CAS-JIC Centre of Excellence for Plant and Microbial Science (CEPAMS) Campuses

The CAS-JIC Centre of Excellence for Plant and Microbial Science (CEPAMS) in Beijing primarily focuses on advanced research and educational programs in plant and microbial sciences, rather than traditional undergraduate courses. However, it offers specialized graduate-level training, workshops, and collaborative courses aimed at fostering expertise in biotechnology, genetics, and sustainable agriculture. These programs are designed for PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and professionals seeking to advance knowledge in crop improvement, microbial ecology, and plant pathology.

• Plant Genetics and Genomics: This core course explores the molecular basis of plant development, gene editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, and genomic sequencing for crop enhancement. Participants learn to analyze plant genomes, identify key traits for yield and disease resistance, and apply bioinformatics tools to accelerate breeding programs. Lectures cover inheritance patterns, epigenetic modifications, and the role of non-coding RNAs in plant adaptation to environmental stresses.
• Microbial Biotechnology: Focused on the interactions between microbes and plants, this program delves into symbiotic relationships, such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria in legumes, and pathogenic microbes causing plant diseases. Students conduct lab-based experiments on microbial culturing, antibiotic resistance mechanisms, and synthetic biology approaches to engineer beneficial microbes for agriculture. Emphasis is placed on metagenomics to study soil microbiomes and their impact on plant health.
• Sustainable Agriculture and Plant Pathology: Courses here address global challenges like food security and climate change through integrated pest management, biocontrol agents, and precision farming. Trainees study fungal and viral pathogens, develop diagnostic tools, and explore eco-friendly fungicides derived from natural compounds. Field trips to nearby agricultural sites provide hands-on experience in monitoring crop diseases and implementing resilient farming practices.
• Bioinformatics and Data Science in Plant Sciences: This interdisciplinary module teaches computational methods for handling large datasets from high-throughput sequencing and phenotyping. Topics include machine learning algorithms for predicting plant traits, database management for genetic resources, and modeling plant-microbe interactions under varying environmental conditions.
• Advanced Plant Physiology and Biochemistry: Delving into metabolic pathways, hormone signaling, and stress responses, this course equips learners with skills in physiological assays, isotope labeling, and proteomics to understand how plants respond to biotic and abiotic stresses. Practical sessions involve greenhouse experiments on model plants like Arabidopsis and rice.

CEPAMS emphasizes international collaboration, with courses often co-taught by experts from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the John Innes Centre. Programs incorporate cutting-edge facilities, including state-of-the-art labs for imaging, sequencing, and controlled environment growth chambers. Beyond coursework, students engage in research projects contributing to real-world applications, such as developing drought-tolerant crops or novel microbial fertilizers. The curriculum promotes ethical considerations in biotechnology, intellectual property in research, and the societal impact of genetic modifications. With a duration of 6-12 months for most modules, these offerings prepare participants for careers in academia, industry, and policy-making. The center's location in Beijing facilitates access to national resources and partnerships, enhancing the practical relevance of the education provided. Overall, CEPAMS bridges fundamental science with applied solutions, training the next generation of scientists to tackle pressing agricultural challenges in China and beyond.