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Toxicology is an expanding field with good career prospects. The MRes is a 1-year full-time programme that provides a research-orientated extension of a molecular biology background into the subject of molecular mechanistic toxicology. We strive to provide a lively, highly interactive teaching and research environment. Training is provided by members of Academia, Industry, Hospitals and Government Institutes.
This programme provides students with research-orientated training in the application of molecular and cell biology to develop an understanding of chemical toxicity at the cellular and molecular level. You will study within a lively, highly interactive teaching and research environment.
Understanding the molecular basis of how chemicals peturb biological systems is critical for assessing their toxic potential.
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly postgraduate students to get their thoughts on our courses, stunning campus and life in a vibrant and cultural city.
This programme provides students with a research-orientated training in the application of molecular and cell biology to develop an understanding of chemical toxicity at the cellular and molecular level.
You will study within a lively, highly interactive teaching and research environment. One of the most rapidly developing areas of toxicology is the use of molecular, cell biology and omics to identify adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) and to develop a mechanistic understanding of chemical toxicity at the cellular and molecular level. This is not only of fundamental interest (i.e., understanding the mechanism of action) but it also relates to an increased need for a mechanistic component in chemical risk assessment and development of high throughput screens for chemical toxicity.
There are 60 taught credits in semester 1, followed by an extended research project taken in semester 2 that is submitted and examined as a mini-PhD thesis.
Toxicology is an expanding field with good career prospects. The MRes is a 1-year full time programme (commencing in late September) that provides a research-orientated extension of a molecular biology background into the subject of molecular mechanistic toxicology.
The School of Biosciences at The University of Birmingham has an international reputation as a centre for excellence in toxicology teaching and research. We have strong links with industry, government organisations and the National Poisons Information Service which is based at City Hospital in Birmingham
Our MRes Molecular and Mechanistic toxicology programme is designed to provide students with training in the principles of molecular toxicology research and to provide them with the scientific skills needed to prepare for a research career in Molecular Toxicology. The research training received will give you a head start in future applications for PhD study and research positions in industry.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
Year: 1
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
Module Title | Credits | Semester |
---|---|---|
LM Biosciences Postgraduate Masters Skills Programme | 0 | Full Term |
LM Forensic, Clinical and Occupational Toxicology | 20 | Semester 1 |
LM Metabolism and Mechanisms of Toxicity | 20 | Semester 1 |
Students must also undertake a research project
Programme lead
Dr Hodges is interested in mechanisms of genetic toxicology, cellular oxidative stress and repair of oxidative DNA damage and how the variant form of repair protein OGG1 is deficient under conditions of oxidative stress
Honours degree with a substantial component of molecular biology
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
Full-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Applications are accepted all year round but if you wish to start in September, we would encourage you to apply by 1 June. Whilst you are still welcome to apply after this date, it is important to allow time for us to review your application.
If you are seeking funding, please be aware that the majority of funding opportunities have deadlines in early spring so we would encourage you to apply as early as possible.
We have put together some helpful information on the research programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one to one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters.
As a postgraduate researcher, you’ll benefit from tailored support to prepare you for a career in academia or set you up for a wide range of other professions.
We also offer subject specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation will allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
As one of the original pioneering cities, Birmingham is a melting pot for shopping, food and drink, nightlife, sport, culture, and industry. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Our green and spacious campus is the place where our community comes together to learn, relax and socialise. Like a town of its own, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.