Course Programme
10:00 Microbes (the good, the bad and the ugly)
An overview of microbiology presenting a general introduction to the world of microorganisms primarily bacteria, fungi and viruses; an
insight into their structural organisation, genetics and infections.
11:15 Coffee
11:45 The human immune system
The principle components of the human immune system detailing the two main types: innate and acquired immune systems.
13:00 Lunch
14:00 The plant immune system
Current view of phytopathogen strategies and plant immune system: perception, response, virulence and resistance. Molecular mechanisms of immunity in plants and animals.
15:15 Tea
15:30 Immunity and infection: What does it mean for our day to day life?
The impact of human immunity on human health and healthcare; plant immunity on crop production and food security.
16:45 Day school ends
Tutor Biographies
Aleksandr Gavrin is a Research Associate at the Sainsbury Laboratory, University of Cambridge (UK). His current research focuses on the investigation of common developmental mechanisms impacting on interactions of plants with symbiotic and pathogenic microorganisms. Prior to that, during a PhD at Wageningen University (Netherlands) and a post doc at the University of Sydney (Australia) he studied developmental aspects of the legume-Rhizobium symbiosis. His primary research goals are directed towards understanding the molecular genetic mechanisms of plant-microbe interactions.
Panchali Kanvatirth is a Research Associate at the Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge (UK). Her research has examined how the immune system impacts the host-pathogen interaction during infection and after antibiotic treatment. During her PhD at the University of Birmingham (UK), she focused on repurposing drugs for Tuberculosis treatment and deconvoluting the ways in which the drugs can kill the bacteria causing Tuberculosis. The key theme that directs her research is understanding host pathogen interactions and their influence on broader areas such as drug resistance and disease development.
Accommodation
Although this is a non-residential course, students requiring accommodation may be able to book B&B at Madingley Hall, as availability permits.
Please contact reservations@madingleyhall.co.uk or +44 (0)1223 746222 for availability and booking enquiries.
Dietary requirements
If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies please inform our Admissions Team on ice.admissions@ice.cam.ac.uk or +44 (0)1223 746262 if you have not already advised us of your requirements.
Additional requirements
ICE is committed to providing equality of opportunity and to a proactive and inclusive approach to equality. We aim to support and encourage under-represented groups, promote an inclusive culture, and value diversity.
Further information about student support.
Course materials
A booklist, course syllabus and detailed timetable are circulated as far as possible in advance of a course. You will receive these documents by email if you have provided us with your email address; please check your spam folder if you have not received these documents. You can also download material from the Documents section at the bottom of this page.