POSTGRADUATE INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE

UNIVERSITY OF PERADENIYA

Master of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Degree Programme

(SLQF Level 9)

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

Degree
Programme (SLQF Level 10)

1. INTRODUCTION
Biotechnology is defined as the application of scientific and engineering principals to the processing of
material by biological agents to provide goods and services. Biotechnology comprises a number of
technologies based upon increasing understanding of biology at the cellular and molecular level.
Biotechnology is the third wave in biological science and represents an interface of basic and applied
sciences, where gradual and subtle transformation of science into technology can be witnessed. The
practice of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology has now become an integral and essential component
in many diverse spheres, such as Health Care & Medical Technology, Agriculture, Food & Beverage
industry, Pharmaceutical industry and Environmental management. The application of Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology can result in adding modifications to existing products with improved
outcomes and benefits as well as in producing innovative products.
By reading a Masters Degree in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, students from a variety of
backgrounds with varied levels of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology experience will develop an
understanding of contemporary Molecular Biology and Biotechnology principles and practices.
Moreover, one can gain the skills and knowledge required for employment in the Biotechnology
industry. In many instances, for the efficient discharge of their duties, it is necessary that such graduates
possess the ability to understand clearly the nature of a given problem, use a variety of molecular
biological methodologies and techniques (both manual and instrumental) to obtain accurate and precise
measurements and interpret the results to arrive at appropriate conclusions. Although undergraduate
curricula provide a strong background in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology with a basic training
in experimental aspects, a sound hands-on experience together with advanced principles of Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology is often beyond the scope of such curricula, mainly due to time constraints.
The absence of properly trained molecular biologists and biotechnologists in Sri Lanka is a major
drawback in the realization of our industrial and scientific potential, especially in the current atmosphere
of increasing industrialization. The Board of Study in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the
Postgraduate Institute of Science (PGIS) has updated the Masters Degree Programme in Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology, introducing new courses to timely national demands. This proposal
introduces a five-credit independent study module to improve writing / oral communication skills and
a thirty-credit Research Project to improve experimental / analytical skills applied to Molecular Biology
and Biotechnology.

Page 1 of 34
This Masters Degree Programme will thus prepare the candidate to take the challenge of meeting not
only national needs in diverse areas as stated above, but also to continue toward a higher degree
anywhere in the world.

2. OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

At the end of the successful completion of the M.Sc. in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Degree (by Research), the graduate will be able to (listed under major qualification and level
descriptors of SLQF),

The Purpose and Scope of Qualification

• Advance the knowledge, research skills and abilities in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
to make them prepare for higher specialized professional degrees, employment opportunities to
enhance managerial, administrative and technological capacities.
• Provide the research experience under qualified supervisors and to make novel academic
contribution to Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (in the form of thesis and publications).

Attributes to Qualification Holders

• Demonstrate critical awareness and current issues in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and
apply relevant techniques.
• Make judgment in issues in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and communicate with
specialist and non-specialist groups.
• Demonstrate self-directions, originality and problem solving skills and accomplish tasks in
molecular biology and biotechnology in professional manner.
• Deal with complex issues systematically and creatively and make sound judgments and
communicate decisions clearly to others.
Progression
• Place at SLQF level 10. The early exit is possible according to SLQF guidelines and PGIS
regulations.
Subject / Theoretical Knowledge
• Analyze and evaluate current research in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
• Demonstrate critical awareness of current issues and recent developments in Molecular Biology
and Biotechnology.
Practical Knowledge and Application
• Use practical skills efficiently and effectively and enquiry within Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology.
• Construct and sustain arguments and use these arguments, ideas and techniques appropriately
in solving problems of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology by conducting an independent
research / thesis.
Communication
• Communicate the findings/conclusions of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology research in
orally and written format to specialist and non-specialist groups.
Teamwork and Leadership
• Demonstrate leadership skills in planning and implementing tasks in professional, technical and
academic settings.
Creativity and Problem Solving
• Deal with complex issues systematically and make sound judgments.
• Construct new hypotheses in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and test them in a scientific
manner.
• Demonstrate self-direction and originality in solving problems of
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.

Page 2 of 34
 • Make decisions in complex and unpredictable contexts coming under Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology and also in general life.
Managerial and Entrepreneurship
• Plan and implement tasks efficiently and effectively in professional, technical or academic
settings.
• Take initiative, assume personal responsibility and demonstrate accountability and ability to
instill entrepreneurship.
Information Usage and Management
• Be thorough in transferable skills including ICT skills and information literacy with the capability
of organizing and processing data.
Networking and Social Skills
• Ability to work in teams, give leadership, and promote social and professional engagement
• Plan and execute appropriate strategies for adapting to changing environments.
• Make decisions in complex and unpredictable contexts.
Attitudes, Values and Professionalism
• Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and accountability in tasks performed. Demonstrate
positive attitudes and social responsibility.
Vision for Life
• Clearly identify where one wants to be, where the society should be and develop long term goals
accordingly.
Updating Self / Lifelong Learning
• Undertake further training and develop additional skills that will enable them to make sound
decisions.
• Advance knowledge and understanding, and develop additional skills. Engage in independent
learning using scholarly reviews and secondary sources of information. Demonstrate skills in
independent learning for continuous professional development.

At the end of the successful completion of the M.Sc. Degree in Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology (Course Work), the graduate will be able to (listed under major qualification and
level descriptors of SLQF),

Purpose and Scope of Qualification

• Enhance the capacity to advance their knowledge and investigative skills, for academic
advancement or enhancing the managerial, administrative and technological aspects, and other
abilities relevant to areas within Molecular Biology and Biotechnology enabling conversion
into a different discipline / profession. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical
engagement and guided independent study of 5 credits.

Attributes of Qualification Holders

• Demonstrate thorough understanding of theoretical knowledge.
• Display critical awareness of current issues in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
• Apply techniques relevant to their professional practice.
• Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and be able to plan
and implement tasks at professional levels
Progression
• Use the earned MSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Course Work) as an entry
requirement to SLQF level 10 or 11 in the same field of specialization.
Subject / Theoretical Knowledge
• Demonstrate a comprehensive and substantive level of knowledge and understanding in
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.
• Critically analyze data, make judgments and propose solutions to problems.

