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B-SC-ALLIED-HEALTH-SCIENCES-HONS in Medical Microbiology Applied Molecular Biology at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Medical Microbiology & Applied Molecular Biology at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Chennai?
This Medical Microbiology & Applied Molecular Biology program at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in identifying, characterizing, and combating microbial pathogens. It delves into the molecular mechanisms of disease, diagnostic techniques, and therapeutic interventions, preparing graduates for cutting-edge roles in India''''s rapidly growing healthcare and biotechnology sectors. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and hands-on laboratory experience.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for science graduates, particularly those with a background in biology, chemistry, or biotechnology, seeking entry into clinical microbiology labs, research institutions, and pharmaceutical industries. It also suits working professionals in allied health seeking to specialize in molecular diagnostics or infectious disease research, and career changers aiming for a demanding yet rewarding field focused on public health and medical innovation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as clinical microbiologists, molecular diagnosticians, research associates, infection control officers, and quality control specialists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA in top hospitals, diagnostic chains, and biotech firms. Opportunities for advanced studies or professional certifications in public health or clinical laboratory science further enhance growth trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Biological Sciences- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on core subjects like Human Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and General Microbiology. Utilize visual aids, diagrams, and cadaveric/specimen viewing sessions (if available) to build a strong conceptual understanding of the human body and microbial world. Join peer study groups to clarify doubts and reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Anatomy atlases, Physiology textbooks, Microbiology lab manuals, Online medical education platforms (e.g., NPTEL), Institutional library resources
Career Connection
A robust foundation is critical for advanced specialization and ensures proficiency in basic diagnostic procedures, essential for any clinical or research role.
Develop Robust Laboratory Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention during practical sessions for Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and General Microbiology. Practice microscopy, staining, culture techniques, and basic biochemical tests diligently. Maintain detailed lab records and understand the principles behind each experiment, not just the procedure.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Virtual lab simulations (if provided), YouTube tutorials for specific lab techniques, Guidance from lab instructors
Career Connection
Proficiency in fundamental lab techniques is non-negotiable for future roles in clinical diagnostics, research, and quality control, forming the backbone of practical expertise.
Enhance Communication & Analytical Abilities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in English communication classes, focusing on technical writing, presentation skills, and scientific communication. Engage with Biostatistics by understanding data interpretation and basic research methodology. This builds critical thinking and the ability to articulate scientific findings clearly.
Tools & Resources
English language apps, Biostatistics software tutorials (e.g., basic Excel for data analysis), Academic writing guides, Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Strong communication and analytical skills are vital for scientific reporting, presenting research findings, and collaborating effectively in multidisciplinary healthcare teams, paving the way for leadership roles.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Core Microbiology & Molecular Techniques- (Semester 3-5)
Deep dive into Bacteriology, Virology, Mycology, Parasitology, and Molecular Biology. Focus on understanding pathogen mechanisms, diagnostic protocols, and molecular tools like PCR and electrophoresis. Seek opportunities for extra lab time to perfect these specialized techniques beyond regular class hours.
Tools & Resources
Specialized microbiology and molecular biology textbooks, Journal articles, Online courses on specific techniques (e.g., Coursera for molecular diagnostics), Departmental research projects
Career Connection
Mastery of these subjects and techniques directly leads to roles in clinical diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical R&D, and public health surveillance, which are high-demand areas in India.
Seek Early Industry Exposure & Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively search for short-term internships or shadowing opportunities in clinical labs, hospitals, or biotechnology companies during semester breaks. Engage in industry workshops or seminars to understand real-world applications of your studies and network with professionals.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), Industry conferences, Alumni network
Career Connection
Early exposure helps solidify career interests, builds a professional network, and provides practical experience that significantly boosts resume value for placements in competitive Indian industries.
Develop Research Aptitude & Bioinformatics Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively engage in minor research projects or review assignments related to your specialization. Learn to use bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis, database searching, and phylogenetic studies. Understand the principles of research methodology and biostatistics for data interpretation.
Tools & Resources
NCBI databases, BLAST, EMBOSS, R/Python for basic bioinformatics (online tutorials), Institutional research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
A strong research foundation and bioinformatics skills are crucial for roles in R&D, academia, and specialized diagnostic areas, highly valued by Indian biotech firms and research institutes.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Clinical & Applied Aspects- (Semester 6-8)
Intensively study Clinical Microbiology, Diagnostic Molecular Biology, and Pharmaceutical Microbiology. Understand the clinical relevance of lab results, quality management systems, and regulatory aspects in Indian healthcare settings. Shadow senior lab professionals to observe diagnostic workflows.
