Human Physiology Course | Postgraduate Online Program | IISER Pune
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 2333 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Elective |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Categories | Biological Sciences & Bioengineering, Bioengineering |
| Credit Points | 3 |
| Level | Postgraduate |
| Start Date | 19 Jan 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 02 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 17 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Unlock the Mysteries of Life: A Deep Dive into Human Physiology
Have you ever wondered how your body seamlessly coordinates breathing, digestion, circulation, and thought? Human physiology is the fascinating science that answers these questions, exploring the integrated functions of the body's systems to sustain life. For postgraduate students and professionals in biological sciences and bioengineering, a robust understanding of physiology is not just academic—it's foundational to innovation in healthcare, biotechnology, and research.
We are thrilled to present an exceptional opportunity to learn from distinguished experts at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune. This detailed 12-week course is designed to transform your understanding of the human body, from molecular mechanisms to complex systemic behaviors.
Learn from Esteemed Physiology Pioneers
This course brings together the unparalleled expertise of two renowned scientists and educators:
Prof. Nishikant Subhedar, PhD, FNAsc: A stalwart in physiology education and research, Prof. Subhedar brings decades of experience. With post-doctoral training at prestigious international universities and a prolific research career yielding ~140 papers in neurosciences and endocrinology, he has shaped the minds of countless graduate students. Honored for his ‘exemplary contribution to teaching’ at IISER Pune in 2022, his ability to distill complex concepts into digestible insights is unparalleled.
Prof. Aurnab Ghose: Blending cutting-edge research with dynamic teaching, Prof. Ghose's expertise lies in neural circuit plasticity. Trained at The Beatson Institute (UK) and Harvard Medical School (USA), he offers a modern perspective on neurobiology and systems physiology, ensuring the course content is both classic and contemporary.
Course Overview: A Journey Through the Human Body
This postgraduate-level course is meticulously structured over 12 weeks to build a comprehensive and logical understanding of physiological principles. The central theme is homeostasis—the body's remarkable ability to maintain a stable internal environment.
The pedagogy focuses on stepwise elucidation, from molecules and cells to organ systems and behavior. The goal is twofold: to impart essential knowledge and to enable students to appreciate the underlying logic that drives biological processes. Complex terminology is demystified, and fundamental principles are connected to the etiology of common diseases and their treatments.
Detailed 12-Week Curriculum
| Week | Core Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Week 1-2 | Foundations of Homeostasis; Physiology & Molecular Mechanism of Muscle Contractility; Cardiac Muscle Architecture & Function. |
| Week 3-4 | Cardiac Rhythmicity; Hemodynamics & its Regulation. |
| Week 5-6 | Lymphatic System; Excretory System (Kidney, Nephron); RBC Production; Regulation of Osmolarity & Counter-Current Mechanism. |
| Week 7-8 | Physiology of Respiration; Smooth Muscles & Digestive System. |
| Week 9-10 | Secretory Functions of Alimentary Tract, Pancreas, Liver & Gallbladder; Introduction to Endocrine System: Pituitary & Thyroid Glands. |
| Week 11-12 | Hormones of Adrenal Cortex; Physiology of Glucocorticoids; Integration and Course Synthesis. |
Who Should Enroll?
This course is ideal for:
- Postgraduate students (M.Sc., M.Tech, Ph.D.) in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, and Medicine.
- Researchers and professionals looking to solidify their foundational knowledge in systems physiology.
- Educators seeking a structured refresher on integrated physiological concepts.
Prerequisites: A basic knowledge of biology is mandatory. Familiarity with chemistry and cell biology will be highly advantageous for grasping advanced concepts.
Key Learning Outcomes
- Gain a holistic understanding of how major organ systems (muscular, cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, digestive, endocrine) function and interact.
- Master the principle of homeostasis and its regulatory mechanisms, including neural and hormonal control.
- Understand the molecular and cellular basis of physiological processes like muscle contraction and hormone action.
- Develop the ability to connect physiological principles to the logic behind common diseases and therapeutic strategies.
- Appreciate the experimental and logical frameworks that drive discovery in physiology.
Essential Reading & Resources
The course lectures are profusely illustrated and self-contained. For deeper study, the instructors recommend several authoritative texts, including:
- Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
- Berne & Levy Physiology
- Physiology by Linda S. Costanzo
- Animal Physiology by Hill, Wyse, and Anderson
- Williams Textbook of Endocrinology
Why Choose This Physiology Course?
This isn't just another online lecture series. It's a rigorous academic journey guided by master teachers who are also leading researchers. The 12-week format ensures depth without overwhelm, and the postgraduate level guarantees intellectual rigor. For anyone in bioengineering or biological sciences, this course offers the indispensable systems-level understanding needed to design experiments, develop technologies, or advance clinical applications.
Embark on this journey to gain profound insights into your own biology and the intricate systems that keep life ticking. Enroll today and master the elegant logic of human physiology.
Enroll Now →