Page 3 of 34
Practical Knowledge and Application
• Use efficiently and effectively, practical skills and enquiry within Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology.
• Construct and sustain arguments and use appropriately these arguments, ideas and techniques
in problem solving.
Communication
• Demonstrate awareness of the current developments in Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology through written and oral communication. Teamwork and Leadership
• Exercise leadership in the professional environment/work place.
• Demonstrate ability in creativity and problem solving
• Deal with complex issues in a systematic manner and make sound judgments.
Managerial and Entrepreneurship
• Plan and implement tasks at professional and managerial levels.
• Take initiative, assume personal responsibility and demonstrate accountability and ability to
instill entrepreneurship.
Information Usage and Management
• Be thorough in transferable skills including ICT skills and information literacy with the capability
of organizing data.
Networking and Social Skills Adaptability and Flexibility Attitudes, Values and Professionalism
• Work in teams, give leadership, and promote social and professional engagement.
• Plan and execute appropriate strategies for adapting to changing environments.
• Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and accountability in tasks performed.
• Demonstrate positive attitudes and social responsibility.
Vision for Life
• Clearly identify where one wants to be, where the society should be and develop long term goals
accordingly.
Updating Self / Lifelong Learning
• Undertake further training and develop additional skills that will enable them to make sound
decisions.
• Advance knowledge and develop additional skills.
• Demonstrate skills in independent learning for continuous professional development.

3. PROGRAMME ELIGIBILITY
Candidates having a bachelor’s degree with 30 credits including relevant modules of Biology or
equivalent accredited prior learning experience are eligible to follow the programme. Eligible applicants
shall face a selection examination followed by an interview, conducted by the PGIS. Employed
candidates eligible for admission should produce evidence of leave granted to follow the programme
and a letter of release from the Head of the Department/Institution.

Page 4 of 34
4. PROGRAMME FEE
Programme Fee*
Master of Molecular M.Sc. in Molecular
Category Biology and Biotechnology Biology and
Degree Biotechnology Degree
Programme Programme
Local candidates Rs. 500 000.00 Rs. 750 000.00
Candidates from other countries Rs. 1 000 000.00 Rs. 1 500 000.00
* To be decided each year.
Students registered for the M.Sc. degree by course work shall pay the Programme fee in full or in two
(1/2 at the registration and the balance at the end of the first semester) or three (1/3rd at the registration,
another 1/3rd after 4 months from the date of registration and the balance after 8 months from the date
of registration) installments. An additional payment of Rs. 250,000/- (or Rs. 500,000/-) form
foreign students) should be made at the end of the first year to continue for the M.Sc. in
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology degree programme. Other payments including registration fee,
medical fee, library subscription, examination fee and deposits (science and library) should be paid
according to the procedure stipulated by the PGIS. (N.B. The Programme fees given above may be
revised as per recommendation of the Board of Management of the PGIS.)

5. THE PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND DURATION

This programme consists of three options for completion.

5.1 Masters Degree by Course Work (SLQF Level 9)

The Master of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Degree can be obtained by completing course
work only (without conducting any research project).
Course work, comprising of theory courses, and laboratory and/or fieldwork, shall be conducted over a
period of two semesters of 15 weeks each. The total duration of the degree, including examinations,
shall be about 12 months. Satisfactory completion of a minimum of 30 credits of course work with a
GPA of not less than 3.00 is required for the successful completion of the degree - SLQF Level 9
(Students who do not satisfy the above criteria but obtain a GPA in the range 2.75 to 2.99 for course
work of 25 credits are eligible for the Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
- SLQF Level 8, and those who obtain a GPA in the range 2.75 to 2.99 for course work of 20 credits
are eligible for Postgraduate Certificate - SLQF Level 7).

5.2 Masters Degree by Course Work and Research (SLQF Level 10)
In addition to Masters Degree with course work (5.1), the Masters Degree (Research) requires a research
project. The duration of the entire programme shall be 24 months inclusive of 5.1. Completion of all
the requirements of 5.1 with a GPA of not less than 3.00 is a prerequisite for the Masters Degree
(Research). The research project for this degree should be conducted on full-time basis, and completed

Page 5 of 34
during the second year. The research component is allocated 30 credits, totaling 60 credits for the entire
programme. After successful completion of the research project, the student shall be eligible for the
award of the M.Sc. in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Degree - SLQF Level 10 (Students who
do not complete the research project within the stipulated time period shall be awarded the Master of
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Degree - SLQF Level 9).

5.3 Extension of the programme for M.Phil. (SLQF Level 11) or Ph.D. (SLQF Level 12) After
conducting research for a period of six months in the M.Sc. degree (research) programme, students who
have demonstrated exceptional progress may apply for upgrading the degree status to M.Phil. The
student should continue the research project and any additional research work/assignments
recommended by the PGIS for a total of two years (60 credits of research) to qualify for the award of
the M.Phil. degree (SLQF Level 11).
During the second year of research, students who have demonstrated exceptional and continuous
progress may apply for upgrading the degree status from M.Phil. to Ph.D. The student should continue
the research project and any additional research work/assignments recommended by the PGIS for
another year on full-time basis (additional 30 credits) to qualify for the award of the Ph.D. degree (SLQF
Level 12).

Page 6 of 34
 Master of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Degree Programme
(SLQF Level 9)

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Degree Programme

(SLQF Level 10)

Programme Summary

Course Course Title Lecture Practical No. of

Code hrs. hrs. credits
Semester I

MB 571 Biochemistry and molecular biology of cell 30 30 3

MB 572 Principles of heredity* 30 - 2
MB 573 Molecular genetics 45 - 3
MB 574 Molecular microbiology 20 30 3
MB 575 Recombinant DNA technology 30 - 2
MB 576 Bioinformatics 30 - 2
MB 577 Molecular immunology* 30 30 3
MB 578 Molecular Biotechnology 30 - 2
Semester II

MB 579 Biostatistics 30 - 2
MB 580 Molecular systematics* 30 - 2
MB 581 Biotechnology industry 30 - 2
MB 582 Protein chemistry* 20 50 3
MB 583 Molecular biology of development and cancer* 45 - 3
MB 584 Biometrical genetics* 45 - 3
MB 585 Ethical regulations and legal aspects of 15 - 1
biotechnology*
MB 586 Plant tissue culture* 15 60 3
MB 599 Independent Study**1 500 notional hours 5
MB 699 Research Project**2 3000 notional hours 30

* Optional Courses
Students are required to obtain 3 credits from optional courses.
**1 Compulsory for Master of Experimental Biotechnology degree (SLQF Level 9) **2
Compulsory for M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology degree (SLQF Level 10)

