Introduction to Molecular Diagnostics in Medical Mycology
An introduction to PCR, MALDI-TOF, sequencing and biomarker tests for fungi, including their strengths, limits and validation.
An overview of what you will study and build.
Introduction to Molecular Diagnostics in Medical Mycology explains the newer laboratory technologies used to detect and identify fungi. Students begin with the principles of nucleic acid detection, then examine PCR assays for fungal pathogens, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for rapid identification, and DNA barcoding and sequencing for difficult isolates. The course also covers antigen and biomarker tests such as galactomannan and beta-D-glucan, and devotes a module to validation and the limits of interpretation.
Molecular and proteomic tools are changing diagnostic mycology, but their value depends on understanding what results can and cannot show. This course suits biomedical scientists and laboratory staff who want to work confidently with these methods or evaluate them for their service. Tutors are working molecular diagnosticians. For the final project, students prepare a critical evaluation of one molecular or biomarker test for a defined laboratory setting, covering its principle, performance data, validation needs, cost considerations and interpretation caveats.
6 modules, one growing line of knowledge.
Hover or tap a module to follow the path from the first session to the final project. Open a module to see the topics it covers.
- DNA extraction from fungi
- Targets such as ITS and rDNA
- Contamination control
- Pan-fungal and specific PCR
- Real-time PCR formats
- Commercial and in-house assays
- How MALDI-TOF identification works
- Sample preparation for fungi
- Reference libraries and their gaps
- Sanger sequencing and barcodes
- Using reference databases
- Introduction to next-generation sequencing
- Galactomannan
- Beta-D-glucan
- Cryptococcal and other antigen tests
- Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values
- Verification and validation
- Communicating uncertainty
Introduction to Molecular Diagnostics in Medical Mycology
By the end you will be able to:
- Explain the principles of nucleic acid extraction and amplification for fungi.
- Describe how MALDI-TOF identifies fungal isolates and its limitations.
- Use sequence databases to support fungal identification.
- Interpret antigen and biomarker test results in context.
- Evaluate the validation and performance data of a molecular assay.
Where this programme sits in the school.
Where this programme can take you.
Roles and uses that build on what you learn here. Outcomes depend on your experience and local market.
- Biomedical scientist in molecular diagnostics
- Laboratory technician running PCR assays
- Application specialist for diagnostics companies
- Supporting role in a clinical mycology laboratory team
- Research technician in fungal genomics
Requirements, assessment and certificate.
Admission requirements
Basic microbiology and laboratory experience are recommended; prior molecular biology knowledge is helpful but not required.
How you are assessed
Progress is assessed through participation in live sessions and data interpretation exercises in each module. The final evaluation is reviewed by the professor.
Final project
A critical evaluation of one molecular or biomarker test for a defined laboratory setting.
Certificate
Course Certificate
On completing the programme and its project, Fungaris issues a Course Certificate. Accreditations are assessed according to the training completed and the local regulations of each country.
How the programme grows, phase by phase.
- Principles of nucleic acid detection
- PCR assays for fungal pathogens
- MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry
- DNA barcoding and sequencing
- Antigen and biomarker tests
- Validation and interpretation limits
Related searches
Questions about this programme
Do I need experience to study Introduction to Molecular Diagnostics in Medical Mycology?
Basic microbiology and laboratory experience are recommended; prior molecular biology knowledge is helpful but not required.
How is Introduction to Molecular Diagnostics in Medical Mycology taught?
Live online, in 6 modules with a working professional, a small group and a final project.
How am I assessed?
Progress is assessed through participation in live sessions and data interpretation exercises in each module. The final evaluation is reviewed by the professor.
What is the final project?
A critical evaluation of one molecular or biomarker test for a defined laboratory setting.
What certificate do I get?
On completing the programme and its project, Fungaris issues a Course Certificate. Accreditations are assessed according to the training completed and the local regulations of each country.
What can I study after Introduction to Molecular Diagnostics in Medical Mycology?
The natural next step is Diploma in Medical Mycology Foundations.
Keep branching.
Join the next intake.
Pay in full with a 20% reduction, or reserve your place with 40% and pay the rest in monthly instalments. All prices are stated in US dollars (USD).