Doctor of Biomedical Science

The PhD program is prepared in line with Vision 2030 of the government and to fulfill the human capital needs of the healthcare transformation of the country. The Ph.D. in biomedical sciences program aims to prepare individuals for successful careers in research, academia, and industry by providing a strong foundation in biomedical science principles and applications. On completing the Ph.D. program, graduate students will have developed their critical thinking and problem-solving skills with specific application to biomedical sciences issues and opportunities of interest to the Kingdom. The program will also produce graduates who will be able to participate in and lead research teams in conducting effective biomedical research laboratory practice, and biotechnology projects.

Classes

DBS 701: Scientific Communication

Scientific Communication is a specialized course designed for doctoral students in the Biomedical Sciences program. The course focuses on the principles and practices of effective scientific communication, including writing scientific papers, grant proposals, and technical documents, presenting scientific data, and communicating scientific concepts to a non-scientific audience. The course also delves into ethical issues related to scientific publishing and communication.

DBS 702: Special Topics I: Emerging Trends in Molecular Biology

This course is designed to explore the latest research, methodologies, and concepts in molecular biology. It allows students to engage with emerging fields and cutting-edge technology in molecular biology, fostering an environment of innovative thinking and discovery.

DBS 703: Special Topics II: Emerging Trends in Cell Biology

Special Topics II focuses on the current and emerging trends in cell biology. This course will delve into advanced research themes and novel experimental approaches, fostering an environment of in-depth understanding and discovery in cell biology.

DBS 704: Advanced Biochemistry

Advanced Biochemistry is a PhD level course tailored for students enrolled in the Biomedical Sciences PhD program. The course builds upon the foundational principles of biochemistry and expands into detailed explorations of complex biochemical processes and phenomena that are central to the understanding of human health and disease. The curriculum will touch upon a variety of key biochemical topics such as molecular biology, enzymology, metabolic pathways, and bioenergetics, all in the context of their biomedical applications

DBS 705: Advanced Methods in Molecular and Cellular Biology

Advanced Methods in Molecular and Cellular Biology offers a deep dive into the cutting-edge methodologies employed in contemporary biomedical research. This course will equip students with comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in a broad range of techniques used in molecular and cellular biology, from genome editing and single cell sequencing to high-resolution microscopy and bioinformatics. The integration of these advanced methods with explorations of current research challenges will facilitate a sophisticated understanding of how technical innovation drives scientific discovery.

DBS 706: Advanced Molecular Biology

Advanced Molecular Biology is a specialized course designed for PhD students in the Biomedical Sciences program. It offers an in-depth exploration of the principles and methods of molecular biology with a focus on their application in the biomedical field. Students will delve into the molecular mechanisms governing cell function, gene expression, and genomics, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how these processes impact human health and disease.

DBS 707: Signal Transduction I

Signal Transduction explores the fundamental principles of cellular signalling mechanisms, emphasizing the recognition of signals by cellular receptors, the transduction of these signals into cellular responses, and their implications for cellular function. Students will delve into the underlying biochemical pathways, molecular interactions, and cellular processes involved in signal transduction.

DBS 708: Signal Transduction II

Building upon Signal Transduction I, this course delves deeper into the complexities of cellular signaling networks and their roles in human health and disease. Students will explore advanced topics, including cross-talk between signaling pathways, signal integration, and the use of transduction pathways in therapeutic interventions

DBS 709: Advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies

This course delves deep into the forefront of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), providing a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles, latest advancements, and ethical considerations in this fast-evolving field. The course offers a robust platform for exploring a variety of techniques such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and more. Students will critically analyze the science underlying ART, including genetics, embryology, reproductive biology, and the clinical application of these technologies

DBS 710: Advanced Transfusion Medicine and Immunohematology

This course is designed for advanced PhD students in the Biomedical Sciences program and delves deep into the fields of transfusion medicine and immunohematology. It provides comprehensive knowledge on blood banking, donor compatibility, blood group systems, and the immunological responses related to transfusion. The course also covers the challenges, ethical considerations, and latest advances in the field.

DBS 711: Advanced Clinical Anatomy

The Advanced Clinical Anatomy course is a highly specialized, in-depth offering for PhD candidates in Biomedical Science. It is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of human anatomy applicable to clinical practice, research, and teaching. The course integrates advanced theoretical concepts and cutting-edge techniques in the discipline of clinical anatomy. Students will explore macro- and micro-anatomical structures, focusing on functional relationships in the human body, with an emphasis on clinical disorders and diseases. Topics include neuroanatomy, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and reproductive systems. Throughout the course, students will engage with case-based learning scenarios, critically evaluate scientific literature, and discuss clinical implications of their findings. The course will capitalize on innovative teaching methods, including 3D imaging technologies, virtual dissection, and functional simulation models. By the end of the program, candidates will have gained the skills to conduct independent research and contribute to advancements in biomedical concepts within the field of clinical anatomy.

