Molecular Pathology (MP) is a rapidly growing discipline in 21st century medicine. It integrates genomics and bioinformatics with modern pathology to underpin molecular diagnostics, theranostics as well as clinical trials delivery within the academic, health services and industry sectors in an era of precision medicine.
This MSc Molecular Pathology of Cancer is an exciting, innovative blended learning programme aimed to enhance the participant’s theoretical knowledge and practical skills in MP and to empower them to pursue a career in academia, healthcare or industry. The course has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship; emphasising MP’s central role in molecular diagnostics, clinical trials and biotech/biopharma.
This Masters programme has been developed with a number of options in order to provide maximum flexibility of training. Candidates can take the Certificate/Diploma/MSc in Molecular Pathology of Cancer which will provide a solid foundation for those wishing to study MP at PhD level. The full-time MSc is also available as an intercalated degree for Medical and Dental students. Additionally, the three modules which are offered by Distance Learning are available as a ‘stand-alone’ Certificate in Pathology Informatics and Business Application.
Semester 1
All candidates will undertake traditional ‘face to face’ teaching for the three modules in Semester 1. This will be timetabled teaching. Some of the teaching sessions within the modules also form aspects of formal teaching for other PG programmes, providing the students with the opportunity to interact with other Masters students from different disciplines, which we feel enhances the student experience. Collectively, the modules would be sufficient for a Certificate in Molecular Pathology
(1) Cancer Biology, Immunology and Genomics (15 CATs)
(2) Molecular Pathology – Diagnostics and Technologies (25 CATs)
(3) Translational Research (20 CATs)
Semester 2
Candidates will complete three modules which will be available ‘online’ as distance learning modules. Successful completion of Semester 1 modules plus Semester 2 modules without the research dissertation would be sufficient for a Diploma in Molecular Pathology. Collectively, the modules in Semester 2 without the Semester 1 modules would be sufficient for a Certificate in Pathology Informatics and Business Application.
(1) Digital Molecular Pathology (20 CATs)
(2) Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (20 CATs)
(3) Academia/Industry Interface (20 CATs)
Research component
Students will be able to plan their research project and work on their literature review during semester 1; beginning the practical work for their research project in Semester 2. Research projects will be available across a variety of subjects. Potential project areas for the MSc will include – Molecular Neuropathology; Cancer Immunology; Liquid Biopsies; Digital Pathology; Biobanking; Molecular Diagnostics; Bioinformatics. A number of projects will be put forward from the network of CRUK Accelerator Partners for those students with CRUK Accelerator bursaries who may wish to undertake their research as a placement at one of the partner sites.
The contribution of inflammation and immune dysfunction to a wide range of diseases, from arthritis to cancer to obesity is becoming increasingly clear. The MSc in Immunology and Inflammatory Disease integrates basic, translational and clinical immunology and inflammation biology with cutting edge molecular and cellular techniques to equip students with both a working knowledge of inflammatory disease together with state of the art research approaches used to study the area.
The MSc programme will consist of five taught courses and a project or dissertation, spread over 11-12 months. Three courses are compulsory and two are chosen from a series of options.
The PgDip programme will consist of five taught courses, spread over 7-8 months, with three compulsory courses and two chosen from a series of options.
The PgCert programme consists of one core taught course over 3-4 months.
The course will include registration and attendance at the British Society for Immunology Annual Congress. This will enable
The programme provides an ideal grounding for progression to further research studies in immunology, inflammation and infectious diseases, or for a career in pharmaceutical/bioscience industries. Our graduates have gone on to take up careers/routes in
Immunology is linked to our ability to remain healthy and free of disease - fighting off infections and disease and understanding our genetic factors and risk factors in inheriting disease. You look at behavioural factors and their links to disease to understand protection methods and you go into the detail of bioinformatics and genomics to understand DNA and analyse within practical research when you test for specific issues such as stress, hunger and so on and responses in the body.