NC – No change

Page 7 of 34
6. PROGRAMME CONTENTS

Semester 1
Code MB 571
Title Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Cell
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 30 90
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Impart the knowledge and necessary skills on the structure of biological molecules, molecular
forces involved in the formation of the biological molecules and their interactions within a cell.
2. Explain the mechanisms of metabolism, biochemical reactions, enzymes, ATP as the energy
currency and cellular mechanisms for harvesting energy.
3. Provide the key concepts in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe the structure and synthesis of biological molecules and their interactions in performing
cellular functions,
2. explain the mechanisms of metabolism of cell, bioenergetics, cell signaling and transport across
membranes and central dogma of Molecular Biology and
3. conduct routine experiments to study biomolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and
proteins).
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
The cell as a basic unit of life, major intracellular organelles and their functions. Structure, function,
formation and metabolism of biomolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and proteins) in plant
and animal cells; pH and buffers. Cell basics, biomolecules and their assemblies, structure of
eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, cell organelles and functions; cell membrane, function and transport
across membranes, protein trafficking, organelle biogenesis, cytoskeleton and cell motility;
extracellular matrix and cell adhesion; cell to cell signaling, signaling in the sensory system, cell
cycle, regulation and apoptosis. Bioenergetics, metabolism, regulation and its control; cell division,
mitosis and meiosis; DNA replication, transcription and protein synthesis; cell communication, cell
fractionation and constituent detection.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons and 30 hours of student centered
demonstration aided interactive practical sessions will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 4-5 practical assignments will be given to be
submitted within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 20 hours and
grades will be distributed within a week. In addition, students are required to prepare a summary
report on a selected journal article.
Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials

Page 8 of 34
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments Exam 60% 40% (specify)
15% 25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Alberts, B., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Morgan, D., Raff, M., Roberts, K., Walter, P. (2014)
Molecular Biology of the Cell, (Sixth Edition). Garland Science.
2. Voet, D., Voet, J.G., Pratt, C.W. (2012) Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the Molecular
Level, (Fourth Edition). Wiley Plus.

Semester 1
Code MB 572
Title Principles of Heredity
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Explain the structure and function of the DNA molecule in comparison to its functional role in
inheritance.
2. Describe the principles of inheritance and deviations to the Mendelian inheritance.
3. Provide a comprehensive overview of the applications of genetics and genetic relationships
among species.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. outline and explain the classical theories and molecular basis of the inheritance,
2. solve the complex genetic issues and problems arisen in the living organisms,
3. explain the applications of genetics in daily needs,
4. apply the genetic knowledge to unravel the evolutionary mysteries and to design genetic
measures in biodiversity conservation.

Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)

Introduction to principles of inheritance, Mendelian genetics, alterations of Mendel laws, classical
genetic theory; meiosis, mitosis, linkage; recombination, sex determination and cytoplasmic
inheritance, cytogenetics; macro and micro mutations; polyploidy and aneuploidy; population
genetics and evolution; quantitative genetics; heterosis and hybrid vigor; introduction to DNA
technologies, principles and practical aspects of breeding, conservation and evolutionary genetics,
applications of genetics in medicine, agriculture etc.

Teaching /Learning Methods:

Page 9 of 34
Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Hall, B.K., Hallgrimsson, B. (2007) Strickberger’s Evolution, (Fourth Edition). Jones and
Bartlett Publishers.
2. Klug, W.S., Cummings, M.R., Spencer, C.A., Palladino, M.A. (2015) Concepts of Genetics,
(Eleventh Edition). Pearson Education Inc.

Semester 1
Code MB 573
Title Molecular Genetics
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
45 -- 105
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Provide advanced knowledge in the regulation of gene expression.
2. Explain the structural and functional properties of proteins.
3. Describe the basis of DNA repair.
4. Explain the usefulness of Molecular Genetics in genetic manipulations, diagnosis and treating
diseases.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. outline and explain the steps of gene expression and its regulation,
2. state the structure and functions of proteins,
3. explain the mechanism of DNA repair in maintaining the integrity of genetic material and
4. apply the knowledge in Molecular Genetics in Genetic Engineering, diagnosis and treating
diseases.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Molecular basis of genetics and chromosomal theory; organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic
genomes, genes and chromosomes, mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA, mobile genetic elements;

Page 10 of 34
genome replication, genetic recombination; DNA repair; RNA synthesis, processing and metabolism;
the genetic code, protein synthesis and regulation of gene expression; DNA cloning and microarrays;
genetic disorders and gene therapy; molecular basis of quantitative and evolutionary genetics;
structural and functional genomics.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 45 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 4-5 tutorials will be given to be submitted
within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 20 hours and grades will
be distributed within a week. In addition, students are required to prepare a summary report on a
selected journal article.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the assignments, tutorials and
midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials/Assignments Report Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% 15% Exam 100% -- (specify)
25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Nelson, D.L., Cox, M.M. (2012) Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry, (Sixth Edition). Worth
Publishers Inc.
2. Weaver, R.F. (2011) Molecular Biology, (Fifth Edition). McGraw-Hill.

Semester 1
Code MB 574
Title Molecular Microbiology
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent
Learning
20 50 80
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Impart knowledge and skills on molecular approaches in Experimental Microbiology.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain the structure and function of microorganisms,
2. list the applications of Microbiology in diverse fields,
3. conduct routine experiments to isolate, culture and diagnose diverse microbes and
4. describe the important role of microbes in Environmental Biotechnology and Bioremediation

Page 11 of 34
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Microbial cell structure and function; microbial cultivation in industrial processes, fermentation and
large scale fermenters, brewing and alcoholic beverages, antibiotic production and genetically
engineered products, organic acids, amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, novel food resources, animal
feed, single cell proteins; Biodegradation, fuel and energy, waste water treatment and utilization.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 20 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons and 50 hours of student centered
demonstration aided interactive practical sessions will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 4-5 practical assignments will be given to be
submitted within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 10 hours of
theory and 25 hours of practicals and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments Exam 60% 40% (specify)
15% 25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Glazer, A.N., Nikaido, H. (2007) Microbial Biotechnology. Fundamentals of Applied
Microbiology, (Second Edition). Cambridge University Press.
2. Madigan, M.T., Martinko, J.M., Stahl, D., Clark, D.P. (2010) Brock Biology of Microorganisms,
(Thirteenth Edition). Pearson Education Inc.
3. Persing, D.H., Tenover, F.C., Tang, YW, Nolte, F.S., Hayden, R.T., Belkum, A.V. (Eds.) (2011)
Molecular Microbiology: Diagnostic Principles and Practice, (Second Edition). ASM Press.

