Method
Flexible
Term
SPRING
Units
1.0 QUARTER UNITS
Cost
$425

Course Description

Drug discovery is a complex and rapidly evolving process that brings together many different fields of knowledge. While the fundamental principles of drug discovery are well known, the tools, technologies and methods used are always changing and improving. Effective drug discovery requires that professionals have an understanding of the entire process and are using the best practices.

This course introduces students to the key steps in drug discovery from choosing a target to improving drug candidates in the lab. Students will learn how various scientific methods intersect to find and develop new treatments. The course also explores current trends and special topics, including cancer drug discovery, precision medicine, and the use of artificial intelligence in research.


Topics

  • Target identification and validation

    • * Creating arrays, multidimensional arrays, strings, StringBuilder class, primitive wrapper classes

  • Interfaces, Nested classes
  • Target selection (genomic and biopharmaceutical)
  • Lead optimization strategies
  • Preclinical development
  • Pharmacokinetics/toxicology
  • Emerging trends: leveraging AI tools in drug discovery
Syllabus Library
You may enroll in this offering at any time.
Gohar Eslami, Instructor in the Clinical Trials Design and Management Program
Gohar Eslami
May. 2 - May. 30, Saturday, 9:00am - 12:00pm
  • Flexible Attend in person or via Zoom at scheduled times.
CTDM.X419.(2)
Schedule
Date Start Time End Time Meeting Type Location
Sat, 05-02-2026 9:00am 12:00pm Flexible SANTA CLARA / REMOTE
Sat, 05-09-2026 9:00am 12:00pm Flexible SANTA CLARA / REMOTE
Sat, 05-16-2026 9:00am 12:00pm Flexible SANTA CLARA / REMOTE
Sat, 05-30-2026 9:00am 12:00pm Flexible SANTA CLARA / REMOTE
 

This class meets simultaneously in a classroom and remotely via Zoom. Students are expected to attend and participate in the course, either in-person or remotely, during the days and times that are specified on the course schedule. Students attending remotely are also strongly encouraged to have their cameras on to get the most out of the remote learning experience. Students attending the class in-person are expected to bring a laptop to each class meeting.

No meeting on May 23, 2026. To see all meeting dates, click "Full Schedule" below.

You will be granted access in Canvas to your course site and course materials approximately 24 hours prior to the published start date of the course.

This course applies to these programs:

Demo