The programme is designed for you to develop your academic knowledge of immunology and its relevance to disease with analysis and research skills designed to enhance your career prospects, or continue to PhD. You can use your training within educational establishments to apply training, work in patents, science outreach and public engagement.
Focusing on the relevance of the immune response in the maintenance of health and development of disease, graduates will be able to attain the intellectual and practical skills needed to address both theoretical and technical aspects of modern biomedical research.
In common with the other molecular biosciences Masters courses, the MSc in Immunology & Immunotherapy builds on recent advances in genomics to understand the generation of immunological diversity at a cellular level, how this imparts variability in immune responses at the individual and population level and the relevance of the immune system in disease areas such as autoimmunity, cancer, allergy and microbial infections.
You may also be interested in the Scottish Innovation Centres research and enterprise work with companies in Scotland to find out more about the possibilities in this area of health science and spin-out research going on from Aberdeen and other universities:
Semester 1
Semester 2
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
Find out about fees:
*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page
Find out more about:
Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs
Designed in close collaboration with an international team of clinicians and research specialists, this focused MSc provides an understanding of the causes and treatment of cancer from 'bench-to-bedside'. You study both theory and practice to gain the specialist knowledge and skills required to pursue an academic career in cancer research or move into the more applied fields of cancer treatment, hospital pathology or industry.
The University has an international reputation for medical research and places a strong emphasis on cancer. This MSc is taught by a team of cancer research-focused staff from the School with internal and external expert guest lectures and seminars. We enjoy close collaborative links with NHS clinicians, clinical researchers and oncology staff who also deliver aspects of the programme.
Students are immersed in an excellent research environment and infrastructure, specifically the recently completed £6 million, state-of-the-art, cancer research facility housed in the Allam Building. The University has invested in preclinical optical and radiological imaging and radiotherapy research. Students engage in research in cutting edge facilities employing these and other technologies used for the early diagnosis and treatment of cancer, both on campus and within the Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital.
This MSc is delivered by leading academic cancer scientists, research specialists, consultant clinical and medical oncologists, diagnosticians, radiologists, nurses and cancer surgeons, through a combination of lectures, expert seminars, state-of-the-art oncology-based practicals and projects supported by 'problem classes', workshops and tutorials.
Laboratory-based work is an important part of the programme, which includes an extended 12-week oncology research project carried out in the laboratory of an internationally-recognised cancer researcher. This MSc programme is designed to provide a highly supportive environment, in which teamwork, project management and communication skills are as important as technical proficiency.
Core modules:
Optional modules:
Students are provided with in-depth specialist knowledge and insight into the fundamentals of Translational Oncology, alongside research-led teaching into the practical applications of cancer research. There is a strong emphasis on scientific method and associated skills.
* All modules are subject to availability.
Graduates of the MSc will be highly attractive candidates for competitive PhD programmes with a basis in oncology.
The programme provides a platform for developing transferable skills that are appropriate for employment within industry, basic science laboratories, clinical laboratories, and education and research.
You also learn transferable skills, highly valued by employers in many fields, including team work, critical analysis, IT skills, time management, presentation skills, problem solving, project management and discipline.
Translational Cancer Medicine enables you to gain detailed knowledge and understanding of research methods applied to rational drug design, clinical study design, molecular and cell biology, tumour immunology, genetics and cancer imaging. You'll gain practical experience through two six-month laboratory rotations.
The Translational Cancer Medicine MRes study pathway offers unique opportunities for you to join experienced research teams and work on particular projects from the outset. This course will allow you to develop an in-depth understanding of research methods, and of how theoretical academic studies and skills relate to research projects.
You will explore Fundamentals of Translational Cancer Medicine, providing you with advanced knowledge and skills to conceptualise, design, conduct and critically appraise specialist research. You will gain hands on research experience in two six month lab projects.
Teaching
We use lectures, seminars and group meetings to deliver most of the modules on the course.
On average teaching consists of:
You will also be expected to undertake a significant amount of independent study.
Typically, 1 credit equates to ten hours of work.
