NIMBB

GRADUATE
HANDBOOK

National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

University of the Philippines Diliman
CONTACT
NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF MOLECULAR
BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
National Science Complex
University of the Philippines Diliman,
Quezon City 1101 PHILIPPINES

Email: nimbb@mbb.up.edu.ph
Website: nimbb.upd.edu.ph

Executive Committee
Pia D. Bagamasbad, PhD
Director

Ron Leonard Dy, PhD

Deputy Director for Academic Affairs (DDAA)

Eloise Prieto-Vasquez, PhD

Deputy Director for Resources and Facilities (DDRF)

Ma. Anita M. Bautista, PhD

Deputy Director for Research and Extension (DDRE)

OFFICE OF THE ASSOCIATE DEAN FOR

MENTORING, ACADEMIC PROGRESS AND
ADVANCEMENT
College of Science

Email:
Graduate Office: csgrad@science.upd.edu.ph
Admin Staff: staff.mapa.ad@science.upd.edu.ph
ASTHRDP Staff: staff.asthrdp@science.upd.edu.ph
Website: science.upd.edu.ph/

Giovanni A. Tapang, PhD

Dean

Eizadora T. Yu
Associate Dean (OADMAPA)
CONTENTS

ABOUT NIMBB

GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Admissions
MS in MBB
PhD in MBB

GENERAL INFORMATION
Course List
Fees
Scholarship
Academic Policies
Graduation

RESEARCH LABORATORIES
Cynthia P. Saloma, PhD | LMCB
Vermando M. Aquino, PhD | PMBPVL
Reynaldo L. Garcia, PhD | DMBEL
Pia D. Bagamasbad, PhD | MEL
Ma. Anita M. Bautista, PhD | FGL
Jose Enrico H. Lazaro, PhD | MTRL
Wilberto D. Monotilla, PhD | ABL
Neil Andrew D. Bascos, PhD | PSIL
Denise Noelle Mirano-Bascos, PhD | PSIL
Eloise Prieto-Vasquez, PhD | NBL
Ron Leonard Dy, PhD | SML
Jose Ramon D. Planta, PhD | PIGGL
NIMBB - UP DILIMAN PAGE 01

About the Institute

NIMBB

The Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Program (MBBP) was established by the University of the
Philippines Board of Regents in 1987 under the College of Science, UP Diliman. The program was created
to train BS, MS, and PhD graduates to respond to our country’s need for experts to serve in academe and
in industry. The first faculty members of the program came from the Departments of Biology, Chemistry,
and Physics of the College of Science. The first “home” of the program was the Natural Sciences Research
Institute, or NSRI.

In 2000, the MBBP became the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, UP Diliman
(UPD-NIMBB). In 2006 the UPD-NIMBB was declared a Center of Excellence by the Commission on Higher
Education (CHED).

On December 8, 2006, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo created the National Science Complex with
Executive Order 583. The EO enabled the UPD-NIMBB to build its definitive seat in the south sector of
UP Diliman. Operations at the new building began in 2012. The building is equipped with a large central
research laboratory shared by all investigators, four teaching labs, two large classrooms, two small
lecture rooms, and two seminar rooms. The building houses a satellite of the College of Science Library.
GRADUATE PROGRAMS OF NIMBB PAGE 02

Graduate Degree Programs

The UPD NIMBB offers three multidisciplinary graduate degree programs that will train aspiring
molecular biologists in fields of molecular medicine, biotechnology, agriculture, and others.

MS in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

The Master of Science degree program (MS MBB) provides an excellent graduate education that prepares
students for careers in the academe, as well as in the industrial, biomedical and environmental fields.

PhD in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

The Doctor of Philosophy degree program (PhD MBB) aims to produce graduates who are capable of
undertaking independent research and development programs in molecular biology and biotechnology.
ADMISSIONS PAGE 03

Admissions
The graduate degree programs are administered by the National Institute of Molecular Biology
and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines (Diliman) Graduate Committee (NIMBB-UPD
GC), under the Office of the Dean, College of Science. The NIMBB-UPD Director, in concurrent
activity, acts as the Chairperson of the NIMBB-UPD GC. Members of the NIMBB-UPD GC are the
full-time faculty members of NIMBB-UPD who are doctoral degree holders and specialists in
molecular biology and biotechnology.

If you are interested in pursuing a dynamic career in molecular biology and biotechnology, and
associated professions, we invite you to apply to our graduate program. Your application will be
reviewed within four weeks from its submission, and an interview will be scheduled if your
application is competitive.

Application
Applicants must submit the following to be considered for admissions into the program:
1. Accomplished CS Graduate Application Form
2. Transcript of Records (TOR)
3. Certified copies of diploma or certificates of graduation
4. Two (2) recommendation Letters from former professors/instructors
5. PSA-certified birth certificate or equivalent for non-Filipino citizens
6. Official results of the TOEFL exam for foreign applicants whose native language is not
English or certification that the medium of instruction in the student's previous academic
institution is English.

Submit applications and requirements to:

Office of the Associate Dean for Mentoring, Academic Progress and Advancement
(OADMAPA)
College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101 Quezon City
 MS MBB: ABOUT THE PROGRAM PAGE 04

About the Program

Master of Science
in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
The program leading to the degree of Master of Science in Molecular Biology (MS MBB) aims to provide
students with graduate education that will prepare them for careers in the academe and research,
particularly in industrial, biomedical and environmental fields of molecular biology and biotechnology.

General Admission Information

First semester: July/August
Application Deadline
Second semester: October/November

Application Fee Free of charge

Prerequisites Must have a Bachelor's (BS) degree from a recognized institution of higher learning
in disciplines related to biology;
Applicant must have a general weighted average (GWA) in his/her BS degree of
2.00 or better, and a GWA for Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM) of at least
2.20 for UP graduates and at least 2.00 for non-UP graduates.

Application Process 1. Fill and submit CS Graduate Program Application Form, together with other required
documents.
2. Take the prescribed admissions exam and interview
FORMS

3. Arrange two recommendation letters and receive an official decision.

Basics at-a-glance

LOCATION DURATION CLASS SIZE ADMISSIONS

University of the Philippines 24 months full-time 10-15 cohort size Application Deadline
Diliman Campus 36 months part-time
College of Science
Application Opens
PROGRAM OF STUDY PAGE 05

Program of Study
Each student admitted into the MS MBB program shall be assigned a Program Adviser by the
NIMBB-UPD GC. The Program Adviser shall advise, guide, monitor and evaluate the progress of
the student and ensure the timely completion of the program. The Deputy Director of Academic
Affairs of NIMBB-UPD will act as the interim Program Adviser until the student finds a Thesis
Adviser. Thereafter, the Thesis Adviser assumes the role of the Program Adviser.

