Study plan

Biologia e Tecnologie Cellulari (Percorso valido anche per il conseguimento del doppio titolo italo-francese)

First year

Orientamento unico
Course		Semester	CFU	SSD
1052141 - Plant cellular plasticity and dynamics of differentation: industrial applications	General Skills The course aims to study the structural and functional organization of the plant cell and the models of plant development, using experimental systems and advanced methodologies. It also aims to provide the knowledge and technological tools to increase the professionalism of the biologist in sectors that use plant cell systems for industrial applications (eg functional cosmetics and supplements, germplasm banks). The course requires knowledge of plant Botany and Physiology acquired in the three-year degree in Biology. The course includes lectures and some theoretical-practical lessons held in the laboratory. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowledge and understanding of the structural and functional organization of the different cellular compartments, peculiar of the plant cell. - Knowledge and understanding of the main study methods in cell biology: optical,fluorescence, confocal microscopies, scanning and transmission electronic microscopy. - Knowledge and understanding of the new "omics" technologies - Knowledge and understanding of experimental systems used as model systems to study the biology of plant development - Knowledge and understanding of biotechnological methodologies in the plant field for the production of bioactive molecules to be used in the cosmetic and nutraceutical field or in the conservation of biodiversity (Germplasm Banks) B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology of the subject - be able to identify the right procedures to solve the questions of cell biology and plant development - be able to use biotechnological techniques for different application purposes C) Making judgements - to acquire critical judgment skills in the reading of experimental procedures and results reported in the literature on specific research issues - to learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned D) Communication skills - be able to communicate during the oral exam what has been learned during the lectures and the laboratory experiences E) Learning skills - learning specific terminology of the matter - be able to logically connect the acquired knowledge - be able to identify the most relevant topics of the matter • acquired during the course Learning skills • Learning the specific scientific language • Being able to consult databases • Being able to integrate the notions acquired with the those learnt in the other courses	First semester	6	BIO/01
1038169 - MOLECULAR GENETICS OF MICROORGANISMS	General objectives - The main objective of the course is to allow the student to acquire advanced knowledge of microbial genetics, including the molecular aspects, which underlie the development of many of the current techniques of molecular biology and recombinant DNA. The educational objectives of the course are the understanding of some of the historical experiments of microbial genetics and the study of today's advances in the fields of bacterial genetics, phage and eukaryotic microbes such as the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Mutation and evolution of microbial genomes, mechanisms for regulating copy control of plasmids and chromosomes, transposons and control of transposition, mechanisms of microbial differentiation will also be topics of the course. Specific objectives - Knowledge and ability to understand. The specific objectives of the course include: • Know and understand some of the historical experiments of microbial genetics, the advances in the fields of bacterial genetics, phage and eukaryotic microbes such as yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae; • To know and understand the role of mutations in the evolution of microbial genomes, the mechanisms of regulation of mobile elements such as plasmids and transposons and control of transposition;	First semester	6	BIO/19
1038171 - Molecular and cellular bases of plant biotechnologies	Specific skills Part I A) Knowledge and understanding To acquire detailed knowledge on the methods of transient and stable transformation of the nuclear and plastidic genome of plants; on direct and reverse genetic approaches to study the function of plant genes; on the identification and use of molecular markers in plant genetics; on the use of plant biotechnologies for the production of crop varieties with improved agronomic traits. In particular, students who have passed the exam will be able to know and understand: - the main systems of stable and transient expression in plants, including plastid transformation systems; - methods of analyzing gene function in plants through direct and reverse genetics; - silencing and "genome editing" mechanisms in plant organisms; - the use of natural genetic variability as a source of biotechnological and agronomic traits. B) Applying knowledge and understanding - design experiments aimed at defining the function of a gene through reverse genetic approaches; - design genetic screening in plant model systems and outline the main lines of identification of a mutation; - understand and critically discuss the different approaches used to alter the expression of a gene in a plant and choose the most appropriate one according to the needs and the experimental model; - designing the engineering of new traits in plant organisms. C) Making judgements - Critical judgment skills, through the study of reviews and scientific articles on key aspects of the field and in-depth discussions; - Ability to evaluate the correctness and scientific rigor in the topics related to the topics covered by the course. D) Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and useful tools for communication in Italian and in foreign languages (English), through the use of graphic and formal languages, with particular regard to the scientific language. E) Learning skills - Ability to interpret and deepen knowledge; - Ability to use cognitive tools for continuous updating of knowledge; - Ability to compare for the consolidation and improvement of knowledge. Specific skills Part. II A) Knowledge and understanding Acquire detailed knowledge on primary and secondary metabolism of plants, with particular reference to biosynthesis and compartmentalization of metabolites; on vesicular trafficking and secretion; on the conceptual and methodological bases of the analysis of the plant proteome and metabolome. Students who have passed the exam will be able to know and understand: - the main biosynthetic pathways in primary and secondary metabolism of plants; - the mechanisms of regulation, channeling and compartmentalization of plant metabolism; - the various technologies available today for the large-scale analysis of plant proteomes and metabolomes. B) Applying knowledge and understanding - understand and critically evaluate the methodologies to be used in a proteomics or metabolomics experiment; - understand a plant metabolic pathway and plan its modification in plant systems or heterologous systems. C) Making judgements - Critical judgment skills, through the study of reviews and scientific articles on key aspects of the field and in-depth discussions; - Ability to evaluate the correctness and scientific rigor in the topics related to the topics covered by the course. D) Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and useful tools for communication in Italian and in foreign languages (English), through the use of graphic and formal languages, with particular regard to the scientific language. E) Learning skills - Ability to interpret and deepen knowledge; - Ability to use cognitive tools for continuous updating of knowledge; - Ability to compare for the consolidation and improvement of knowledge.	First semester	6	BIO/04
1038162 - Biogenesis of cellular compartments and signaling between cells	General skills This course is designed to deepen the knowledge on Cell biology assumed during the Bachelor. The main goal is for learners to deepen the knowledge on eukaryotic animal cell structure and the mechanisms underlying fundamental cell biological processes (in physiology and disease), updated with yearly published new researches. The course includes classroom lectures, and involve the discussion on the experimental approaches used in recent highest quality researches. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding -knowing and understanding the molecular mechanisms that rule cellular processes in eukaryotic cells; -knowing and understanding cellular activities that allow the maintenance of functional integrity of membranes and organelles in the eukaryotic animal cells; -knowing and understanding cell signaling, different class of receptor involved, and their effects on enzymatic activities, structures and cell processes (e.g. cytoskeleton organization, endocytosis, etc.) B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - be able to analyze and interpret scientific papers concerning cell biology topics and identify the appropriate experimental procedures to clarify a specific cell biology process. C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the study of the experimental procedures used for the identification of key molecules in some cell processes - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics	Second semester	6	BIO/06
1014522 - Cellular Microbiology and vaccinology	General aims The course of Cellular Microbiology and Vaccinology aims at providing the notions that allow students to understand the complexity of the interactions of the microbial world with eukaryotic organisms. This knowledge will form the basis for a rational path that will lead them to understand the strategies underlining the formulation of vaccines. The objectives will be finalized at sequentially integrating in this schema the issues concerning the recognition of microorganisms by the innate immune system, the characteristics of the microbiota and the molecular basis of the interaction of microbiota with eukaryotic organisms. We will then proceed to the analysis of genetic and phenotypic factors that characterize the differences between commensals and pathogens and the transitional forms between these two classes. Finally, we will face the fundamentals of vaccines, their typology and composition, and the scientific and institutional process leading to their development. The prospective of the new generation vaccines and of the new vaccine targets will complete the knowledge acquired by the student. The achievement of this network of issues will provide the student with the skills to evaluate the role of microorganisms in the process of interaction with humans and the actual value of vaccines. Specific objectives Knowledge and understanding • the mechanisms underlining the recognition of microorganisms by the immune system and adaptive immune responses. • fundamental role of the microbiota in the physiological and pathological processes of eukaryotic organisms. • the molecular bases that underlie the difference between commensals microorganism and pathogens. • evolution of vaccines and the rationalization of the scientific and experimental path that has led to the formulation of these drugs. • the vaccine types, the components of the vaccines and the functional roles of these. • the key phases of vaccine development and the scientific and legislative process leading from the "bench to field" • goals for vaccines in the near future. Applying knowledge and understanding • understanding the biological phenomena of complex organisms on the basis of the knowledge about microorganisms; • interpreting the phenomena associated with microorganisms on a personal and social scale; • perceiving the environment by integrating the key role played by microorganisms, • feeling about themselves as a biological ecosystem and understanding the rules that govern it. Making judgments • Sieving information about the world of microorganisms in a conscious and reasoned way • Making reasoned decisions about the use of products derived from bacteria and argiung about relevance of vaccines Comunication skills • Spreading the information acquired in the course Communicating the issues about the vaccines on the basis of the knowledge	Second semester	6	BIO/19
Insegnamenti OPZIONALI del settore biomolecolare		Go to group
Insegnamenti OPZIONALI affini e integrativi		Go to group
Insegnamenti OPZIONALI del settore nutrizionistico e altre applicazioni		Go to group

