabolic Pathways, Bioenergetics and Cellular Respiration, Cellular Organization and Organelles, Membrane Biophysics and Transport |
| ML61005 | Molecular Biology | Core | 3 | DNA Structure and Replication, RNA Transcription and Processing, Protein Translation and Folding, Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes, Genomics and Proteomics Basics |
| ML61007 | Basic Human Physiology and Anatomy | Core | 3 | Organ Systems Overview, Homeostasis and Regulation, Cell and Tissue Biology, Histology, Basic Anatomical Terminology |
| ML69001 | General Microbiology and Immunology Lab | Lab | 5 | Microscopy and Staining Techniques, Sterilization Methods, Microbial Culture and Isolation, Biochemical Tests for Identification, Basic Immunological Assays |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML61002 | Molecular Medical Microbiology | Core | 3 | Bacterial Pathogenesis Mechanisms, Viral Replication and Diseases, Fungal and Parasitic Infections, Antimicrobial Resistance, Host-Pathogen Interactions |
| ML61004 | Molecular Diagnostics and Recombinant DNA Technology | Core | 3 | PCR and its Variants, DNA Sequencing Technologies, Gene Cloning and Expression Systems, Diagnostic Kit Development, CRISPR/Cas Systems |
| ML61006 | Biostatistics and Bioinformatics | Core | 3 | Probability and Statistical Inference, Hypothesis Testing and Regression, Sequence Alignment Algorithms, Phylogenetic Analysis, Genomic and Proteomic Data Analysis |
| ML61008 | Cell and Tissue Engineering | Core | 3 | Mammalian Cell Culture Techniques, Stem Cell Biology, Biomaterials in Tissue Engineering, Organogenesis and Regeneration, Applications in Disease Modeling |
| ML61010 | Principles of Epidemiology | Core | 3 | Measures of Disease Occurrence, Study Designs, Bias and Confounding, Outbreak Investigation, Public Health Interventions |
| ML69002 | Molecular Medical Microbiology Lab | Lab | 5 | Pathogen Isolation and Identification, Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing, Molecular Detection of Pathogens, Gene Cloning Experiments, Recombinant Protein Expression |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML61009 | Medical Instrumentation and Imaging | Core | 3 | Biosensors and Bio-instrumentation, Optical and Electron Microscopy, X-ray Imaging and CT, MRI and Ultrasound Imaging, Nuclear Medicine Imaging |
| ML61011 | Advanced Virology | Core | 3 | Viral Replication Strategies, Antiviral Therapies, Vaccine Development for Viral Diseases, Emerging Viral Pathogens, Viral Immunology |
| ML61013 | Advanced Parasitology and Mycology | Core | 3 | Major Protozoan Pathogens, Helminth Infections and Control, Fungal Pathogenesis and Diagnostics, Antifungal Drug Mechanisms, Parasitic and Fungal Immunology |
| ML61015 | Drug Discovery and Development | Core | 3 | Target Identification and Validation, High-Throughput Screening, Pre-clinical Drug Development, Clinical Trials Phases, Regulatory Affairs and IP |
| ML61017 | Genetic Engineering and Gene Therapy | Core | 3 | Recombinant DNA Technologies, Gene Editing Tools, Viral and Non-viral Gene Delivery, Gene Therapy Strategies, Ethical Aspects of Genetic Engineering |
| ML69003 | Advanced Molecular Biology Lab | Lab | 5 | Quantitative PCR, Gene Expression Analysis, Protein Purification and Analysis, Cell-based Assays, Confocal Microscopy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML61012 | Infectious Disease Modelling | Core | 3 | Mathematical Models of Epidemics, SIR Models and Extensions, Parameter Estimation, Impact of Interventions, Predictive Epidemiology |
| ML61014 | Vaccines and Immunotherapy | Core | 3 | Types of Vaccines, Vaccine Adjuvants, Immunotherapy for Cancer, Monoclonal Antibodies, Autoimmune Diseases Treatment |
| ML61016 | Bio-entrepreneurship and IPR | Core | 3 | Startup Ecosystem in Biotech, Business Plan Development, Intellectual Property Rights, Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, Technology Transfer and Licensing |
| ML61018 | Environmental Microbiology | Core | 3 | Microbial Ecology of Various Environments, Bioremediation of Pollutants, Waste Water Treatment, Microbes in Biogeochemical Cycles, Biofuel Production |
