Course Details

Study Mode

Hybrid

Duration

12 Months

(2 Semesters)

Start Date

August 2025

About the program

This cutting-edge 1-year diploma course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to revolutionize drug discovery using AI and machine learning. This program emphasizes the application of advanced AI techniques, such as machine learning (ML) and data analytics, to transform drug discovery and development. Throughout the course, students engage with the latest technological advancements in AI and develop technical proficiency in relevant programming and computational tools. The curriculum has been meticulously crafted to provide students with hands-on experience while fostering strong analytical capabilities, thereby preparing them for complex problem-solving scenarios in the field of drug discovery. Developed jointly by SilicoScientia Private Limited and Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Pune, the program bridges the gap between pharmaceutical sciences and computational innovation, preparing learners for the next era of healthcare transformation.

Programme Objectives

  • Understand and apply AI/ML in drug discovery and healthcare
  • Gain hands-on skills in molecular modeling, cheminformatics, and apply AI technologies to the drug discovery and development process
  • Prepare for careers in pharma, biotech, AI healthcare, and research sectors
  • Publish research and gain real-world experience through internships

Who Is This Course For?

This program is designed for a diverse group of learners and professionals who are passionate about bridging life sciences with artificial intelligence. It is ideal for graduates and postgraduates in pharmacy, biotechnology, bioinformatics, and related life science fields who wish to gain expertise in AI-driven drug discovery. It also caters to tech professionals interested in applying their skills within the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. Researchers, academicians, and final-year students looking to specialize in computational drug discovery will find this program especially valuable. Whether you come from a biology or technology background, this program empowers you with interdisciplinary skills to lead innovation in precision medicine and next-generation therapeutics.

  • Master AI and computational tools used in modern drug discovery

  • Develop an advanced understanding of drug development processes

  • Gain hands-on experience in real-world drug discovery projects

  • Build strong independent research and scientific inquiry skills

  • Understand ethical and regulatory frameworks for AI in pharmaceuticals

  • Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and communication abilities

  • Sharpen critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for innovation

  • Be prepared to drive R&D advancements in pharma, biotech, and healthcare

  • AI-driven drug discovery market projected to reach $7.1B by 2030

  • High demand for professionals with dual expertise in AI & life sciences

  • An interdisciplinary approach combining Pharma, Bioinformatics, AI, and ML

  • Internships in leading pharma & biotech companies

  • Opportunity for research publications and networking with industry experts

  • AI Scientist / Bioinformatics Analyst

  • Drug Discovery Specialist / Computational Biologist

  • Pharma Data Engineer

  • R&D roles in Pharma, Biotech & Precision Medicine

Course Contents

SemesterCourse CodeCourse Title
AICDD 101 Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Medicine, and Python Programming
AICDD 102Medicinal Chemistry and Structural Bioinformatics
in Drug Discovery
Semester 1AICDD 103Machine Learning and Deep learning in Advanced
Drug Discovery
AICDD 104Foundations in Biostatistics: Principles and
Methods
PAICDD 101AICCD-1: Python programming, Artificial
intelligence/Machine learning, and computational
drug discovery
RPResearch Project
AICDD 201Advanced molecular modelling techniques in drug

development

AICDD 202JAVA programming and Data Analysis and
Machine Learning in Drug Discovery
Semester 2AICDD 203Ethics and Regulatory Aspects of AI in
Pharmaceuticals
PAICDD 201AICCD-2: JAVA programming, Deep learning
model development, and Molecular modelling
RPResearch Project
AICDD 204Advanced molecular modelling techniques in drug
development
RPResearch Project