Masters Degrees (Bioremediation)

Your programme of study

Do you have an undergraduate degree in Chemistry or a substantive element within the subject and are you wondering what to study next to get into a specialised field? An oil and gas chemist is a highly skilled, highly paid professional with a vital impact on the world's energy industry production both now and in the future. You would not only look at the production side of energy exploration but you are looking at bioremediation, analysis, flow risk, natural gas and in depth analysis to ensure that energy producers supply the correct quality constantly.

You also get involved in corrosion prevention in terms of facilities and development of a new supply of chemical products to ensure improved production and remediation techniques are applied. This is a highly skilled profession with international applications across global facilities often working within interdisciplinary teams. The programme draws on expertise at Aberdeen which has been known for its energy production since the 1970s. This has allowed for both strong academic rigour and industry input to develop a consistently high standard of industry relevant vocational advanced degrees specifically for the oil and gas industry. Programmes are run from the university or online from Aberdeen where it is possible to do this. Aberdeen, Scotland is located at the heart of the European oil and gas industry and on a par with Houston, Texas in terms of knowledge and skills in the city.

The programme addresses a growing need for environmental responsibility looking at production and refining materials, energetics and environmental impact remediation in a constantly evolving oil and gas environment and within a constantly changing regulatory environment internationally.

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

Materials for the Oil and Gas Industry

Processes, Materials and Bioremediation for the Energy Industry

Chemistry at Interfaces and Enhanced Oil Recovery

Analytical and Instrumentation Methods

Semester 2

Flow Assurance and Oil Field Chemicals

Chemistry of Refinery and Natural Gas

Applied Analytical and Instrumental Methods

Industrial Engagement and Applications

Semester 3

Extended Research Project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/206/oil-and-gas-chemistry/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• The programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry and high commended as an exceptional programme
• You are taught by a research intensive university with close interaction with the oil and gas industry
• The department was ranked 1st IN Scotland for Chemistry research impact (REF 2014)
• Your skills will enable you to perform a wide variety of industrial processes

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• 12 Months
• Full time
• September to January start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:

https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

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This course will enhance your understanding of key concepts in biotechnology and environmental sustainability and their practical application from innovation to commercialisation.

This course is designed to enhance your career in a wide range of sectors, such as biorenewables, bioremediation and bioprocessing in which environmental sustainability is a key consideration. It will enable you to undertake a variety of fulfilling roles from research, and product and technology development to environmental protection and other leadership positions.

Biotechnology for Environmental Sustainability will equip you with broad theoretical knowledge and critical understanding of advanced principles in biotechnology. You’ll also gain the practical skills required to underpin a career within an industrial or research setting.

You’ll be supported by an active research group with varied interests and links with relevant industries, research institutes and other organisations.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Biotechnology-for-Environmental-Sustainability-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides you with in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of key concepts in fermentation and bioprocessing, environmental microbiology, business planning and environmental policy which are relevant to the application of commercial-scale biotechnologies in an environmentally sustainable manner.

You’ll study the scientific concepts that underpin modern biotechnologies and how innovations can be exploited for the development of products and processes such as biofuels, novel bioactive compounds and waste conversion technologies. You’ll also explore the bioethical, socio-economic and regulatory aspects of environmental sustainability and the role of biotechnologies in environmental protection.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices such as fermentation and environmental monitoring. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project with one of our Edinburgh Napier start-up companies or externally in a relevant organisation or industry.

You’ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials, site visits, field trips and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This is a full-time programme over one year and is split up into three trimesters. You can choose to start in either January or September. There may also be some opportunities to study abroad.

Modules

• Cell technology
• Business and bioethics
• Biotechnology for sustainable renewables
• Research skills
• Biotechnology for sustainable remediation
• Environmental sustainability management
• Independent research project

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

Environmental sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in many aspects of our lives. Biotechnology underpins many of the solutions to existing unsustainable practices and offers the possibility of new products and as such is predicted to be a key driver in the future global economy.

This course provides a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as sustainable waste management, bioremediation, environmental protection and monitoring, biorenewables, and bioprocessing, as well as product/technology development. You'll be prepared for a variety of roles including those with a research focus and those with an emphasis on leadership in both multinational companies and smaller biotechnology enterprises.

