MS Human Genetics

Introduction

The vision behind this post-graduate program is to produce highly skilled professionals who will be actively engaged in research in the field of human genetics. Pakistan is facing a challenge of ever-increasing burden of genetic disorders due to high incidence of consanguineous marriages, cancer and other non-communicable diseases. Our graduates will contribute towards mitigating these challenges, by undertaking basic and translational research, using the latest tools and techniques in molecular biology. The faculty members at the Department of Biological Sciences are highly qualified and experienced PhDs with diverse research expertise and background. This set of highly competent faculty members will provide an educational program in Human Genetics at par with that of any internationally recognized university. The emphasis of this post-graduate program will be problem solving research for the benefit of our patients and the community at large. The program aims to nurture confident individuals who are effective contributors towards the growth of the nation.

Why Master of Science in Human Genetics at NUMS

Modern molecular biology and genomics are poised to have a profound impact on human health by contributing not only to the understanding of the fundamental basis of human diseases but also by becoming invaluable tools in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of various diseases. Generations of family marriages has led to the manifestation of various genetic diseases and syndromes in Pakistan. The expression of rare and unique phenotypes in families with genetic disorders has allowed the identification of novel genes as well as the elucidation of their functions. However, Pakistani researchers are still dependent on foreign collaborators for much of the functional genomics work due to a lack of adequate training and infrastructure to support such work. The establishment of a post-graduate program of international standards in the field of human genetics at NUMS will provide skilled workforce dedicated to work in the fields of molecular medicine, genomics and translational sciences.

Mission statement

The mission of this program is to promote academic, research and professional excellence in the field of Human Genetics for the definitive benefit of our society.

Program Outcomes

Our graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply a broad understanding of advanced concepts in molecular genetics, including current areas of research, innovation, and emerging technologies.
  2. Investigate and solve research problems related to the increasing burden of inherited and acquired genetic diseases, and contribute to the creation of new knowledge in the field.
  3. Design, plan, and execute independent research projects, and communicate research findings effectively through proposals, oral presentations, and scientific publications.
  4. Work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to diverse research and professional environments.
Program Duration

This Master of Science program extends over a period of 2 years/4 semesters of study and research.

Program Objectives

This a research based program with a focus on areas that can translate into direct benefit for our population. The major objective of the post-graduate program in Human Genetics is to impart advanced concepts of human genetics to prepare our graduates for the challenges in the field of human health and disease; develop solutions through the successful accomplishment of comprehensive, problem-based research projects. The newly established basic translational sciences laboratory at NIASR serves as the parent postgraduate research laboratory where master students will carry out their research.

Career Prospects

For graduates who would like to join the job market both in academic and industrial sectors after their Master of Science studies will have plenty of options, such as to become:

  • Teachers in college biology programs.
  • Researchers in various institutions.
  • Laboratory managers 
  • Quality assurance/control scientists employed to improve quality processes in diagnostic procedures carried out at molecular genetics labs/departments as per international guidelines. 
Admission Criteria/Eligibility
  • Sixteen years of education in the relevant discipline (including M.B.B.S., BSc. (Hons.) or M.Sc. in Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Animal Sciences, Zoology, Genetics, Medical Laboratory Technology, Molecular Biology and any other discipline as decided by University Admission Committee) from HEC recognized institute
  • NUMS Entry test/relevant GAT General with minimum 50% score
  • The candidate for graduate programs will be interviewed by the Graduate Admission Committee
  • Merit Computation for graduate programs shall be as follows;

Score

Weightage

Previous Academic Score(s)

25%

NUMS entry test/GAT General  Score

50%

Interview

25%

Total

100 %

Courses
To Download Scheme of Study Click Here
Commencement of Session

Fall session