This course aims to teach the fundamentals and applications of glycobiology in the broader context of functional glycomics, based on the recently updated textbook “essentials of glycobiology 2nd edition”, which is freely available on the ncbi bookshelf, and other web materials on the nature functional glycomics gateway. From the cause and consequences of onco-developmental changes in glycosylation to proteins that recognize, bind and mediate the functions of glycans, students are introduced to essential concepts and recent developments in the field. Current pursue in both basic research and medical applications, including the historical development of neuraminidase inhibitors (e.g. tamiflu) and glycans involved in viral infections are discussed in the context of what chemical approaches are available to glycobiologists for diagnostics and therapeutics. Seminars are organized for students in groups to present and discuss key original research papers, which together with following up written report, will constitute the principal course work and assessment.