Biochemistry & Biosciences

Course Outline
Our Master of Research (MRes) degree in Biochemistry and Biosciences (formerly named MRes Biochemistry and Cell Biology) is the first scientific, research-intensive MRes course of its kind in Ireland. If you are a highly-motivated, enthusiastic student with an interest in research, this is the ideal platform for you to explore your interests, alongside our team of internationally-recognised researchers in the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology at University College Cork.

MRes Course Details
The MRes programme combines a 12-month full-time (24-month part-time) research project with select taught modules to enhance each student’s individual skill set.

The subject of your research project can be drawn from a number of areas in the field of biochemistry and biosciences including bioanalysis, bioinformatics, proteomics, cancer biology, cell signalling, gene expression, trafficking, molecular genetics, neurobiology, RNA, translational control, or synthetic biology.

We place a strong focus on the development of your presentation and writing skills since these are necessary for a successful research career. Our emphasis includes research proposal writing; general and transferable skills in laboratory techniques and safety; research ethics and integrity; information literacy; and science communication skills.

The MRes in Biochemistry and Biosciences programme comprises an orientation and induction week; four modules (two core modules and two electives); attendance at seminars; and a research project and dissertation.

Modules (20 credits)

Module Title Credits

ML6002 Biological and Clinical Perspectives of Human Disease 10
ML6003 Scientific Communication of Current Topics in Molecular Cell Biology 5
ML6004 Cell and Molecular Biology 10
ML6005 Molecular Techniques in the Life Sciences 5
ML6006 Human Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering Techniques 5
BC6004 Scientific Research Planning and Proposals 5
PG6001 STEPS - Scientific Training for Enhanced PG Studies 5
PG6009 Graduate Information Literacy Skills 5
PG6015 An Introduction to Research Integrity, Ethics and Open Science 5
ST6013 Statistics and Data Analysis for PG Research Students 10
BC5005 SkillsBET-BioPharma - Skills Based Education and Training in Biopharmaceutical Sciences 5
BC5006 Technical and Professional Skills Training for Employment in the BioPharma Workplace 15
BC6001 Cell and Molecular Biology 5
PG6014 Scientific Outreach and Communication 5
PG6020 Business Research Skills 10
PG6021 English for PG Studies - Upper-Intermediate: B2+ 5
PG6022 English for PG Studies - Lower Advanced: C1 5
PG6024 Qualitative Research Inquiry 5
PG6027 Going Public: Publishing Research in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education 5
PG6029 Skills in Public Engagement of Science 5
PG6030 Reproducible Research Practices (using R) 5
PG7014 Creativity and Innovation for Research Students 5

Applicants must have a Second Class Honours (minimum Grade 2.1) in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) in the following relevant subject areas: biological sciences, medicine or pharmaceutical sciences.

You must be approved by the MRes coordinator and programme team, including the Head of the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology.

The number of places is limited and decisions on entry to the programme will be made on the basis of the candidate’s performance in their primary degree and interview according to the following criteria: academic qualifications, research experience and focus, scientific understanding, personal statement and strong recommendations from two academic referees.

Industry-based applicants
Applicants based in industry can apply to undertake a 2-year part-time MRes. The decision on entry to the programme will be assessed by the programme director and the Head of School, on a case-by-case basis. The decision on entry will include the proposed project compatibility, the candidate’s performance in their primary degree and an interview according to the following criteria: academic qualifications, research experience and focus, scientific understanding, personal statement and strong recommendations from two academic referees.

12 months, full-time, part-time.

Start Date: September 2024.

Skills and Careers Information
The MRes in Biochemistry and Biosciences is designed to give our students a research-intensive experience but at a degree level lower than a PhD. Taught modules are focused on generic and transferable research skills, rather than discipline-specific knowledge. There is an emphasis on data analysis, interpretation, problem-solving, and time- and project management. You will also develop skills in presenting and writing science, posing a research question, and developing a research proposal. Students completing this MRes programmme will be competitive to secure funding, obtain a PhD position or enter directly into employment within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sectors.

Our students also have the opportunity to collaborate with selected research groups within the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Ultimately the MRes programme at UCC is designed to give you the best start for your scientific research career.