Second year

Orientamento unico
Course		Semester	CFU
AAF1041 - Training	INTERSHIP The internship in companies and private research centers allows the student to participate in meetings with technicians and experts in the sector operating in the market. Students develop in external companies and research centers adequate skills for the deepening of both practical and theoretical skills and allows them to get in touch with the working and strictly scientific applications. Specific objectives Knowledge and understanding: Know and understand research and development issues in the company and in private research centers. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding The acquired knowledge allows interaction with specialized technicians and managers for the application of research in the world of work. Autonomy of judgment The student will acquire autonomy in judging the practices he will face in the workplace. Communication skills Ability to communicate the acquired scientific skills to technicians and researchers working in the field of application of plant, animal and microbial biology. Learning ability With the traineeship activity, students will acquire the methodological approaches of learning necessary for the continuation of their activity in the field of academic research or in the industrial field.	First semester	3
- A SCELTA DELLO STUDENTE		First semester	6
- A SCELTA DELLO STUDENTE		Second semester	6
AAF1037 - FINAL EXAM	General objectives The bibliographic study, the experimental work and the elaboration of the results for the writing of the degree thesis represent one of the most important moments of the study course of the master's degree acquisition of advanced theoretical-practical knowledge and of the correct scientific methods of investigation. Specific objectives Knowledge and understanding: Knowledge and advanced scientific methodologies in specific areas of animal, plant and microbial cell biology and its applications, scientific methods of investigation, methods of collection, analysis and processing of experimental data will be acquired during the process and preparation of the final elaborate of the thesis. The thesis preparation will be carried out in university laboratories both in Italy and abroad as well as in accredited research centers and national institutes. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding The knowledge acquired during the preparation and discussion of the thesis allow the graduate to: Apply knowledge for experimental design Apply the acquired knowledge to propose advanced technologies to solve specific sector problems. Autonomy of judgment The development of the thesis will develop the skills of the graduates: The autonomy of judgment in the critical evaluation of experimental data Autonomy in the documentation and evaluation of the most appropriate experimental approaches for the solution of specific problems. Communication skills The preparation and discussion of the elaborate file will allow the graduate master to acquire: -Communication skills of the research carried out and of its own global preparation. -Ability to communicate the scientific results obtained with the thesis activity in national and international conferences Learning ability During the preparation and discussion of the thesis the graduate acquires the ability to learn the most advanced knowledge and methodologies and their continuous updating.	Second semester	39
Insegnamenti OPZIONALI del settore biomolecolare		Go to group