The Program of Study (POS) is designed by the Program Adviser, in consultation with the
student on the basis of the latter's academic preparation and desired specialization within the
first semester of the student's initial year in the MS MBB program. A copy of the POS is then
submitted to the OADMAPA through the NIMBB-UPD GC. Subsequent revisions in the POS must
be authorized by the Program Adviser, approved by the NIMBB-UPD GC and communicated to
the OADMAPA.

Semestral Load
The normal study load per semester shall be nine to twelve (9-12) units of formal graduate
courses.

MS MBB: Degree Requirements

To qualify for the MS MBB degree, the student must fulfill the following requirements:
1. Completion of a Program of Study (POS) consisting of at least twenty four (24) units of
normal graduate courses.
2. Maintenance of a Cumulative Weighted Average Grade (CWAG) of 2.00 or better at the end
of each academic year until the completion of POS.
3. Completion of at least one (1) unit of graduate seminar course.
4. Completion of the MS Thesis
5. Successful defense of the MS Thesis in a public examination
6. Submission of a PDF copy and six (6) bound and certified copies of the approved MS Thesis.
MS MBB: CURRICULUM PAGE 06

MS MBB Curriculum
Each student in the MS MBB program is required to complete at least twenty four (24) units of
formal graduate courses consisting of fifteen (15) units of core courses and nine (9) units of
electives.

Core Courses (15 units) UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 221: Advances in Cell and Tissue Culture 3 MBB 126 or MBB 127

MBB 225: Advanced Molecular Physiology 3 MBB 126 or MBB 127

MBB 230: Principles of Instrumentation in Molecular Biology 3 MBB 130

MBB 241: Advances in Genetic Engineering 3 MBB 141

MBB 280: Advances in Microbial Biotechnology 3 MBB 110

Other Required Courses (5 units) UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 289: Advanced Techniques in MBB 3 consent of instructor

MBB 294: Ethics in Science 1 consent of instructor

MBB 296: Graduate Seminar 1 consent of instructor

MS Thesis (6 units) UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 300: MS Thesis 6 All core courses

Electives (9 units)
Students can choose among the graduate elective courses of NIMBB or other approved
graduate elective courses from other College of Science institutes as indicated in the Course
List. The student may also choose other unlisted elective courses with the approval of the
Program Adviser.

Remedial Courses
The following remedial courses must be taken by non-BS MBB graduates as prescribed by the
Program Adviser. Students required to take these courses must obtain an average grade of 2.25
or better. A grade below 2.50 in any of these courses will disqualify the student from the
graduate program.
MBB 126: Molecular Physiology of Eukaryotic Systems
MBB 130: Molecular Biophysics
MBB 140: Molecular Genetics
MBB 141: Principles of Gene Manipulation
MS MBB: MS THESIS PAGE 07

MS Thesis
Thesis Adviser and Reader
The student selects a Thesis Adviser from the NIMBB-UPD Faculty and is assigned a Thesis
Reader by the NIMBB-UPD GC. The Thesis Adviser and Thesis Reader are formally appointed by
the Dean to constitute the student's Thesis Committee. In case of joint advising, the Thesis
Committee may be composed of the Thesis Adviser, Thesis Co-Adviser who may belong to an
external institution, and the Thesis Reader.

The Thesis Committee is responsible for:

Advising the student in the preparation of the Thesis Proposal;
Guiding and supervising the student in his/her research; and
Endorsing the student's masteral thesis for defense in a public examination.

The MS student should have a prospective Thesis Adviser by the end of the second semester of
enrollment in graduate courses.

Thesis Proposal
The student must prepare a written Thesis Proposal under the guidance of the Thesis
Committee. The proposal must be submitted by the end of the first MBB 300 intake (3 units), or
at least 2 months prior to the thesis examination if enrolling in 6 units of MBB 300 in one
semester. The proposal must be submitted to the NIMBB-UPD GC for approval. A certified copy
of the approved thesis proposal must be submitted to OADMAPA.

Checklist:
Cover letter addressed to the NIMBB-UPD GC
Letters of approval from all members of the Thesis Committee.
MS Thesis Proposal

MBB 300: MS Thesis

The MS Thesis must be an original scholarly work, executed by the student the supervision of
the Thesis Adviser, that makes a significant contribution to the body of scientific knowledge in
molecular biology and biotechnology.

Outputs of MBB 300 (6 units)

1. MBB 300 (3 u, MS Thesis Proposal)
2. MBB 300 (3 u, MS Thesis Examination)
MS MBB: MS THESIS EXAMINATION PAGE 08

MS Thesis Examination
Thesis Examination Panel
Upon the completion of the MS Thesis and its endorsement by the Thesis Committee to the
NIMBB-UPD GC, the latter recommends the formal appointment of two (2) Thesis Examiners to
the Dean of the College of Science. These examiners, together with the Thesis Committee,
constitute the MS Thesis Examination Panel.

Administration of the MS Thesis Examination

The student must defend his/her work before the MS Thesis Examination Panel in a public oral
presentation. The duration of the examination shall be left to the discretion of the panel. The
evaluation and rating of the defense is done in a closed-door meeting held immediately after
the defense. An examination report is submitted to OADMAPA within one working day after the
exam.

The MS Thesis Examination may be held within the College at any mutually convenient time
upon the recommendation of the MS Thesis Examination Panel, the endorsement of the NIMBB-
UPD GC and the formal authorization of the Dean. The schedule and place of the examination is
officially announced by the Dean and publicized throughout the College by the NIMBB-UPD GC
at least 2 weeks before the scheduled examination. The schedule of the examination may be
changed only upon the recommendation of the MS Thesis Examination Panel, the endorsement
of the NIMBB-UPD GC and the formal authorization of the Dean

The MS Thesis Examination may be held only if:

The student has already satisfied the seminar requirement (MBB 296);
The thesis manuscript has been received by each member of the examination panel at least
one month beforehand; and
All members of the examination panel (except for foreign adviser/reader) are present.

Graduation
Application for Graduation
After the student passes the MS Thesis Examination, he/she shall be qualified to apply for
graduation to the University Registrar through the OADMAPA.

Submission of Bound Copies

The student must submit to OADMAPA six (6) copies of the approved MS Thesis for graduation.
 MS MBB: ABOUT THE PROGRAM PAGE 09

About the Program

Doctor of Philosophy
in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
The program leading to the degree of Master of Science in Molecular Biology (MS MBB) aims to provide
students with graduate education that will prepare them for careers in the academe and research,
particularly in industrial, biomedical and environmental fields of molecular biology and biotechnology.