Tools & Resources
Clinical microbiology guidelines (e.g., ICMR guidelines), NABL accreditation standards, Pharmaceutical microbiology handbooks, Case studies from Indian hospitals
Career Connection
Direct relevance to roles in hospital microbiology labs, diagnostic chains, and pharmaceutical quality control departments, ensuring immediate employability and impact in the Indian healthcare system.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Internship- (Semester 7-8)
Dedicate significant effort to the 7th and 8th-semester project work and internship. Choose a topic that aligns with your career goals (e.g., antimicrobial resistance, novel diagnostic method). Work diligently on data collection, analysis, scientific writing, and presentation. The internship provides practical, immersive experience.
Tools & Resources
Institutional research labs, Project supervisors, Statistical software (SPSS/R), Academic writing software, Industry partners for internship
Career Connection
A strong project and internship are paramount for placements, demonstrating independent research capability, problem-solving skills, and practical experience highly sought after by Indian employers.
Prepare for Career & Professional Development- (Semester 7-8)
Actively participate in placement cell activities, resume building workshops, and mock interviews. Explore advanced certifications relevant to clinical lab science or molecular diagnostics. Network with alumni and industry leaders, and consider pursuing higher education or specialized training for niche roles.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online certification platforms (e.g., NPTEL, skill-based certifications), LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Association of Medical Microbiologists)
Career Connection
Strategic career planning, professional networking, and skill enhancement are key to securing competitive job offers in India''''s dynamic healthcare and biotechnology landscape, ensuring long-term career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in HSC / (+2) with English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology / Botany & Zoology with minimum 35% marks in each subject.
Duration: 4 Academic Years (8 Semesters) including 6 months internship
Credits: 205 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSB101 | Human Anatomy | Core | 3 | Introduction to Human Body, Regional Anatomy, Systemic Anatomy, Histology Basics, Embryology Basics |
| HSB102 | Human Physiology | Core | 3 | Cells & Tissues, Blood & Body Fluids, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System, Nervous System, Endocrine System |
| HSB103 | Biochemistry | Core | 3 | Biomolecules, Metabolism, Enzymes, Clinical Biochemistry, Acid-Base Balance |
| HSB104 | Basic Physics (Allied) | Core | 3 | Mechanics, Heat and Thermodynamics, Light and Optics, Electricity and Magnetism, Atomic and Nuclear Physics |
| HSB105 | Basic Computers (Allied) | Core | 3 | Computer Fundamentals, Operating Systems, MS Office Applications, Internet and Web Technologies, Data Security and Privacy |
| HSB106 | Communication Skills in English | Core | 3 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills (Reports, Emails), Oral Communication (Presentations), Interpersonal Skills |
| HSB107 | Human Anatomy Practical | Lab | 2 | Identification of bones, Study of human organs, Histology slide identification, Surface anatomy, Regional dissection overview |
| HSB108 | Human Physiology Practical | Lab | 2 | Blood tests and analysis, Cardiovascular system examinations, Respiratory function tests, Nerve and muscle physiology, Urinalysis |
| HSB109 | Biochemistry Practical | Lab | 2 | Qualitative tests for biomolecules, Quantitative estimation methods, Enzyme activity assays, Chromatography techniques, Spectrophotometry applications |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSB201 | General Microbiology | Core | 3 | History of Microbiology, Microbial Taxonomy, Microbial Growth & Nutrition, Sterilization & Disinfection, Antimicrobial Agents |
| HSB202 | Pathology | Core | 3 | Cell Injury and Adaptation, Inflammation and Repair, Hemodynamic Disorders, Neoplasia (Tumors), Genetic and Immunological Diseases |
| HSB203 | Pharmacology | Core | 3 | General Principles of Pharmacology, Autonomic Nervous System Drugs, Cardiovascular Drugs, Antimicrobial Agents, Central Nervous System Drugs |
| HSB204 | Biostatistics | Core | 3 | Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency, Probability and Distributions, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression |
| HSB205 | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Waste Management, Climate Change Impacts, Environmental Ethics and Policies |
| HSB206 | Ethics & Professionalism | Core | 3 | Medical Ethics Principles, Professional Conduct and Values, Patient Rights and Confidentiality, Informed Consent, Ethical Dilemmas in Healthcare |