Optional Groups

**Insegnamenti OPZIONALI del settore biomolecolare: The student must acquire 18 CFU from the exams below**
Course		Year	Semester	CFU	SSD
1020774 - Microbial vectors and applications in gene and cell therapy	General objectives - The main objective of the course is to provide students with the tools to understand the main approaches of gene and cell therapy through a thorough study of microbial vectors in use both in basic research and in clinical trials. Particular attention is devoted to the development process of first-second- and third-generation vectors and to the methodological aspects for the production of a therapeutic vector. Finally, the ethical issues that derive from the use of genetic material for therapeutic purposes will be considered. Specific objectives - Knowledge and ability to understand. The specific objectives of the course include: • Understand and understand the process that from the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the functionality of specific genetic elements (viruses, chromosomes, plasmids, transposons) leads to the development of vectors for the transfer of genes / sequences in mammalian cells. • Know and understand the methods and models used to test the safety of the carriers and the related production processes. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. The course provides the tools that allow the student to select specific microbial elements, such as plasmids, transposons and viruses, for the transfer of genetic material in vitro and in vivo, even considering the specific experimental / therapeutic needs; select the most appropriate engineering techniques for gene transfer elements; to evaluate host responses to gene transfer; apply the different methods of molecular and cellular investigation for the study of the different production phases of gene transfer systems. Making judgments: The student, through the study of the sector literature, the analysis of experimental data present in public databases, the carrying out of practical laboratory tests, acquires an autonomous ability to interpret experimental data and to place them in the framework of knowledge already acquired. It will also be able to evaluate ethical issues. Communication skills: the student acquires the use of appropriate scientific terminology to communicate the concepts underlying gene therapy, the use of means of investigation, production and the real issues of ethical nature, both to a lay public and experts . Learning skills: the ability to learn is stimulated by the continuous reference, in all the activities of the course, to the knowledge acquired and to the methodologies used for their progress. At the end of the course the students will have learned the genetic mechanisms underlying the most commonly treated pathologies with medicaments of genetic origin, the construction, production and use of genetic medications	First year	First semester	6	BIO/19
1056104 - Stems cells biology and applications	Knowledge on the basic molecular and cell properties of mammalian stem cells and of their use in biomedical applications and knowledge about the role of stem cells in embryonic and post-embryonic development in plants. Moreover, the class aims to give information about plant stem cell manipulation techniques for agricultural purposes. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding -knowing and understanding the nature of stem cells -knowing and understanding the use of stem cells in biomedicine -knowing and understanding the use of plant stem cells for agricultural purposes B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - practicing problem solving in stem cell biology C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in stem cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the simulation of a project research discussion E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics	First year	First semester	6
Module I		First year	First semester	3	BIO/11
Module II		First year	First semester	3	BIO/18
1038785 - EPIGENETIC CONTROL IN CELL DIFFERENTIATION	General objectives The course will address the different aspects of the epigenetic control of gene expression, both at the genomic level (I Module) and through RNA-based mechanisms (II Module), providing the student a perspective of the subject based on current research. The main objective of the course is to provide an up-to-date overview of the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation and their effect on cell differentiation through frontal lessons. Lectures will be accompanied by search of related topics on which students can propose a seminar to be developed in small groups, to improve study and communication strategies. Specific objectives The course aims to develop the knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms deriving from environmental stimuli and affecting cell differentiation. Through the lectures developed in two modules, the course also aims to encourage the use of the acquired knowledge on the complex phenomena to study human pathologies related to the alteration of the regulative mechanisms. The course, through the reading of selected scientific works and the development of internal seminars on topics chosen by the students, also intends to develop and increase their ability to communicate externally and critically read the topics under study. The last objective is to provide the students with specific knowledge that will enable them to apply the molecular methodology and bases of epigenetics in their future studies and in their profession as biologists. Expected results: Knowledge of the molecular basis of epigenetic regulation in the cell, development of related skills such as search in databases, preparation of scientific seminars and critical reading and discussion of the topics.	First year	First semester	6
MODULO II		First year	First semester	3	BIO/11
MODULO I		First year	First semester	3	BIO/11
1020771 - Metabolic engineering and plant improvement	General skills Students will acquire knowledge on plant metabolic engineering and on the use of advanced methodologies for the study and production of plant metabolites of agronomic, pharmacological or alimentary interest. Students will also acquire skills in plant metabolic engineering for the genetic improvement of plants of agricultural interest and for the production of biofuels. The skills will be acquired through lectures, seminar activities by the teacher and experts in the field. The skills will also be supported by internships proposed by the teacher in companies and organizations operating in the agronomic sector. The learning ability will be verified by tutors in oral exams and seminars carried out by the students. Specific skills -Knowledge and understanding To acquire detailed knowledge on the study of the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis and regulation of the production of plant macromolecules of industrial and pharmacological interest. Acquire knowledge on advanced techniques of analysis of metabolites and plant macromolecules Acquire knowledge of the main approaches of molecular biology and cell biology aimed at the engineering of plant metabolism to obtain varieties grown with improved agronomic traits. Understanding the effect of particular plant metabolites on human physiology in the treatment of diseases. In particular, students who have passed the exam will be able to know and understand: - Plant metabolism: main advanced systems for the study of secondary plant metabolism - Applications of metabolic genetic engineering for obtaining plant products of industrial interest. - Biotechnological methods for obtaining plants with improved nutritional value, resistance to stress and improved plants for bioenergy production. B) knowledge and understanding - To understand and execute experimental protocols for the production of plant metabolites of commercial interes -Designing the engineering of metabolic pathways for plant genetic improvement. C) Making judgements - ability to autonomously understand and solve scientific problems concerning plant metabolism for plant improvement and for industrial applications. - Ability to evaluate and autonomous interpretation of experimental data for the study of plant metabolism and its modifications with biotechnological approaches for plant improvement D) Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and tools useful for communication and dissemination of the acquired knowledge and results of scientific activity carried out during the course of study. - Ability to communicate with industrial managers, production technicians and with managers of scientific public and private Institutions. E) Learning ability Autonomous capacity to deepen further scientific information and technical knowledge of the sector for the continuous updating of knowledge. - Ability to learn cognitive tools and scientific method typical of the activity of a cellular biologist in the field of scientific research in genetic improvement and applied to the production of plant metabolites of commercial interest	First year	Second semester	6	BIO/04
1035089 - FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS	General aims: The course aims to introduce the students to the main approaches to functional genomics. Students will learn to apply the high-throughput techniques based on DNA microarrays and next generation sequencing NGS, measuring their potentials and their problems and limits. Focus will be placed on data mining methodologies, from image analysis to data normalization and statistical filtering to gene clustering and gene ontology. The availability of functional database and their use for improving biomedical research will also be explained. Specific Skills 1. Knowledge and comprehension: the student will have to know the basic principles, the potentiality and the possible weak points of the most utilized methodologies in functional genomics 2. Ability to apply knowledge and comprehension: the student will have to apply this knowledge to the critical interpretation of scientific literature in the specific field. 3. Judgment ability: the student will have to show ability in evaluating the solidity and the impact of recent work from the scientific literature and to present his conclusion to teacher and colleagues. 4. The student will have to show ability to extend the application of the analytical tools learned in the course (specific softwares freely available in the web) to his future experimental work.	First year	Second semester	6	BIO/11
1038172 - APPLIED BIOCHEMISTRY	General skills The course aims to provide students with the biochemical bases to understand the most advanced biotechnological applications of enzymes, proteins and complex multienzymatic systems. The biochemical principles of methods for the study of protein-protein interactions will also be illustrated. Furthermore, aspects of metal metabolism in procaryotes and eukaryotes will be illustrated. Specific skills A) knowledge and understanding - knowledge of the main biotechnological applications of enzymes,proteinsandcomplex multienzymatic systems; - knowledge of the main biochemical techniques for the study of protein-protein interactions - knowledge of the strategies required for protein and enzyme production and engineering B) ability to apply knowledge and understanding - exploiting the knowledge of biochemical techniques to investigate the applications of enzymes and proteins in the field of biotechnology - understanding and evaluating the impact of structural modifications of biological macromolecules on their biological function; C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the study of examples of biotechnological applications of proteins and enzymes taken from the scientific literature - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -ability to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - ability to make the logical connections between the topics covered - ability to identify the most relevant topics	First year	Second semester	6	BIO/10
1038307 - Molecular mechanisms of mitosis	General skills The course is aimed at providing students with an integrated view of the different molecular and cellular components involved in mitosis, highlighting their evolutionary conservation and their role in tumorigenesis and diverse human pathologies; making students familiar with the model systems and the experimental approaches employed to study cell division; providing students with basic notions about the mechanisms of stem cell asymmetric divisions. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowing the main structural and regulatory components of cell division and understanding the molecural interactions controlling its progression. - Knowing the main model systems and experimental approaches to be employed for elucidating specific aspects of mitosis. - Knowing the pathological consequences of alterations in the mitotic process B) Applying knowledge and understanding - To acquire and correctly use the terminology required to describe the main mitotic players and their interactions. - Ability to design suitable experimental approaches for studying specific aspects of cell division. C) Making judgements - To be able to critically evaluate criticamente experimental hypotheses, anche attraverso lo studio e l’approfondimento di esperimenti che hanno portato al chiarimento di particolari aspetti della mitosi. - To be able to correctly interpret the experimental data and to evaluate their statistical significance. D) Communication skills - Ability to perform clear and well-structured oral presentations concerning the course topics, eventually exploiting multimedial supports. E) Learning skills - Acquiring a comprehensive view of the mitotic process and of the high level of evolutionary conservation of its components and regulatory networks. - Learning the suitable terminology to describe components and sub-processes involved in cell division.	First year	Second semester	6	BIO/18
1020774 - Microbial vectors and applications in gene and cell therapy	General objectives - The main objective of the course is to provide students with the tools to understand the main approaches of gene and cell therapy through a thorough study of microbial vectors in use both in basic research and in clinical trials. Particular attention is devoted to the development process of first-second- and third-generation vectors and to the methodological aspects for the production of a therapeutic vector. Finally, the ethical issues that derive from the use of genetic material for therapeutic purposes will be considered. Specific objectives - Knowledge and ability to understand. The specific objectives of the course include: • Understand and understand the process that from the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the functionality of specific genetic elements (viruses, chromosomes, plasmids, transposons) leads to the development of vectors for the transfer of genes / sequences in mammalian cells. • Know and understand the methods and models used to test the safety of the carriers and the related production processes. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding. The course provides the tools that allow the student to select specific microbial elements, such as plasmids, transposons and viruses, for the transfer of genetic material in vitro and in vivo, even considering the specific experimental / therapeutic needs; select the most appropriate engineering techniques for gene transfer elements; to evaluate host responses to gene transfer; apply the different methods of molecular and cellular investigation for the study of the different production phases of gene transfer systems. Making judgments: The student, through the study of the sector literature, the analysis of experimental data present in public databases, the carrying out of practical laboratory tests, acquires an autonomous ability to interpret experimental data and to place them in the framework of knowledge already acquired. It will also be able to evaluate ethical issues. Communication skills: the student acquires the use of appropriate scientific terminology to communicate the concepts underlying gene therapy, the use of means of investigation, production and the real issues of ethical nature, both to a lay public and experts . Learning skills: the ability to learn is stimulated by the continuous reference, in all the activities of the course, to the knowledge acquired and to the methodologies used for their progress. At the end of the course the students will have learned the genetic mechanisms underlying the most commonly treated pathologies with medicaments of genetic origin, the construction, production and use of genetic medications	Second year	First semester	6	BIO/19
1056104 - Stems cells biology and applications	Knowledge on the basic molecular and cell properties of mammalian stem cells and of their use in biomedical applications and knowledge about the role of stem cells in embryonic and post-embryonic development in plants. Moreover, the class aims to give information about plant stem cell manipulation techniques for agricultural purposes. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding -knowing and understanding the nature of stem cells -knowing and understanding the use of stem cells in biomedicine -knowing and understanding the use of plant stem cells for agricultural purposes B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - practicing problem solving in stem cell biology C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in stem cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the simulation of a project research discussion E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics	Second year	First semester	6
Module I		Second year	First semester	3	BIO/11
Module II		Second year	First semester	3	BIO/18

