Molecular Biology & Biotechnology

Overview

Biotechnology is the exploitation of living systems or molecules from them for commercial gain. Although the word 'biotechnology' is only a few decades old, humankind has been using biotechnology for millennia, for example in baking, brewing and sewage treatment.



Modern biotechnologies rely on our increasing ability to manipulate organisms at the genetic level and include novel waste treatments and bioremediations, new pharmaceuticals, the exploitation of enzymes in 'green catalysis' and exciting new diagnostic techniques. In the 20th century our lives were transformed by information technology; the 21st century may see an equally great transformation, but this time led by biotechnology.



This Masters degree aims to teach the fundamental molecular bioscience underpinning biotechnology along with examples of its current applications.

Year 1

Core Modules

• Advanced Molecular Biology (20 credits)

• Foundations for Research in the Biosciences (20 credits)

• Protein Structure and Function (20 credits)

• Biotechnology (20 credits)



Optional Modules

• Research Project: Molecular Pathways (60 credits)

• MSc Work Placement (60 credits)

• Bioinformatics and Systems Biology (20 credits)

• Bio-entrepreneurship and Advanced Skills (20 credits)

• Biological Mass Spectrometry: Methods and Applications (20 credits)

Graduate

Normally a 2.2 Honours degree or above in a relevant area of science or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.



Applicants with qualifications below 2.2 Honours degree standard (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) will be considered on a case-by-case basis, if they can demonstrate appropriate experience acceptable to the School.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 31st July 2024 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.



How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

1 year full-time



Teaching Times

Mornings / Evenings / Afternoons

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects

Introduction

This MSc will enable you to pursue a range of careers including commercial, industrial and healthcare applications of molecular biology. This course is also an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue research at PhD level. Recent graduates have gone on to roles such as; Formulations Analyst, Norbrook; Right First Time Specialist, Pfizer; Research Associate at Zymergen, Inc; Technical Support, Qiagen; Validation Scientist, BD Bioscience; Quality Assurance, Baxter International; Associate Scientist, Abbott.