Molecular Genetics and Genomic Methods in Life Sciences
| Field of study | Life Sciences |
| Duration | Two weeks |
| Dates | June 22nd – July 3rd |
| Number of credits | 3 ECTS |
| Contact person | Name: Jana Radzijevskaja Email: Jana.Radzijevskaja@vdu.lt |
| Course-organising units | Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Biology Research Institute of Natural and Technological Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Ecology and Genomics |
| Lecturers | Assoc. prof. Indrė Lipatova, assoc. prof. Irma Ražanskė, assoc. prof. Asta Aleksandravičienė; assoc. prof. Loreta Griciuvienė, dr. Povilas Sakalauskas, dr. Justina Snegiriovaitė, dr. Miglė Razgūnaitė |
| Number of students | Minimum: 5 Maximum: 15 |
| Target group | Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students, researchers and academic staff working in the fields of biology, genetics, molecular biology, microbiology, biotechnology, bioinformatics, and health-related sciences. |
| Entry requirements | Strong motivation, basic knowledge of genetics and English language knowledge at B2 level (CEFR) |
| Short description | This two-week intensive course provides a comprehensive introduction to modern molecular genetics and genomic approaches that underpin contemporary life sciences research. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and apply genomic technologies in biological and biomedical contexts.
Participants will explore key molecular techniques, such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, quantitative PCR, electrophoresis, and sequencing technologies including next-generation sequencing (NGS). In addition to laboratory methodologies, the course introduces essential bioinformatics tools and data analysis strategies used for processing and interpreting genomic data. Participants will gain practical insight into experimental design, quality control, data visualization, and critical evaluation of genomic datasets. Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on sessions, students will learn how molecular genetics and genomics are applied in diverse fields such as health sciences, parasitology, microbiology, veterinary, ecology, and evolutionary biology. |
| Course uniqueness | This intensive two-week course uniquely combines hands-on laboratory training with practical bioinformatics, giving participants experience with key molecular techniques and genomic data analysis. Designed for an international, multidisciplinary audience, it offers small-group sessions, interactive case studies, and direct mentorship from experienced researchers. By integrating cutting-edge genomic methods with real-world applications in life sciences, the course equips participants with skills and knowledge that can be applied to their own research projects. |
| Aim | This course aims to provide participants with hands-on experience and essential knowledge in molecular genetics and genomic methods, enabling them to apply modern laboratory and bioinformatics techniques to real-world research in life sciences. |
| Learning outcomes | By the end of the course, participants will understand molecular genetic principles and genomic methodologies, gain hands-on experience, and be able to interpret and integrate these approaches into their own research or academic work. |
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