**Insegnamenti OPZIONALI affini e integrativi: The student must acquire 12 CFU from the exams below**
Course		Year	Semester	CFU	SSD
1020770 - MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY	General skills Knowledge of the molecular bases of the cross talk between plant and pathogens. Knowledge of the molecular and physiological basis for the regulation of the biosynthesis of phytotoxins and mycotoxins in the pathogen and their effect in the host. Studying the genome of phytopathogens by bioinformatic tools. Study of the main strategies of Integrated Pest Management. Provide advanced knowledge of food analysis in terms of definition of the nutritional value and food safety. To analyze the Italian and Community current regulations regarding Food safety and quality. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding The concept of plant disease The different types of phytopathogens: viruses, bacteria and fungi The diagnosis of plant pathogens The molecular and biochemical basis of defensive innate strategies of plants the biochemical molecular basis of virulence strategies of pathogens integrated disease control strategies in the main crops the concept of food safety linked to the contamination of the main Crops B) Applying knowledge and understanding how using specific terminology Identify the main factors causing disease in the main crops Identify important activities and genes in plant resistance Identify the important activities and genes in the virulence of pathogens Outline integrated strategies for controlling plant diseases and generally improving food safety C) Making judgements critical thinking through the historical survey of the main discoveries in cell biology with the detailed analysis of the fundamental experiments learning by questioning D) Communication skills Identification of new perspectives/development strategies to guarantee the main crops from a yield, safety and quality point of view Evaluation, interpretation and re-elaboration of literature data in the field of molecular plant pathology E) Learning skills Learn the specific terminology of plant pathologists Logically connect the acquired knowledge in the field of plant-pathogen interaction Identify the most relevant topics of the subjects dealt with how consulting specialist databases (eg pubmed, kegg)	First year	First semester	6	AGR/12
1038177 - MOLECULAR DYNAMICS IN PLANT-MICROORGANISM INTERACTION	Expected learning outcomes General outcome The main objective of this course is provide the student knowledge on the molecular, cellular and evolutionary aspects of plant immunity, and on similarities and differences with the immune mechanisms of animals. The student will also acquire knowledge on the molecular basis of communication (recognition, elicitation, responses) between plants and microorganisms, both pathogenic and beneficial, and the mechanisms of control of the immune response that are the basis of pathogenicity and symbiosis. Finally, during the course the student will understand how the knowledge acquired in the study of plant-microorganism interactions is the foundation for the development of biotechnological approaches. The course also aims to provide students with the ability to use bibliographic resources and to clearly present complex scientific contents related to the aspects covered by the program. Specific outcomes A. Knowledge and understanding - Specific language and terminology. - The mechanisms that form the innate immune system of plants - Similarities and differences between the plant and animal immune systems. - The elements, processes and mechanisms of molecular and cellular regulation relevant in the interactions between plants and microbes (pathogenic and beneficial). - The dynamics of coevolution between plants and microbes. - The main methods of study adopted in these subjects. - The socio-economic problems related to issues in this specific field and object of classical and innovative biotechnological strategies. B. Applying knowledge and understanding - Ability to use specific terminology - Ability to outline the appropriate conceptual and methodological paths to address problems and questions in the field of plant-microbe interactions. - Ability to use bibliographic resources, software and biological resources available through the Web to address and interpret specific problems related to the aspects object of this course. C. Making judgements - Critical judgment skills, through the study of reviews and scientific articles on key aspects and through in-depth collective discussions; - Ability to evaluate correctness and scientific rigor through analysis and collective discussion of the experimental and methodological part of recent high quality scientific articles. D. Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and tools useful for communication, through the use of graphic and formal languages, with particular regard to scientific language, through discussions and seminars that are an integral part of the oral exam. E. Learning skills The student will possess: - the ability to set up an independent and flexible study method, which allows to conduct personal research and analysis and to continue effectively the advancement of knowledge. - the ability to identify problematic, unresolved and innovative aspects in biological issues - the ability to find and use cognitive tools for the continuous updating of knowledge - the ability to compare oneself for the progress, consolidation and improvement of one's own knowledge. Results Possession of the fundamental contents of the specific discipline, and the ability to master the procedures and methods of their own investigation, also to orientate and operate in the field of applied sciences.	First year	First semester	6	BIO/04
1055458 - Mathematical Models in Biology	General goals. This course is devoted to mathematical modeling of biological phenomena. Starting from discrete models (as logistic map, fractals, cellular automata), passing through the development of simple differential population models (as Malthusian model, predator-prey, evolutionary games) up to stochastic models (genetics), the course will provide mathematical fundamentals to understand the bases of modeling in biology. Moreover, at the same time, students are supposed to learn not only general facts but also to appreciate to what extent correct models of phenomena can give information to laws that govern them. Specific goals. The main goal of the course is to acquire, in practice, the "scientific method" (observation and data collection, theoretical description of phenomena main characteristics, predictions). Starting, in particular, from a certain number of biological examples, the course aims to show how to describe mathematically the most relevant aspects of each phenomenon and how to make predictions by using this description. An interesting consequece of this approach is that a deeper analysis of the model can often generate new questions on biological phenomena. By using this method the student undestand, often for the first time, that mathematics (calculus, statistics and probability) can be used for very interesting purposes. These results can be obtained not only by means of lessons and seminars, but also by reading selected papers that can be discussed in the classroom. These papers, with the slides of lessons and notes, can be downloaded from elearning website. In the final exam students can also submit a short seminar whose subject is not included in the program: this allows the teacher to verify student autonomy and skill. A) Knowledge and understanding - knowing and understanding a mathematical model, through its predictive properties - comprehension of the "scientific method" (observation and data collection, theoretical description of phenomena main characteristics, predictions) - comprehension of the descriptive and interpretative power of mathematics - comprehension of the main mathematical methods useful in biological sciences B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - be able to identify the right methods to comprehend the problem under examination - be able to extract the information of biological interest from a mathematical C) Making judgements - critical thinking through the study of a mathematical model, in order to understand its applicability limits - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics	First year	First semester	6	MAT/07
1038173 - MOLECULAR AND APPLIED IMMUNOLOGY	General aims The course of Molecular and Applied Immunology illustrates the different aspects of the immune response and uses this foundation to study the application of immunology to the development of innovative treatments of human diseases. The course will provide an understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the activation, differentiation and induction of death in cells of innate and adaptive immune system during physiological and pathological responses. Particular emphasis will be given to the network of interactions linking intracellular biochemical events to the communication between cells and within organs. Moreover, the immunological strategies for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases will be illustrated.	First year	Second semester	6
MODULO II		First year	Second semester	3	MED/04
MODULO I		First year	Second semester	3	MED/04
1052144 - Scientific metods and applications in biology	General skills The course focuses on the scientific method and its applications in biology. Epistemological foundations of science, conceptual and experimental approaches in biology. The aim is to prepare the students to scientific research, providing them with the conceptual tools to comprehend practical research experiences in the laboratory or field. The course focuses on scientific reasoning and its countless shapes and applications, rather than the transmission of notions. The students will be introduced to select scientific papers and requested to comment and discuss them, with the goal of fostering their scientific reasoning capabilities. Classroom discussions are key teaching instruments in this course. Audiovisual records of the classes will be provided. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Rudiments of epistemology - logical bases of scientific observation and experimentation - Designing research projects - Some knowledge of the practice of scientific research B) Applying knowledge and understanding - Using proper specific language - Application of theoretical bases to scientific research C) Making judgements - Critical evaluation of scientific experiments, observations, and results D) Communication skills - Oral communication of the acquired knowledge during the oral examination E) Learning skills - Ability to logically design and comprehend scientific experiments, observations, and results - Improvement of the ability to profit from practical experiences in scientific research	First year	Second semester	6	BIO/18

