M.Sc. (By Research) – Molecular Medicine

Introduction to Program

Rapid advancements in medical technology, along with new conceptual approaches in biology, have increased the demand for laboratory specialization. "Tomorrow's medicine" is a term often used to describe the discipline of molecular medicine. The goal is to provide a molecular understanding of how diseases alter, impair, or destroy normal cellular processes, thereby enabling the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Modern technologies such as high-throughput studies (microarray and proteomics) allow us to investigate hundreds of genes and proteins simultaneously. This lays the foundation for a fundamentally new understanding of biological systems, as well as new hypotheses regarding the role of genes and proteins in various diseases, offering insights into novel therapeutic strategies.

Objectives of the Program

• To provide participants with an understanding of the application of cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, bioinformatics, stem cell biology, and regenerative medicine in elucidating the molecular pathophysiology of communicable and non-communicable diseases, leading to effective therapeutic strategies.
• To create an efficient learning environment and foster collaboration among academia and industry.
• To develop breakthrough expertise and excellence in the field of Molecular Medicine, along with opportunities for training placements at partnered research institutes and industrial collaborators.
• To train graduates from various backgrounds in Health, Allied Health, and Life Sciences to become industry-ready for employment.

Program Overview

Molecular Medicine involves the study of molecular and cellular processes in biological systems, helping us understand human diseases and facilitating disease prevention, diagnosis, and therapeutic research. It provides new scientific approaches for diagnosing and treating mechanistic diseases.

The M.Sc. (By Research) in Molecular Medicine offered by Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University is a research-based translational postgraduate program. The program incorporates interdisciplinary biomedical research at the molecular level and provides in-depth knowledge of molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying human diseases, including genetic and epigenetic factors. It supports the development of novel molecular diagnostics and therapies with applications in research, healthcare, and life science industries.

The program aims to train students in academic, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with a strong focus on developing practical research experience.

One of the distinguishing features of this course is its emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach that includes medical sciences, cell and molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, regenerative medicine, and biochemistry.

Structure of the Program

• Duration of the Program

  The duration of the M.Sc. (By Research) Molecular Medicine program is 2 academic years, following a semester pattern with a total of 4 semesters.

• Program Syllabus

  The syllabus has been prepared in accordance with the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS), taking into account UGC guidelines, SET/NET syllabi, other university syllabi, and inputs from Expert Committee Members.

• Examination Pattern

  Each semester will include:

  • Theory papers of 70 marks each for University Examination + 30 marks for internal assessment
  • Two practical courses of 70 marks each for University Examination + 30 marks each for internal practical assessment

• Maximum Period for Completion

  The maximum duration for completing the M.Sc. (By Research) Molecular Medicine program shall not exceed 4 years (8 semesters).

• Eligibility for Admission

  A candidate seeking admission must have passed a bachelor's degree of minimum 3 years duration in biological sciences (Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Home Science, Chemistry with biological subjects) OR a bachelor’s degree in BE/B.Tech. (Biotechnology/Medical/Dental), B.Pharm, B.Sc. Nursing (3 or 4 years), Pharmacology, Animal Sciences, or any other Life Science degree from a recognized University/Board, with not less than 50% aggregate marks. Candidates appearing for the final qualifying exam are also eligible to apply. They must clear the exam before the finalization of the admission process.
  Maximum Intake Capacity: 05 students

• Mode of Selection of Eligible Candidates

  Admission is based on:

  • Marks secured in the qualifying entrance examination
  • Marks of the qualifying degree
  • Personal interview
  The entrance test will be conducted by Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University. If the number of eligible applicants is less than or equal to the number of available seats, the requirement for the test or interview may be waived by the admission committee based on the recommendation of the HoD/HoI/Program Coordinator and Dean.
  A relaxation of grades will be provided to candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/differently abled categories as per Government of India guidelines. The entrance examination will be conducted in a single shift for a duration of 120 minutes.

• Entrance Examination Details

  The question paper will have two parts:

  Part A

  • Part A: 30 compulsory MCQs (General Aptitude)
  • Each correct answer carries 1 mark

  Part B

  • 70 MCQs at the bachelor’s degree level, requiring analytical thinking
  • Questions will cover all branches of basic and applied life sciences
  • Each correct answer carries 1 mark
  • Sample question papers are available on the SDMRIBS website

  General Guidelines:

  • The Test Booklet will contain 100 questions with four response options (a, b, c, d). Only one is correct.
  • Multiple answers for a question are not allowed; such responses will be rejected.
  • Mobile phones and electronic devices are not allowed.
  • Only programmable calculators are allowed. (Please verify if this is intended—many exams allow only non-programmable.)
  • All other conditions will follow the University Examination Guidelines.

• Exemption from Entrance Examination

  Candidates who have qualified TIFR, JNU, CEEB, IIT JAM, AIIMS, ICAR, AIEEA, or equivalent national-level examinations in the relevant discipline are exempted from the entrance test and will be directly called for a personal interview.
  10% of total seats are reserved for such candidates and will be allotted on a merit-cum-means basis.

• Admission Procedure

  Students seeking admission must submit the application in the prescribed form, available on the University website, along with the application fee and required documents as mentioned.

• Start of the Program

  The program commences on the date prescribed by Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University.