Opportunities may also exist in contract research companies and service providers to the environmental and industrial biotechnology sectors, in addition to government and environment protection agencies.

Successful completion of the MSc programme also provides a sound platform for further study in a research setting; graduates will be qualified to continue to PhD studies in the biosciences.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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The Faculty of Engineering and Science offers advanced research training opportunities across a broad range of subject areas, including chemical, pharmaceutical, biomedical, environmental and sports sciences. The research activities within the Department are supported by state of the art analytical and computer facilities.

Upon acceptance to a programme, students normally register initially for an MPhil, and at the end of the first year, the student is examined by viva voce for consideration for transfer to PhD. Upon completion of the Doctoral training, students are ideally equipped to work in an academic or industrial research environment.

Recent research project topics include:

- Solar energy conversion

- Synthesis of biologically active molecules

- Fragment-based drug discovery

- In situ monitoring of chemical reactions

- Treatment of contaminated soils by accelerated carbonation

- Production of novel silicate-based sorbents

- Integrated production of biodiesel from oilseed rape

- Pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases

- Bioremediation and composting technologies

- Expert Cognition and Training

The aims of the programme are:

- To develop, create and interpret new knowledge, through original research or other advanced scholarship, of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend the forefront of the discipline, and merit publication

- To systematically acquire an understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of an academic discipline or area of professional practice

- To demonstrate the ability to conceptualise, design and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or understanding at the forefront of the discipline, and to adjust the project design in the light of unforeseen problems

- To show a detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/res/scires

What you'll study

Research areas may include:

- Materials analysis
- Molecular spectroscopy, Advanced spectral analysis
- Biomaterials
- Formulation chemistry, Biophysical chemistry
- Pharmaceutical science
- Gene therapy
- Biochemistry, Cell biology
- Forensic science
- Environmental geochemistry
- Sports science and human performance
- Applied cognitive science

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Find out more about our fees and the support available to you at our:

- Postgraduate finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/pg)
- International students' finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/international)

Assessment

Students are assessed through their thesis and an oral examination.

Career options

Graduates from this programme can pursue careers in industry, government and academia.

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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How can biological processes and organisms be used in the development of new technologies? Biotechnology enables us to improve practices in diverse fields including genetics, agriculture, bioremediation, immunology, diagnostics, energy production, and age-assisted living.

Our course provides you with knowledge, understanding and hands-on experience in modern biotechnology, and with practical insights into current commercial applications. It creates access to a broad range of career opportunities in this rapidly growing key technology.

You will learn about and appraise the approaches that can be used to address the challenges facing our planet, including:
-The development of biofuels, pharmaceuticals and crops to support and feed the growing human population
-Industrial, plant and medical biotechnology
-Gene and protein technology
-Synthetic biology
-Bioinformatics

The course has a very high proportion of practical work that provides valuable experience for your career, and in addition to this, our optional module Creating and Growing a New Business Venture challenges you to think creatively. This increases your value to organisations, including small enterprises, which are a growing part of the biotechnology sector.

Your research project is a major component of this course, for which you perform novel laboratory and/or bioinformatic research in one of our academic laboratories, or (subject to approval) carry out research in an industrial or hospital setting.

Two-thirds of our research is rated “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” (REF 2014), and you learn from and work alongside our expert staff.

Our expert staff

As one of the largest schools at our University, we offer a lively, friendly and supportive environment with research-led study and high quality teaching. You benefit from our academics’ wide range of expertise and research on important national and international problems using cutting-edge techniques.

The University of Essex has a Women's Network to support female staff and students and was awarded the Athena SWAN Institutional Bronze Award in November 2013 in recognition of its continuing work to support women in STEM.

Specialist facilities

Recent investment has provided modern facilities for functional genomics, computational biology, and imaging biological systems. On our course you have the opportunity to:
-Work in an open and friendly department, with shared staff-student social spaces
-Conduct your research alongside leading academics and PhD students in shared labs
-Learn to use state-of-the-art equipment

Your future

Our graduates are well placed to find employment in the ever-growing bio-based economy, and postgraduate study is often a requirement for becoming a researcher, scientist, academic journal editor and to work in some public bodies or private companies.