**Insegnamenti OPZIONALI del settore nutrizionistico e altre applicazioni: The student must acquire 6 CFU from the exams below**
Course		Year	Semester	CFU	SSD	Language
1047697 - Food safety and legislation	General skills The course is divided in three parts. The first is about the safety, in particular, the bacterial growth and the role played by water activity, pH, temperature etc.. These concepts will be apply for explain how to processes and storage the food along the whole chain food and the principal contamination such as salmonella, E. Coli O157, Clostridium Botulinum and Micotoxins. The second part will regard the role played by, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, antinutrients and the interaction between foods and drugs in the human nutrition. In this part will be also explain the questions linked to the shelf-life, the loss of nutritional value and the arise of dangerous compounds such as peroxides, polar compounds amines etc., xenobiotics and the role of P450. The end of this part will regard the consume perception, about the quality and how it is possible measure the food quality by a Functional Mathematical Index (FMI). The third part will be regard the U.E regulations and Italian laws, concerning the food quality and safety, and in particular the good manufacturing practice, the HACCP, the definition of quality for PAC, for GDO, for consumers, how to read the quality and the label. This course will be integrated with seminars, regarding The U.E. Hygiene regulation, traceability along the whole chain food, the certification of products not GMO. Use and application of FMI software. Specific skills A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowledge of the chemical composition of foods. - Knowledge and understanding of the activities of microorganisms on food. - Knowledge and understanding of European food law. B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use the specific terminology - to recognize the nutritional value of proteins, fats, sugars and minerals.- knowing how to interpret European Community food legislation C) Making judgements - acquire critical judgment skills on the various aspects of human nutrition. - learn to ask questions for the elaboration and deepening of the knowledge learned D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics	First year	Second semester	6	AGR/15
1038164 - Model Systems and Industrial Applications	General skills This course aims to illustrate the characteristics of different model organisms and their use in industrial platforms, also analyzing the various improvement strategies. The course aims to identify and evaluate the appropriate choice of the model organism based on the type of biotechnological application addressed, depending on the different industrial sectors (eg food, pharmaceutical and chemical). The course includes lectures and laboratory sessions, dedicated to learning the ability to cultivate and manipulate some of the model systems treated. Specific objectives A) Knowledge and understanding - Knowledge of the main organisms used in industrial platforms - Knowledge and understanding of the main production processes based on the different cellular systems - Knowledge and understanding of improvement strategies for obtaining products on an industrial level B) Applying knowledge and understanding - be able to use specific terminology - to identify the right procedures to solve the basic questions of the use of different model systems -practicing the strategies for the improvement of the model organisms studied -be able to cultivate and handle the different model systems treated during the course C) Making judgements - acquire critical judgment skills, through the study of model systems and their use in various industrial platforms - learning by questioning D) Communication skills -be able to communicate what has been learned during the oral exam E) Learning skills - learning the specific terminology - be able to make the logical connections between the topics covered - be able to identify the most relevant topics	First year	Second semester	6	CHIM/11

