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M-SC-HUMAN-GENETICS in General at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Chennai?
This M.Sc. Human Genetics program at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research focuses on advanced studies in human genetics, encompassing molecular, cytogenetic, medical, and population genetics. It''''s highly relevant in the Indian healthcare landscape, driven by increasing awareness and demand for genetic diagnosis, counseling, and personalized medicine. The program differentiates itself by integrating strong practical laboratory components with theoretical knowledge, preparing students for real-world applications in clinical and research settings.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for science graduates, particularly those with a B.Sc. in biological sciences, biotechnology, or allied fields, seeking entry into the rapidly expanding domain of human genetics. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for careers in genetic research, diagnostics, or pharmaceuticals. Working professionals in related fields can also upskill, transitioning into specialized genetic roles. A strong foundation in biology and a keen interest in medical applications of genetics are prerequisites for success.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including genetic counselors, clinical geneticists, research scientists in hospitals or biotech firms, and diagnostic lab professionals. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The growth trajectory is steep in India''''s burgeoning healthcare and genomic sequencing industries. The program also aligns with requirements for pursuing further research (PhD) or professional certifications in genetic counseling.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Genetic Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental principles of Mendelian genetics, molecular biology, and cytogenetics. Utilize textbooks, online lectures, and peer study groups. Actively participate in practical sessions to build strong lab skills early on.
Tools & Resources
Standard genetics textbooks, Online courses (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera for biology fundamentals), Lab manuals
Career Connection
A robust foundation is critical for advanced topics and practical application in genetic diagnostics and research, directly impacting placement opportunities in R&D roles.
Develop Strong Laboratory Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond scheduled practicals, volunteer for extra lab work or assist senior researchers. Focus on precision, sterile techniques, and data recording. Master techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and karyotyping, which are industry staples.
Tools & Resources
Departmental labs, Research projects under faculty guidance, Lab protocols
Career Connection
Hands-on expertise is highly valued by diagnostic labs, research institutions, and biotech companies for roles as lab technologists and research assistants.
Engage in Academic Discussions and Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions and departmental seminars. Present research papers or topic reviews. This improves communication skills and critical thinking, essential for understanding complex genetic concepts.
Tools & Resources
Journal clubs, Departmental seminars, Academic conferences
Career Connection
Enhances scientific communication and presentation skills, crucial for roles in research, academic positions, and client-facing roles like genetic counseling.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects/Internships- (Semester 3)
Seek opportunities for short-term research projects within the institute or external internships during breaks. Focus on applying learned concepts to real-world problems in medical or population genetics.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research labs, Biotech companies in Chennai, Diagnostic centers
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances CV, builds a professional network, and provides insights into specific career paths, improving chances for placements and future research endeavors.
Specialize in Bioinformatics & Biostatistics- (Semester 3)
Deepen knowledge in bioinformatics tools and biostatistical analysis, crucial for genomic data interpretation. Take additional workshops or online courses to become proficient in software like R, Python for data analysis, and using genetic databases.
Tools & Resources
Bioinformatics tools (NCBI, Ensembl), Statistical software (R, SPSS), Online courses on data science for biology
Career Connection
High demand for professionals who can analyze large datasets in genomics, proteomics, and drug discovery, opening doors to computational biology and data science roles.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend conferences, workshops, and guest lectures to interact with geneticists, clinicians, and biotech leaders. Build professional relationships that can lead to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
National/International genetics conferences, LinkedIn, Alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering hidden job markets, gaining referrals, and understanding industry trends, significantly boosting placement prospects.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation and Publication- (Semester 4)
Invest significant effort in your final year dissertation, aiming for high-quality research. Seek opportunities to present your findings at conferences or publish in peer-reviewed journals, even as a co-author.
Tools & Resources
University library, Research mentor, Statistical support
Career Connection
A strong dissertation and publication record are highly regarded by prospective employers and for PhD admissions, demonstrating research aptitude and scientific rigor.
Prepare for Career-Specific Certifications- (Semester 4)
Research and prepare for relevant certifications, such as those for genetic counseling (e.g., through Indian Society of Human Genetics) or specific molecular diagnostic techniques, to enhance employability and specialization.
Tools & Resources
Professional body websites, Certification exam study guides, Mock tests
Career Connection
Certifications validate specialized skills and knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate for specific roles in clinical genetics and diagnostics.