Semester 1
Code MB 575
Title Recombinant DNA Technology
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites MB 571, MB 573
Aims:
1. Impart the knowledge and skills in Recombinant DNA Technology.
2. Provide specific training on laboratory techniques in Molecular Biology.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,

Page 12 of 34
 1. explain the procedure of Recombinant DNA Technology to achieve cloned genes / DNA and
Genetically Modified Organisms and
2. to conduct experiments required in manipulating DNA molecules and analyzing transgenic
organisms.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Introduction to Recombinant DNA Technology; purification and manipulation of DNA; cloning
vectors; introduction of DNA into living cells; establishment and analysis of gene libraries; isolation,
identification and characterization of cloned genes; restriction mapping; gene expression; RNA
interference; gene function; introduction of regeneration and analysis of transgenic organisms.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Green, M.R., Sambrook, J. (2012) Molecular Cloning – A Laboratory Manual, (Fourth Edition).
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.
2. Kurnaz, I.A. (2015) Techniques in Genetic Engineering. CRC Press.
3. Brown, T. A. (2010) Gene Cloning and DNA Analysis: An Introduction, (Sixth Edition). Wiley-
Blackwell.

Semester 1
Code MB 576
Title Bioinformatics
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites MB 573
Aims:
1. Explain Bioinformatic algorithms / concepts and their implementations.
2. Impart the aptitude to cast a Molecular Biology problem as a Bioinformatic problem, selecting
relevant tools, optimize their settings, and building pipelines to solve the set problems.
Intended Learning Outcomes:

Page 13 of 34
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe the terms used in Bioinformatics,
2. state the applications of Bioinformatics in biological research and
3. use Bioinformatic tools, software and online resources to store, retrieve and analyze molecular
data.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Bioinformatics in nut shell, terminology; computer analysis of genome sequences, sequence analysis
methods, sequence alignment; phylogenetic tree reconstruction; prediction of RNA and protein
structure, gene finding and sequence annotation and motif identification, gene expression;
bimolecular computing, molecular databases; Bioinformatics and Computational Biology software;
DNA micro arrays; drug design.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Baxevanis, A.D., Ouellette, B.F. (2004) Bioinformatics: A Practical Guide to the Analysis of
Genes and Proteins, (Third Edition). Wiley-Interscience.
2. Pevzner, P., Shamir, R. (Eds.) (2011) Bioinformatics for Biologists, (First Edition). Cambridge
University Press.

Semester 1
Code MB 576
Title Bioinformatics
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites MB 573
Aims:
3. Explain Bioinformatic algorithms / concepts and their implementations.
4. Impart the aptitude to cast a Molecular Biology problem as a Bioinformatic problem, selecting
relevant tools, optimize their settings, and building pipelines to solve the set problems.

Page 14 of 34
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
4. describe the terms used in Bioinformatics,
5. state the applications of Bioinformatics in biological research and
6. use Bioinformatic tools, software and online resources to store, retrieve and analyze molecular
data.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Bioinformatics in nut shell, terminology; computer analysis of genome sequences, sequence analysis
methods, sequence alignment; phylogenetic tree reconstruction; prediction of RNA and protein
structure, gene finding and sequence annotation and motif identification, gene expression;
bimolecular computing, molecular databases; Bioinformatics and Computational Biology software;
DNA micro arrays; drug design.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
3. Baxevanis, A.D., Ouellette, B.F. (2004) Bioinformatics: A Practical Guide to the Analysis of
Genes and Proteins, (Third Edition). Wiley-Interscience.
4. Pevzner, P., Shamir, R. (Eds.) (2011) Bioinformatics for Biologists, (First Edition). Cambridge
University Press.

Semester 1
Code MB 577
Title Molecular Immunology
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent
Learning
30 30 90
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Describe the molecular and cellular basis of the immune system.

Page 15 of 34
 2. Impart the skills required to conduct immunological experiments.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain the molecular and cellular basis of the immune system and importance of immune system
to protect against the diseases,
2. conduct routine immunological experiments and
3. state the recent advances in immunological research.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
The immune system, structure and function of immunoglobulins, cells of lymphoid systems; response
to antigenic stimulation, antigenic determinants, antigen processing and presentation; intercellular
interactions; compliment system and its function, biology of the major histocompatibility complex;
mechanisms of immunity and hypersensitivity; immune modulatory products of parasites; diagnostic
assays using antibodies, polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, phage antibody production;
immunochemical methods, antigen and antibody detection methods, Biotechnology mediated
advancements in Immunology.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons and 30 hours of student centered
demonstration aided interactive practical sessions will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 4-5 practical assignments will be given to be
submitted within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 15 hours of
theory and grades will be distributed within a week. In addition, students are required to prepare a
summary report on a selected journal article.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments Exam 60% 40% (specify)
15% 25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Murphy, K. (2011) Janeway’s Immunobiology, (Eighth Edition). Garland Science.
2. Delves, P.J., Martin, S.J. Burton D.R., Roitt, I.M. (2011) Roitt’s Essential Immunology, (Twelfth
Edition). Willey-Blackwell.
3. Abbas, A.K., Lichtman, A.H.H., Pillai, S. (2014) Cellular and Molecular Immunology, (Eighth
Edition). Elsevier Saunders.

Page 16 of 34
Semester 1
Code MB 578
Title Molecular Biotechnology
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent
Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites MB 573, MB 575
Aims:
1. Explain the concepts, areas and techniques of Biotechnology.
2. State Biotechnology as one of the tools in using biological organisms, products and processes
for development.
3. Describe the outline of research methodology required to conduct research in Molecular
Biotechnology.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain the procedure of generating transgenic and cisgenic plants, animals and microbes for
beneficial applications,
2. use molecular details to value the biological resources for potential economic uses (i.e.
Bioprospecting) and
3. to plan general experiments routinely used in Molecular Biotechnology.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Genetic Engineering of plant and animals, and their applications; bio control of pests; recombinant
microorganisms; fermentation technology; preparation of bioactive compounds in microbes and
tissue / cell cultures; biological nitrogen fixation; germplasm conservation; molecular breeding; bio-
fertilizers; genomics and proteomics; Gene transfer to microbial, animal cells, animals and plants as
a tool for basic research and for applied biotechnology applications; production of useful molecules,
transgenic animals as assay systems to investigate gene function and as Models for human diseases,
transgenic plants as a tool to test gene expression and function and as a breeding method for crop
improvement. DNA / protein-based techniques in forensic science and medicine; DNA barcoding for
biodiversity assessment; biosafety in Biotechnology; international conventions related to
Biotechnology on society and the Developing World.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%

Page 17 of 34
 Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Dehlinger, C.A. (2014) Molecular Biotechnology. Jones and Bartlett Learning.
2. Glick, B.R., Pasternak, J.J., Pattern, C.L. (2009) Molecular Biotechnology: Principles and
Applications of Recombinant DNA, (Fourth Edition). American Society for Microbiology Press,
Washington DC.
3. Theiman, W.J., Palladino, M.A. (2012) Introduction to Biotechnology, (Third Edition).
Benjamin Cummings.

