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.



Course Details

This MSc is taught by research-active staff members in the School of Biological Sciences. In addition, fundamental biological research skills are taught and students are given an understanding of bio-entrepreneurship. The degree culminates in a three-month, intensive research project in a laboratory in Queen's, thus preparing graduates for a career in research biotechnology.

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.



Year 1

Core Modules

• Advanced Molecular Biology (20 credits)

• Biotechnology (20 credits)

• Protein Structure and Function (20 credits)

• Foundations for Research in the Biosciences (20 credits)



Optional Modules

• MSc Work Placement (60 credits)

• Bio-entrepreneurship and Advanced Skills (20 credits)

• Research Project: Molecular Pathways (60 credits)

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

• Bioinformatics and Systems Biology (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.



International Students

Please see International Student's link below.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally not later than 31st July 2025.



In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder.



Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.



Please note: A deposit will be required to secure a place on this course.

1 year full-time



Teaching Times

Mornings / Evenings / Afternoons

Entry Year: 2025/26

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.