NG1 Admission requirements

To be admitted to the Master’s Degree in Cell Biology and Technologies, students must have obtained the degree, the bachelor’s degree or any other suitable title of study got abroad.

A good knowledge of basic biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, or the acquisition of at least 90 ECTS in the scientific disciplinary sectors provided for by the various fields of the degree class in Biology are required to attend the courses provided for by the Master’s Degree Educational regulations.

Students who do not have such curricular requisites may enrol in single programmes, as provided for by the University Programme Manifesto, and sit the relating exams before enrolling in the Master’s Degree.

Admission to the Master’s Degree Programme provides for the assessment of curricular requisites and personal skills.

Should the call provide for it, also students who have not graduated yet will be allowed to participate in the selection, it being understood that they will have to get the degree within the deadline provided for by the University Programme Manifesto of the relating academic year.

Students who have already got A) a degree in Biological Sciences according to the old academic system as per table XXXV of Royal Decree of September 30, 1938 no. 1652 and further amendments (Ministerial Decree of May 26, 1995 published in the Official Gazette no. 266 of November 14, 1995); B) a single cycle degree belonging to 6/S Biology class, according to the academic system pursuant to former Ministerial Decree no. 509/99; C) a master’s degree belonging to LM-6 Biology class, according to the academic system pursuant to former Ministerial Decree no. 270/04, cannot enrol.

NG2 Test for incoming students

The admission procedure requires the assessment of curricular requisites and personal skills since it compares the number of highly specialised laboratories and that of the available IT and technological systems with the maximum hours of attendance. The selection will be made by comparing the students’ Bachelor’s Degree curricula.

The skills of incoming students will be deemed as being automatically assessed for all those who have acquired:

• 12 ECTS in FIS/01-FIS/08 and MAT/01-MAT/09 scientific disciplinary sectors;

• 12 ECTS in CHIM/01-CHIM/03 and CHIM/06 scientific disciplinary sectors;

• 24 ECTS in BIO/01, BIO/02, BIO/04-BIO/07, BIO/09-BIO/11, BIO/18 and BIO/19 scientific disciplinary sectors;

• 42 ECTS in BIO/01-BIO/07, BIO/09-BIO/12, BIO/16, BIO/18, BIO/19, MED/04 and MED/42 scientific disciplinary sectors.

The admission committee will assess the above skills and the curricula of the achieved Bachelor’s Degree before approving the students’ admission to the Master’s Degree in Cell Biology and Technologies.

The admission committee reserves to assess the skills of incoming graduates having a degree class other than L-12 (academic system no. 509/99) and L-13 (academic system no. 270/04) by weighing some similarities, if any, among scientific disciplinary sectors, the acquisition of ECTS in additional scientific disciplinary sectors provided for by the different fields of the degree in Biology or by means of additional interviews. At least a B-2 language level according to the QCER (the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is required, either of English or of any other EU language other than Italian. Such skill shall be attested by a specific certificate provided by students or assessed by the admission committee.

NG3 Changes of degree programmes, transfers from other universities, programme shortening, ECTS recognition

NG3.1 Changes of degree programmes and transfers from other universities

The applications to change a degree programme, submitted by students coming from other Sapienza master’s or single cycle degree programmes and the applications for transfers from other universities, military academies or other higher education military institutions, are subject to the approval of the Study Programme Council that:

• resolves upon the total or partial recognition of the student’s academic records and validates the entirety or part of the exams passed and the ECTS acquired, if any, with the relating marks;

• indicates the academic year which the student is enrolled in;

• formulates the study plan for the achievement of the degree.

If students, according to the recognised academic records, are admitted to a year following those provided for by the current academic system, they may opt to enrol either in the corresponding year of the old academic system, if available, or in the most advanced year then existing of the current academic system (art. 33, paragraph 5, of the University Educational regulations).

Applications for transfers to the Master’s Degree in Cell Biology and Technologies shall be submitted within the deadline and according to the modalities established in the University Programme Manifesto.

NG3.2 Programme shortening

Students who have already achieved a four-year, five-year or single cycle degree according to the old academic system, or a master’s degree according to the current academic system and intend to get an additional degree, may request from the Study Programme Council to be enrolled in an academic year subsequent to the first one.

Such applications are assessed by the Study Programme Council, that:

• resolves upon the total or partial recognition of the student’s academic records and validates the entirety or part of the exams passed and the ECTS acquired, if any, with the relating marks;

• indicates the academic year which the student is enrolled in;

• formulates the study plan for the achievement of the degree.

If students, according to the recognised academic records, are admitted to a year following those provided for by the current academic system, they may opt to enrol either in the corresponding year of the old academic system or in the most advanced year then existing of the current academic system (art. 33, paragraph 5, of the University Educational regulations).

Students cannot enrol in a Master’s Degree Programme falling within the same class of the master’s degree they have already achieved.

Applications shall be submitted within the deadline and according to the modalities specified in the University Programme Manifesto.

NG3.3 Criteria for ECTS recognition

All the already acquired ECTS may be recognised if they concern courses, substantiated by the course programmes, whose contents are consistent with any of the curricula provided for by the Master’s Degree Programme.

The Study Programme Council may resolve upon the equivalence among scientific disciplinary sectors to recognise ECTS according to the contents of courses and in compliance with the Educational regulations of the Master’s Degree Programme.

