Experimental Physiology

The taught MSc in Experimental Physiology is an ideal programme for students that are interested in a biomedical research or laboratory-based career in academia or industry. The programme focuses on basic research skills and laboratory techniques that are taught in a structured modularised format spread over three trimesters. This programme provides invaluable exposure to the research environment and is ideal preparation for those considering a further research degree. To date 75% of graduates from this programme have gone on to enrol in PhD programmes within UCD.



Robust reproducible science is the foundation of biomedical discovery. The MSc in Experimental Physiology programme focuses on teaching practical laboratory techniques and fundamental biomedical research skills. A key feature of this programme is that all students experience one-on-one teaching within research groups that are supervised by internationally renowned investigators. This unique learning environment allows students to perfect fundamental laboratory techniques and apply them to current research questions in an active world-class research environment.



Course Features

• One-on-one teaching in an active research laboratory

• Balance of laboratory-based practical modules and modules relating to cutting edge techniques, data analysis, scientific writing and communication, innovation, ethics, and integrity

• Focus on mastering research techniques and experimental design

• Horizons broadened via weekly research seminars

• Perfect foundation for further post-graduate research or industrial research career

• Taught by internationally renowned experts.



What Will I Learn?

The aim of this programme is to provide in-depth laboratory-based training in a variety of techniques that are commonly used in physiological and biomedical research laboratories, and in industrial research and development facilities. In addition to mastering common laboratory techniques (such as Western blotting, cell culture, real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry) students will learn how to appropriately apply these techniques in order to address research questions. Via optional modules, students will also be introduced to cutting edge developments in “Omics” technologies, flow cytometry, and imaging.

Module/Trimester/Credits



Stage 1 Core Modules

PHYS40300 Narrative Literature Review 2 Trimester duration (Aut-Spr) 10

MDCS42340 Stage1 Trans Research Skills A Autumn 2.5

PHYS40090 Analysis of Gene Expression - PCR Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

PHYS40100 Analysis of protein distribution in tissues - Immunohistochemistry Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

PHYS40110 Analysis of protein expression - Western Blot Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

PHYS40120 Cell Culture for Physiological Research Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

SCI50010 Online Research Skills Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

SCI50020 Research Integrity Online Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

BMOL50070 Public Science Communication Spring 5

MDCS42350 Stage1 Trans Research Skills B Spring 2.5

CNWY40010 Conway Lecture & Seminar Series Year-long (12 months) 2.5

CNWY40180 Introduction to Core Research Year-long (12 months) 2.5



Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:

Select 35 credits of optional modules. Students can select either IA40430 or IA50004. Students can select either IA40470 or IA50002.

CNWY40120 Advanced Biological Imaging Autumn 5

PHYS40170 Fundamentals of Physiological Research Autumn 5

IA40470 Entrepreneurship: Application and Mindset Autumn and Spring (separate) 5

SCI50030 Academic Writing for Science for Postgraduate students Autumn and Spring (separate) 5

IA40430 Creative Thinking & Innovation Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

IA50000 Communicating for Impact Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

IA50002 Entrepreneurship: Application and Mindset Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

IA50004 Creative Thinking & Innovation Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 5

PHYS40130 Cellular Physiology Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 20

PHYS40140 In Vivo Physiology Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 20

PHYS40150 Molecular Physiology Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 20

PHYS40160 Tissue Physiology Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate) 20

CNWY40090 Introduction to 'Omic' and Advanced Imaging Technologies Spring 5

BIOL40390 Quantitative Tools for the Life Sciences Summer 5

BIOL40550 Scientific Writing and Communication Summer 5

CNWY40130 Flow Cytometry: Principles and Practice Summer 2.5

CNWY40160 Applied Proteomics Summer 5

CNWY41160 Statistical Analysis of Proteomic Mass Spectrometric Protein Identification Data Summer 2.5

Science graduates with a BSc in physiology or a related biomedical discipline who are:

• Interested in a research or technical career in industry

• Interested in molecular/cellular physiology and it’s application to translational research

• Interested in expanding their analytical and critical research skills

• Thinking about doing a PhD in any biomedical discipline and looking for a strong foundation course



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information at: https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/ Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Online Application.



Who Should Apply?

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes

International (Non EU) applicants: Yes

90

1 year full-time. Delivery: On Campus

MSc Experimental Physiology (X846) Full Time

EU fee per year - € 7120

nonEU fee per year - € 13695


***Fees are subject to change

X846: Master of Science in Experimental Physiology Full-Time

Commencing September 2026

Graduate Taught

Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

Upon completion of this programme students will be equipped with the skills necessary to pursue a biomedical research or laboratory-based career in academia or industry. This programme provides invaluable exposure to the research environment and is ideal preparation for those considering a further research degree (75% of our graduates have obtained PhD positions and are thriving in the research environment). Transferable skills in online research, data analysis, communication, scientific writing, and innovation can also open up a diverse array of opportunities outside of the laboratory.