General Admission Information

First semester: July/August
Application Deadline
Second semester: October/November

Application Fee Free of charge

Prerequisites Option 1 (with MS degree)

Must have MS MBB degree or equivalent
GWA of 2.0 in BS degree
GWA of 1.75 in graduate degree

Option 2 (Straight PhD)

Must have a Bachelor's (BS) degree from a recognized institution of higher learning
in disciplines related to biology (with at least cum laude);
Applicant must have a general weighted average (GWA) in his/her BS degree of
2.00 or better, and a GWA for Natural Sciences and Mathematics (NSM) of at least
2.20 for UP graduates and at least 2.00 for non-UP graduates.

Application Process 1. Fill and submit CS Graduate Program Application Form, together with other required
documents.
2. Take the prescribed admissions exam and interview
FORMS

3. Arrange two recommendation letters and receive an official decision.

Basics at-a-glance

LOCATION DURATION CLASS SIZE ADMISSIONS

University of the Philippines 36 months full-time 10-15 cohort size Application Deadline
Diliman Campus 48 months part-time
College of Science
Application Opens
PHD MBB DEGREE REQUIREMENTS PAGE 10

Program of Study
Each student admitted into the PhD MBB program shall be assigned a Program Committee
composed of three (3) members to be designated by the UPD-NIMBB GC from among the
latter's membership. The Program Committee shall advise, monitor, and evaluate the student
until he/she is advanced to the PhD candidacy and is assigned a Dissertation Committee. The
names of the Program Committee members shall be submitted to OADMAPA within the first
semester of the student's initial year in the program.

Within the first semester of the student's initial year in the PhD program, a Program of Study
shall be designed by the Program Committee, in consultation with the student and on the basis
of the latter's academic preparation and desired specialization, and submitted to the OADMAPA
through the UPD-NIMBB GC. Subsequent revisions in the Program of Study must be authorized
by the Program Committee and communicated as soon as possible to OADMAPA through the
UPD-NIMBB GC.

Semestral Load
The normal study load per semester shall be nine to twelve (9-12) units of formal graduate
courses.

PhD MBB: Degree Requirements

To qualify for the PhD MBB degree, the student must fulfill the following requirements:
1. Completion of a Program of Study (POS) consisting of:
a. Option 1 (with relevant MS degree): 28 units of formal graduate courses
b. Option 2 (Straight PhD): 48 units of formal graduate courses, and remedial courses as
prescribed by the Program Committee.
2. Maintenance of a Cumulative Weighted Average Grade (CWAG) of 1.75 or better at the end of
each academic year until the completion of POS.
3. Completion of at least one (1) unit of graduate seminar course.
4. Passed the Doctoral Qualifying Examination
5. Passed the Doctoral Candidacy Examination
6. Completion of the PhD Dissertation
7. Successful defense of the Doctoral Dissertation in a public examination
8. Submission of a PDF copy and six (6) bound and certified copies of the approved MS Thesis.
PHD MBB: CURRICULUM PAGE 11

Curriculum
Students entering the PhD MBB program with a previously earned MS MBB degree or its
equivalent are required to complete at least twenty four (24) units of formal graduate courses
consisting of electives. Whereas students entering the PhD MBB program with only a BS degree
or a MS degree in an unrelated discipline shall be required to complete at least forty five (45)
units of formal graduate courses.

Core Courses (15 units) UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 221: Advances in Cell and Tissue Culture 3 MBB 126 or MBB 127

MBB 225: Advanced Molecular Physiology 3 MBB 126 or MBB 127

MBB 230: Principles of Instrumentation in Molecular Biology 3 MBB 130

MBB 241: Advances in Genetic Engineering 3 MBB 141

MBB 280: Advances in Microbial Biotechnology 3 MBB 110

Other Required Courses (5 units) UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 289: Advanced Techniques in MBB 3 consent of instructor

MBB 294: Ethics in Science 1 consent of instructor

MBB 296: Graduate Seminar 1 consent of instructor

PhD Dissertation (12 units) UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 400: PhD Dissertation 12 All courses

Electives (24 - 30 units)

Students can choose among the graduate elective courses of NIMBB or other approved
graduate elective courses from other College of Science institutes as indicated in the Course
List. The student may also choose other unlisted elective courses with the approval of the
Program Committee.

Remedial Courses
(For PhD candidates under Option 2: Straight PhD Program)
The following remedial courses must be taken by non-BS MBB graduates as prescribed by the
Program Committee. Students required to take these courses must obtain an average grade of
2.25 or better. A grade below 2.50 in any of these courses will disqualify the student from the
graduate program.
MBB 126: Molecular Physiology of Eukaryotic Systems
MBB 130: Molecular Biophysics
MBB 140: Molecular Genetics
MBB 141: Principles of Gene Manipulation
PHD EXAMINATIONS PAGE 12

PhD Milestone Examinations

Qualifying Examination
The PhD student must take the Qualifying Examination, also known as preliminary examination,
within one (1) year after completion of the core courses in his/her POS. A student who enters
the PhD with an MS degree in the discipline may be exempted from the Qualifying Examination
by the UPD-NIMBB GC or candidates under PhD Option 1 whom have MS degree but not from
NIMBB can audit all 5 core courses in preparation of this examination.

The examination is intended to test the student's ability to integrate and apply the overall
knowledge gained from the core courses. The Qualifying Examination is composed of four
written exams (3 h each) spanning 4 days covering the following subjects: Molecular Physiology,
Advances in Genetic Manipulation, Molecular Biophysics, and Microbial Biotechnology.

Checklist:
Letter of request to take the PhD Qualifying Examination
Updated Program of Study (POS)

Each examination shall be rated either "Pass" or "Fail". A student who fails any of four subject
component exam shall be allowed to retake that exam within one (1) year after the first
examination. Failure in the re-examination shall disqualify the student from the PhD program.

Candidacy Examination
The Candidacy Examination is an oral examination that must be taken by the PhD student after
i. passing the Qualifying Examination, ii. completing all course work in the POS, iii. maintaining
a GWA of 1.75 or better, and iv. completing the courses stipulated by the Residence Rules. In
this examination, the student is required to give a seminar on a research topic in his/her
chosen field of specialization as approved by the UPD-NIMBB GC. The students are examined
on their grasp of their chosen field of specialization, mastery of the basic principles and
methods of the discipline, and readiness for dissertation research in the chosen field of
specialization.

Checklist:
Letter of request to take the Candidacy Examination
Updated Program of Study (POS)

UPD-NIMBB GC shall compose a Candidacy Examination Committee consisting of at least 3 and

a maximum of 5 members from the UPD-NIMBB faculty. The Candidacy Examination Committee
shall schedule, conduct and evaluate the examination of the student. Each examination shall be
rated either "Pass" or "Fail". If the student fails the Candidacy Examination, he/she will be
allowed to retake that exam within one (1) year after the first examination. Failure in the re-
examination shall disqualify the student from the PhD program.
PHD EXAMINATIONS PAGE 13

PhD Dissertation
Dissertation Committee
After the student advances to the PhD Candidacy, he/she will be assigned a Dissertation
Committee, composed of the Dissertation Adviser, and two (2) Dissertation Readers. In special
cases requiring joint advising, the Dissertation Committee may consist of a Dissertation
Adviser, a Dissertation co-adviser, and a Dissertation Reader.