The already acquired ECTS relating to courses whose contents, though with a different name, are clearly equivalent to any courses of the Master’s Degree Programme, may be recognised as relating to the courses typical of the master’s degree programme which a student wishes to enrol in. In this case, the Study Programme Council resolves upon the recognition according to the following modalities:

• if the number of ECTS corresponding to the course for which the recognition is requested coincides with that of the recognised course, they are directly awarded;

• if the number of ECTS corresponding to the course for which the recognition is requested is different from that of the recognised course, the Study Programme Council will award ECTS according to the student’s academic records and after some additional interviews, if required.

The Study Programme Council may recognise as ECTS the knowledge and professional skills certified pursuant to the regulations in force on the matter, as well as other kinds of knowledge and skills accrued in academic-level training whose planning and implementation the University has contributed to. Such ECTS are included in the 12 ECTS relating to the students’ elective courses and in ECTS relating to non-core courses. At all events, 18 are the maximum recognisable ECTS in such fields.

The activities already recognised as ECTS-awarding in the degree programme cannot be recognised also for the Master’s Degree Programme.

NG4 Study plans

A study plan contains all the courses provided in a student’s curriculum, including those relating to their elective 12 ECTS. Such courses may be chosen among all those included in the Sapienza Course Catalogue.

Students have to obtain the official approval of their study plan by the Study Programme Council before having recorded the exams relating to courses that are not mandatory for all students, under penalty of cancellation of their examination records.

The choice of a study plan may be made only once in an academic year, starting from the first year.

The deadline, if any, for the submission of the study plan will be available on the Study Programme website.

Students may obtain the approval of their academic records by opting between two alternatives, that can be both managed on-line from their Infostud page:

either choosing one of the curricular study plans established every year by the Study Programme Council; or
submitting an individual study plan to the Study Programme Council, that shall assess its consistency with the targets of the Master’s Degree in Cell Biology and Technologies.

NG4.1 Curricular study plans

The enrolment form in a curricular study plan provided by the Study Programme Council may be submitted online from the students’ Infostud page. Once the form of the entire study plan of choice has been filled in, it shall be sent online to the person of Study Programme Council in charge of approval through their Infostud page.

Should the approval be obtained, the authorisation obtained for a curricular study plan of choice will be communicated online to students and from then on it will become their study plan. Otherwise, students are invited online to amend the list of the selected courses.

The choice of a curricular study plan may be made only once in an academic year, starting from the first year.

The deadline, if any, for the submission of a curricular study plan will be available on the Study Programme website.

NG4.2 Individual study plans

If students do not intend to choose any of the curricular study plans, they have to submit an individual study plan by using the special form available online on their Infostud page.

Except for courses relating to the 12 students’ elective ECTS, the individual study plan may only include the courses listed in the Course Catalogue (please refer to OF5).

The choice of an individual study plan may be made only once in an academic year, starting from the first year

The deadline, if any, for the submission of an individual study plan will be available on the Study Programme website.

NG4.3 Change of study plans

Students who have already chosen a study plan established by the Study Programme Council may choose a new one, either curricular or individual, in a following academic year.

Likewise, students who have already had their individual study plan approved may, in a following academic year, choose either a study plan established by the Study Programme Council or a different individual study plan.

At all events, the exams already recorded cannot be changed.

NG5 Educational activities

Educational activities are conventional and divided in semesters.

Teaching activities include lectures, classroom exercises and lab activities, all organised according to a timetable that enables students to have sufficient time to devote to individual study.

The nominal duration of a Master’s Degree Programme is 4 semesters, equal to two years.

NG5.1 University ECTS

The ECTS measure the student’s workload needed to achieve a learning outcome. ECTS are acquired by students after passing exams or obtaining qualifications, if provided.

The European Credit Transfer System adopted in the Italian and European universities provides that one ECTS is equivalent to 25 hours of work, divided between institutional collective educational activities (i.e., lectures, exercises and lab activities) and individual study.

In the Cell Biology and Technologies Master’s Degree Programme, in compliance with art. 23 of the University Educational regulations, one ECTS equals 8 hours of lecture, 12 hours of laboratory or of exercises supported by a teacher, or 20 hours of professional training (for small groups supported by a teacher) or of directed study (students’ individual classroom exercises/lab activity, supported by a teacher).

The syllabus of each course, that is available on the Degree Programme website, indicates the apportionment of ECTS and hours of lecture according to the different activities, together with the prerequisites, learning outcomes and general programmes. The overall workload to achieve the degree is 120 ECTS.

In the Cell Biology and Technologies Master’s Degree Programme, the individual study or other individual educational activities shall account for at least 50% of the student’s overall workload.

NG5.2 Academic calendar

The schedule of programmes will ensure that mandatory courses and, in most cases, optional courses do not overlap.

• Lectures will be held in the following periods: first semester: October - end of January

second semester: March - mid-June

• Sessions of exams: February 1-March 15; June 16-October 15

• Registration to exam sessions will be made through the Infostud page

• Lectures and exam sessions are expected to overlap in the first two weeks of the first and second semester only.

NG5.3 Exams

The assessment of the students’ progress is expressed per each course by assigning them a mark, given in thirtieths, ranging from 18 (minimum) to 30 (maximum) or a qualification.

The following elements contribute to the final assessment:

• a written exam, generally divided in one or more written tests, that students have to undergo both during the programme and upon its completion;

• an oral exam;

• the students’ individual work.

NG6 Attendance, mandatory preliminary exams, admission to following years

No mandatory preliminary exams are provided to be admitted to exams.

NG7 Part-time learning

Terms and modalities to apply for part-time learning as well as the relating rules are established in art. 24 of the University Programme Manifesto and are available on Sapienza website. The Master’s Degree Programme in Cell Biology and Technologies provides for part-time students a standard number of ECTS per year equal to 40 or higher.

Over the years, some courses agreed for part-time learning might have changed or been cancelled. In such cases, the Study Programme Council will show students the new curriculum.

NG8 Irregular students and validity of the acquired ECTS

In compliance with art. 32 of the University Programme Manifesto, full-time students are deemed as being irregular when they have not passed all the exams and have not acquired the number of ECTS required for the achievement of the degree within two years.

In compliance with art. 33 of the University Programme Manifesto:

• full-time students who are irregular will have to pass the exams still lacking to complete their university career within six years after enrolment;

• part-time students who are irregular will have to pass the exams still lacking to complete their university career within twice as many years as those agreed upon with the University for part-time students.

NG9 Tutorship

Students of the Master’s Degree Programme in Cell Biology and Technologies may benefit from the tutorship provided by the teachers indicated by the Study Programme Council. The name of any further teachers available as tutors and the tutorship modalities will be available each academic year on the Master’s Degree Programme website at http://corsidilaurea.uniroma1.it/biologia-e-tecnologie-cellulari .

