DBS Summer Course 2025 - Chemistry of Life | 6-19 July 2025
The DBS Summer Course 2025, titled “Chemistry of Life,” is offered by the Department of Biological Sciences (DBS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS). This two-week intensive course is designed to introduce students to cutting-edge biological knowledge and techniques used in research labs and industries. Participants will have the opportunity to conduct experiments and learn at one of the world’s top universities, while also connecting with peers from around the globe.
Our program, known for its research-led teaching, includes lectures, practical classes, group discussions, and scientific tours, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience. The course covers key areas of modern biology, such as cell and molecular biology, proteomics, and molecular genetics, with applications in biomedical research, pharmaceutical sciences, and agriculture.
The “Chemistry of Life” module aims to impart foundational principles and techniques in biological chemistry, biophysics, and molecular genetics, relevant to fields such as biomedical research and agriculture. Conducted in a boot-camp style, the course includes lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, research seminars, and social activities, scheduled over two weeks. Mornings are dedicated to interactive lectures and group discussions, while afternoons focus on project-based, hands-on practical and tutorial sessions. Evaluation methods include assignments, group projects, reports, and exams. Due to potential public health guidelines, we have capped enrollment at 80 students to ensure intensive interaction and communication.
Through this intensive Summer Program, we aim to help students:
- Develop essential skills and confidence for success in laboratory settings.
- Cultivate collaboration skills by working in groups.
- Meet students from universities worldwide.
- Gain international academic experience at a leading university.
- Immerse themselves in Singaporean culture.
- Annual Offering: The course is offered annually in July. Registration opens in January.
- 2025 Dates: 06 – 19 July 2025.
- Application Deadline: Friday, 18 April 2025.
Participants can expect to experience the following throughout the program:
- Classroom teaching
- Lab practicals
- Research seminars
- Field trips
- Social activities
Course Materials: Participants will receive both hard and soft copies of coursebooks and lab manuals, which include detailed content and lab instructions.
All participants will be assessed base on the following criteria:
- Presentation and communication
- Class and lab participation
- Examination
Certification: Upon successful completion, students will receive a Certificate from the Department of Biological Sciences, NUS. While the course does not confer NUS credits, a completion certificate and examination report will be provided, and credit may be granted by the student’s home university at their discretion.
To enroll, students must:
- Be enrolled in an accredited university.
- Be nominated by their home university.
- Be proficient in English.
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Associate Professor Low Boon Chuan |
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Associate Professor Cynthia He |
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Associate Professor Liou Yih Cherng |
How to register?
Registration:
Interested students should ensure they meet entry requirements and secure finances and university prerequisites. Registration is managed through the home university’s Department or International Office. Early registration is encouraged due to the class size quota. The registration deadline is Friday, 18 April 2025.
Interested participants to make an enquiry with the program administrator (See Contact Us).
Course Fee:
The course fee is SGD 5000 (including 9% GST) and covers:
- Tuition, registration, and administration fees
- Course materials
- Group airport and city transport
- Shared accommodation
- Orientation and farewell events
- Social activities
Payment must be received before the course begins to confirm participation. Successful registrants will receive confirmation and payment instructions.
Accommodation:
Shared or single-room accommodation will be provided.
Health and Travel Insurance:
The program does not include health or travel insurance. Participants are encouraged to arrange their own private health and travel insurance.
Contact Us
For any enquires, please email:
Ms Wang Xianhui
Administrative Coordinator
Email: dbswxh@nus.edu.sg