Throughout the year, you will also attend literature reviews and journal clubs that the labs/departments organise, as well as any other internal or external seminars deemed relevant to your projects/assignments.
Assessment
The primary method of assessment for this course is a combination of written essays, a thesis (research report), a presentation/Q&A session regarding the research report and a draft of a scientific paper.
The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they are subject to change.
Occupational health clearance will be required for some of the projects.
Future PhD studies. Clinical and non-clinical academic careers in cancer medicine.
This is a full-time 1 year MSc programme suitable for biomedical or life scientists who wish to acquire an extensive knowledge and key skills relating to the fundamental molecular and cellular regulation of immunity and its application to the treatment of disease. The programme will be delivered by world leaders at the forefront of immunology and immunotherapy research, each with an internationally renowned research group.
Over the past few years significant advances have been made in our understanding of the molecular and cellular control of immune responses. These discoveries are now being translated into the design and testing of immunotherapeutic interventions for a range of diseases including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory disease. This programme is for biomedical or life scientists who wish to extend their knowledge and skills in both immunology and its translation to immunotherapy.
A series of interlinked taught modules cover molecular mechanisms in immune cell differentiation and function, autoimmunity, transplant and tumour immunology, and inflammation. This is complemented by comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in immunotherapy including the use of microbial products in immunomodulation and vaccination, small molecules and biologics, as well as cellular immunotherapy.
The programme aims to allow you to understand the research process, from the fundamental discoveries at the forefront of immunological research, to the application of novel interventional immune-based therapies.
A key part of the MSc programme is the planning, execution and reporting of a piece of independent study leading to submission of a dissertation. This study will be in the form of an extensive laboratory research project carried out in internationally renowned research groups. Each student will be a fully-integrated member of one of the large number of research teams in a wide variety of topics across both immunology and immunotherapy. We also plan to offer some projects within external biotechnology companies.
As a Birmingham student, you will be joining the academic elite and will have the privilege of learning from world-leading experts, as well as your peers. From the outset you will be encouraged to become an independent and self-motivated learner. We want you to be challenged and will encourage you to think for yourself.
This programme is delivered via teaching from Monday to Friday approximately 9am-5.00pm, with only a few hours of direct face-to-face contact each day to allow time for independent learning. During the first part of the research project you will have a single day of taught element modules, with the remaining days carrying out their research. Once the taught modules have been completed the project will be full-time.
You will have access to a comprehensive support system that will assist and encourage you, including personal tutors and welfare tutors who can help with both academic and welfare issues.
Students who complete this MSc programme will have an in-depth up-to-date knowledge of this rapidly advancing field and will have developed the key skills required to either pursue a PhD in these areas or significantly improve their employability for the biomedical, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industrial sectors.
Careers Support for Postgraduate Students
Careers Network – We can help you get ahead in the job market and develop your career
We recognise that as a postgraduate student you are likely to have specific requirements when it comes to planning for your next career step. Employers expect postgraduates to have a range of skills that exceed their subject knowledge. Careers Network offers a range of events and support services that are designed for all students, including postgraduates looking to find their niche in the job market. The Careers Network also have subject specific careers consultants and advisers for each College so you can be assured the information you receive will be relevant to your subject area. For more information visit the Careers Network website.
We invite postgraduate research proposals in a number of disease areas that impact significantly on patient care. We focus on exploring the mechanisms of disease, understanding the ways disease impacts patients’ lives, utilising new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques and developing new treatments.
As a student you will be registered with a University research institute, for many this is the Institute for Cellular Medicine (ICM). You will be supported in your studies through a structured programme of supervision and training via our Faculty of Medical Sciences Graduate School.
We undertake the following areas of research and offer MPhil, PhD and MD supervision in:
Newcastle hosts one of the most comprehensive organ transplant programmes in the world. This clinical expertise has developed in parallel with the applied immunobiology and transplantation research group. We are investigating aspects of the immunology of autoimmune diseases and cancer therapy, in addition to transplant rejection. We have themes to understand the interplay of the inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses by a variety of pathways, and how these can be manipulated for therapeutic purposes. Further research theme focusses on primary immunodeficiency diseases.