The Dissertation Advisers should be appointed on the basis of their ability to help (e.g. provide
laboratory resources, research support and intellectual guidance) and not to deter the
advancement of the student. The Dissertation Readers reviews the dissertation,
endorses/approves this for a defense by way of a conforme letter. Endorsement and approval
will be based on the readiness of the dissertation for defense as evidenced by the work's
substance and form.

The PhD student should have a prospective Dissertation Adviser by the time the student has
completed 18 units of formal graduate courses.

Dissertation Proposal Defense

The student must prepare a written Dissertation Proposal under the guidance of the
Dissertation Committee. The proposal must be submitted by the end of the second MBB 400
intake (see below for the breakdown of MBB 400, per 3 u), or at least 2 months prior to the
dissertation examination if enrolling in 9-12 units of MBB 400 in one semester. The proposal
must be submitted to the NIMBB-UPD GC for approval. A certified copy of the approved
dissertation proposal must be submitted to OADMAPA.

Checklist:
Cover letter
Letters of approval from all members of the Dissertation Committee.
PhD Dissertation Proposal (manuscript)

MBB 400: PhD Dissertation

The MS Thesis must be an original scholarly work, executed by the student the supervision of
the Thesis Adviser, that makes a significant contribution to the body of scientific knowledge in
molecular biology and biotechnology.

Outputs of MBB 400 (12 units)

1. MBB 400 (3 u, Candidacy Examination)
2. MBB 400 (3 u, PhD Dissertation Proposal and Proposal Defense)
3. MBB 400 (3 u, Research Colloquium)
4. MBB 400 (3 u, PhD Dissertation Examination)
PHD MBB: DOCTORAL EXAMINATION PAGE 14

PhD Doctoral Examination

Doctoral Examination Panel
Upon the completion of the Dissertation and its endorsement by the Dissertation Committee to
the NIMBB-UPD GC, the latter recommends the formal appointment of two (2) Dissertation
Examiners to the Dean of the College of Science. These examiners, together with the
Dissertation Committee, constitute the Doctoral Examination Panel. At least one (1) maximum
of two (2) of the members of the Doctoral Examination Panel should come from an external
institution (i.e. outside of NIMBB, College of University). The Doctoral Examination Panel shall
be chaired by one of the Dissertation Readers or Dissertation Examiners, to be elected by the
Doctoral Examination Panel.

Administration of the Doctoral Examination

The student must defend his/her work before the Dissertation Thesis Examination Panel in a
public oral presentation. The duration of the examination shall be left to the discretion of the
panel. The evaluation and rating of the defense is done in a closed-door meeting held
immediately after the defense. An examination report is submitted to OADMAPA within one
working day after the exam.

The Doctoral Examination may be held within the College at any mutually convenient time upon
the recommendation of the Doctoral Examination Panel, the endorsement of the NIMBB-UPD
GC and the formal authorization of the Dean. The schedule and place of the examination is
officially announced by the Dean and publicized throughout the College by the NIMBB-UPD GC
at least 2 weeks before the scheduled examination. The schedule of the examination may be
changed only upon the recommendation of the Doctoral Examination Panel, the endorsement of
the NIMBB-UPD GC and the formal authorization of the Dean

The Doctoral Examination may be held only if:

The student has already satisfied the seminar requirement (MBB 296);
The manuscript has been received by each member of the doctoral examination panel at
least one month beforehand; and
All members of the examination panel (except for foreign adviser/reader) are present.

Graduation
Application for Graduation
After the student passes the Doctoral Examination, he/she shall be qualified to apply for
graduation to the University Registrar through the OADMAPA.

Submission of Bound Copies

The student must submit to OADMAPA six (6) copies of the approved PhD dissertation for
graduation.
COURSE LIST PAGE 15

Course List
Course UNITS Prerequisites

MBB 215: Molecular Biology of Viruses 3 MBB 110 or equiv.

MBB 222: Molecular Basis of Growth Regulation 3 Bio 223 or Bio 228

MBB 242: Mammalian Embryology and Genetics 3 consent of instructor

MBB 260: Food and Agricultural Biotechnology 3 MBB 241 and MBB 280

MBB 310: Molecular Basis of Pathogenesis 3 consent of instructor

MBB 315: Molecular Biology of Extremophiles 3 consent of instructor

MBB 325: Molecular Plant Pathology 3 consent of instructor

MBB 340: Human Molecular Genetics 3 MBB 140 or equiv.

MBB 350: Advanced Cellular and Molecular Immunology 3 MBB 150 or equiv.

MBB 380: Molecular Diagnostics 3 consent of instructor

MBB 390: Bioinformatics and Systems Biology 3 MBB 130 and MBB 140

MBB 397: Current Topics in MBB 3 consent of instructor

MBB 398: Special Problems in MBB 3 consent of instructor

Other Electives UNITS INSTITUTE

Bio 221: Advanced Plant Physiology 3 IB

Bio 242: Cytogenetics 3 IB

Bio 244: Advanced Evolutionary Genetics 3 IB

Bio 322: Advanced Animal Physiology 3 IB

ChE 202: Biotechnology for Engineers 3 CHE

ChE 292: Biochemical Engineering 3 CHE

Chem 240: Advanced Biochemistry 3 IC

Chem 241: Lipids and Related Systems 3 IC

Chem 242: Carbohydrates and Related Systems 3 IC

Chem 243: Nucleic Acid 3 IC

Chem 244: Proteins 3 IC

Chem 245: Enzymes 3 IC

COURSE LIST PAGE 16

Course List
Other Electives (continued) UNITS INSTITUTE

Chem 250: Chemical Thermodynamics I 3 IC

Chem 257: Chemical Kinetics 3 IC

Chem 349: Special Topics in Biochemistry 3 IC

MS 253: Marine Chemical Ecology 3 MSI

MS 270: Biochemistry of Marine Organisms I 3 MSI

MS 385: Marine Toxicology 3 MSI

MS 397: Special Topics in Marine Science 3 MSI

Course description and prerequisites may be obtained from the Institute where
the courses are offered.

Fees
Tuition Fee Cost per unit* 300-level course (3 units)

Lecture Course 600.00 1,800.00

Laboratory Course 1,500.00 4,500.00

Thesis/Dissertation 1,500.00 4,500.00

*Breakdown of fees is based on OUR Memo No. MVPLO-20-07

Domestics students are eligible to the DOST-ASTHRDP Scholarship.