| HSB207 | General Microbiology Practical | Lab | 2 | Microscopy and Staining Techniques, Culture Media Preparation, Sterilization Methods, Isolation and Cultivation of Microbes, Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing |
| HSB208 | Pathology Practical | Lab | 2 | Gross Pathology Specimen Study, Histopathology Slide Examination, Cytological Smear Preparation, Basic Hematology Techniques, Clinical Correlation of Pathological Changes |
| HSB209 | Pharmacology Practical | Lab | 2 | Drug Dosage Calculations, Routes of Drug Administration, Effects of Drugs on Systems, Adverse Drug Reactions, Drug Dispensing and Labeling |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMB301 | General Bacteriology & Immunology | Core | 3 | Bacterial Morphology and Structure, Bacterial Physiology and Genetics, Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Antigen-Antibody Reactions, Immunological Techniques |
| MMB302 | Systemic Bacteriology I | Core | 3 | Staphylococci and Streptococci, Enterobacteriaceae (E.coli, Salmonella), Vibrio and Pseudomonas, Neisseria and Haemophilus, Anaerobic Bacteria |
| MMB303 | Virology | Core | 3 | Viral Structure and Classification, Viral Replication Cycles, Antiviral Agents, Bacteriophages, Oncogenic Viruses |
| MMB304 | Mycology & Parasitology | Core | 3 | Fungal Morphology and Pathogenesis, Antifungal Agents, Protozoan Parasites, Helminthic Parasites, Arthropods as Vectors |
| MMB305 | Cell Biology | Core | 3 | Cell Structure and Organelles, Cell Division and Cell Cycle, Cell Signaling Mechanisms, Apoptosis and Necrosis, Cancer Biology Basics |
| MMB306 | Bioinstrumentation | Core | 3 | pH Meters and Balances, Centrifugation Techniques, Chromatography Methods, Electrophoresis Principles, Spectrophotometry and Microscopy |
| MMB307 | General Bacteriology & Immunology Practical | Lab | 2 | Microbial Culture Techniques, Biochemical Identification Tests, Serological Diagnostic Assays, Immunodiffusion and Agglutination, Microscopic Examination of Bacteria |
| MMB308 | Systemic Bacteriology I Practical | Lab | 2 | Isolation of Pathogenic Bacteria, Identification of Gram-Positive Cocci, Identification of Enterobacteriaceae, Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing, Special Culture Methods |
| MMB309 | Virology, Mycology & Parasitology Practical | Lab | 2 | Viral Diagnostics (e.g., ELISA), Fungal Staining and Culture, Identification of Protozoa, Identification of Helminths, Microscopic Examination of Specimens |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMB401 | Systemic Bacteriology II | Core | 3 | Mycobacterium and Actinomycetes, Clostridium and Bacillus, Spirochetes (Treponema, Leptospira), Rickettsia, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Non-fermentative Gram-Negative Bacilli |
| MMB402 | Molecular Biology | Core | 3 | DNA Structure and Replication, Transcription and RNA Processing, Translation and Protein Synthesis, Gene Regulation Mechanisms, Mutations and DNA Repair |
| MMB403 | Medical Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Recombinant DNA Technology, Genetic Engineering Applications, Immunodiagnostics, Vaccine Development, Biopharmaceuticals |
| MMB404 | Diagnostic Microbiology | Core | 3 | Specimen Collection and Transport, Laboratory Safety and Biowaste Management, Quality Control in Microbiology, Automated Diagnostic Systems, Rapid Diagnostic Methods |
| MMB405 | Recombinant DNA Technology | Core | 3 | Cloning Vectors and Restriction Enzymes, Gene Cloning and Libraries, PCR and its Variants, DNA Sequencing Technologies, Gene Expression and Protein Engineering |
| MMB406 | Medical Genetics | Core | 3 | Mendelian Inheritance Patterns, Chromosomal Abnormalities, Single Gene Disorders, Polygenic and Multifactorial Inheritance, Genetic Counseling and Screening |
| MMB407 | Systemic Bacteriology II Practical | Lab | 2 | Isolation of Anaerobes, Identification of Mycobacterium, Special Stains for Bacteria, Serological Tests for Bacterial Infections, Drug Resistance Testing |
| MMB408 | Molecular Biology Practical | Lab | 2 | DNA and RNA Isolation, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Restriction Digestion, Southern/Northern Blotting Principles |
| MMB409 | Medical Biotechnology Practical | Lab | 2 | ELISA Technique, Western Blotting, Immunofluorescence Assays, Mammalian Cell Culture, Gene Transfer Methods |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMB501 | Clinical Microbiology | Core | 3 | Infections of Respiratory System, Gastrointestinal Infections, Urinary Tract Infections, Hospital Acquired Infections (HAIs), Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance |
| MMB502 | Food & Water Microbiology | Core | 3 | Microorganisms in Food, Food Spoilage and Preservation, Foodborne Pathogens, Microbiology of Drinking Water, Water Purification and Quality Standards |
| MMB503 | Industrial Microbiology | Core | 3 | Fermentation Technology, Production of Microbial Products, Bioreactor Design and Operation, Downstream Processing, Quality Control in Industry |
