Introduction to Molecular Biology

Course Description

This beginner-friendly course provides essential knowledge in molecular biology. Designed for those with little to no prior background, the course serves as a foundation for further studies in bioinformatics and genomics. It is particularly useful for those preparing to apply for the upcoming OMICSS-25 Genome Bioinformatics Summer School, as it is one of the key bridge courses.

Instructor

Alexey Kurnosov
Dr. Aleksey Kurnosov

Dr. Aleksey Kurnosov is a Molecular Biologist who has a particular interest in education. He has obtained a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry (Moscow) and a graduate degree in Biochemistry from Moscow State University. Aleksey Kurnosov has taught at several educational institutions, including HSE University and Letovo School. He previously taught at Russian-Armenian University and is now teaching at the Armenian Bioinformatics Institute.

Learning Outcomes and Course Outline

Students who complete the course will learn the basics of molecular biology, including fundamental concepts and an introduction to key topics, while developing a biological way of thinking—an essential step toward a career in bioinformatics or the life sciences. The course is beginner-friendly and also serves as a bridge course for those who lack biological knowledge but wish to apply to the OMICSS-25 Genome Bioinformatics Summer School.

The course covers a range of topics, including:

The Cell: Understanding cellular structures and their functions.
Biological Molecules: Exploring the roles of carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and proteins.
Information Flow in the Cell: Examining processes such as DNA replication, transcription, RNA processing, and translation.
Cell Cycle and Cell Division: Studying the mechanisms of cell reproduction.
Mutations and Variations: Learning about genetic mutations and their implications.

All of the topics mentioned above are also available for self-study in our Bioinformatics Guide.

Who is the Course For?

This course is designed for beginners with little to no prior knowledge of molecular biology who wish to explore its basics and gain an introduction to the subject.

Prerequisites

To successfully complete the course, students must have a good command of English to read and comprehend the course material. Additionally, they must be available to attend lessons in person, as the course is offered exclusively offline.

Venue and Details

Location: Armenian Bioinformatics Institute, Ezras Hasratyan 7, Yerevan, Armenia
Start date: February 25
End date: March 21
Schedule: Twice a week - Tuesday, Thursday - 7:00-8:30pm

Registration Fee

We offer three independent courses to help you acquire the essential knowledge required for the OMICSS-25 summer school program. You can take one, two, or all three courses, depending on your background and experience in each field. The courses offered are Introduction to Molecular Biology, Programming, and Statistics.

The fees are as follows:

One course: 20,000 AMD
Two courses: 35,000 AMD (total)
All three courses: 50,000 AMD (total)

Enrollment

Those who wish to enroll must complete the application form. The registration deadline is February 20th at 11:59 PM Yerevan time. Please note that the course lasts for three weeks.

Contacts

Should you have any questions, feel free to contact us via the following means:

  • ABI e-mail: info@abi.am
  • Karine Shahgaldyan: karine.shahgaldyan@abi.am
    • WhatsApp/Telegram: +37498152434
    • Phone: +37441770034