Description
Aim of the course
This Course consists of a general part and a Research Cluster specific part that gives an overview of current research activities within the research cluster BioTherapeutics. After the theoretical part, the students will perform their research internship within one (or both) of the divisions of this LACDR research cluster, i.e. Biopharmaceutics or Drug Delivery Technology, and gain in-depth knowledge on one of their research topics.
Background
The programme will focus on the pre-clinical development of new biologic-based approaches to treat immune-based disorders. Diseases that will be highlighted include (but are not limited to) cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders (i.e. dyslipidemia) and inflammatory diseases such as atopic eczema and psoriasis. Students will obtain knowledge on and experience in the development of state-of-the-art biologic-based therapies, by focusing on novel biologics such as vaccines, nucleic acids, cellular therapy and therapeutic proteins and peptides. Students will be introduced to most lab techniques used in both divisions. This includes (among others) techniques for the analysis of cell and tissue culture, protein formulation and characterisation, lipid analysis, nanoparticle formulation and immunological techniques.
Coordinators
Dr. B. Slutter, Dr. J. van Smeden, Dr. J.J. Geerling
Admission requirements
First year Bio-Pharmaceutical Sciences master students
Mode of instruction
The overview of the research activities in the cluster occurs by means of lectures that are supported by computer exercises, all taking place in the first week after the general part. The thus acquired background information fully prepares the participating master students for the third part of the course, which involves the writing of their own project proposal in the third and fourth week. Project proposals are reviewed by individual supervisors and by fellow students. Finally, the students present and defend their proposals, after which they can start their first research project.
Course objectives
Following the general introduction of the LACDR in the first week, the second part of this course specifically introduces the research activities within the cluster ‘BioTherapeutics’. The students will study the following topics:
Biologics
Cardiovascular diseases
Epidermal lipids
Immunology-based techniques
In vivo and in vitro models
Lipid organisation in the skin
Metabolic disorders focusing on lipid metabolism
Microneedles
Nanoparticles
Protein formulation and stability
Skin research
Target finding
Vaccine development and delivery
Assessment method
Active participation, a written exam, scientific writing and content of research proposal and presentation skills.