Life Science

Chair: Dr. Rashid Mehmood
Ph: +966 11 215 7969
E: rmehmood@alfaisal.edu

General Department Information

The mission of the Department of Life Sciences is to promote understanding of the function of molecules, cells, tissues and organs with a concentration on hereditary factors and genetic mechanisms controlling fundamental biological processes, particularly in relation to the human body; and to contribute to the training of the next generation of research scientists, biotechnological entrepreneurs, educators, biomedical and allied health professionals.

The Department of Life Sciences envisions becoming a recognized national and international center of academic excellence by providing of high quality education in a broad spectrum of modern interdisciplinary life sciences to produce competent biomedical and biotech professionals responsive to the needs of the society.

Classes

BIO 315: Genetics

This course concentrates on various aspects of genetics. An emphasis is placed on the structural organization of the genetic material in cells, mechanisms of its transfer between organisms and the role of genetics in determination of quantitative traits. Modern genetic methods and their applications in various areas of biology are comprehensively covered.

BIO 439: Clinical Laboratory Science

Clinical Laboratory Science is an advanced course designed to provide students with an understanding of the principles and practices involved in clinical laboratory testing. The course covers theoretical and practical aspects of laboratory procedures used in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. Topics include hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, immunology, and molecular diagnostics. Emphasis is placed on quality control, laboratory safety, and the ethical responsibilities of clinical laboratory professionals.

LST 421: Life Science Special Topics I

LST courses introduces special topics relevant to Biomedical Science. The course subjects can be modified according to faculty availability, students' preferences and pathways.

LST 421: Epigenetics

The course will first review recent progress in our understanding of fundamental epigenetic mechanisms and events controlling normal human development and physiology, such as growth, metabolism and ageing processes together with environmental factors affecting human epigenome. This will follow by reviews of recent discovering of epigenetic etiology of some most significant human disorders.