Many of our Masters students progress to study for their PhD, and we offer numerous studentships to support our students in their studies.

We work with our university’s Employability and Careers Centre to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Example structure

Postgraduate study is the chance to take your education to the next level. The combination of compulsory and optional modules means our courses help you develop extensive knowledge in your chosen discipline, whilst providing plenty of freedom to pursue your own interests. Our research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field, therefore to ensure your course is as relevant and up-to-date as possible your core module structure may be subject to change.

Biotechnology - MSc
-Research Project: MSc Biotechnology
-Protein Technologies
-Gene Technology and Synthetic Biology
-Genomics
-Professional Skills and the Business of Biotechnology
-Creating and Growing a New Business Venture (optional)
-Industrial Biotechnology: Enzymes, Biochemicals and Biomaterials (optional)
-Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology (optional)
-Plant Biotechnology (optional)
-Rational Drug Design (optional)

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This programme will give you hands-on practical experience of both laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. You will also be trained in biotechnology research strategies. A strong practical foundation is provided in the first semester (Semester A) when you study two modules: 'Cellular Molecular Biology' and 'Core Genetics and Protein Biology'. These modules concentrate on the basic principles and the techniques used in modern molecular biology investigations, and on aspects of cellular molecular biology and development.

The second semester (Semester B) has a problem-based learning approach to the application of the knowledge you gained in Semester A. You will study two modules: 'Industrial Biotechnology' and 'Molecular Biotechnology'. These modules will give you an in depth understanding of the application of molecular biological approaches to the production of industrial and medicinal proteins. You will also learn how to apply and design industrial and environmental biotechnology processes, such as process kinetics and design, reactor design and oxygen transfer, sterilization kinetics and the application of biotechnology processes for the bioremediation of contaminated sites.

In the third semester (Semester C) you undertake a research project to develop your expertise further. The research project falls into different areas and may include aspects of fermentation biotechnology, genetic manipulation and protein engineering, bioinformatics, microbial physiology and environmental biotechnology.

Why choose this course?

-This course gives in-depth knowledge of biotechnology and molecular biology for biosciences or biological chemistry graduates
-It has a strong practical basis giving you training in biotechnology research strategies and hand-on experience of laboratory and bioinformatics techniques
-It equips you for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, as well as a wide range of non-research roles in industry
-Biosciences research facilities cover fermentation biotechnology, high performance liquid chromatography, (HPLC), cell culture, molecular biology and pharmacology
-There are excellent facilities for chemical and biomedical analysis, genetics and cell biology studies and students have access to the latest equipment for chemical synthesis and purification, PCR, qPCR and 2D protein gel analysis systems for use during their final year projects
-The School of Life and Medical Science will move into a brand new science building opening in September 2015 providing us with world class laboratories for our teaching and research. At a cost of £50M the new building provides spacious naturally lit laboratories and social spaces creating an environment that fosters multi-disciplinary learning and research

Careers

On successful completion of the programme you will be well qualified for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, to progress to a research degree or to consider non-research roles in industry such as management, manufacturing and marketing.

Teaching methods

The course consists of five modules including a research project:
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Industrial Biotechnology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Research project

All modules are 100% assessed by coursework which includes in-course tests.

Structure

Core Modules
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Industrial Biotechnology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Project-Mol Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmacology

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Environmental engineering uses science and engineering principles to assess and mitigate pollution for the benefit of human health and the environment. This research programme requires an understanding of biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, socio-economics and legislation to develop solutions for the sustainable provision of clean air, land and water for humankind.

By pursuing research in the School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences you will join an extremely successful research group focussing on environmental civil engineering. Our mission is to foster, promote and conduct research of international quality. This means that we attract high quality graduates and researchers and train them to international standards.

