The study program consists of special reading assignments, reports, or research projects under the supervision of a faculty member. Under the supervision of a faculty member, students learn how to carry out new strategies or to conduct the business of running a clinical or research laboratory daily. Students take part in long-range laboratory planning. Emphasis is on comprehensive theory and laboratory practices and current treatment modalities. In case-study format and open discussion, the course covers the correlation of laboratory findings and disease processes.
Lectures cover the principles of molecular and cell biology.
Students learn basic molecular biology techniques including gel electrophoresis, hybridization techniques, PCR, Southern blot, and site-directed mutagenesis. The second part of the course covers applications of molecular biology, including DNA vaccines, bioremediation, molecular diagnostics, and gene therapy. Additional emphasis is on current trends in laboratory services, laboratory accreditation and licensure, and accreditation procedures. The program recommends that laboratory management track students take this course in their second year. Focuses on the application of basic statistical principles to the maintenance of quality control in the laboratory.