The school (1.9. - 12.9.2008) will discuss the recent progress and challenges in biological and medical imaging. Cutting edge techniques using a wide range of imaging mechanisms will be put in the context of selected biomedical problems. In particular, multimodal and multiscale imaging methods as well as supporting technologies such as computer aided image analysis and modeling will be discussed.

We will introduce imaging of large populations of cells, RNA interference screening, and computational analysis of quantitative networks of cellular phenotypes and systems. We will analyze cell-to-cell variation in a population of adherent human cells, quantify population heterogeneity signatures, and use cellular heterogeneity (or biological noise) to create meaningful molecular networks.

Conceptual and experimental insight into the complex molecular interactions and cellular processes that govern early interactions between animal viruses and their host cells.

Literature seminar for students at the masters level and PhD students. Introduction to the current research topics in infectious diseases; Introduction to key pathogens which are studied as model organisms in this field; Overview over key research groups in the field of infectious diseases in Zürich.

Introduction to experimental and computational methods of systems biology. By using baker’s yeast as a thread through the series, we focus on global methods for analysis of and interference with biological functions. Illustrative applications to other organisms will highlight medical and biotechnological aspects.