This research programme is ideal if you are enthusiastic about environmental engineering research. Our main research themes in environmental engineering are:
-Engineered biological systems
-Mining and metals in the environment
-Biochemical processes in contaminated water, soils and sediments
-Safe water and sanitation in developing countries

We offer MPhil and PhD supervision in the following research areas:
-Anaerobic digestion
-Manipulation of the fate of micro-pollutants
-Pollutant sequestration
-Bioremediation
-Risk assessment
-Sanitation and low-cost water supplies for developing countries
-Waste stabilisation ponds
-Constructed wetlands
-Minewater treatment
-Carbon neutral initiatives
-Geothermal energy

Our microbiological research has a strong emphasis on understanding and engineering biological processes using ecological theory, underpinned by exploration of molecular techniques, eg fluorescent in situ hybridisation, quantitative PCR, and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis.

Delivery

We have extensive contacts in the UK and overseas to enable research to be carried out in collaboration with industry and government agencies. Research projects are supervised by staff with a wide range of industrial and academic experience. Professor Thomas Curtis and Professor David Graham, both Professors of Environmental Engineering, are a couple of our notable academic staff.

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Our geochemistry research includes specific areas of expertise: applied and fundamental aspects of geochemistry; environmental sustainability; climate change; and biosphere/geosphere interactions. Through working with academics who are leaders in their field, you will be supported and guided to produce research of an international standard.

The School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences enjoys an international reputation for using the latest science to solve problems of global importance. For geochemistry we have MPhil and PhD supervision in the following areas:

Petroleum-related geological research
-Reservoir and source-rock geochemistry
-Microbial deep biosphere of petroleum reservoirs
-Origin, significance and maturation of molecular biomarker compounds in the sedimentary record
-Physico-chemical properties and behaviour of mudstone sequences
-Shale gas
-Geological sequestration of CO2
-Palynofacies and organic facies of ancient and modern sediments

Environment-related research
-Geomicrobiology
-Mineral science
-Molecular microbial ecology
-Molecular palaeontology
-Soil biogeochemistry
-Waste management
-Bioremediation of polluted soils and waters
-Biogeochemical cycling of elements through Earth history
-Climate change during past greenhouse conditions
-Processes of carbon cycling and export across the land–ocean transition

Delivery

We offer the MPhil and PhD on a full time or part time basis. You will work with research-active academics who will provide advice and support throughout your research project. You will receive formal training in research skills and methods and discipline-specific training is provided where appropriate.

The first three months of study involve intensive theoretical and practical tuition to ensure that you have the study skills to plan your project and can use the equipment and software related to your research. You are encouraged to attend our weekly research seminar series and to present your work at our annual postgraduate research conference, group seminars and relevant international conferences.

Facilities

The School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences has an exceptional range of laboratories equipped with a wide range of analytical instrumentation supporting our research, teaching and contract research projects.
-Chemical and Biological Research Laboratories
-Geotechnics and Structures Research Laboratories

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Molecular Biology with Biotechnology (MSc)

This taught MSc course in the School of Biological Sciences provides intensive training in this important area of Biology and is designed both for fresh graduates and for those wishing to develop and extend their expertise in this area. The course has a strong practical emphasis and will provide the advanced theoretical and practical background necessary for employment in the Biotechnology industry, as well as equipping students with the knowledge required to pursue advanced studies in this area.
Course structure

The course consists of a taught component and a Research project. During the taught phase of the degree, you will take modules in Marine Biotechnology, Molecular and Medical Laboratory Techniques, Techniques of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology; Systems Biology; Plant Biotechnology, Environmental Biotechnology and Medical Biotechnology.

Topics covered in these modules will include Agrobacterium Ti plasmid based plant transformation vectors and the development of transgenic crops; the use and interpretation of microarrays and proteome systems; the development of transgenic fish and the diagnosis of fish diseases using molecular markers; bioremediation, biomining and the use of bacteria to degrade novel organic pollutants; stem cell technologies and the diagnosis of genetic disease using single nucleotide polymorphisms. image of students in the labDuring this part of the course, you will also take part in intensive laboratory exercises designed to introduce you to essential techniques in molecular biology and biotechnology including nucleic acid and protein extraction, PCR and QTL analysis, northern, southern and western blotting etc. In addition, most of the taught theory modules will have an associated practical component. The Research project will take place during the summer and will be conducted under the direct supervision of one of the staff involved in teaching the course. Students will be able to choose their Research project from a wide range of topics which will be related to the taught material.

