Research Activities

Teaching Methods

The Department of Immunology employs a diverse range of innovative and student-centred teaching methods to ensure effective learning and skills development. These include:

• Interactive lectures: Concept-based lectures supported by multimedia tools to enhance understanding of fundamental and advanced immunological concepts.
• Problem-based learning: Case discussions that encourage critical thinking and the application of knowledge to clinical and research scenarios.
• Laboratory training: Hands-on practical sessions in modern laboratories, enabling students to develop technical expertise in immunological assays and research techniques.
• Seminars and journal clubs: Regular sessions where students present and critically evaluate current literature, fostering analytical and presentation skills.
• Research projects: Opportunities for students to engage in supervised research, promoting independent enquiry and innovation.
• Clinical exposure: Integration of immunology with clinical disciplines through hospital-based learning, linking theoretical knowledge to patient care.
• E-learning resources: Use of digital platforms, online modules, and virtual simulations to supplement traditional teaching.

Through these methods, the department aims to cultivate a strong foundation in immunological sciences while preparing graduates to meet the future challenges in healthcare, research, and diagnostics. Academics

M.Phil. Programm:

The M.Phil. is a two-year postgraduate program structured to provide a balanced blend of coursework, laboratory training, research, and professional development. In the first year, students undertake core and elective modules covering the fundamentals of immunology, biostatistics, research methodology, laboratory biosafety, vaccinology and clinical applications. These taught modules are delivered through lectures, interactive sessions, case-based discussions, and hands-on laboratory training to ensure both theoretical understanding and practical competence. The second year emphasizes independent research, where students undertake a thesis project under faculty supervision and apply their knowledge to address immunological questions of clinical or translational significance. Professional and Teaching Skills Apprenticeship (PTSA) is integrated throughout the program to enhance students’ communication, presentation, and pedagogical skills. This structured approach enables students to develop a holistic understanding of immunology while building their competencies in research, diagnostics, and academic leadership.

Ph.D. program:

The PhD in Immunology is a rigorous, research-intensive program spanning a minimum of three years and is structured to develop independent scientists and academicians with advanced expertise in the field. The program’s initial phase focuses on advanced coursework in research methodology, biostatistics, fundamentals of immunology, bioethics, biosafety, and advanced laboratory techniques, equipping scholars with the theoretical knowledge and technical skills required for high-level research. Specialised modules, including the immunological basis of disease, immunopharmacology and immunotoxicology, and epigenetics with immune modulation, provide an in-depth understanding of emerging areas in immunology. The core of the program is dedicated to original research under faculty supervision, culminating in a doctoral thesis that contributes to the advancement of immunological sciences. Candidates are expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at national and international conferences, and actively engage in collaborative research projects. Professional and Teaching Skills Apprenticeship (PTSA) is integrated throughout the program to enhance students’ communication, presentation, and pedagogical skills. Thus, the program prepares graduates for leadership roles in academia, research, biotechnology, clinical diagnostics, and translational medicine. By the completion of the program, graduates are expected to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the fundamental and applied concepts in immunology.
• Biostatistical and research methodologies are applied to design, conduct, and critically analyse scientific studies.
• Advanced immunological laboratory techniques should be performed with adherence to biosafety and ethical standards.
• Integrate immunological principles with clinical and translational applications to address health challenges.
• Conduct independent and original research contributing to the advancement of immunological science.
• Effectively communicate scientific findings through publications, presentations, and teaching.
• Exhibit professional, ethical, and leadership skills essential for careers in academia, healthcare, diagnostics, biotechnology and biomedical research.

Current research activities:

Faculty and postgraduate students are actively investigating the immunopathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, including Guillain–Barré Syndrome, Rheumatic Heart Disease, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, and Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Research activities focus on elucidating disease mechanisms, identifying novel biomarkers, and exploring therapeutic targets to improve patient care outcomes. The department provides state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and promotes a collaborative research culture, encouraging multidisciplinary projects that integrate clinical, molecular, and computational approaches to research. In addition to ongoing projects, the department aims to expand research into emerging areas, such as cancer immunology, vaccinology, mucosal immunity, and immunotherapy, aligning with global health priorities. Through these efforts, the department strives to contribute meaningful scientific insights and train the next generation of researchers and clinician scientists.