Our employees
The department was headed by Andrei Dmitrievich Protasov, MD, PhD (Doctor) of Medicine, Associate Professor, Master’s degree in Management of International Education (Peoples' Friendship University of Russia).
47 teachers carry out pedagogical activities at the department, 20 of them are the main staff of the department. The main staff includes 4 Doctors of Sciences and 7 candidates of Medical Sciences. The average age of the teaching staff of the Department of Fundamental Disciplines of the International Institute is 41 years.
The department unites scientists with work experience in the world’s leading universities and clinics:
- Specialists in the field of microscopy (Northwestern University, USA) — development of methods for visualizing biological processes.
- Experts in the field of molecular biology and microbiology (University of California Berkeley, Georgia Institute of Technology) — study pathogens and develop new therapeutic strategies.
- Radiologists (hospital named after A. Krupp, Germany) — the introduction of modern diagnostic methods.
- Young scientists are laureates of scientific competitions, authors of articles in highly rated journals.
Scientific activity
The Department of Fundamental Disciplines of the International Institute conducts active research in the field of medicine, biology and related disciplines. Our staff has a unique international experience combining fundamental research with applied developments.
Immunology and vaccination
- The study of the effectiveness of vaccines against human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Analysis of vaccination coverage among foreign students.
- Development of strategies to increase immunization in different populations.
Respiratory diseases
- Investigation of the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchial asthma.
- Search for new biomarkers and therapies.
Neuroscience and neuroinflammation
- The effect of neuroinflammation on cognitive functions.
- The study of the role of melatonin in the regulation of behavior in inflammatory processes.
Radiology and Diagnostics
- Improving the methods of MRI and CT diagnostics in oncology, neurology and traumatology.
- Development of new approaches to visualization of pathological processes.
Nanotechnology and biomaterials
- Creation of highly sensitive sensors for the detection of toxic gases.
- Development of new photodetectors based on carbon nanomaterials.
Our research is published in leading international and Russian journals, including:
- Journal of Molecular Biology,
- Microbiology and Immunology,
- Plant Pathology,
- Optics and spectroscopy,
- Medical immunology,
- Modern problems of science and education,
- Clinical laboratory diagnostics,
- Vaccines.
- Grant "Development of highly sensitive photodetectors for the infrared range".
- Grant "Creation of miniature gas sensors based on 2D materials".
- International research in the field of neuroscience.
International cooperation
We actively cooperate with world scientific centers, participate in international conferences and joint research.
The department is open for new projects and collaborations in the field of medicine, biotechnology and basic sciences!
Teaching activities
The Department of Fundamental Disciplines provides high-quality medical education that meets international standards (a globally oriented education model). Our programs are designed to meet the requirements of leading professional exams:
- USMLE (USA)
- FMGE (India)
- UKMLA (Great Britain)
- ADEE (Dentistry, EU)
- ACPE (Pharmacy, USA)
This allows students to successfully pass licensing exams and work in any country in the world.
The Department of Fundamental Disciplines of the International Institute implements the following disciplines in English for foreign students:
- microbiology, virology;
- microbiology, virology, oral microbiology;
- immunology;
- immunology, clinical immunology;
- physics, mathematics;
- anatomy;
- human anatomy, head and neck anatomy;
- topographic anatomy;
- topographic anatomy of the head and neck;
- biology;
- chemistry;
- histology, embryology, cytology;
- histology, embryology, cytology, histology of the oral cavity;
- embryonic development of the oral cavity organs;
- modern aspects of histophysiology of the digestive system;
- life safety;
- fundamentals of the organization of medical and sanitary provision in case of terrorist attacks and emergency situations;
- normal physiology;
- normal physiology, physiology of the maxillofacial region;
- biochemistry;
- biological chemistry — biochemistry of the oral cavity;
- behavioral and social sciences;
- pharmacology;
- pathology;
- pathology, pathology of the head and neck;
- laboratory diagnostics;
- clinical laboratory diagnostics;
- clinical pathology;
- clinical pathophysiology.
Key features of teaching
Focus on international standards
- All teachers receive special training on the structure and content of the USMLE and other exams.
- The training materials are adapted to the requirements of the NBME (National Board of Medical Examiners) and similar organizations.
Innovative educational technologies
- Clinical cases and PBL (Problem-Based Learning) — analysis of real medical situations.
- Simulation training — working with virtual patients, 3D anatomical models.
- Interactive tests in the USMLE format (including UWorld, Kaplan).
- Gamification is the use of training platforms with elements of competition.
- Interdisciplinary approach.
- Integration of basic sciences (biochemistry, anatomy, physiology) with clinical disciplines.
- Teamwork — joint projects with departments of clinical medicine.
Exam preparation
- Regular trial testing in the USMLE Step 1, UKMLA, and FMGE formats.
- Analysis of difficult questions with experts familiar with the assessment system of international exams.
- Access to databases of questions and modern educational resources.
Continuous development of teachers
- Annual trainings on modern teaching methods.
- Participation in international conferences on medical education.
- Implementation of AI analytics to evaluate academic performance and adapt programs.
Our goal is to train competitive specialists who are ready to work in any medical system in the world.
Student life and international cooperation
The Department of Fundamental Disciplines is not only about study and science, but also about a vibrant, eventful student life! We create all conditions for international students to feel part of a friendly international community, develop their talents and achieve success in various fields.
Science without borders
Student scientific club — future discoveries are born here! Our international students:
- They participate in international research together with their teachers
- They prepare scientific publications and patents
- They regularly speak at the annual student scientific conference with reports in English
- The winners get the opportunity to present their work at international forums in different countries.
Sport unites the world
Sports sections for everyone:
- International Students Football League
- Basketball and volleyball tournaments between institutes
- Yoga and fitness with professional trainers
- The cricket club is for fans of this popular international game
- Fencing section — where elegance is combined with fighting spirit
Creativity without language barriers
Creative teams where talents are revealed:
- Russian, Indian, African songs and dances
- Culinary club «Taste of Science» — culinary workshops from students of different cultures
Unique traditions
International projects that will be remembered forever:
- Science Slam — science battles in English
- Annual ethnofestival «Friendship of peoples of SamSMU» with national cuisine and music
- Adaptation through communication with Russian families