DBS 712: Advances in Biotechnology

The core objective of this course is to foster a thorough understanding of advanced biotechnological concepts and methods, develop students' ability to apply these principles in innovative biomedical research, and imbibe ethical and professional values imperative to their roles as future scientists and leaders.

DBS 713: Advances in Nanomedicine

Advanced Nanomedicine is a highly specialized course tailored for doctoral students. The course explores the burgeoning field of nanomedicine, delving into the application of nanotechnology in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. From nanoparticle drug delivery systems to nanoscale diagnostics and regenerative medicine, students will learn about the transformative potential and challenges of nanomedicine.

DBS 714: Genomics and Transcriptomics

Genomics and Transcriptomics is an advanced course tailored for doctoral students in the Biomedical Sciences program. The course covers the principles, technologies, and applications of genomics and transcriptomics, two central pillars of modern molecular biology. Students will gain knowledge of how DNA and RNA analyses can illuminate complex biological systems and contribute to disease understanding and precision medicine.

DBS 715: Sequencing Technologies

Sequencing Technologies is a specialized course tailored for doctoral students in the Biomedical Sciences program. This course delves into the principles, methodologies, and applications of various sequencing technologies including Sanger sequencing, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and Third Generation Sequencing (TGS). Students will comprehend the technological advances and challenges in sequencing, its applications in genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and their impact on biomedical research

DBS 717: Cancer Biology II

Cancer Biology II, the second part of the two-course series, delves further into the complexities of cancer biology. The course focuses on the immunological aspects of cancer, tumor heterogeneity, therapeutic strategies, and recent advances in cancer treatment including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and personalized medicine.

DBS 718: Immunology and Transplant biology

Immunology and Transplant Biology is a specialized course for doctoral students in the Biomedical Sciences program. This course delves into the fundamental principles and latest advancements in immunology and transplant biology, with a focus on immune responses, transplant immunology, immunosuppression, and graft rejection. The course also discusses the ethical, legal, and social implications of organ transplantation.

DBS 719: Proteomics and Metabolomics

Proteomics and Metabolomics is an advanced course tailored specifically for doctoral students in the Biomedical Sciences program. This course delves deep into the principles, techniques, and applications of proteomics and metabolomics, two key pillars of systems biology. Students will gain profound knowledge of how protein and metabolite analyses can unravel complex biological phenomena and contribute to precision medicine and disease understanding.

DBS 720: Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is a comprehensive course designed specifically for doctoral students in the Biomedical Sciences program. This course covers the principles, methodologies, and applications of bioinformatics, which forms the backbone of contemporary biomedical research. Students will learn how to analyze and interpret high-throughput biological data, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data, and understand how these analyses contribute to disease understanding and precision medicine.

DBS 721: Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine

This rigorous and cutting-edge course provides an advanced exploration of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Students will delve into the intricate biology of different types of stem cells, their roles in tissue homeostasis, the mechanisms governing their pluripotency and differentiation, and their potential in regenerative therapies. The course will also explore the latest techniques in stem cell manipulation and genomic editing, alongside a critical examination of the ethical, legal, and social implications of stem cell research.

DBS 722: Seminar

The Seminar course in the PhD program in Biomedical Sciences offers an intellectually stimulating and collaborative learning environment for advanced graduate students. This course aims to cultivate critical thinking, research presentation, and communication skills essential for successful scholars in the biomedical sciences. Through interactive seminars, students engage in in-depth discussions of cutting-edge research topics, emerging methodologies, and interdisciplinary advancements in the field. Emphasizing student-driven participation, the course promotes knowledge exchange, fosters interdisciplinary connections, and encourages the exploration of novel research directions. Students will enhance their ability to critically analyze scientific literature, constructively critique research presentations, and articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences

DBS 723: Advanced Clinical Chemistry

This course provides an in-depth study of the qualitative and quantitative measurement of biochemical constituents in body fluids and their implications in disease. Topics covered include the examination of the liver and biliary system, enzymology, endocrinology, toxicology, and specialized testing. There is an emphasis on human health and disease, methodologies, theory, and utilization of biochemical instrumentation, including photometry, electrochemical, and electrophoresis, along with the introduction of new clinical tests in clinical chemistry. Through this course, students will gain comprehensive knowledge essential for clinical chemistry analysis and its significance in healthcare settings.

