Laboratory Skills in Bioscience

OVERVIEW

 

Unlock the doors to a world of scientific discovery with our Professional Certificate (PCert) course. Designed for both beginners and those seeking to enhance their existing knowledge, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to essential laboratory techniques and practices in the field of bioscience. Learning the key laboratory techniques is a method to stay competitive in the fast-changing biomedical field. Universities and organizations need skilled laboratory experts with knowledge and understanding of key laboratory methods in bioscience and who use cutting-edge methods like ELISA, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopes. Explore the foundational principles of laboratory work, including safety protocols, equipment usage, and good laboratory practices.

 

This 4-week PCert course is designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to work in a bioscience lab and biomedical research projects. Learn the essentials of cell culture techniques, covering cell lines, aseptic practices, and the use of different culture systems. You’ll gain the essential knowledge and skills required to work in a laboratory setting. This course aims to provide knowledge of laboratory techniques and cell imaging methods to participate in bioscience research.

PROGRAMME CONTENT

 

The online distance-learning delivery of the course will provide opportunities to receive expertise from the Cambridge Centre for Innovation and Development (CamCID) researchers, material from our partners, and guest lectures.

 

• Module 1: Basic laboratory health and safety: Understand the importance of laboratory safety in scientific research. Explore the basics of risk assessment and hazard identification. Learn about the selection, proper use, and maintenance of personal protective equipment. Understand how PPE contributes to minimizing exposure to hazardous materials. Familiarize yourself with common laboratory hazards and safe handling procedures. Learn about the health and safety issues and requirements to work in a bioscience laboratory.

 

• Module 2: Cell culture techniques: Cell culture refers to the removal of cells from a living subject and their subsequent growth in an artificial environment. Gain insight into the various types of cells used in culture and their applications. Understand the composition and selection of appropriate cell culture media. You will study cell culture methods and the morphology of cells in culture. Learn to prepare and optimize culture solutions for specific cell types. Learn techniques for initiating and establishing cell lines. Explore strategies for routine maintenance. Gain insights into specialized culture techniques for specific cell types.

 

• Module 3: Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Flow Cytometry Techniques: This module will provide a comprehensive exploration of two powerful techniques – Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Flow Cytometry. You will gain a deep understanding of these critical tools in the realms of diagnostics, immunology, and cellular analysis. Understand the principles of ELISA and its applications in quantitative and qualitative analysis of proteins. Understand the principles of flow cytometry and its applications in single-cell analysis. Explore the components of a flow cytometer and their functions.

 

• Module 4: Fluorescence microscopy: This module provides a comprehensive journey into the principles, techniques, and applications of fluorescence microscopy. Explore the fundamental principles of fluorescence and how it is harnessed in microscopy. Understand the advantages of fluorescence microscopy in visualizing live cells and subcellular structures. Understand the components of a fluorescence microscope and their roles in image formation. You will learn the principle of fluorescence microscopy technique, an in-depth review of cell imaging, confocal microscope, and super-resolution microscope.

Entry Requirements

 

• This course starts with a beginner level and progresses towards the mid-levels. Prior laboratory experience is NOT required.
• This course is designed for all levels of students (Undergraduate students, Master's degree students, or Ph.D.).
• All our online courses are taught in English. Therefore, you must have good English language skills.

Certificate of Completion

 

After completing all the modules of this programme, you will be provided with an e-certificate of completion at Cambridge Centre for Innovation and Development (CamCID).

Design AND Delivery

 

This online programme is delivered on our virtual learning platform (Moodle). The programme is self-paced and it can be completed on your schedule within programme's duration. The programme includes recorded lectures, templates, learning material, ebooks, and research-based tasks. It is designed by the CamCID Research Team and Guest Lecturers (faculty members from international universities).

May include additional material from our partners.

Fees and Funding

 

UK and International: £159 (including electronic certificate).