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Overview
About the project
MicroRNA (miRNA) are short (~22 nt) non-coding RNA that have emerged as highly promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers due to their gene regulatory functions and dysregulated expression profiles in many diseases including cancer. While promising, their absolute quantification is challenging due to their short lengths, low circulating concentrations, and high sequence homology among family members. The gold standard method for miRNA detection, based on reverse-transcription qPCR, involves complex multistep procedures and requires thermal cycling, trained personnel and bulky equipment. This project aims to develop a novel quantitative and isothermal strategy for ultrasensitive detection of miRNA at the point-of-care, i.e. in a simple, cost-effective and efficient manner from minute volumes of a patient's biological fluid sample. This project will include advancements in biomolecular engineering, biomaterials development, and biochemistry.
Ultimately, this Engineering an Isothermal Amplification Strategy for Ultrasensivite and Quantitative Detection of Microrna Cancer Biomarkers (In ternship) project offered at King Abdullah University Of Science and Technology (KAUST) will lead to the development of highly sensitive point-of-care biosensors for cancer diagnosis, prognosis or monitoring based on multiplex detection of microRNA cancer biomarkers from a minimally-invasive 'liquid biopsy' test.
Get more details
Visit programme websiteProgramme Structure
- Develop an isothermal amplification methodology and strategy for miRNA detection
- Characterize the analytical performance of the developed assay (sensitivity, specificity, dynamic range, etc)
- Optimize the analytical performance and validate the assay with synthetic and clinical samples
- Submit a report on the preliminary results which will be used as a platform for a peer-reviewed research article
Check out the full curriculum
Visit programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Part-time
- 3 months
Start dates & application deadlines
You can apply for and start this programme anytime.
More details
Students can choose their own start and end dates as the program runs across the year
Language
English
TOEFL® IBT 79
Delivered
On Campus
Disciplines
Bio & Biomedical Engineering View 5 other Short Courses in Bio & Biomedical Engineering in Saudi ArabiaExplore more key information
Visit programme websiteAcademic requirements
GPA 3.5
English requirements
TOEFL® IBT 79
Student insurance
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:
- Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
- Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
- Liability
- Home contents and baggage
- Accidents
- Legal aid
We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and/or in Saudi Arabia, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Official Transcript(s) in English from current and previous institutions
- Letter of Recommendation from faculty member in field of study
- Valid Passport(with six months validity)
- CV - Summary of your career, qualifications and education.
- Statement of Purpose-Explain your motivation to become a VSRP intern
Recommended student academic & research background
- Biomolecular Engineering
- Biomaterials
- Biology
- Biochemistry
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit programme websiteTuition Fee
To always see correct tuition fees
-
International
FreeTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 0 SAR per year during 3 months. -
National
FreeTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 0 SAR per year during 3 months.
This is a fully-funded internship; it includes tuition, airfare, housing, medical insurance, visa reimbursement and a monthly stipend of $1,000.
Living costs for Thuwal
2270 - 3445 SAR /month
Living costs
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
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