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
Lectures, computer exercises, writing of a project proposal, presentations and discussions. The course will be taught in English.
Reading list
Will be announced during the lectures.
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
Written project proposal (50%), written exam (50%). Attending the safety training is mandatory.
Timetable
For students starting between February 2nd 2016 and September 1st 2016: September 2016. For students starting from September 2nd 2016 until February 1st 2016: February 2017, after consulting the Course Coordinator of the general part. For students starting after February 1st 2017: please consult the Course Coordinator of the general part.
Registration
Application via uSis for general part