| ML61020 | Biosafety and Biosecurity | Core | 3 | Risk Assessment in Laboratories, Biosafety Levels (BSL), Containment Practices, Biodefense and Bioterrorism, Dual-Use Research of Concern |
| ML69004 | Molecular Diagnostics and Gene Technology Lab | Lab | 5 | Clinical Sample Processing, Advanced PCR Applications, Gene Expression Profiling, CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing Practical, Diagnostic Assay Validation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML70001 | Recent Advances in Medical Microbiology | Core | 3 | Human Microbiome Research, Next-Generation Sequencing Applications, Emerging Antimicrobial Resistance Mechanisms, One Health Approach, Personalized Medicine in Infectious Diseases |
| ML70003 | Seminar & Journal Club I | Core | 3 | Scientific Article Review, Presentation Skills, Critical Analysis of Research, Peer Discussion, Ethics in Scientific Publishing |
| ML70005 | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML70007 | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML79001 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Comprehensive | 5 | Overall Subject Knowledge, Research Aptitude, Problem-Solving Abilities, Communication Skills, Critical Thinking |
| ML79003 | Research Project I | Project | 3 | Research Question Formulation, Literature Survey, Experimental Design, Methodology Development, Data Collection Planning |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML70002 | Immunotechnology and Molecular Immunology | Core | 3 | Antibody Engineering, Immunodiagnostic Techniques (ELISA, Western Blot), Flow Cytometry, Immune Cell Culture, Autoimmunity and Immunodeficiencies |
| ML70004 | Seminar & Journal Club II | Core | 3 | Advanced Scientific Presentations, Research Dissemination Strategies, Grant Proposal Writing Basics, Ethical Conduct in Research, Emerging Research Trends |
| ML70006 | Elective III | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML70008 | Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML79002 | Research Project II | Project | 5 | Experimental Execution, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Scientific Report Writing, Troubleshooting Research Issues, Preliminary Results Presentation |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML80001 | Research Project | Project | 6 | Advanced Research Methodology, In-depth Data Collection, Experimental Validation, Literature Review Updates, Progress Reporting |
| ML90001 | Thesis Work | Project/Research | 8 | Independent Research Execution, Detailed Data Analysis, Chapter Writing for Thesis, Scientific Manuscript Preparation, Innovation and Originality in Research |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML80001 | Research Project | Project | 6 | Project Implementation, Advanced Data Interpretation, Result Validation and Refinement, Scientific Writing for Publications, Collaborative Research Aspects |
| ML90001 | Thesis Work | Project/Research | 8 | Thesis Chapter Refinement, Publication Strategy, Peer Feedback Integration, Experimental Validation, Conference Presentation Preparation |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML90001 | Thesis Work | Project/Research | 8 | Final Thesis Compilation, Data Synthesis and Cohesion, Scholarly Argumentation Development, Thesis Defense Preparation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| ML90003 | Elective V | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML90005 | Elective VI | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML90001 | Thesis Work | Project/Research | 8 | Thesis Submission and Review, Pre-Viva Voce Preparation, Addressing Reviewer Comments, Intellectual Property Disclosures, Post-Graduation Career Planning |
| ML90002 | Elective VII | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML90004 | Elective VIII | Elective | 3 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective |
| ML99001 | PhD Thesis Viva-Voce | Comprehensive | 5 | Thesis Defense Presentation, Defense of Research Findings, Answering Examiner Questions, Demonstrating Research Impact, Discussion on Future Research Directions |
