Microbiome Research Design

This course introduces the core concepts of the gut microbiome, including its role in human health and disease – and practical applications for its incorporation into clinical research. Over four weeks, you’ll learn how to identify microbiome-related health indicators, explore key study design principles and evaluate sequencing methods to achieve meaningful results. Drawing on real-world case studies and practical examples, you’ll develop a funding proposal for an end-to-end microbiome study in your chosen area – from developing testable hypotheses to critically appraising sequencing options and analysis.

• Module 1: Foundations of the gut microbiome
• Module 2: Gut microbiome study design
• Module 3: Methods for characterising the microbiome
• Module 4: Microbiome data analysis for key insights

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• describe health and disease states that are modified by the microbiome
• design a study to test for microbiome differences and effects in a chosen context
• explain the differences between the different methods for characterising the microbiome
• evaluate different microbiome sequencing analysis options for achieving the desired outcomes of a study.

On successful completion of the course, you’ll receive a certificate from the University of Cambridge and a digital badge to display on your LinkedIn profile. These Cambridge credentials not only showcase your knowledge and expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to professional development – helping future-proof your career.

This course is designed for professionals and researchers across a range of disciplines who are eager to harness the power of microbiome science to advance their work. Whether you’re looking to incorporate microbiome studies into your projects or lead groundbreaking research, this course provides the essential tools and insights to help you succeed.

• Academic, clinical and pharmaceutical researchers: Learn how microbiome research can translate to your field and how to incorporate microbiome studies into your work.
• Post-graduate students and postdoctoral researchers: Gain the knowledge to add microbiome-based studies to your projects or prepare compelling funding proposals.
• Principal investigators and clinical research directors: Deepen your understanding so you can spearhead studies that incorporate microbiome components.
• Industry managers and stakeholders in healthcare and research funding bodies: Be better equipped to commission, manage or support microbiome research initiatives.
• Professionals from adjacent sectors: From food and nutrition research, veterinary science, agricultural science and broader health sciences, this course will provide the foundational knowledge to explore the microbiome’s impact within your domain.

Our flexible, online courses – delivered via a world-leading learning platform – reflect the University of Cambridge experience and values, with low learner-to-tutor ratios and academically rigorous standards.

Our online learning model is designed to help you advance your skills and specialise in emerging areas that address real-world challenges. We will help you build your network through an engaging and impactful learning journey that encourages collaboration with academics and fellow learners.

Courses are delivered in weekly modules, allowing you to plan your time effectively around existing commitments. There is an optional weekly live session, which is recorded for anyone who can’t attend. The assessment criteria will be presented to you at the start of the course, so you can approach your studies with confidence and motivation, knowing exactly what’s expected of you and how to meet those expectations.

Throughout your online learning experience with Cambridge Advance Online, you’ll have digital access to a dedicated course tutor, an expert in the field, who will help steer your learning and provide you with support and guidance every step of the way.

Level of knowledge and experience

• Must have a background in a related field of science.
• Must have an undergraduate-level understanding of human physiology, cell biology and genetics.
• Some knowledge of scientific method and/or research experience is desirable but not essential.
• A level of spoken and written English sufficient to allow you to participate and succeed in the course (we recommend English language proficiency equivalent to an IELTS score of 7).

Materials and equipment

• No specialist software or IT equipment required.
• Sufficient internet speed (2 Mbps up/down) for video streaming.
• Please see our recommended browsers (opens in a new tab)

Access to Virtual Learning Environment
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You can ask for support from your employer to fund this learning as part of your professional development.

Our Employer Funding guide has practical tips and templates to help you feel more confident asking for funding.

If your employer is funding your course or programme, we have several payment options available, including bank transfer (BACs), credit or debit card, and PayPal.

You can request a quote or an invoice for your organisation via our online course booking form, which will include a payment date and next steps for completing your payment.