DOST-ASTHRDP PAGE 17

Scholarship
All MBB graduate students are eligible for the Department of Science and Technology, Science
Education Institute (DOST-SEI), Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resources
Development Program (ASTHRDP). The scholarship will cover tuition fees, stipends, and other
study- and research-related costs to support the student in their entire graduate studies. The
scholar will have to render a return service after the completion of the MS or PhD degree (i.e.
one year return service for every year of scholarship).

General Requirements
Application Deadline First semester: June
Second semester: November
Eligibility must be Filipino citizen;
not be more than 50 yrs. old at the time of application;
be in good health condition
Application Process 1. Complete and submit DOST ASTHRDP Application Form, together with
other required documents.
FORMS

2. Take the prescribed interview

3. Arrange two recommendation letters and receive an official decision.

Privileges (in PhP) MS Student PhD Student

Tuition fee and other school fees Actual Actual
Monthly stipend 25,000.00 33,000.00
Book allowances (per AY) 20,000.00 20,000.00

Transportation allowance 1 Actual Actual

Insurance coverage 1M per year 1M per year
2
Student research support fund
Research grant 89,000.00 253,000.00
Dissemination grant 75,000.00 150,000.00
1One (1) actual economy class round trip fare per Academic Year; given only to those who study outside their home province
2
Must be applied by the scholar, subject to evaluation and approval. Grant approved is subject to liquidation.
ACADEMIC POLICIES PAGE 18

Academic Policies
General Weighted Average
A student must maintain a General Weighted Average (GWA) of 2.00 or better at the end of each
academic year until the completion of the POS to remain in good standing in the all graduate
programs. The GWA is computed by the Program Adviser at the end of each academic year and
reported to the NIMBB-UPD GC and OADMAPA.

A graduate student who fails to satisfy the grade requirement at the end of the academic year is
disqualified from the program unless the NIMBB-UPD GC decides, on justifiable grounds and
upon the recommendation of the student's Program Adviser, to put the student on probation
not exceeding two (2) semesters. Failure to obtain the minimum GWA after the probation, the
student will be dismissed from the graduate program.

Residence Rules
One-year residence before graduation
The student must be officially enrolled in the College of Science for at least one (1) academic
year prior to the conferment of the MS or PhD MBB degree.

Maximum Residence Rule (MRR)

The time limit for the completion of the all MS MBB requirements shall be five (5) years.
Whereas, the time limit for completion of all PhD degree shall be no more than six (6) years for
students who enter the PhD under Option 1 (with MS MBB degree or equivalent), and no more
than eight (8) years for those who enter the PhD program under Option 2 (with a BS degree or
MS degree in an unrelated discipline). Residence starts from the time the student enrolls in a
graduate course after admission after official admission in the graduate program and includes
all leaves of absence (LOA). Failure to complete the course requirements within the time limit
disqualifies the student from the program.

Extension of Residence
In exceptionally meritorious cases, the Dean, upon the recommendation of the NIMBB-UPD GC,
may approve extension of residence beyond the above period not exceeding one (1) calendar
year at a time. In no case shall extensions exceed five (5) years. The student granted an
extension shall take additional units of graduate courses in his/her discipline or area during
the extension period at a rate of three (3) units for every two (2) years of extension or a fraction
thereof.
FAQS PAGE 19

FAQS about Graduate Programs

Q: When is the last date to defend?
A: As per the decision of the College Executive Board during its 467th Meeting on July 10, 2017,
the deadline for a graduate student to defend his/her MS Thesis or PhD Dissertation will be the
last day of the examination period of every semester in order to be considered as candidate for
graduation for that semester.
RESEARCH PAGE 20

Research Laboratories
The NIMBB houses 12 state-of-the-art research laboratories in the Philippines that studies
various areas of molecular biology spanning cellular and developmental biology, oncology,
immunology, endocrinology, microbiology, botany, entomology, virology and others. Graduate
students will have the opportunity to be mentored by a faculty and collaboratively work on a
research project that suit their interests and career goals.

NIMBB research laboratories are divided into three clusters that tackles diverse research areas
and themes. For more information, check out the profiles of each faculty and laboratory.

Biomedical
Cell and Developmental Biology
Cancer Biology
Molecular Diagnostics
Drug Discovery
Virology

Agricultural Biotechnology
Aquaculture
Agriculture
Microbial Biotechnology

Industrial Biotechnology
Biomaterials
Nanotechnology
Synthetic and Systems Biology
 LMCB PAGE 21

LABORATORY OF
MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR
BIOLOGY
Tags: cellular biology, genomics

Cynthia P. Saloma, PhD

Professor
Executive Director, Philippine Genome Center
Director, National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
(2012-2018)

PhD, Physiology, Osaka University, Japan

MS, Medical Sciences, Osaka University, Japan
cpsaloma@up.edu.ph BS, Molecular Biology, Nagoya University, Japan
BS, Fisheries, University of the Philippines Visayas

About the Laboratory

The Laboratory of Molecular and Cell Biology (LMCB) specializes in the applications of cell and
molecular biology techniques and research models with higher-level organization such as cell
lines, tissues, organs, and whole animal models to elucidate the roles of genes in development.
Students at the LMCB are trained in a wide variety of techniques that hone them into well-rounded
individuals prepared for careers in research and molecular biology and biotechnology.

The LMCB also conducts workshop for junior and senior students who would like to do their
undergraduate studies in the laboratory. The month-long workshops are held every summer and
comprise modules for standard mouse breeding and basic molecular and cell culture techniques.

Ongoing Research
Research at the LMCB covers a variety of topics that include isolation, expression, and
characterization of anthozoan fluorescent proteins and venomous peptides from marine snails,
genetic analysis of mouse hyperactivity, nanomaterials in cancer research, and the optimization of
scaffolds in neural precursor cell cultures.
PUBLICATION
PMBPVL PAGE 22

PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

AND PLANT VIROLOGY
LABORATORY
Tags: plant viruses, molecular plant pathology, plant transformation

Vermando M. Aquino, PhD

Professor
Chair, Biosafety Committee, University of the Philippines Diliman
Deputy Director, Institute of Plant Breeding, University of the
Philippines Los Baños (1992 – 1994)

PhD, Plant Pathology, University of Florida, USA

MS, Plant Pathology, University of the Philippines Los Baños
BS, Botany, University of the Philippines Los Baños
vmaquino@mbb.upd.edu.ph

About the Laboratory

The Plant Molecular Biology and Plant Virology Laboratory (PMBPVL) was established in 2004 as a
research laboratory focusing on plant pathology, plant-virus interactions, viral diversity, and plant
transformation using biolistic (particle gun) and Agrobacterium-mediated techniques.