Semester 2
Code MB 579
Title Biostatistics
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Describe the role of Statistics in Molecular Biological research.
2. Explain basic statistical techniques and procedures.
3. Impart the skills to run statistical software for given data sets with correct analytical procedure
and interpret the results.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain and use the statistical techniques to analyze data,
2. use statistical software (SAS, Minitab, SPSS and R) to analyze data and
3. write error free concise reports based on the outputs of statistical data analysis.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Principles of probability; introduction to statistical terms and methodology, statistical techniques
important for practical data analysis; statistical packages such as SAS, Minitab, SPSS and R;
Measures of center and dispersion; probability distribution types; test of significance, z-test, t-test, F-
test, goodness of fit; non-parametric tests; correlation and linear regression; analysis of variance and
experimental designs; suitability of standard designs for specific experiments; principal component
analysis; time series data handling.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Page 18 of 34
Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Norman, G.R., Sreiner, D.L. (2014) Biostatistics: The Bare Essentials, (Fourth Edition).
People’s Medical Publishing House, USA.
2. Moore, D.S., Notz, W.I. Fligner, M.A. (2011) The Basic Practice of Statistics, (Sixth Edition).
W.H. Freeman & Company.
3. Bluman, A.G. (1997) Elementary Statistics: A Step-by-Step Approach with Formula Card,
(Ninth Edition). McGraw Hill Higher Education.

Semester 2
Code MB 580
Title Molecular Systematics
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Explain the concepts of Molecular Systematics including phylogenetic tree construction and
molecular evolutionary relationships among taxa.
2. Demonstrate the use of software to analyze the phylogenetic data.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe advanced details of Molecular Systematics and analyses,
2. use the intended software for phylogenetic data analysis and
3. explain the process of evolution as a series of accumulated molecular changes in the genetic
material.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Theory and procedures of modern systematic analysis, conducting a phylogenetic analysis; character
construction, character weighting, characters in Molecular Systematics; methods of tree construction,
methods of choosing among alternate optimal or nearly optimal trees, tree statistics, Bayesian
inference, maximum likelihood alignment, molecular dating.

Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Page 19 of 34
Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Wiley, E.O., Liebermann, B.S. (2011) Phylogenetics: Theory and Practice of Phylogenetic
Systematics, (Second Edition). Wiley-Blackwell.
2. Stuessy, T.F., Crawford, D.J., Soltis, D.E., Soltis, P.L. (2014) Plant Systematics. The Origin,
Interpretation, and Ordering of Plant Biodiversity. Koeltz Scientific Books.
3. Desalle, R., Giribet, G., Wheeler, W. (Eds.) (2013) Techniques in Molecular Systematics and
Evolution, (First Edition). Birkhauser Verlag.

Semester 2
Code MB 581
Title Biotechnology Industry
Credits 2
Notional hours 100
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
30 -- 70
Prerequisites MB 578
Aims:
1. Describe the concepts and techniques that are currently being utilized in the biotechnology and
pharmaceutical industries.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain the value and applications of Biotechnology as a valuable industry,
2. describe the key research papers on Biotechnology,
3. apply the knowledge and skills in Biotechnology for bio entrepreneurship and industry and
4. list the current prospects and challenges of using Biotechnology to develop Sri Lankan economy.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Biotechnology in food and agriculture, GM crops, cloning livestock; applications of molecular
techniques in medicine, drug design, drug delivery, gene therapy; bioreactors (production of
pharmaceuticals); new avenues of Biotechnology; biofilm technology; biodiversity and
bioprospecting for Biotechnology; embryonic stem cells and therapeutic cloning; top Biotech
companies and products; current prospects of Biotechnology in Sri Lanka, key research papers of
Biotechnology in the 20th and 21st centuries, transferring biotech research results to industry, bio
entrepreneurship, Biotechnology Industry models.

Page 20 of 34
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 30 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class practical assignments will be given to practice applications. 4-5
Tutorials will be given to test theoretical concepts. Midsemester examination will be given after
completion of 15 hours and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments 25% 100% -- (specify)
15% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Kent, J.A. (2013) Handbook of Industrial Chemistry and Biotechnology, (Twelfth Edition).
Springer.
2. Austin, M. (2008) Business Development for the Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industry,
Grower Publishing Limited, England
3. Flickinger, M.C. (Ed.) (2013) Downstream Industrial Biotechnology: Recovery and
Purification, (First Edition). Willey.

Semester 2
Code MB 582
Title Protein Chemistry
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
20 50 80
Prerequisites MB 571
Aims:
1. Explain the advanced details of structure and function of protein molecules.
2. Impart the skills on laboratory analysis of proteins.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe structure and function of proteins and
2. conduct experiments on protein extraction, purification and analysis.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Amino acids.; protein structure; glycoproteins; lipoproteins; protein purification; protein analysis;
protein design; enzyme kinetics. Practicals based on the above.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Page 21 of 34
Delivery: 20 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons and 50 hours of student centered
demonstration aided interactive practical sessions will be conducted.
Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 5-10 practical assignments will be given to be
submitted within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 10 hours of
theory and 25 hours of practicals and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments Exam 60% 40% (specify)
15% 25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Berg, J.M., Tymoczko, J.L., Stryer, L. (2010) Biochemistry, (Seventh Edition). Freeman, W.H.
and Company.
2. Nelson, D.L., Cox, M.M. (2012) Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry, (Sixth Edition). Worth
Publishers Inc.
3. Schulz, G.E., Schirmer, R.H. (2013) Principles of Protein Structure. Springer.

Semester 2
Code MB 583
Title Molecular Biology of Development and Cancer
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
45 -- 105
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Describe the terms in Developmental Biology, experimental model organisms, differential
gene expression and genetic control in Development.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain the molecular mechanism of Development and associated genetic mechanisms
2. describe the stem cell technology and
3. outline the molecular mechanism of cancer development.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Regulatory mechanisms of animal development with vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms;
genomic constancy; differential gene expression during development, maternal and zygotic control
of gene expression; formation of the early body plan, determination of the cell types, organogenesis
and morphogenesis, sex determination and differentiation; aging and programmed cell death; stem
cells, cloning; Molecular Biology, Cancer related topics.

Page 22 of 34
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 45 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 4-5 tutorials will be given to be submitted
within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 20 hours and grades will
be distributed within a week. In addition, students are required to prepare a summary report on a
selected journal article.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the assignments, tutorials and
midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials/Assignments Report Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% 15% Exam 100% -- (specify)
25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Gilbert, S.F. (2013) Developmental Biology, (Sixth Edition). Sinauer Associates.
2. Wolpert, L., Tickle, C. (2011) Principles of Development, (Fourth Edition). OUP Oxford
3. Streelman, J.T. (Ed.) (2014) Evolutionary Advances in Evolutionary Developmental Biology,
(First Edition). Wiley Blackwell.

