Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are molecules able to regulate cell fate both in physiological conditions and in disease by controlling transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms. Originating from “the dark matter” of the genome, ncRNAs lately became increasingly crucial multipurpose regulators of all biological processes, therefore they have gained potential functions as biomarkers or as therapeutic targets.

The main objective of this proposal is to develop a transnational and transdisciplinary course that will facilitate current knowledge in the emerging role of ncRNAs both in healthy, as well as in pathological conditions and the regulatory functions of these molecules. In order to achieve our aim, a team of academics with expertise in the field of ncRNAs from CIVIS universities was gathered to facilitate and mediate the creation of a blended intensive program (BIP) relevant for the biomedical area (Biology, Biotechnology, Medicine, etc). 

Targeted audience comprises master, as well as PhD students with biological sciences, biotechnology, molecular biology and/or medical background. The course will be structured in modules, each dedicated to a particular research theme of ncRNAs.

This program is a Blended Intensive Program (BIP), with an extensive virtual component (covering one semester) and one week of physical mobility to the organizing university. In order to offer flexibility for the student needs and schedule, the program offers the students the possibility to choose to enroll either to four of the modules (corresponding to 5 ECTS upon completion) or to all of them (full program corresponding to 8 ECTS upon completion).

The virtual component comprises of 9 modules, each with a set structure over a 2-week period (two lecture sessions with the instructor, two workshop sessions and two sessions of student team presentations).  We will focus on innovative teaching techniques including brainstorming, journal clubs, experimental design, critical thinking, problem-based learning, flipped classroom, use of bioinformatic tools in experimental analysis.

The physical mobility week will have a balanced program between teaching activities, interactive workshops that include innovative digital aspects, assessment and social interaction. Social events will be organized to promote the multicultural interactions and explore the heritage of Bucharest and Romania.

The physical mobility part will be running from 14 to 18 July 2025 in Bucharest, Romania. The program has a balanced structure comprising of lectures, workshop activities, evaluation activities as well as direct interaction to the academic staff, trainers and industry representatives (applicative side of the course). This interconnected program will ensure the stated learning outcomes, improving students’ knowledge about ncRNAs in different research areas.

Activities during the physical component totalize 30 hours (5 days x 6 h/day). Each day students will benefit of an invited speaker lecture, workshop activities, evaluation activities (written exam, group presentation, problem-based discussion), presentation from an industry representative. 

The virtual component will be structured in 8 modules, from 17 February to 4 July 2025. Each module consists of 2 weeks of activities (6 online meetings - 2 lectures, 2 workshops, 2 student team presentations sessions - total 10 h/ module) and it is dedicated to a particular ncRNAs subject. Each Professor will coordinate one module of activities.

Provisional calendar: 

• M1: 17 - 28 February 2025 
• M2: 03 - 14 March 2025 
• M3: 17 - 28 March 2025 
• M4: 31 March - 11 April 2025 
• Easter Break: 12 - 27 April 2025 
• M5: 28 April - 9 May 2025 
• M6: 12 - 23 May 2025 
• M7: 26 May - 6 June 2025 
• M8: 9 - 20 June 2025 

Online connection will be ensured by Zoom platform (common link), while all the supporting materials, articles, presentations, evaluation forms will be grouped in Google Classroom.

The virtual part of the BIP is closely related to the learning outcomes. The students will be able to improve their knowledge regarding the roles and functions of non-coding RNAs in different physiological or pathological conditions due to the generous number of hours allocated for lectures given by experts in the field. Skills such as critical thinking, comparative analysis, experimental design will be developed during the workshop hours, under the direct supervision of the experts. Analysis of scientific papers and selection of the critical aspects regarding ncRNAs will be ensured by workshops.

Improvement of communication skills, as well as team work presentation in front of an audience will be gained during student presentation sessions. Constructive feedback from the professors will help in adjusting the quality of the visual and oral presentations. Interaction with colleagues from different CIVIS Universities will expand students’ multicultural and learning experiences.