The current research interests engaged by the PMBPVL include detection and characterization of
v a r i o u s f a m i l i e s o f p l a n t v i r u s e s s u c h a s P o t y v i r i d a e a n d N a n o v i r i d a e, w i t h t h e a i m o f u t i l i z i n g
them for future biotechnological applications. Work is also being focused on viruses that infect
abaca, a Philippine indigenous plant related to banana that is valued internationally for its fiber. In
collaboration with the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) and funded by
the Department of Agriculture’s DA-Biotech Program, the lab has also sequenced the abaca (var.
Abuab) genome, with a focus on identifying genes that could be associated with fiber quality,
pathogen resistance, and drought and salinity tolerance, among others.

Ongoing Research
1. Histopathology and histochemistry of bunchy top virus disease in abaca.
2. Molecular characterization of Nanoviruses and other single stranded DNA viruses in the
Philippines.
3. Preliminary investigations on induced resistance against viral diseases of abaca.
4. Molecular characterization and elucidation of genes associated with fiber quality, pathogen
resistance, and abiotic response in abaca.
 DMBEL PAGE 23

DISEASE MOLECULAR
BIOLOGY AND EPIGENETICS
LABORATORY
Tags: cancer biology, non-coding RNAs, exosomes, drug discovery

Reynaldo L. Garcia, PhD

Professor
MPhil, Bioscience Enterprise, University of Cambridge
Senior Scientist, Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute
Postdoctoral Research Associate, University College London
Postdoctoral Fellow, Case Western Reserve University School of
Medicine
Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Otago Medical School
reygarcia@mbb.upd.edu.ph PhD, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Australian National
www.dmbel-nimbb.com
University
BS, Biology, University of the Philippines Diliman

About the Laboratory

The Disease Molecular Biology and Epigenetics Laboratory (DMBEL) was founded in 2011. The
laboratory’s main interests are the functional characterization of novel non-hotspot mutations in
oncogenes and tumor suppressors, as well as the regulatory roles of lncRNAs microRNAs, and
circRNAs in cancer pathogenesis. The laboratory is also part of a nationwide drug discovery
consortium and runs a laboratory services arm.

The laboratory offers students opportunities to acquire basic and advanced laboratory skills in
molecular and cellular biology — from gene manipulation, RT-qPCR/quantigene assays, reporter
and cell-based assays, through to immunocytochemistry, fluorescence and time-lapse microscopy,
flow cytometry and high-content imaging. Projects are funded by the DOST/PCHRD, OVCRD and
the NIMBB.

Ongoing Research
1. F u n c t i o n a l c h a r a c t e r i z a t i o n o f n o v e l m u t a t i o n s i n d o w n s t r e a m e f f e c t o r s o f t h e E G F R s i g n a l i n g
pathway among Filipino young-onset colorectal cancer patients
2. C o n f i r m a t o r y a n d o r t h o g o n a l a s s a y s t o e l i m i n a t e a r t e f a c t u a l d r u g b i o a c t i v i t i e s : E x p a n d e d s u i t e
of assays to include multiple hallmarks of cancer
3. B r i d g i n g e f f i c a c y a n d s a f e t y : I N D - e n a b l i n g s u i t e o f c e l l - b a s e d A D M E T a s s a y s
4. T u m o r - r e l e a s e d e x o s o m e s : e f f e c t s o f m u t a t i o n a l s t a t u s o n d i f f e r e n t i a l s o r t i n g o f R N A c a r g o
5. I n v e s t i g a t i o n s o n t h e p u t a t i v e c o m p e t i t i o n a n d c o o p e r a t i o n b e t w e e n R N A - b i n d i n g p r o t e i n s a n d
microRNAs in the post-transcriptional regulation of the KRAS proto-oncogene
PUBLICATION
 MEL PAGE 24

MOLECULAR
ENDOCRINOLOGY
LABORATORY
Tags: hormones, cancer, neurobiology

Pia D. Bagamasbad, PhD

Professor
Head of Unit, Genome Editing Facility

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Michigan Ann Arbor

PhD, Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of
Michigan Ann Arbor
BS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
pdbagamasbad@up.edu.ph Diliman

About the Laboratory

Established in 2015, the Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory is devoted to studying the role of
hormones in the development of the nervous system and hormone-dependent cancers.

The laboratory uses mouse and human cultured cells model systems, along with advanced
molecular biology assays including reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR, chromatin
immunoprecipitation, lentiviral transduction and next generation sequencing, to investigate the
molecular mechanisms of hormone action at the transcriptional level.

Ongoing Research
1. I d e n t i f i c a t i o n a n d f u n c t i o n a l a n a l y s i s o f l n c R N A s r e g u l a t e d b y t h y r o i d h o r m o n e s a n d
glucocorticoids in neuronal cells through RNA sequencing and in silico data mining.
2. I n v e s t i g a t i o n o f t h e m o l e c u l a r b a s i s f o r t h e s y n e r g i s t i c i n t e r a c t i o n b e t w e e n g l u c o c o r t i c o i d s a n d
thyroid hormone on transcriptional regulation and its functional consequence in neuronal
development.
3. D r u g s c r e e n f o r s e l e c t i v e a n d r o g e n r e c e p t o r m o d u l a t o r s f o r p r o s t a t e c a n c e r t h e r a p y .
4. E l u c i d a t i o n o f t h e m e c h a n i s m b e h i n d t h e g l u c o c o r t i c o i d t h e r a p y p a r a d o x i n b r e a s t c a n c e r .
5. P r o b i n g t h e l i n k b e t w e e n c i r c a d i a n c o n t r o l , h o r m o n e s i g n a l i n g , a n d b r e a s t c a n c e r .
6. A s s e s s m e n t o f t h e e p i g e n e t i c e f f e c t s o f e n d o c r i n e d i s r u p t o r s i n b r e a s t c a n c e r .
7. C h a r a c t e r i z i n g e m e r g i n g S A R S - C o V - 2 S p i k e p r o t e i n v a r i a n t s o f c o n c e r n u s i n g a p s e u d o v i r u s
neutralization assay.
PUBLICATION
 FGL PAGE 25

FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS
LABORATORY
Tags: insecticide resistance, insect biochemistry and molecular biology, insecticide toxicology,
omics (genomics, transcriptomics, metagenomics), insect genetics, bioinformatics, barcoding

Ma. Anita Mascareñas Bautista, PhD

Professor
Program Director, Philippine Genome Center (2018)

Postdoctoral Researcher, Ohio State University, USA

PhD, Applied Entomology, Nagoya University, Japan
MS, Applied Entomology, Nagoya University, Japan
BS, Agriculture, University of the Philippines Los Baños
mambautista@mbb.upd.edu.ph

About the Laboratory

The Functional Genomics Laboratory (FGL) was established in 2013, and its research interests
stemmed from the PI’s work on understanding gene function and identification of biologically-
relevant targets in insects through the use of advanced molecular biology tools such as RNA
interference (RNAi) and Omics.