Semester 2
Code MB 584
Title Biometrical Genetics
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
45 -- 105
Prerequisites MB 573
Aims:
1. Explain the mathematical models of the inheritance of quantitative traits.
2. Demonstrate software used in analyzing quantitative genetic data.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe the nature of quantitative traits by analyzing them for various genetic hypothesis and
2. use QTL mapping procedure to find the linked markers and underlying genes of complex traits
in eukaryotes.

Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)

Identify the effects of the evolutionary forces on populations on the basis of their departure from the
HWE model; genetic analysis of statistical data relative to a quantitative trait, possible types of gene
actions and number of genes controlling a quantitative trait, variation in mean and variability of a

Page 23 of 34
population due to changes in allele frequencies, selection response of populations; principles and
theory of QTL mapping, use of QTL as a tool in marker assisted breeding and mapping genes in
humans and other organisms; post genomic era; structural and functional genomics.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 45 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 4-5 tutorials will be given to be submitted
within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 20 hours and grades will
be distributed within a week. In addition, students are required to prepare a summary report on a
selected journal article.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the assignments, tutorials and
midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials/Assignments Report Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% 15% Exam 100% -- (specify)
25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Khatib, H. (2015) Molecular and Quantitative Animal Genetics. Wiley Blackwell.
2. Altman, A., Hasegawa, P.M. (Eds.) (2011) Plant Biotechnology and Agriculture: Prospects for
the 21st Century, Academic Press.
3. Liu, B. H. (2011) Statistical Genomics, Linkage Maps. CRC press, Bocca, New York.

Semester 2
Code MB 585
Title Ethical, Regulatory and Legal Aspects of Biotechnology
Credits 1
Notional hours 50
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
15 -- 35
Prerequisites MB 578, MB 581
Aims:
1. Explain ethical standards, laboratory safety rules, regulatory, legal and business aspects of the
Biotechnology Industry.
2. Provide a training on decision making in commercial release of GM products.
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe the ethical, safety, regulatory and business aspects of Biotechnology,

Page 24 of 34
 2. formulate draft documents on ethical frameworks, prevention of plagiarism and scientific fraud,
avoidance of conflict of interest, patent applications and
3. use Biotechnology only for the good causes of the mankind.

Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)

Ethical, legal and regulatory issues; ethics that protect Biotechnological inventions; procedures
required to establish a Biotech company, intellectual property and licensing; ethics in research:
sources of errors in science, scientific fraud, plagiarism and misrepresentation, conflicts of interest
and confidentiality.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 15 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 2-3 tutorials will be given to be submitted
within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 8 hours and grades will
be distributed within a week. In addition, students are required to prepare a summary report on a
selected journal article.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the assignments, tutorials and
midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials/Assignments Report Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% 15% Exam 100% -- (specify)
25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Bin R., Lorenzon S., Lucchi N. (Eds.) (2012) Biotech Innovations and Fundamental Rights.
Springer.
2. Murray, T., Mehlman, M. (2000) Encyclopedia of Ethical, Legal and Policy Issues in
Biotechnology. John Wiley and Sons.

Semester 2
Code MB 586
Title Plant Tissue Culture
Credits 3
Notional hours 150
Compulsory / Optional Optional
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
15 60 75
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Explain the principles of tissue culture, laboratory requirement, organization and techniques.
2. Impart the skills on plant tissue culture, experimental design and quantification of results.
3. Apply plant tissue culture at commercial scale for the betterment of the world.

Page 25 of 34
Intended Learning Outcomes:
At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. describe the tissue culture, techniques and laboratory handling,
2. conduct experiments of plant tissue culture and
3. design and undertake tissue culture experiments to develop environmentally and economically
important plant species.
Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)
Introduction, definition and technologies; potential application of organ culture, meristem culture,
anther / pollen culture, callus, suspension cultures and protoplast culture; regeneration through
meristem and callus cultures; somatic embryogenesis: production, preservation and use of somatic
embryos as propagules; embryo culture; haploid plant production; cryopreservation, storage of
germplasm; protoplast culture; somatic hybridization; induction and utilization of somatic variants;
application of tissue culture; trouble shooting; advantages and disadvantages of Tissue Culture;
commercialization of Tissue Culture technology, concept of commercialization and the need, design
of typical Tissue Culture laboratory and its management.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: 15 hours of student-centered interactive theory lessons and 60 hours of student centered
demonstration aided interactive practical sessions will be conducted.

Continuous Assessment: In class group or/and individual assignments will be given at the end of
each topic and feedbacks are taken at end of the class. 10-15 practical assignments will be given to
be submitted within a week. Midsemester examination will be given after completion of 8 hours of
theory and 30 hours of practicals and grades will be distributed within a week.

Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the practical assignments, tutorials
and midsemester exam. Final comprehensive examination will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Tutorials Practical Midsemester Theory Practical Others
10% Assignments Exam 60% 40% (specify)
15% 25% --
References/Reading Materials:
1. Gamborg, O.L., Phillips, G.C. (Eds.) (2013) Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture: Fundamental
Methods. Springer Lab Manuals.
2. Bhojwani, S.S., Dantu, P.K. (2013) Plant Tissue Culture: An Introductory Text. Springer.

Semester 2
Code MB 599
Title Independent Study
Credits 5
Notional hours 500 notional hours
Compulsory / Optional Compulsory
Hourly Breakdown Theory Practical Independent Learning
-- -- 500

Page 26 of 34
Prerequisites None
Aims:
1. Describe the Scientific Writing process, its key stages land importance of publishing data
promptly.
2. Impart skills to analyze and review scientific papers in terms of key message, consistency and
justification.
3. Provide the importance on the benefits of working towards scientific accomplishments and
career development.
4. Provide the rules of co-authorship and the ethics in Scientific Writing and undertaking
research.
5. Impart skills to write and present routine forms of scientific publications.
6. Impart skills to conduct an independent review of literature, summarization and presentation.
7. Explain the conventions and standards in planning and delivering a scientific oral seminar.
8. Provide an opportunity to conduct an independent study on a novel topic.

Intended Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the successful completion of the course students will be able to,
1. explain the scientific process and forms of publications in research work,
2. able to review scientific communiques for the quality, write and present diverse forms of
publications such as primary research articles and oral seminars,
3. work in teams towards scientific accomplishments and
4. explain the rules of co-authorship and ethics in Scientific Writing and undertaking research.
5. conduct an independent review of literature on a selected topic in Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology, summarize and present to an audience and
6. describe the standard practices in formulating and delivering a scientific Seminar.
7. carry out independent studies on scientific issues and problems and
8. report the details and opinions derives from independent studies effectively to the scientific
audience.

