Outline of the programme for MRes
The programme consists of three major components comprising 180 credits over 44 weeks.
1. Direct Research Experience – [120 credits]
There will be two 18-week research projects to be undertaken in different laboratories, with different supervisors. The second project will normally be on a significantly different topic than the first project and will employ different techniques, which may be complementary. The objective is to gain some breath of experience in techniques. Each of the two projects will be assessed by a written report and an oral examination with an External Examiner. Lists of research project areas are sent out with application forms (see FindaPhd.com).
2. Training in Research Techniques – [30 credits]
A series of 10 (3 hour) lecture/demonstrations will cover a wide range of modern techniques as listed:
-
NMR Spectroscopy;
-
X-ray crystallography;
-
Microscopy and fluorescent cell sorting;
-
DNA/peptide/protein Synthesis and Sequencing;
-
Plant and animal cell culture;
-
Immuno-diagnostics;
-
Mass spectroscopy;
-
Reporter gene technology
-
Cell manipulation, transfection and micro-injection;
-
Protein expression and purification.
Assessment will comprise 3 essays chosen from the 10 topics and 3 oral presentations. For those who come to us with a physical sciences background, it may be recommended that third year Modules in Biochemistry or Biological sciences may replace attendance at some of the above.
3. a) Bioinformatics, Molecular Modelling and Statistical Analysis [10 credits]
A 10 lecture course in statistical analysis in addition to a 'hands on' course in molecular modelling and bioinformatics using our new UNIX computing facility. A 1 hour examination forms the assessment.
b) Scientific Communication [10 credits]
This section comprises training and feedback in both oral and poster presentations. Students will give two oral presentations on the first research project and prepare a poster on the second project. The second oral presentation and the poster will be assessed.
c) Graduate School Programme/Research Seminar Attendance [10 credits]
The Graduate School programme comprises a series of lectures on general scientific topics such as ethics, animal experimentation and intellectual property rights. It is also expected that students will attend the weekly research seminars.
Why study Molecular and Cellular Biology MRes at Birmingham?
Advantages of the programme are:
-
A broader training in the skills and techniques of contemporary research in molecular and cellular biology.
-
The chance to experience substantial research projects in two different areas.
-
A 'flying start' to a subsequent PhD programme, if this is the chosen career path, ensuring completion within three years. MRes students usually find it easy to secure funded PhD posts.
-
The promotion of self-management through the formulation and execution of a Personal Development Plan, ie an individually tailored programme.
-
The increased breadth and experience will make students more adaptable and enhance subsequent employability.
-
An exit point after one year with a recognised qualification for those who decide that further research training is not for them.
A very wide range of research topics falling within the scope of molecular and cellular biology is available with in the School; this range extends from structural biology at one extreme to multicellular systems at the other
Teaching and Learning
External interactions
In order to broaden experience and interaction with other groups several of the activities described above will be shared with students on the MRC-sponsored course in Molecular and Cellular Immunology and Oncology. We have formed partnerships with Glaxo-SK, Celltech, Hoffmann-La Roche and AgrEvo to ensure that students are made fully aware of the ethos and requirements of progressive industrial employers. This will involve both visits of senior industrial personnel to Birmingham for presentations and discussions and a visit to the Stevenage research facility of Glaxo-SK, where students will experience a mock job interview and give a short oral presentation.
The School of Biosciences has an international reputation as a centre of excellence in the areas covered by this MRes degree.
This programme is designed to prepare students for a career in research in molecular and cellular biology and its applications. It comprises a year of intensive training and research experience leading to the award of an MRes degree. Applicants for the MRes programme should be of high calibre with first or 2.1 degrees.
Applications will be welcome from students with a background in Physics and Chemistry, as well as from those with a degree in Biochemistry, Biology or other Life Sciences.
Applications from overseas are welcome but note that no funding is available and applicants will have to raise heir own funds. EU applicants are also welcome. No living costs can be provided