PBL
Genentech Project
Quantitative Analysis in BioTech
Learn to ask biological questions quantitatively and develop scalable, cost-effective solutions for disease diagnostics and scientific accessibility.
Project
Genentech Project
Location
Online
Duration
8 Weeks
Upcoming Sessions
Dec. 15 - Feb. 08, 2026
Outcomes
Quantitative Biology techniques and data analysis
Stem cell differentiation and regenerative medicine
Mapping cell types using computational algorithms
Microbiome's role in health and disease
Designing cost-effective disease diagnostics tools
You Will Get
Industry Guidance
Work directly with our project leads—experts and top researchers—who bring their real-world insights and expertise straight to your learning experience.
Research Experience
Collaborate with teammates and the project lead in a multi-week project to pursue novel questions in your research field.
Peer Networks
Engage with our PBL participants from all over the world. Collaborate with new peers and learn about their own research endeavours.
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A Strong Portfolio
Put your best foot forward in the PBL with a standout project and receive a PBL Evaluation Report that can be used as a recommendation letter for employers and grad schools.
Expert Guidance
Get personalized feedback to grow your research and innovation skills.
Deliverables
Real projects, lasting connections, and new opportunities beyond your program.
Project Deliverables
The final presentation of your 8 weeks could be a poster, written report, or a slide deck, all of which can be expanded on.
Research Extension
Utilize up to 5 additional meeting times with the project lead after the project’s conclusion to build your work out for publication or conference presentation.
Industry Network
Meet peers in your projects and participate in a global talent community both online and in-person.
Industry Application
Genentech, a leading biotechnology company, leverages advanced biological research and innovative technologies to develop medical solutions. This PBL aligns with Genentech’s focus on quantitative biology, regenerative medicine, and disease diagnostics, providing students with industry-relevant skills.
Popular Industry Positions
Biomedical Research Scientist
Conducts research on cell differentiation and regenerative therapies.
Bioinformatics Analyst
Utilizes computational algorithms to analyze biological data and map cell types.
Clinical Research Coordinator
Manages clinical trials and research studies focusing on microbiome interactions and disease diagnostics.
Tracks
Track 1
Stem Cell and Regeneration
Students will explore the regenerative abilities of stem cells in non-model organisms to understand tissue growth, repair, and potential applications in human health.
Study the unique regenerative capabilities of pluripotent stem cells in animals like planarian flatworms.
Experimentally and computationally investigate how stem cells differentiate into various cell types.
Analyze the potential benefits of non-model biological systems for human health and organ regeneration.
Understand the limitations of current organ donation paradigms and explore alternatives through stem cell research.
Track 2
Cell Type Evolution
Students will delve into the evolutionary trajectory of cell types, using computational algorithms to map and understand their development across different species.
Investigate the emergence and differentiation of cell types across the animal kingdom.
Utilize the SAMap algorithm to map similar cell types and explore their evolutionary adaptations.
Examine how cell types adapt to environmental challenges and their impact on species survival.
Study the differences in lung cells among mammals to understand the severity of Covid-19 infection.
Track 3
Microbes and Human Health
Students will examine the influence of the human microbiome on health, focusing on the interaction between diet, microbes, and the immune system.
Explore the diversity of microbes living within the human body and their roles in health.
Analyze how different types of food (fiber, fermented, junk food) affect microbiome diversity.
Investigate the communication between the microbiome, immune system, and brain.
Study the microbiome's role in modulating immune response and behavior.
Track 4
Frugal Science
Students will engage in designing and testing cost-effective scientific solutions to address global health and environmental challenges.
Evaluate key design parameters and technical implementations from a bioengineering perspective through case studies.
Study examples of low-cost scientific tools like electropen, LoCHAid, and Foldscope.
Identify problems students are passionate about and link them to fields of fundamental science.
Develop and implement cost-effective, scalable solutions to address identified challenges.