Course Content: (Main topics, Subtopics)

Review of research area, introduction to project, types, purposes, components and structure of project
proposals, justifying and presenting a problem, literature review and development of proposal, time
frame, resource identification and budgeting; writing project reports and journal articles, standard
formats, principles and structuring the reports for degree requirements, using scientific jargon and
logical presentation of data; writing concise, specific and detailed abstracts; documenting a scientific
paper and presenting scientific material, conventions in designing research posters.
Each student is required to present a Seminar based on the current developments in an area of
Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology chosen.
The student will work on a selected Molecular Biology or Biotechnology topic of interest under the
guidance of a faculty member who agrees to supervise such work and write a comprehensive report
according to the specifications provided by the Lecturer in-charge. This could preferably be a library
research.
Teaching /Learning Methods:

Delivery: Student led background and literature review, case studies.

Continuous Assessment: Mid-review presentation will test the students’ progress of literature review
related to the selected topic and presentation skills. The mid-review report assignment will test the
students’ ability in summarizing skills and technical writing skills.

Page 27 of 34
 Overall Assessment: 50% of the final grade will be taken from the mid-review presentation and
report. Final presentation and report will carry the rest of 50%.
Assessment Strategy
Continues Assessment: 50% Final Assessment: 50%
Report Mid-review Theory 60% Practical 40% Others (specify)
20% Presentation Presentation: 25%
30% Report: 25%
References/Reading Materials:
1. Blackwell, J., Martin, J. (2011) A Scientific Approach to Scientific Writing, Springer.

Course code MB 699

Course title Research Project
Credits 30
Compulsory/optional Compulsory
Prerequisites GPA of 3.00 at M.Sc. (Course work)
Time allocation 3000 notional hrs.
Aims The overall aim is to prepare the student to conduct a research
independently. Specific aims:
1. To train students to apply scientific method in scientific research.
2. To train students to generate researchable hypotheses.
3. To train students to plan, design and conduct scientific research.
4. To train students to gather reliable scientific data, analyse, and
interpret.
5. To develop skills in scientific writing.

Intended learning outcomes At the end of the successful completion of the course, students will be
able to,
1. Apply the scientific method.
2. Design a research project.
3. Complete a research project.
4. Describe ethical issues in scientific research.
5. Explain the patenting process in research.
6. Make presentations at national/international conferences.
7. Produce a thesis conforming to the requirements of the PGIS.
8. Write manuscripts for publication in refereed journals.
Content The students will conduct sufficient amount of laboratory/field work
on a chosen research topic under the guidance provided by an
assigned supervisor/s, make a presentation of research findings at a
national/international conference, and produce a thesis.

Assessment criteria

Continuous assessment End-semester examination

Page 28 of 34
 30% Oral examination (20%)
Thesis (40%)
Conference presentation (10%)

Recommended Texts:
1. Backwell, J., Martin, J. (2011) A Scientific Approach to Scientific Writing, Springer.
2. Postgraduate Institute of Science (2016) Guidelines for Writing M.Sc. Project Report/M.Phil.
Thesis/Ph.D. Thesis

7. PROGRAMME EVALUATION Evaluation of Course work

Page 29 of 34
Formative and summative examinations in the program:
The course work will consist of compulsory courses and optional courses. Courses will be taught by
classroom lectures and laboratory practical work and fieldwork depending on the course unit. In
addition, the students are expected to write tutorials and conduct seminars. The students may also be
assigned independent learning tasks, essays, and library searches. A theory course will, in general,
consist of two to three credits where one credit is equivalent to fifteen (15) hours of instruction. For
laboratory work and fieldwork, where applicable, thirty (30) to forty-five (45) hours of work is
considered as one credit. Students are required to earn a minimum 30 credits for the Master of Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology Degree Programme.

Scheme of Grading (Grades/Grade Points/ Marks ranges):

On completion of the end of course examination the instructor(s) is/are required to hand over the grades
of a given course to the programme coordinator who will assign the Grade Points using the following
table:
Grade Grade Point
A+ 4.0
A 4.0
A- 3.7
B+ 3.3
B 3.0
B- 2.7
C+ 2.3
C 2.0
F 0.0

Calculation of Grade Point Average (GPA):

The Grade Point Average (GPA) will be computed using the formula:

Where ci = Number of credit units for the ith subject and

gi = grade points for the ith subject

Contribution by each semester to final GPA:

50% from each semester

Contribution by in-plant training etc. to final GPA:

None for Master of MBB Degree Programme.

Page 30 of 34
 Repeat/Make up examinations:
If a student fails a course or wishes to improve his/her previous grade in a course, he/she shall repeat
the course and course examinations at the next available opportunity. However, he/she may be
exempted from repeating the course, and repeat only the course examinations if recommended by the
teacher-in-charge or Programme Coordinator. The student may repeat the same course or a substituted
(new) optional course in place of the original course. A student is allowed to repeat four credits of
coursework free-of-charge. The maximum number of credits a candidate is allowed to repeat is twelve.
The maximum grade, a candidate could obtain at a repeat attempt is a B and he/she is allowed to repeat
a given course only on two subsequent occasions.

‘Make-up’ examinations may be given only to students who fail to sit a particular examination due to
medical or other valid reasons acceptable to the PGIS.

Guidelines on thesis proposal, presentation and defense: Not relevant for Masters (Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology)

Guidelines on conduct of research: Not relevant for Masters (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology)

Guidelines on comprehensive examination:

On completion of the course, the instructor(s) is/are required to conduct the final comprehensive
examination and hand over the grades of a given course to the programme coordinator.

Guidelines on thesis defense examination: Not relevant for Masters (Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology)

Awarding the Masters (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology):

A student who have successfully completed a minimum of 30 credits with a minimum overall GPA of
2.75 will be awarded the Master of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.

Evaluation of Research Project

Research project will be evaluated on the basis of a written report (M.Sc. project report) and oral
presentation (see Section 6.0 of the PGIS Handbook for the format of the project report).