Lab works in FGL involve high-throughput next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, in
addition to standard molecular biology approaches. In FGL, members use high-throughput next
generation sequencing (NGS) technologies to obtain genomic, transcriptomic and metagenomic
sequences of organisms of interest (e.g., insects, crop and medicinal plants, trees, bacteria and
viruses). Members are also trained in the field of computer science called “bioinformatics” which is
used to process and analyze sequencing data. A typical bioinformatics workflow contains the
following steps: quality control and data grooming; assembly; post-assembly analysis, and
annotation. Bioinformatics results are validated using qPCR and functional assays.

Ongoing Research
1. B i o i n f o r m a t i c s a n d v a l i d a t i o n o f o m i c s d a t a s e t s d e r i v e d f r o m i n s e c t , p l a n t s a n d m i c r o o r g a n i s m s
of aquaculture and health importance
2. S u s t a i n i n g t h e o p e r a t i o n s o f a D N A / R N A b i o b a n k f o r p h i l i p p i n e m e d i c i n a l p l a n t s
3. D e v e l o p m e n t o f i m p r o v e d e g g p l a n t v a r i e t i e s w i t h n e w p l a n t d e f e n s e g e n e s f o r m u l t i p l e i n s e c t
resistance using innovative technologies
4. I n s e c t i c i d e r e s i s t a n c e m o n i t o r i n g i n A e d e s f o r s u s t a i n a b l e d e n g u e v e c t o r c o n t r o l ( I R M A e ) ( f o r
implementation)
PUBLICATION
 MTRL PAGE 26

MOLECULAR TOXICOLOGY
RESEARCH LABORATORY
Tags: malaria, drug discovery

Jose Enrico H. Lazaro, PhD

Associate Professor
Director, National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
(2019 – 2021)

PhD, Pierre and Marie Curie University

MAS, Public Health, Pierre and Marie Curie University
MS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
jhlazaro@up.edu.ph Diliman
BS, Biology, University of the Philippines Diliman

About the Laboratory

The Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory (TOX) was established in 2009. It develops tools to
demonstrate cause-and-effect in drug studies, with the aim to improving safety and efficacy. The
laboratory assesses genetic markers of effects following exposure to xenobiotics, evaluates genetic
markers of risk and response, and develops methods for rapid, accurate, and economic assessment
of risk and efficacy using genotyping, expression analysis, and bioassay.

Ongoing Research
Diagnostic Methods. The laboratory has developed a tetra-primer amplification refractory
mutation system (ARMS) PCR, padlock probes, and hybridization induced aggregation for
genotyping of SNP markers predictive of response to clopidogrel, a drug used in cardiovascular
case management. TOX is also working on molecular methods to identify malaria infections and the
effectiveness of antimalarial compounds.

Drug Discovery. TOX uses cell assays and imaging flow cytometry to screen natural compounds for
activity against Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria. It uses comparative
genomics and transcriptomics to determine and validate the molecular targets of the compounds.
Extremophilic bacteria from rare hyperalkaline springs are being studies as potential sources of
antimalarial compounds. Genomic analysis is carried out to identify genes that may later be
manipulated. TOX is also exploring local environments with the aim to isolate rare bacteria using
novel methods of isolation . Such methods include encapsulation in nanoparticles and isolation
chips followed by cultivation of bacteria in their native environments.
PUBLICATION
 ABL PAGE 27

AQUATIC BIOTECHNOLOGY
LABORATORY
Tags: applied phycology, aquatic ecosystems, conservation biology

Wilberto D. Monotilla, PhD

Associate Professor
Deputy Director for Research and Facility, National Institute of
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (2019 – present)
Vice President, Philippine Phycological Society, Inc. (2017 – 2019)

PhD, Aquatic Bioscience (Phycology), Tokyo University of Marine

Science and Technology
wdmonotilla@up.edu.ph MS, Aquatic Bioscience (Phycology), Tokyo University of Fisheries
BS, Fisheries, University of the Philippines Visayas

About the Laboratory

The Aquatic Biotechnology Laboratory specializes in the cultivation of microalgal and seaweed
cultures to study their industrial and commercial applications. From its establishment in 2009, ABL
has grown from a single workbench laboratory to a laboratory sporting its own facilities including
a plant growth chamber, ultralow freezer, and liquid nitrogen tank.

Ongoing Research
Biofuel from Green microalgae. Green microalgae such as Chlorella, Scenedemus, Botrycoccus and
diatom isolates are being cultivated to provide renewable sources of biofuel. Studies are being
conducted on the effect of modifying growth conditions to enhance lipid production. Nutrient
starvation (e.g. decrease in nitrogen, phosphate and silica) is known to promote lipid accumulation
within cells. The laboratory also aims to find genes involved in the oil-producing mechanisms of
algae for genetic manipulation.

Production of Red Seaweed. The laboratory is also geared towards developing technologies to
improve production capacities of Philippine Eucheumatoids (red seaweeds). Seaweed tissue culture
studies aim to establish improved callus induction protocols for micropropagation and to develop
cryopreservation methods to preserve strains with the best genetic makeup.

Another area of interest is the production of bacteriocins from seaweed-associated bacteria.

Bacteriocins are proteins that inhibit the growth of closely related bacterial strains and may be
useful as antibiotics.
PUBLICATION
 PSIL PAGE 28

PROTEIN STRUCTURE AND

IMMUNOLOGY LABORATORY
Tags: integrins, tardigrades

Neil Andrew D. Bascos, PhD

Associate Professor
Program Leader, Protein Proteomics Metabolomics Facility, Philippine
Genome Center
Member, CHED Technical Panel on Biology and Molecular Biology

PhD, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Tulane University

BS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
neilandrew.bascos@mbb. Diliman
upd.edu.ph

Denise Mirano-Bascos, PhD

Associate Professor
Deputy Director for Academic Affairs, National Institute of Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology (2012 – 2016)

PhD, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Tulane University

MS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
Diliman
dmbascos@up.edu.ph BS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
Diliman

About the Laboratory

PSIL currently houses a four-node computing grid. This system is used for protein structure
modelling and other computationally intensive algorithms. In order to perform experiments
requiring high value equipment, PSI Lab has existing collaborations with establishments such as
the UP Diliman NMR Facility and the National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center in Hsinchu,
Taiwan. Studies are performed through biophysical techniques. These include nuclear magnetic
resonance (NMR), X-ray crystallography, and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Biochemical assays
such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay are also used in the immunological studies.