| MMB504 | Bioinformatics & Computational Biology | Core | 3 | Biological Databases (NCBI, EMBL), Sequence Alignment Algorithms, Phylogenetic Analysis, Protein Structure Prediction, Drug Discovery using Bioinformatics |
| MMB505 | Immunogenetics | Core | 3 | Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), HLA Typing and Matching, Transplant Immunology, Autoimmune Diseases, Immunodeficiency Disorders |
| MMB506 | Research Methodology & Biostatistics | Core | 3 | Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Tests and Interpretation, Scientific Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MMB507 | Clinical Microbiology Practical | Lab | 2 | Isolation from Clinical Specimens, Identification of Clinical Isolates, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Serodiagnostic Tests for Infections, Interpretation of Clinical Lab Results |
| MMB508 | Food & Water Microbiology Practical | Lab | 2 | Microbial Enumeration in Food, MPN Test for Coliforms, Detection of Foodborne Pathogens, Water Potability Testing, Hygienic Assessment of Food Samples |
| MMB509 | Industrial Microbiology Practical | Lab | 2 | Fermentation Process Setup, Production of Bio-products, Sterility Testing of Products, Microbial Assay of Antibiotics, Quality Control in Industrial Settings |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMB601 | Diagnostic Molecular Biology | Core | 3 | Molecular Methods for Pathogen Detection, Diagnosis of Genetic Diseases, Biomarkers in Diagnostics, Personalized Medicine Concepts, Forensic DNA Analysis |
| MMB602 | Pharmaceutical Microbiology | Core | 3 | Microbiological Control of Pharmaceuticals, Sterility Testing of Products, Microbial Limit Tests, Preservatives in Pharmaceuticals, Disinfectants and Antiseptics |
| MMB603 | Applied Virology | Core | 3 | Viral Vaccines Development, Antiviral Drug Discovery, Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy, Emerging and Re-emerging Viral Infections, Public Health Virology |
| MMB604 | Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine | Core | 3 | Types and Properties of Stem Cells, Pluripotency and Differentiation, Stem Cell Niche, Therapeutic Applications of Stem Cells, Ethical Issues in Stem Cell Research |
| MMB605 | Immunotechnology | Core | 3 | Hybridoma Technology and Monoclonal Antibodies, Flow Cytometry Applications, Immunochromatographic Assays, Biosensors in Immunology, Immunotherapies |
| MMB606 | Nano Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Nanomaterials and Nanoparticles, Nanomedicine and Diagnostics, Drug Delivery Systems, Biosensing with Nanomaterials, Ethical Aspects of Nanotechnology |
| MMB607 | Diagnostic Molecular Biology Practical | Lab | 2 | Real-time PCR for Quantification, DNA Fingerprinting Techniques, Microarray Analysis Principles, Genotyping Methods, CRISPR-Cas System Basics |
| MMB608 | Pharmaceutical Microbiology Practical | Lab | 2 | Sterility Testing of Pharmaceutical Products, Microbial Limit Tests, Assay of Antibiotics, Antimicrobial Preservative Efficacy Testing, Disinfectant Efficacy Testing |
| MMB609 | Applied Virology Practical | Lab | 2 | Viral Cell Culture Techniques, Viral Titration Methods, Neutralization Assays, Antiviral Susceptibility Testing, Serological Tests for Viral Infections |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMB701 | Bioentrepreneurship & IPR | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship, Business Plan Development, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Patents, Trademarks, Copyrights, Biotech Startup Ecosystem in India |
| MMB702 | Quality Management in Lab | Core | 3 | Quality Assurance Principles, Quality Control Programs, Laboratory Accreditation (NABL), Documentation and Audits, Risk Management in Laboratories |
| MMB703 | Elective - I | Elective | 3 | |
| MMB704 | Elective - II | Elective | 3 | |
| MMB705 | Project Work (Phase I) | Project | 3 | Literature Review, Problem Identification, Research Question Formulation, Methodology Design, Data Collection Planning |
| MMB706 | Bioentrepreneurship & IPR Practical | Lab | 2 | Case Study Analysis, Business Model Canvas Development, Patent Search and Filing, IPR Landscape Analysis, Market Research |
| MMB707 | Quality Management in Lab Practical | Lab | 2 | Internal Quality Control (IQC) Implementation, External Quality Assurance (EQA) Participation, Instrument Calibration and Maintenance, SOP Development, Audit Preparation |
| MMB708 | Elective - I Practical | Lab | 2 | |
| MMB709 | Elective - II Practical | Lab | 2 |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMB801 | Internship | Project | 25 | Clinical Laboratory Exposure, Hands-on Diagnostic Techniques, Infection Control Practices, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Professional Report Writing |
| MMB802 | Project Work (Phase II) | Project | 10 | Experimental Data Analysis, Result Interpretation, Scientific Manuscript Preparation, Project Presentation, Thesis Submission |