There is strong emphasis on the integration of clinical investigation with basic science. Our research include:
We also research the effects of UVR on the skin including mitochondrial DNA damage as a UV biomarker.
This area emphasises on translational research, linking clinical- and laboratory-based science. Key research include:
Focus is on applied research and aims to underpin future clinical applications. Technology-oriented and demand-driven research is conducted which relates directly to health priority areas such as:
This research is sustained through extensive internal and external collaborations with leading UK and European academic and industrial groups, and has the ultimate goal of deploying next-generation diagnostic and therapeutic systems in the hospital and health-care environment.
There is a number of research programmes into the genetics, immunology and physiology of kidney disease and kidney transplantation. We maintain close links between basic scientists and clinicians with many translational programmes of work, from the laboratory to first-in-man and phase III clinical trials. Specific areas:
We have particular interests in:
Novel non-invasive methodologies using magnetic resonance are developed and applied to clinical research. Our research falls into two categories:
Our studies cover a broad range of topics (including diabetes, dementia, neuroscience, hepatology, cardiovascular, neuromuscular disease, metabolism, and respiratory research projects), but have a common theme of MR technical development and its application to clinical research.
We focus on connective tissue diseases in three, overlapping research programmes. These programmes aim to understand:
This research theme links with other local, national and international centres of excellence and has close integration of basic and clinical researchers and hosts the only immunotherapy centre in the UK.
Genetic approaches to the individualisation of drug therapy, including anticoagulants and anti-cancer drugs, and in the genetics of diverse non-Mendelian diseases, from diabetes to periodontal disease, are a focus. A wide range of knowledge and experience in both genetics and clinical sciences is utilised, with access to high-throughput genotyping platforms.
Our scientists and clinicians use in situ cellular technologies and large-scale gene expression profiling to study the normal and pathophysiological remodelling of vascular and uteroplacental tissues. Novel approaches to cellular interactions have been developed using a unique human tissue resource. Our research themes include:
We also have preclinical molecular biology projects in breast cancer research.
We conduct a broad range of research activities into acute and chronic lung diseases. As well as scientific studies into disease mechanisms, there is particular interest in translational medicine approaches to lung disease, studying human lung tissue and cells to explore potential for new treatments. Our current areas of research include:
Our research projects are concerned with the harmful effects of chemicals, including prescribed drugs, and finding ways to prevent and minimise these effects. We are attempting to measure the effects of fairly small amounts of chemicals, to provide ways of giving early warning of the start of harmful effects. We also study the adverse side-effects of medicines, including how conditions such as liver disease and heart disease can develop in people taking medicines for completely different medical conditions. Our current interests include: environmental chemicals and organophosphate pesticides, warfarin, psychiatric drugs and anti-cancer drugs.
Our new School of Pharmacy has scientists and clinicians working together on all aspects of pharmaceutical sciences and clinical pharmacy.
The need to develop new strategies to combat diseases remains a major global challenge. This degree aims to enhance your employability and prepare you to tackle this challenge.
We’ll give you advanced training in the mechanisms underpinning a spectrum of infectious and non-infectious diseases, including viral, bacterial and parasitic infections, cancer, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease and chromosomal abnormalities. You’ll also explore current and emerging diagnostic and treatment strategies.
You’ll learn about the latest molecular, genetic and cellular approaches being used to understand, diagnose and treat human disease, including traditional methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and novel methods involving genome and proteome analysis.
You’ll also have the opportunity to investigate the role of the immune system in the response to infection and disease, covering topics such as innate and adaptive immunity, allergy and immune evasion.
If you choose to study at Leeds, you’ll join a faculty ranked 6th in the UK for its research impact in the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014), and you’ll graduate with the solid base of scientific knowledge and specialist skills highly valued by employers.