PBL Journey
Online PBL Projects meet once a week for 8 weeks, and follow the research project format. Participants will meet the project lead, learn the conventions of the field and familiarize themselves with the tracks, then spend the middle portion of their time collaborating to develop their research.
At the end, participants will present their final project and receive feedback, with the opportunity to extend their timeline and develop the project in greater depth.
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Project Team
Our Academic Team plays a vital role in your PBL journey at Blended Learning. We are dedicated to enhancing your learning experience and ensuring your academic success. Our team consists of three distinct roles, each with a specific focus to support your Research Guidance, Project Progress, and Personal Growth.
Project Lead
Providing Industry and Research Guidance
Bioengineering Researcher at Stanford University
She is a current bioengineering researcher at Stanford University, focusing on comparative system biology of regeneration and gene regulation of stem cell fates. Her ultimate goal is to achieve control over whole-body regeneration. She has made notable contributions, including the 20-cent Paperfuge and the low-cost microscopy platform Squid. Her work has been published in high-impact journals, and her invention, Paperfuge, was recognized by INDEX: Design to Improve Life, receiving an award from the Royal Crown Princess of Denmark. She completed her undergraduate studies in Chemistry at MIT.
Academic Advisor
Tracking Your Project Development
The Academic Advisor is dedicated to your project completion success. They manage the progress of your PBL, guiding team formation, facilitating group discussions, and resolving conflicts. Additionally, the Academic Advisor ensures team member contributions are on track and provides logistical support, including attendance tracking, hosting recitation sessions, managing research support requests, and conducting student evaluations at the end of the PBL.
From Our Students
"After a night spent debugging, I suddenly discovered the program running perfectly. In that triumphant moment, you realize your true capability and success. The exhaustion fades, replaced by the thrill of knowing your skills and persistence led to this achievement, reaffirming your potential."
Nicole Y.
National University of Singapore
B.S. Economics
FAQs
What is the learning format of a PBL?
All PBLs are offered in an 8-week online format that begins with an orientation followed by subject setup overview of the different tracks. The majority of the session time is dedicated to project development, with a final presentation at the culmination of the 8 weeks. Many PBLs are also offered bi-annually in an on-campus format that consists of daily in-person meetings.
How long does each PBL cohort last？
One round of the Online PBL cohort lasts 8 weeks, preceded bys a pre-PBL orientation week. Each On-Campus PBL usually has 8 in person meetings, with intensive classroom education and collaboration. This means the biggest difference between online and on-campus PBLs is time participants have in between meetings.
How can I be more academically prepared before the PBL starts?
Review the Blended Learning Insights sent by the Academic Advisor and familiarize yourself with the project topic and pre-learning materials. Ensure you have all necessary softwares and other resources needed for the PBL.
For each PBL cohort, will I work in teams? Are PBL team members self-selected or assigned?
Yes, you will work in teams for each round of the PBL Cohort. Each team has 3 to 6 participants, organized by the Academic Team. The Academic Advisor will organize groupings based on students' backgrounds, preferred track, and skills.
Can I work with the Project Lead on my project after the PBL ends?
Yes, with your AI + X Research Plan, you may request up to five PBL Research Extension meetings, where you work with the project lead to develop your project into a working manuscript. To schedule a PBL Research Extension meeting, talk to your Academic Advisor at the conclusion of your PBL.
What do I receive at the end of the PBL?
At the conclusion of the PBL cohort, you can request a PBL Evaluation Report which summarizes the PBL content, the hours you spent, the track you chose, and includes a recommendation letter from the Project Lead (for eligible participants who completed the project successfully).
Is attendance mandatory for PBL Live Sessions and Recitation Sessions?
Yes, attendance is mandatory for both PBL Live Sessions and Recitation Sessions. Participants with three or more unexcused absences forfeit their eligibility for a PBL Evaluation Report.
Do I need to have my camera on during online PBL Live Sessions?
Yes, you must have your camera on during online PBL Live Sessions. Participants with cameras off will be marked as absent. This is meant to encourage active engagement and participation in meetings.