DBS 724: Advanced Biostatistics

This course is designed for PhD students in Biomedical Sciences who have a strong foundation in statistics and are seeking to advance their statistical skills in order to conduct rigorous and meaningful research. The course will cover advanced statistical methods commonly used in biomedical research, with an emphasis on applications in clinical trials, epidemiology, and observational studies.

DBS 800 A: Dissertation A

Students completing a PhD degree are expected to write a report, referred to as a Dissertation, on the results of an original investigation, in conjunction with an advisory Committee. Length and style of the thesis vary by college/department. All these are filed with the Office of Graduate Studies. An Advisory Committee will be formed for each student. The Chair of the Committee must have research and graduate student advising experience. This Committee will assist the student in the formulation of the Dissertation Proposal, and later advise the student in the execution of the research, the dissertation write-up, and help the student to prepare for the oral defense.

DBS 800 B: Dissertation B

Students completing a PhD degree are expected to write a report, referred to as a Dissertation, on the results of an original investigation, in conjunction with an Advisory Committee. Length and style of the dissertation vary by college/department. All these are filed with the Office of Graduate Studies. An Advisory Committee will be formed for each student. The Chair of the Committee must have research and graduate student advising experience. This Committee will assist the student in the formulation of the Dissertation Proposal, and later advise the student in the execution of the research, the dissertation write-up, and help the student to prepare for the oral defense.

DBS 800 C: Dissertation C

Students completing a PhD degree are expected to write a report, referred to as a Dissertation, on the results of an original investigation, in conjunction with an Advisory Committee. Length and style of the dissertation vary by college/department. All these are filed with the Office of Graduate Studies. An Advisory Committee will be formed for each student. The Chair of the Committee must have research and graduate student advising experience. This Committee will assist the student in the formulation of the Dissertation Proposal, and later advise the student in the execution of the research, the dissertation write-up, and help the student to prepare for the oral defense.

DBS 800 D: Dissertation D

Students completing a PhD degree are expected to write a report, referred to as a Dissertation, on the results of an original investigation, in conjunction with an Advisory Committee. Length and style of the dissertation vary by college/department. All these are filed with the Office of Graduate Studies. An Advisory Committee will be formed for each student. The Chair of the Committee must have research and graduate student advising experience. This Committee will assist the student in the formulation of the Dissertation Proposal, and later advise the student in the execution of the research, the dissertation write-up, and help the student to prepare for the oral defense.

DBS 800 E: Dissertation E

Students completing a PhD degree are expected to write a report, referred to as a Dissertation, on the results of an original investigation, in conjunction with an Advisory Committee. Length and style of the dissertation vary by college/department. All these are filed with the Office of Graduate Studies. An Advisory Committee will be formed for each student. The Chair of the Committee must have research and graduate student advising experience. This Committee will assist the student in the formulation of the Dissertation Proposal, and later advise the student in the execution of the research, the dissertation write-up, and help the student to prepare for the oral defense.

DBS 800 F: Dissertation F

Students completing a PhD degree are expected to write a report, referred to as a Dissertation, on the results of an original investigation, in conjunction with an Advisory Committee. Length and style of the dissertation vary by college/department. All these are filed with the Office of Graduate Studies. An Advisory Committee will be formed for each student. The Chair of the Committee must have research and graduate student advising experience. This Committee will assist the student in the formulation of the Dissertation Proposal, and later advise the student in the execution of the research, the dissertation write-up, and help the student to prepare for the oral defense.

DBS 822: Advanced Bioanalytical Techniques

Advanced Clinical Chemistry for Biomedical Sciences is a graduate-level course designed to provide PhD students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in state-of-the-art analytical techniques used in biomedical research. The course covers theoretical principles, instrumentation, and applications of advanced analytical methods, with a focus on their relevance to solving complex biological problems.

DBS 823: Advanced Biosensors and Lab on a chip Technologies

This is advanced course covers the fundamentals and advanced level of biosensing platforms, nanobiosensors, biophotonics and bioelectronics. The course will cover up to date topics related to nano/biosensors, lab on a chip and micro/nano-arrays such as the various transduction platforms, materials used in fabricating the devices, micro/nano-fabrication techniques, recognition receptors used in biosensors, immobilization of recognition receptors and application in biomedical, security, food and environmental applications. In addition, business and market analysis of current and future biosensing and lab on a chip devices will be provided