On this course you’ll gain an overview of a range of modern techniques and methodologies that underpin contemporary biomolecular sciences. You’ll investigate five topic areas: molecular biology, structural biology, cell imaging and flow cytometry, high throughput techniques and transgenic organisms.
You’ll also apply your knowledge to an extended practical investigation in the form of a laboratory-based project, involving practical training in a range of modern molecular biology and protein engineering techniques such as gene cloning, PCR, mutagenesis, protein expression, protein purification and analysis.
To help you to develop and specialise, you’ll get substantial subject-specific training through an independent research project in an area of infection, immunity or human disease.
You’ll also take specialist taught modules covering topics such as infectious and non-infectious disease, advanced immunology, medical diagnostics and treatment of infectious diseases and cancer.
If you have previous experience of immunology, you could opt to investigate the structure, regulation and development of the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, or explore aspects of human toxicology. These could include the actions of toxicants on the cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems, kidneys, liver and lungs, genetic toxicology and chemical carcinogenesis, and the effects of chemicals on fetal development.
In the final part of the course you'll work on an independent laboratory-based research project related to your course options. You’ll receive extensive training in experimental design, the practical use of advanced techniques and technologies, data analysis and interpretation, and will be assigned a research project supervisor who will support and guide you through your project.
These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.
Compulsory modules
You’ll have access to the very best learning resources and academic support during your studies. We’ve been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2017), demonstrating our commitment to delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
Your learning will be heavily influenced by the University’s world-class research as well as our strong links with highly qualified professionals from industry, non-governmental organisations and charities.
You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including formal lectures, interactive workshops, problem-solving, practical classes and demonstrations.
Through your research project and specialist modules, you’ll receive substantial subject-specific training. Our teaching and assessment methods are designed to develop you into a scientist who is able to think independently, solve problems, communicate effectively and demonstrate a high level of practical ability.
We use a variety of assessment methods: multiple-choice testing, practical work, data handling and problem solving exercises, group work, discussion groups (face-to-face and online), computer-based simulation, essays, posters and oral presentations.
The strong research element of the Infection, Immunity and Human Disease MSc, along with the specialist and generic skills you develop, mean you’ll graduate equipped for a wide range of careers.
Our graduates work in a diverse range of areas, ranging from bioscience-related research through to scientific publication, teacher training, health and safety and pharmaceutical market research.
Links with industry
We have a proactive Industrial Advisory Board who advise us on what they look for in graduates and on employability-related skills within our programmes.
We collaborate with a wide range of organisations in the public and commercial sectors. Many of these are represented on our Industrial Advisory Board. They include:
Industrial research placements
Some of our partners offer MSc research projects in their organisations, allowing students to develop their commercial awareness and build their network of contacts.
Professional and career development
We take personal and career development very seriously. We have a proactive Industrial Advisory Board who advises us on what they look for in graduates and on employability related skills within our courses.
Our dedicated Employability and Professional Development Officer ensures that you are aware of events and opportunities to increase your employability. In addition, our Masters Career Development Programme will support you to:
We need well-trained and creative minds to help us solve public health problems of the future. Do you see yourself tackling the increasing incidences of allergies and autoimmune disease, working on emerging infections such as Ebola and MRSA? Would you spend your time on developing personalised medicine to treat cancer or chronic inflammatory diseases? Join our programme!
This Master’s programme gives you the knowledge and research expertise needed to solve the public health problems of the future. Emerging infectious are a threat to human and animal well-being and an increasing number of allergies and chronic inflammatory diseases have a major impact on individuals and society as a whole. Knowledge of the immune system provides us with potential health care solutions for cancer, transplantation and downregulation of a hyperactive immune system as for example in rheumatoid arthritis. By training students in the field of Infection and Immunity, this programme contributes to accumulation of knowledge that is directly or indirectly leading to faster diagnosis of diseases and better treatment options.
This Master’s programme will give you a firm foundation in the field of infection and immunity and covers a variety of topics such as fundamental and clinical immunology, vaccines, immunotherapy, mechanisms of infectious diseases, molecular epidemiology of infections, virulence factors of microorganisms, and resistance to treatment.