Develop Soft Skills for Professional Roles- (Semester 4)
Enhance communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical reasoning. Participate in workshops, group projects, and mock interviews. These ''''soft skills'''' are as crucial as technical expertise for professional success.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Mock interview sessions, Group project leadership
Career Connection
Excellent soft skills are essential for client interaction (genetic counseling), teamwork in research, and leadership roles, significantly improving job interview performance and career progression.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. in any Biological Sciences/Life Sciences/Biotechnology/Genetics/Biochemistry/Microbiology/Zoology/Botany or equivalent with a minimum of 50% marks.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HG G 01 | Human Cytogenetics | Core | 4 | Chromosome Structure, Karyotyping, Banding Techniques, Numerical Chromosomal Aberrations, Structural Chromosomal Aberrations, FISH and Microarrays |
| HG G 02 | Principles of Genetics | Core | 4 | Mendelian Principles, Extensions of Mendelian Principles, Gene Interaction, Linkage and Recombination, Human Pedigree Analysis, Quantitative and Population Genetics |
| HG G 03 | Basic Molecular Biology | Core | 4 | DNA and RNA Structure, DNA Replication, Transcription, Translation, Gene Regulation, Recombinant DNA Technology |
| HG P 01 | Lab I - Human Cytogenetics | Practical | 2 | Cell Culture Techniques, Mitotic Chromosome Preparation, Karyotyping, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), Sister Chromatid Exchange, Micronucleus Assay |
| HG P 02 | Lab II - Molecular Biology | Practical | 2 | DNA and RNA Extraction, Gel Electrophoresis, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Restriction Digestion, Southern Blotting, Cloning Techniques |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HG G 04 | Medical Genetics | Core | 4 | Modes of Inheritance, Genetic Disorders (Mendelian, Multifactorial), Chromosomal Disorders, Mitochondrial Disorders, Genetic Counseling, Prenatal and Postnatal Diagnosis |
| HG G 05 | Advanced Molecular Genetics | Core | 4 | Genomics, Proteomics, Metabolomics, Next-Generation Sequencing, Gene Expression Profiling, Epigenetics, Genome Editing |
| HG G 06 | Population Genetics | Core | 4 | Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium, Factors Changing Gene Frequencies, Genetic Polymorphism, Human Population Structure, Consanguinity, Genetic Epidemiology |
| HG P 03 | Lab III - Biochemical Genetics | Practical | 2 | Protein Electrophoresis, Enzyme Assays, Chromatographic Techniques, Spectrophotometry, Metabolic Screening Tests, Western Blotting |
| HG P 04 | Lab IV - Advanced Molecular Biology | Practical | 2 | Real-time PCR, DNA Sequencing, Microarray Analysis, CRISPR-Cas9 System, Gene Expression Studies, Bioinformatics Tools |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HG G 07 | Cancer Genetics | Core | 4 | Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressor Genes, Cell Cycle Regulation, Molecular Basis of Carcinogenesis, Cancer Susceptibility Syndromes, Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy |
| HG G 08 | Immunogenetics | Core | 4 | Components of Immune System, Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), HLA System, Immunodeficiency Disorders, Autoimmune Diseases, Transplantation Genetics |
| HG G 09 | Developmental Genetics | Core | 4 | Gene Regulation in Development, Genetic Control of Pattern Formation, Cell Differentiation, Organogenesis, Genetic Basis of Congenital Anomalies |
| HG P 05 | Lab V - Genetic Screening & Diagnosis | Practical | 2 | Advanced Karyotyping, FISH Applications, Array CGH, Molecular Diagnostic Techniques, Carrier Screening, Newborn Screening |
| HG G 10 | Biostatistics & Bioinformatics | Core | 4 | Data Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability, Hypothesis Testing, Statistical Software, Bioinformatics Databases, Sequence Alignment, Phylogenetic Analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HG G 11 | Pharmacogenomics | Core | 4 | Drug Metabolism and Transport, Genetic Basis of Drug Response, Personalized Medicine, Pharmacogenetic Biomarkers, Drug Discovery, Clinical Pharmacogenomics |
| HG G 12 | Gene Therapy & Genetic Engineering | Core | 4 | Gene Transfer Methods, Viral and Non-Viral Vectors, Somatic Gene Therapy, Germline Gene Therapy, Ethical Considerations, Therapeutic Applications |
| HG G 13 | Dissertation & Viva Voce | Project | 10 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Experimental Design, Data Interpretation, Scientific Writing, Presentation Skills, Viva Voce |
| HG P 06 | Project Work | Practical | 4 | Hands-on Research Experience, Advanced Lab Techniques, Data Analysis, Troubleshooting, Research Protocol Development, Lab Notebook Maintenance |
