Microbial Forensics: Tracking Bioterrorism and Disease Outbreaks

Tracking Microbial Threats: Uncover Bioterrorism and Disease Outbreaks with Forensic Science.

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MODE
Online/ e-LMS

TYPE
Self Paced

LEVEL
Advanced

DURATION
1 Month

About

Microbial Forensics is an emerging field at the intersection of microbiology and forensic science. This program explores how microbiological data can be used to identify the sources of bioterrorism attacks, track the spread of infectious diseases, and analyze the genetic and microbial evidence involved in outbreaks. Participants will gain a solid understanding of microbial identification techniques, pathogen tracking, and biosecurity measures, with hands-on experience in analyzing microbial samples from biocrime and outbreak scenarios.
The program will also cover the global legal and ethical frameworks associated with microbial forensics. By working on case studies of real bioterrorism incidents and disease outbreaks, participants will learn how to use microbial data to assist in criminal investigations and public health responses, ensuring they are prepared to play key roles in biosecurity and disease tracking.

Aim

This program aims to equip participants with the scientific and investigative skills required to detect, trace, and analyze microbial evidence in cases of bioterrorism and disease outbreaks. It will emphasize the role of microbial forensics in national security, public health, and criminal investigations.

Program Objectives

Understand the fundamental concepts of microbial forensics and its applications
Gain proficiency in using molecular and microbial techniques for forensic investigations
Analyze bioterrorism threats and disease outbreaks using microbial evidence
Learn about biosecurity protocols and pathogen tracking
Apply microbial forensic techniques to real-world biocrime and public health cases

Program Structure

Week 1: Foundations of Microbial Forensics

Introduction to Microbial Forensics
- Definition and scope.
- Historical context and evolution of microbial forensics.
- Key applications: Bioterrorism, disease outbreaks, and public health.
Understanding Microbial Evidence
- Types of microbial evidence in forensic investigations.
- Methods for sample collection and preservation.
- Challenges in handling microbial evidence.
Introduction to Pathogen Tracking
- Basics of microbial genetics and pathogen behavior.
- Tools and techniques for pathogen detection.
- Case studies: Early examples of microbial forensic applications.

Week 2: Techniques and Tools in Microbial Forensics

Molecular Techniques for Microbial Analysis
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing.
- Metagenomics and microbial community profiling.
- Bioinformatics tools for genetic analysis.
Microbial Identification and Typing
- Techniques for microbial strain identification.
- Antimicrobial resistance profiling and its forensic relevance.
- Application of phylogenetic analysis in outbreak investigations.
Pathogen Tracking and Disease Surveillance
- Using geospatial tools to map disease spread.
- Epidemiological techniques in microbial forensics.
- Case study: Tracking an infectious disease outbreak.

Week 3: Applications and Ethical Considerations

Microbial Forensics in Bioterrorism Investigation
- Understanding bioterrorism threats.
- Role of microbial evidence in identifying sources of biocrimes.
- Lessons learned from historical bioterrorism cases.
Biosecurity Protocols and Preparedness
- Biosafety levels and containment measures.
- Developing a biosecurity response plan.
- Integration of microbial forensics in national security strategies.
Ethical and Legal Considerations
- Ethical handling of microbial evidence.
- Legal frameworks governing microbial forensics.
- Global policies on biosecurity and biodefense.

Week 4: Advanced Topics and Future Directions

Advanced Forensic Tools and Technologies
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and its forensic applications.
- Role of artificial intelligence in pathogen tracking.
- Real-time outbreak monitoring using IoT and sensor technologies.
Case Studies and Practical Applications
- In-depth analysis of real-world cases of bioterrorism and disease outbreaks.
- Lessons from successful forensic investigations.
Preparing for Careers in Microbial Forensics
- Skills required for microbial forensic roles.
- Overview of career opportunities in biodefense, public health, and forensic science.
- Future trends in microbial forensics and biosecurity.

Participant’s Eligibility

Undergraduate degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Forensic Science, or related fields.
Professionals working in law enforcement, public health, or bioterrorism prevention sectors.
Individuals with an interest in biodefense, public health, and biosecurity.

Program Outcomes

Expertise in microbial forensic techniques
Understanding of biosecurity measures and legal implications
Proficiency in handling microbial evidence for forensic purposes
Practical experience in tracking pathogens and disease outbreaks
Knowledge of molecular tools for detecting and analyzing microbial threats

Fee Structure

Standard Fee: INR ~~4,998~~ USD ~~110~~

Discounted Fee: INR 2499 USD 55

We are excited to announce that we now accept payments in over 20 global currencies, in addition to USD. Check out our list to see if your preferred currency is supported. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of paying in your local currency!

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Key Takeaways

Program Assessment

Certification to this program will be based on the evaluation of following assignment (s)/ examinations:

Exam	Weightage
Mid Term Assignments	50 %
Project Report Submission (Includes Mandatory Paper Publication)	50 %

To study the printed/online course material, submit and clear, the mid term assignments, project work/research study (in completion of project work/research study, a final report must be submitted) and the online examination, you are allotted a 1-month period. You will be awarded a certificate, only after successful completion/ and clearance of all the aforesaid assignment(s) and examinations.