Infection, immunity, and the role of microflora in human and animal welfare is one of Utrecht University’s core research areas and the Graduate School of Life Sciences is home to a large number of world-leading research groups working in this field. Utrecht’s life science campus comprises over 50 Infection and Immunity groups in the field of human and animal health covering the whole range from molecular biology to population level. This two-year research Master's offers an unique combination of studying Immunology and infectious diseases in one comprehensive Master’s programme including extensive training in laboratory research skills. As a student you will have the opportunity to carry out two hands-on research projects at renowned research groups.
Infection and Immunity has intensive collaboration with international research institutes, allowing students to do their minor internship abroad at prestigious partner universities all around the world.
Read more on why in Utrecht
As a Master’s student of Infection and Immunity, you will take theory courses and seminars, as well as master classes led by specialists in the field. You will study molecular, cellular, and clinical aspects of pathogens and immune responses. During your six to nine month internships you work in a lively research environment during which you will gain hands-on experience of biomedical research in Infection and Immunity. We believe that understanding both pathogens and host reactions provides deeper insight into the mechanisms of illness, so you will complete internships in both infection and immunity.
The annual scientific symposium is a particular highlight. This symposium is organised by Master’s students and features talks by international experts and poster presentations by second year Master’s Infection and Immunity students on their own areas of research.
Read more on our study programme
If you have a background in biomedical science, biology, medicine and life sciences, this course allows you to develop your knowledge in selected areas of biomedical science.
You gain advanced knowledge and understanding of the scientific basis of disease, with focus on the underlying cellular processes that lead to disease. You also learn about the current methods used in disease diagnosis and develop practical skills in our well-equipped teaching laboratories.
As well as studying the fundamentals of pathology, you can choose one specialist subject from • cellular pathology • microbiology and immunology • blood sciences. Your work focuses on the in vitro diagnosis of disease. You develop the professional skills needed to further your career. These skills include • research methods and statistics • problem solving • the role of professional bodies and accreditation • regulation and communication.
This course is taught by active researchers in the biomedical sciences who have on-going programmes of research in the Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre together with experts from hospital pathology laboratories.
Most of your practical work is carried out in our teaching laboratories which contain industry standard equipment for cell culture, quantitative nucleic acid and protein analysis and a sophisticated suite of analytical equipment such as HPLC and gas chromatography.
Many of our research facilities including flow cytometry, confocal microscopy and mass spectrometry are also used in taught modules and projects and our tutors are experts in these techniques.
The teaching on the course is split between formal lectures and tutorials, and laboratory-based work. A third of the course is a laboratory-based research project, where full-time students are assigned to a tutor who is an active research in the biomedical research centre. Part-time students carry out their research project within the workplace under the guidance of a workplace and university supervisor.
Three core modules each have two full-day laboratory sessions and the optional module applied biomedical techniques is almost entirely lab-based. Typically taught modules have a mixture of lectures and tutorials. The research methods and statistics modules are tutorial-led with considerable input from the course leader who acts as personal tutor.
The course content is underpinned by relevant high quality research. Our teaching staff regularly publish research articles in international peer-reviewed journals and are actively engaged in research into • cancer • musculoskeletal diseases • human reproduction • neurological disease • hospital acquired infection • immunological basis of disease.
Professional recognition
This course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) who commended us on
The masters (MSc) award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits.
The postgraduate certificate (PgCert) is achieved by successfully completing 60 credits.
The postgraduate diploma (PgDip) is achieved by successfully completing 120 credits.
Core modules
Optional modules
Assessment methods include written examinations and coursework such as
Research project assessment includes a written report, presentation and portfolio.
This course enables you to start to develop your career in various applications of biomedical science including pathology, government funded research labs or the life sciences industry. It is also for scientists working in hospital or bioscience-related laboratories particularly as biomedical scientists who want to expand their knowledge and expertise in this area.