NG10 Honours Programmes

The Honours Programme provides students with educational activities additional to the standard study programme which they are enrolled in. Such activities are curricular and cross-curricular studies, seminars and internships chosen within the courses of the relating degree class, according to a programme that will be tailor-made and agreed upon with each student. Each cycle of the Honours Programme has a one-year duration and is aimed at students attending the second year of the Master’s Degree Programme in Cell Biology and Technologies. Students admitted to the Honours Programme will be assigned to a teacher or a tutor who will support and will cooperate with them in the organisation of the agreed upon activities. The students’ maximum annual workload will be 200 hours.

The Erasmus students who perform part of their curriculum at a foreign university and are admitted to the Honours Programme may attend part of such programme at the hosting university. The Study Programme Council may arrange for the Honours Programme students a period of study or internship at other Italian or foreign universities, institutions, advanced learning and research institutes.

Upon achievement of the master’s degree, students who have completed the Honours Programme will be awarded a certificate issued by the Faculty Dean, according to the modalities provided for all the other certificates, that will be recorded on the students’ academic records. Together with the above certificate, the university will award students a prize equal to the amount of the tuition fees paid in the last academic year.

NG11 Degree exam

To be admitted to the degree exam, students must have acquired all the ECTS provided for by the academic system for the activities other than the degree exam and must have abode by the administrative formalities provided for by the University Educational regulations.

The degree thesis in Cell Biology and Technologies is a piece of writing that graduands present to the examination committee at the end of their study programme, i.e. after successfully sitting all the exams provided for by the Study Programme.

The thesis is the result of the experimental work performed by students and constitutes an essential portion of the master’s degree curriculum. To prepare their degree thesis, students have to attend a lab of the Faculty and in particular that of a Department whose teachers belong to the Study Programme Council. Students who intend to prepare a thesis in research labs of different faculties, universities or Italian and foreign non-academic structures, shall submit to the Coordinator of the Study Programme Council a statement of the researcher available to assist them in the performance of their experimental work and in the preparation of the thesis. Such statement shall be drawn up on a special form and shall be accompanied by the required documentation. If the Coordinator of the Study Programme Council deems that the elements provided may ensure a satisfactory quality of work and a good experience in the field of biological disciplines, approves the statement. The Coordinator will moreover appoint a teacher of the same Study Programme Council who will supervise the progress of work and approve its final version.

The degree exam represents the most qualifying time of the whole path. Starting from a suitable bibliographic documentation in the specific field of interest, students will develop their own original research project with an ongoing commitment, under the guidance of their supervisor. They will have to employ the most suitable techniques and collect the data supporting the experimental work put forward, in order to come to the final thesis work. The final mark is awarded by taking into account the candidate’s academic records, the thesis contents and presentation as well as any further elements aimed at considering the candidate’s getting through the exams in the due times established by the Educational regulations. The examination committee gives the final mark in one hundred tenths and may unanimously award the candidate the highest mark magna cum laude.

Should the Study Programme Council deem it appropriate, the thesis will be drawn up in English, though its title shall be both in Italian and in English. In case there was an international convention for the double degree with Aix-Marseille Université, students who have been admitted to the curriculum to achieve the double degree will prepare an experimental thesis that will be discussed according to the convention’s directions.

NG12 Application of art. 6 of the Student Regulations (Royal Decree of June 4, 1938, no. 1269)

Students enrolled in the Cell Biology and Technologies Master’s Degree Programme may enrol, each academic year, in maximum two additional courses of different study programmes of the same Sapienza academic system and level and sit the relating exams in order to enrich their study plan, pursuant to art. 6 of Royal Decree of June 4, 1938, no. 1269. Such exams neither contribute to the acquisition of the ECTS required to attain the degree nor to average marks, but are merely meant to be included in the student’s academic records.

No exams of other faculties provided for the years following the student’s current year of enrolment may be sat, under penalty of cancellation.

The Study Programme Council will express its own opinion should the Student Office require it. Considering the scientific and cultural meaning of such rule, such application may be filed only by students who have acquired at least 21 ECTS of the Master’s Degree Programme in Cell Biology and Technologies.

Students wishing to benefit from the opportunity offered by the above article will have to file a written application to the Student Office of the Faculty of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences, according to the modalities provided for by art. 29 of the University Programme Manifesto.

NG13 Internationalisation

The Master’s Degree Programme in Cell Biology and Technologies has started an Erasmus+ project with Aix-Marseille Université for which a consortium agreement has been entered into, aimed at achieving the Italian-French double degree. The agreement between Sapienza University of Rome and Aix-Marseille Université establishes the procedures to graduate from each involved university.

The Study Programme aims to provide an in-depth knowledge in the field of Cell Biology applications, with special regard to Cell Technologies in microbial, plant and animal fields. Thanks to the study of the state-of-the-art findings on the general operating mechanisms and on the differences of the various cell types, from prokaryotes to animal and plant cells, the Study Programme intends to provide an in-depth knowledge of the following fields of Cell Biology and its applications:

· molecular mechanisms of Cell Biology essential processes, such as intracellular compartmentation, signalling pathways, cell-micro-organism interaction mechanisms, cell and microbial differentiation mechanisms;

· biochemical, genetic and metabolic processes underlying cell technologies in the plant, microbial and animal fields;

· main cell systems used in industrial biotechnologies;

· genomic, proteomic and metabolomic approaches to the study and manipulation of cell functions.

The knowledge of the above fields is also achieved thanks to the illustration of the state-of-the–art experimental methods in use and of the scientific research method.

The special attention paid to suitable investigation techniques, the use of scientific method and the interpretation of experimental data based also on mathematical and statistical processing enable students to acquire skills for experiment planning, interpretation of experimental data and their presentation also in international frameworks.

Such targets are achieved thanks to mandatory courses dealing with disciplines of Cell Biology, Plant Biology and Physiology, General Microbiology and Microbial molecular genetics. In addition, there is a wide range of recommended optional courses suited to encourage an independent and tailor-made formulation of one’s curriculum. To this purpose, a reasonable number of optional courses will be provided, thanks to which students may acquire a higher level of specialisation on one or more applications of cell technologies in animal, plant and microbial fields. Each student may moreover customise his/her own curriculum thanks to a number of ECTS suitable for the performance of internships or thesis work. This stage of the curriculum is particularly significant for this master’s degree, as it provides practical educational activities suited to the targets of the degree programme and favours the admission to international research activity.

In line with such targets, educational activities are divided in semesters. By attending the basic courses of the first two semesters, students will acquire a number of skills preliminary to an aware choice of optional courses and of the thesis subject. The third and fourth semester will be devoted to the completion of knowledge, as well as to experimental activities and drawing up of the thesis.

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