PG programme in genomics at MKU

Each year, 15 students are admitted to this course which is supported by the University Grants Commission. Forty per cent of the seats are allotted to candidates from States other than Tamil Nadu.

Selection for admission is based on an entrance test to be conducted on March 6 at eight centres in the country: Chennai, Madurai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi and Thiruvananthapuram.

The course which has an orientation towards basic and applied research in genomic sciences provides an opportunity to talented students who have an ambition of becoming scientists of international standards, says P. Gunasekaran, coordinator, Genomics Programme, School of Biological Sciences, MKU.

Students joining the course would be taught fundamental subjects during the first semester and specialised subjects during the subsequent semesters. In the final semester, students will have to carry out a research project work in the area of genomic sciences.

According to Dr. Gunasekaran, the course is framed to render a balanced teaching in theoretical, practical and computational aspects.

Molecular biology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, cell biology, computational biology and immunology are the basic subjects offered in the first and second semesters. The third semester covers bioinformatics, microbial genomics, human genomics, proteomics, plant genomics, structural biology and neuro-genetics.

Candidates who studied B.Sc. in any branch of life sciences (botany, zoology, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics or equivalent), B.Sc. in physics or chemistry, and those who studied medicine, veterinary and agriculture can apply.

Students with B.Tech. degree in biotechnology /computer science /information technology /bioinformatics with biology at Plus Two level can also join the course.

Application form, prospectus and fee details can be downloaded from websites www.mkuniversity.org, www.genomicsmku.org and www.nrcbsmku.org.

The last date for receipt of applications is February 8 and the date of entrance test is March 6.

Shortlisted candidates will be called for seminar/interview which will be held in Madurai and selection is based on merit/State government reservation policy.