Summer Course – Chemistry of Life

Application for 2026 opens in Jan 2026!

The DBS Summer Course, titled “Chemistry of Life,” is offered by the Department of Biological Sciences (DBS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS). This two-week intensive course is designed to introduce students to cutting-edge biological knowledge and techniques used in research labs and industries. Participants will have the opportunity to conduct research and learn at one of the world’s top universities, while also connecting with peers from around the globe.

Our program, known for its research-led teaching, includes lectures, practical classes, group discussions, and scientific tours, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience. The course covers key areas of modern biology, such as cell and molecular biology, proteomics, and molecular genetics, with applications in biomedical research, pharmaceutical sciences, and agriculture.

The “Chemistry of Life” module aims to impart foundational principles and techniques in biological chemistry, biophysics, and molecular genetics, relevant to fields such as biomedical research and agriculture. Conducted in a boot-camp style, the course includes lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, research seminars, and social activities, scheduled over two weeks. Mornings are dedicated to interactive lectures and group discussions, while afternoons focus on project-based, hands-on practical and tutorial sessions. Evaluation methods include assignments, group projects, reports, and exams.

Through this intensive Summer Program, we aim to help students:
• Develop essential skills and confidence for success in laboratory settings.
• Cultivate collaboration skills by working in groups.
• Meet students from universities worldwide.
• Gain international academic experience at a leading university.
• Immerse themselves in Singaporean culture.

This course is offered annually in July. Registration opens in January of the intake year.

2026 Dates: 06 – 17 July 2026.
Application Deadline: Friday, 17 April 2026.

To enroll, students must:
• Be enrolled in an accredited university.
• Be nominated by their home university.
• Be proficient in English.

The course fee is SGD 5000 (excluding GST) and covers:
• Tuition, registration, and administration fees
• Course materials
• Group airport and city transport
• Shared accommodation
• Orientation and farewell events
• Social activities


Successful registrants will receive confirmation and payment instructions. Payment must be received one month before the course begins to confirm participation. 

Accommodation: Shared or single-room accommodation will be provided.

Participants will receive both hard and soft copies of the coursebooks and lab manuals, which include detailed content and lab instructions.

Participants can also expect to the following activities as part of the course delivery.

  • Classroom teaching
  • Lab practicals
  • Research seminars
  • Field trips
  • Social activities

Participants will be evaluated base on the following criteria.

  • Presentation and communication
  • Class and lab participation
  • Examination

While the course does not confer NUS credits, a completion certificate and credit may be granted by the student’s home university at their discretion. Students will receive an e-Certificate from the Department of Biological Sciences, NUS, 2 weeks after completion of the program. 

Associate Professor

Low Boon Chuan

Associate Professor

Cynthia He

Associate Professor

Liou Yih-Cherng

How to Register?

Interested students should ensure they meet entry requirements, secure finances and university prerequisites. Pre-registration is managed through your home university’s Department or International Office. Early registration is encouraged due to the class size quota.

Interested students should go through their school representative and email the course administrator (see contact us). If selected for the program, an email with instructions about official registration will be sent directly to individual participants for their action to confirm participation.

The registration deadline for 2026 intake is Friday, 17 April 2026.

Contact Us

Ms Wang Xianhui
Email: dbswxh@nus.edu.sg

Administrative Coordinator
Department of Biological Sciences
National University of Singapore