Career options

The 21st century post genomics era offers a wide range of job opportunities in the agricultural, medical, pharmaceutical, aquaculture, forensics and environmental science areas. The rapidly developing economies of China and India in particular have recognised the enormous opportunities offered by Biotechnology. Job openings in sales and marketing with companies who have a science base are also common. Some graduates will also choose to extend their knowledge base by undertaking PhD programmes in relevant areas.

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World-class microbiological research takes place in Newcastle in medical sciences, biological sciences, and civil engineering and geosciences. We welcome MPhil research proposals in all three of these fields. We are well funded and this creates a vibrant and dynamic environment for postgraduate study.

We offer MPhi supervision in:

Medical sciences

The Centre of Bacterial Cell Biology researches fundamental aspects of the cell biology and biochemistry of bacteria, providing scientific insights crucial for the discovery and development of new antibiotics, as well as providing solutions to a huge range of industrial and environmental problems. Other research interests include:
-Chromosome replication and segregation
-Transcription and translation
-Protein structure, function and engineering
-Cell envelope, growth and division
-Synthetic biology, development and gene regulation
-Bacterium-host interactions

Biological sciences

The Applied and Environmental Microbiology Group researches:
-Microbial biology in a range of habitats
-Discovery of natural products, eg antibiotics
-Reduction of food spoilage
-Production of biofuels, bioremediation of polluted environments
-Pathogens and host–pathogen interactions in a range of diseases including those in plants and coral reefs

Civil engineering and geosciences

The multidisciplinary research of Civil Engineering and Geosciences contributes fundamental advances in:
-Microbial ecology
-Environmental microbiology
-Environmental engineering and Earth systems
-Biogeochemistry
-Microbiological aspects of engineered and natural environments
-Anaerobic crude oil degradation in petroleum reservoirs
-Engineered biological treatment systems
-The microbial ecology of climatically significant processes such as methane cycling

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With an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to real-world challenges, this course is designed for graduates looking to prepare themselves for a career in the biotechnology field, as well as for those in relevant employment. You will be able to use our excellent laboratories, such as analytical and fermentation facilities (plus a molecular biology research laboratory), to carry out advanced studies in applied microbiology and related aspects of biotechnology.

You will gain experience of applying up-to-date scientific knowledge in these areas to industrial situations and the analysis of environmental problems. Through a substantial research project, you will develop high-level skills in cutting-edge technologies, strengthen your problem-solving abilities and study a topic of your choice in greater depth. This modular course incorporates methods of sampling, analysis and data handling, investigation management, critical appraisal of literature, and the communication of scientific ideas.

What will you study?

Typical modules may include:
- Fermentation Biotechnology
- Molecular Genetics and Genomics
- Bioremediation
- DNA Data Mining
- Food Production and Deterioration
- Masters Laboratory Techniques
- Microbial Biotechnology
- Research Methods
- Research Project

Career path

Career paths vary from technical to managerial in the areas of general microbiology, environmental science, medical science and biotechnology (including pharmaceuticals). Many students progress to postgraduate research at academic or private sector institutions or embark on science teaching careers.

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This taught Masters prepares students for research and industry-based careers in biotechnology research and development. You will gain research experience and interdisciplinary training in state-of-the-art biomolecular and biochemical techniques. The programme is based in the Department of Biology, which is one of the UK’s top- ranked biological sciences departments for research, teaching and impact. Staff in the Centre for Novel Agriculture Products (CNAP) and Centre for Immunology and Infection (CII) contribute teaching, and research opportunities.

Key features

-Integrated training in modern recombinant DNA, fermentation and bioreactor technology
-Develop the skills to support an research or industry -based career across any area of modern biotechnology.

Taught modules

-Industrial Biotechnology
-Data Analysis and Programming in the Biosciences
-Research, Professional and Team Skills
-Optional modules include: Biocatalysis, Cell and Tissue Engineering, Bioremediation.

Research projects

Independent study module carried out as a placement either within the University or as an external placement. Recent external placement destinations include MicroLab Devices, Leeds; Cancer Research UK, London; Computomics GmbH & Co, Tübingen; and Forsite Diagnostics Ltd, York.