Page 31 of 34
8. PANEL OF TEACHERS

Average No. of Teaching Hours/Week

Internal External Proposed Total Hrs.
Programmes Programmes Programme (i)+(ii)+(iii
(i) (ii) (iii) )

Undergraduate

Undergraduate
Postgraduate

Postgraduate
Name of the Lecturer Designation

Dr. M.P.C.S. Dhanapala, Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12

Dept. of Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology, Faculty of Science,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc. (Perad.), M.Sc.
(Saga), Ph.D. (SL); Specialization: Plant
Molecular Biology
Prof. P. H. P. Fernando, Professor 7 3 3 13
Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of
Medicine, Univ. of Peradeniya.
B.VSc. (Perad.), Ph.D. (Kahoshima);
Specialization: Biochemistry
Prof. S.H.P.P. Karunarathne, Senior Professor 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Zoology, Faculty of Science,
Univ. of Peradeniya.
B.Sc. (Perad.), Ph.D. (London);
Specialization: Molecular Entomology
Dr. S.P. Kodithuwakku, Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Animal Science, Faculty of
Agriculture, Univ. of Peradeniya.
B.Sc. (Perad.), Ph.D. (Hong Kong);
Specialization: Molecular Reproductive
Biology
Prof. P.A.J. Perera, Emeritus 3 3 6
Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of Professor
Medicine, Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc.
(Cey.), Ph.D. (Glas.); Specialization:
Biochemistry
Prof. R.G.S.C. Rajapakse, Professor 7 3 3 13
Dept. of Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology, Faculty of Science,
Univ.of Peradeniya. B.Sc. (Perad.),
M.Phil. (Perad.), Ph.D. (Hokkaido);
Specialization: Protein Chemistry
Prof. J.G.S. Ranasinghe, Professor 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of
Medicine, Univ. of Peradeniya.
B.VSc. (Perad.), M.Phil., Ph.D. (Japan);
Specialization: Biochemistry
Prof. P. Samaraweera, Professor 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Molecular Biology and
Biotechnology, Faculty of Science,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc. (Perad.),
Ph.D. (Arizona, USA); Specialization:
Biochemistry
Prof. R. Sivakanesan, Emeritus 3 3 6
Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty of Professor
Medicine, Univ. of Peradeniya
B.V.Sc. (Cey.), Ph.D. (Hull);
Specialization: Biochemistry
Dr. Y.A.M.S. Wickremasinghe Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Basic Veterinary Sciences,
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine & Animal
Science, Univ. of Peradeniya. B.VSc.,
(Perad.), M.Sc. (Oklahoma, USA), Ph.D.

Page 32 of 34
 Average No. of Teaching Hours/Week
Internal External Proposed Total Hrs.
Programmes Programmes Programme (i)+(ii)+(iii
(i) (ii) (iii) )

Undergraduate

Undergraduate
Postgraduate

Postgraduate
Name of the Lecturer Designation

(California Davis, USA); Specialization:

Molecular Genetics
Dr. T.M.I.U.K. Tennakoon Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied
Health Sciences,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc. (Perad.),
Ph.D. (Queensland, Australia);
Specialization: Pharmaceutical
Microbiology
Dr. H.R.N. Jinadasa Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.VSc.,(Perad.),
MSc (Nebraska) Ph.D. (Cornell);
Specialization: Molecular Diagnostics
Prof. C.D. Gamage 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Microbiology, Faculty Medicine,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.VSc., (Perad.),
Ph.D. (Japan)
Specialization: Microbiology
Prof. J.A.M.S. Jayathilake Professor 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Oral Medicine and
Periodontology, Faculty of Dental
Science, Univ. of Peradeniya. B.DS.
(Perad.), Ph.D. (Hong Kong);
Specialization: Microbiology
Prof. H.K.I. Perera Professor 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty Medicine,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.VSc., (Perad.),
MPhil., (Perad), Ph.D. (Glasgow, UK)
Specialization: Biochemistry
Dr. W.I.T. Fernando, Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Biochemistry, Faculty Medicine,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.VSc., (Perad.),
MPhil., (Perad), Ph.D. (Glasgow, UK);
Specialization: Biological Chemistry
Prof. A. Wanigasekera Professor 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Basic Veterinary Sciences,
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine & Animal
Science, Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc.,
MPhil. (Perad.), Ph.D. (Kyoto, Japan);
Specialization: Biological Chemistry
Dr. N.U. Jayawardane Senior Lecturer 7 3 3 13
Dept. of Agric. Biology, Faculty of
Agriculture, Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc.
(Perad.), M.Sc. (Perad), Ph.D
(Melbourne, Australia); Specialization:
Genetics and Biotechnology

Dr. D.V. Jayathilake Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12

Dept. of Agric. Biology, Faculty of
Agriculture, Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc.
(Perad.), M.Sc. (Kansas, USA, Ph.D.
(Adelaide, Australia); Specialization:
Agronomy and Molecular Sciences
Dr. D.R. Uduwela Senior Lecturer 6 3 3 12
Dept. of Chemistry, Faculty of Science,
Univ. of Peradeniya. B.Sc. (Perad.), Ph.D.

Page 33 of 34
 Average No. of Teaching Hours/Week
Internal External Proposed Total Hrs.
Programmes Programmes Programme (i)+(ii)+(iii
(i) (ii) (iii) )

Undergraduate

Undergraduate
Postgraduate

Postgraduate
Name of the Lecturer Designation

(ANU, Australia); Specialization:

Biochemistry

Panel of Teachers/External Resource Persons [cntd.]

Name Qualification Affiliation

Prof. M.P.B. Meegaskumbura, B.Sc. (Perad), Ph.D. (Boston, USA) Professor,
College of Forestry, Guangxi
University, China.
Dr. D.N. Magana-Arachchi B. Sc. (Colombo.), Ph.D. (Colombo) Associate Research Professor,
Institute of Fundamental Studies,
Sri Lanka.
Dr. K.D.B. Ukuwela B.Sc. (Perad), Ph.D. (Australia) Senior Lecturer,
Faculty of Applied Sciences,
University of Peradeniya,
Peradeniya
Prof. A.M.J.B. Adikari B.Sc. (Perad), M.Sc. (New Delhi) Ph.D. Professor,
(VPSU, USA) Faculty of Agriculture, University
of Peradeniya, Peradeniya
Dr. M.A.B. Ranathunga B.Sc. (Perad), M.Sc. (New Delhi) Ph.D. Head, Plant Breeding Division,
(Perad) Tea research Institute, Talawakele
Dr. Sumith de Z. Abesiriwardane B.Sc. (Perad), Ph.D. (VPSU, USA) Senior Scientist,
CIC Agri Industries, Palwehera
Dr. R.R. Rathnayake B. Sc. (Perad), Ph.D. (Perad) Associate Research Professor,
Institute of Fundamental Studies,
Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Dr. U.A.K.S. Udawela B.Sc. (Perad), Ph.D. (China) Assistant Director – Research,
Rice Research and Development
Institute, Bathalagoda,
Ibbagamuwa

9. PROGRAMME COORDINATOR

Dr. M.P.C.S. Dhanapala

Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Faculty of Science
University of Peradeniya
Tel.: 077-7612806
Email: chandimasd@sci.pdn.ac.lk

Page 34 of 34