Basics of Biology Online Course | IIT Guwahati | Prof. Vishal Trivedi
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 1991 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Core |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Categories | Biosciences, Biological Sciences & Bioengineering |
| Credit Points | 3 |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Start Date | 19 Jan 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 02 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 26 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Unlock the Secrets of Life: A Comprehensive Guide to the Basics of Biology
Have you ever wondered how your body fights disease, how cells communicate, or what the fundamental molecules of life are? The world of biology holds the answers. For engineering students, aspiring scientists, and curious minds, a solid foundation in biology is no longer just for life science majors—it's a crucial interdisciplinary skill. We are excited to introduce a premier online learning opportunity: the Basics of Biology course, a 12-week MOOC expertly crafted and delivered by Prof. Vishal Trivedi from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati.
Meet Your Instructor: Prof. Vishal Trivedi
Learning from an expert shapes your understanding. Prof. Trivedi brings a wealth of knowledge and prestigious experience to this course. He earned his Ph.D. in Structural Biology from the Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow. His postdoctoral research at Harvard University's Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and the Molecular Oncology Research Institute at Tufts University, Boston, USA, provided deep expertise in cell biology, intracellular signal transduction, and immunology.
Currently, at IIT Guwahati's Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, his active research group explores critical areas like malaria parasite biochemistry, novel protein functions, anti-malarial agent development, and immunomodulation. This blend of fundamental research and applied problem-solving directly informs the course, offering you insights from the frontiers of biological science.
About the Course: Bridging Biology and Engineering
This course is specifically designed to demystify biology for a broad audience, with a special focus on engineering graduate students. Prof. Trivedi has structured the content to illuminate the working principles of biological processes and the mechanisms behind various diseases.
Course Objectives: By the end of this 12-week journey, you will be able to:
- Comprehend the basics of biology and the diversity of organisms.
- Understand different cell types, their structures, and functions.
- Grasp molecular cell biology and the mechanisms of key cellular processes.
- Explain fundamental human physiology and the biology of diseases.
This knowledge empowers you to integrate engineering principles with biological concepts to tackle real-world challenges in healthcare, biotechnology, and beyond.
Who Should Enroll?
- Undergraduate Students (Especially 1st Year B.Tech)
- Engineering Students seeking interdisciplinary knowledge
- Any Interested Learner with a curiosity about life sciences
- Professionals looking for a structured biology refresher
Industry Support: This course serves as a foundational program recognized for undergraduate curriculum, particularly in Biosciences and Bioengineering.
Detailed 12-Week Course Layout
| Week | Topic |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction to Biology |
| Week 2 | Origin of Life and Evolution |
| Week 3 | Cells in Biology |
| Week 4 | Molecules of Life (Part 1) |
| Week 5 | Molecules of Life (Part 2) |
| Week 6 | Basics of Cellular Processes (Part 1) |
| Week 7 | Basics of Cellular Processes (Part 2) |
| Week 8 | Human Physiology (Part 1) |
| Week 9 | Human Physiology (Part 2) |
| Week 10 | Human Physiology (Part 3) |
| Week 11 | Cellular Homeostasis |
| Week 12 | Summary and Conclusions |
Recommended Books and Resources
To complement the video lectures and assignments, the course recommends authoritative texts:
Primary Textbooks:
- Biochemistry by Tymoczko, Berg, and Stryer (8th Ed.)
- Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry by Nelson and Cox (7th Ed.)
Reference Texts:
- Molecular Biology of the Gene by Watson et al.
- Biophysical Chemistry by Cantor and Schimmel
- Human Physiology by C.C. Chatterjee
- Evolution: Principles and Processes by Hall
Why Enroll in This Course?
This isn't just another online lecture series. It's a structured academic program from one of India's premier institutes.
- Learn from the Best: Direct instruction from an IIT professor with international research experience.
- Foundational & Applied: Covers core principles while connecting them to human health and disease.
- Engineer-Friendly Approach: Presents biological systems as processes with underlying mechanisms, ideal for analytical minds.
- Flexible & Accessible: A self-paced MOOC format allows you to learn anywhere, anytime.
- Build Interdisciplinary Skills: Equip yourself to work at the exciting intersection of biology, technology, and engineering.
Whether you aim to advance in bioengineering, prepare for higher studies, or simply satisfy your curiosity about the living world, Basics of Biology with Prof. Vishal Trivedi is your perfect starting point. Enroll today and begin your exploration of the science of life!
Enroll Now →