Ongoing Research
Study of integrin subunit structure and their role in the modulation of cancer metastasis
Prediction of epitope immunodominance and the rational design of vaccines using a
combination of structural biology and computational techniques.
PUBLICATION
 NBL PAGE 29

NANOBIOLOGY LABORATORY
Tags: nanomaterials, DNA folding, proteomics

Eloise Prieto-Vasquez, PhD

Associate Professor
PhD, Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University
MS, Integrated Life Science, Kyoto University
MS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
Diliman
BS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
Diliman
eiprieto@up.edu.ph

About the Laboratory

The Nanobiology Laboratory (NBL) is a multidisciplinary research laboratory which utilizes
molecular biology, microbiology, and nanotechnology techniques to answer biological problems.
The lab deals with the biophysical analysis of biological systems, using tools such as atomic force
microscopy (AFM) to understand fundamental biological interactions at the nanoscale. This
knowledge can be translated into developments in biocompatible and bio-mimicking systems, such
as in medical devices and bioreactors.

Ongoing Research
Characterization of Archaeal Chromatin Dynamics. The problem of DNA compaction is a common
issue across all living organisms, and one major method by which DNA is organized inside the cell
while retaining accessibility is through the use of architectural proteins. Eukaryotes are known to
rely on histones and bacteria rely on a family of proteins called nucleoid associated proteins.
However, there is a lack of understanding of the mechanisms employed by archaea, the third
domain of life, in packing their chromosomes into organized structures inside the cell. To address
this, nanoscale and biochemical characterization of archaeal nucleoid proteins are being
undertaken in the NBL to understand their role in genome organization. Through atomic force
microscopy, nucleoprotein interactions can be visualized and quantified to elucidate the DNA
binding properties of these key architectural proteins. These observations may aid in constructing
models and unraveling key principles behind biological processes such as DNA folding.

Proteomics-based Biomarker Discovery. The NBL is also involved in the Clinical Proteomics for
Cancer Initiative (CPCI), a project that aims to discover clinically relevant biomarkers and drug
targets for non-small cell lung carcinoma in Filipino patients. The project adopts an integrative
approach that combines histopathology, molecular biology, and proteomics to deepen our
understanding of lung cancer tumorigenesis and drug resistance. To realize the project’s goals, the
laboratory works in close collaboration with chemists, physicians, surgeons and other medical
professionals from different institutions.
PUBLICATION
 SML PAGE 30

SYNTHETIC MICROBIOLOGY
LABORATORY
Tags: toxin-antitoxin, CRISPR-Cas, phages

Ron Leonard Dy, PhD

Assistant Professor
Deputy Director for Academic Affairs, National Institute of Molecular
Biology and Biotechnology (2019 – 2021)

Postdoctoral Fellow, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology,

Germany
Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Otago, New Zealand
rvdy@up.edu.ph PhD, Microbiology, University of Otago, New Zealand
BS, Molecular Biotechnology, University of Otago, New Zealand

About the Laboratory

The Synthetic Microbiology Laboratory (SML) is focused on studying and exploiting the
evolutionary arms-race between foreign genetic elements such as phages and bacteria. We take an
interdisciplinary approach integrating molecular microbiology and genomics to discover and
understand how bacteria defend themselves against their predators.

Ongoing Research
Prokaryotic Immune Systems. Phages constitute most abundant biological entities in the planet
and estimated to outnumber bacteria 10 to 1. The continued exposure to phage infection imposes a
strong evolutionary selection pressure on bacteria to evolve antiviral strategies to promote their
survival. We are currently investigating toxin-antitoxin, abortive infection, prokaryotic Argonautes
and CRISPR-Cas systems from diverse bacteria. The goals of our studies are to learn how immunity
is established and generated, and ultimately determine how these defense systems affect the
evolution of bacteria and mobile genetic elements.

Phages as Antimicrobials. Since their discovery over 100 years ago, phages were recognized for
their potential as antimicrobial agents. The administration of virulent phages to treat bacterial-
borne diseases, known as phage therapy, acts with the purpose of effectively targeting and
eliminating infectious bacteria by lysing it as a product of their replication. Our goal is to isolate,
genetically characterize, and engineer phages as antimicrobial agents against various pathogenic
bacteria.

Other projects in SML supported by DOST include the sequence-based mining of novel
biosynthetic genes from uncultivable soil bacteria, and developing Cas enzymes for the rapid
detection of SARS-CoV-2 and TB.
PUBLICATION
 PIGGL PAGE 31

PLANT INTEGRATIVE
GENOMICS AND GENETICS
LABORATORY
Tags: plant genetics and genomics, varietal improvement

Jose Ramon Planta, PhD

Assistant Professor
Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Michigan State University
PhD, Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers University
MSc, Applied Bioscience, Hokkaido University
BS, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of the Philippines
Diliman

jgplanta@up.edu.ph

About the Laboratory

The Plant Integrative Genomics and Genetics Laboratory seeks to gain understanding of the
mechanisms behind plant responses to stress for eventual varietal improvement. At the molecular
level, plants respond to water limitation by altering gene expression and the abundances of
proteins and metabolites. Recent advances in the omics fields have enabled the manipulation of
drought-responsive genes in plants, and overexpression of several genes (e.g., transcription
factors) leads to drought tolerance in transgenic plants. To gain detailed information on the
drought-response mechanisms of plants, the lab looks at the molecular processes occurring in
plants during transition from a well-watered state to drought conditions, with the stress intensity
becoming gradually greater. Our aim is to identify regulatory genes involved in drought perception
and signaling.

Ongoing Research
The lab integrates genomic and genetic approaches to elucidate the plant responses to stress. In
relation to abiotic plant stressors, we are currently utilizing select plant species to: (i) understand
the mechanisms of pigment accumulation for possible use as markers of gene expression in plant
transformation and (ii) determine the regulatory gene networks under drought stress.
PUBLICATION
FORMS AND SUBMISSION PAGE 32

Forms and Submission Instructions

Official Forms
Scan QR code to be directed to the College of Science page to access
Downloadable Forms.

ADMISSIONS
Form 1.1 | Application Form
Form 1.2 | Recommendation Form

Submission Portals

For MS MBB Program

Scan QR code or click this LINK to be directed to the Submission Portal for:
MS Thesis Proposal
MS Thesis Examination
Approved MS Thesis (for Graduation)

For PhD MBB Program

Scan QR code or click this LINK to be directed to the Submission Portal for:
Request to take the PhD Qualifying Examination
Request to take the PhD Candidacy Examination
PhD Proposal
Doctoral Examination
Approved PhD Dissertation (for Graduation)

For CRS Approval Request (all degree programs)

Scan QR code or click this LINK to be directed to the Submission Portal for:
Post-advising (Enrollment)
Leave of Absence
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