Research and transferable skills

-Appreciate the role of science in industry, eg commerce, IP issues and ethics
-Data analysis, programming and professional skills modules.

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Why take this course?

Biotechnology is a global industry and is the fastest growing research and development sector in the UK. Increasingly, the industry is relying on molecular tools to solve real world problems.

The Master's degree in Biotechnology will equip you with the theoretical and practical knowledge that is so highly sought after by both global and entrepreneurial start-up companies, opening doors to a wide variety of career opportunities. You will have the opportunity to choose from a number of optional units, tailoring your learning to what suits you best.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Work with industry or in an academic environment, choosing subjects that suit your aspirations
Develop your practical skills on the very latest high-tech research equipment
Develop both a practical and a theoretical understanding of the molecular techniques used in the biotechnology sector

What opportunities might it lead to?

This course will prepare you for a role within either research or industry in the biotechnology sector, and more generally, the bioscience sector.

Here are some routes you could pursue:

PhD
research scientist
business associate
sales representative

Module Details

The Biotechnology course is made up of one core unit and a number of other optional units that suit you.

Core unit:

Biotechnology Project
Optional units:

Bioprospecting
Biofilms & Antifouling
Engineering Animals
Bioinformatics & Omics
Business skills for Biotechnology
Microbiology & Bioremediation
Protein Production & Characterisation

Programme Assessment

The course is delivered to enable you to develop both the theoretical and practical aspects of your learning. Teaching is typically in small groups with a mixture of lectures, seminar, workshops and practical work. The course is delivered by a team of expert scientists who are all publishing regularly in international journals.

Assessment will cover all aspects of what is required to be a professional scientist, so will assess via a variety of methods, including:

written exams
practical work
problem solving
presentations
essay
project work

Student Destinations

The course in Biotechnology is designed to equip you to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises as well as global businesses in the area of biotechnology. The course covers the theoretical as well as the practical skills that will set you up for your new career.

Roles our graduates might pursue include:

• research scientist
• PhD student
• business associate
• sales representative

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We invite proposals for MPhil and PhD research projects in our three main research areas of biodiversity and conservation, agri-environment, and microbiology. Our Biology PhD students play a very important role in our active research portfolio.

We supervise MPhil and PhD students whose interests match the expertise in these areas of biology:

Ecology and conservation

Our Ecology and Conservation Research Group works to understand patterns observed in nature - species and habitats. This often includes anthropogenic effects.

We collaborate with a variety of organisations concerned with species and habitat conservation, including statutory responsibility. We work with research partners and conservation practitioners from the UK and across the globe.

Our research covers:

-Genetics

-Conservation

-Human-wildlife interactions

-Ecology

Biological, clinical and environmental systems modelling

The Biological, clinical and environmental systems modelling group focuses on analysing the structure and dynamics of complex biological and clinical systems. We have a specific interest in investigating spatially and temporally heterogeneous processes in biology. We are driven by practical problem solving through the use of modelling.

Applied and Environmental Biology

We conduct research on organisms and processes of commercial and environmental importance. Our experimental approaches include:

-Genomics

-Molecular biology

-Biochemistry

-Physiology

Some examples of the commercial applications we develop include:

-Natural products discovery

-Creation of novel antimicrobials and biopesticides

-Sustainable methods of reducing food spoilage

-Microbes involved in biofuel production

-Uses of microbes in bioremediation of polluted environments

We invite you to propose your own research topic, or you can follow one of the projects suggested on the School of Biology website. If you wish to develop your own research topic, you are recommended to contact a potential supervisor at the School of Biology to develop your ideas, before submitting your formal application via the Applicant Portal.

You will benefit from two supervisors from our research community. You are encouraged to present your research results at our annual Postgraduate conference. You'll also benefit from training in a wide range of transferable skills, such as statistics and web design, through the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE) Graduate School.

Industry

The School of Biology has good contacts with industry and hosts seminars and workshops, some of which are attended by visiting professors from industry. Biology students have the opportunity to participate at national and international conferences and to supplement their income by undertaking undergraduate laboratory demonstrating.

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