Masters Degrees (Disease)

The Genetics of Human Disease MSc aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of molecular genetics, quantitative and statistical genetics and human disease and how this can be applied to improve healthcare through the development and application of diagnostic tests and therapeutic agents.

Degree Information

The programme provides a thorough grounding in modern approaches to the understanding of the genetics of disease alongside the cutting-edge research methods and techniques used to advance our understanding of development of disease. Core modules provide a broad coverage of the genetics of disease, research skills and social aspects, whilst specialised streams in Inherited Diseases, Pharmacogenetics and Computational Genomics, in which students can qualify, and the research project allow more in-depth analysis in areas of genetics.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits) and two specialist modules (30 credits) and a research project culminating in a dissertation (90 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma consisting of six modules (four core modules in term one and two modules within the selected stream in term two) is offered, full-time nine months.

A Postgraduate Certificate consisting of four core modules in term one (60 credits) is offered, full-time three months.

Core Modules
- Advanced Human Genetics: Research Principles
- Human Genetics in Context
- Core Skills
- Basic Statistics for Medical Sciences

Specialist modules
In term two you will take specialist modules depending on the specialist stream you select: Inherited Disease (A); Pharmacogenetics (B); Computational Genomics (C).
- Applications in Human Genetics (A)
- Either Genetics of Cardiovascular Disease or Genetics of Neurological Disease (A)
- Clinical Applications of Pharmacogenetic Tests (B)
- Anti-Cancer Personalised Medicine or Pharmacogenomics, Adverse Drug Reactions and Biomarkers (B)
- Applications in Human Genetics (C)
- Statistics for Interpreting Genetic Data (C)

Dissertation/report
Students undertake an original research project investigating topical questions in genetics and genetics of human disease which culminates in a dissertation of 12,000 to 14,000 words and an oral presentation.

Teaching and learning
Students develop their knowledge and understanding of genetics of human diseases through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, presentations and journal clubs. Taught modules are assessed by unseen written examination and/or, written reports, oral presentations and coursework. The research project is assessed by the dissertation and oral presentation.

Careers

Advanced training in genetic techniques including bioinformatic and statistical approaches positions graduates well for PhD studentships in laboratories using genetic techniques to examine diseases such as heart disease, cancer and neurological disorders. Another large group will seek research jobs in the pharmaceutical industry, or jobs related to genetics in healthcare organisations.

Employability
The MSc in Genetics of Human Disease facilitates acquisition of knowledge and skills relevant to a career in research in many different biomedical disciplines. About half of our graduates enter a research career by undertaking and completing PhDs and working as research associates/scientists in academia. Some of our graduates go on to jobs in the pharmaceutical industry, while others enter careers with clinical genetic diagnosis services, particularly in molecular genetics, in healthcare organisations and hospitals around the world. Those graduates with a prior medical training often utilise their new skills as clinical geneticists.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL is in a unique position to offer both the basic science and application of modern genetics to improve human health. The programme is a cross-faculty initiative with teaching from across the School of Life and Medical Sciences (SLMS) at UCL.

Students will be based at the UCL Genetics Institute (UGI), a world-leading centre which develops and applies biostatistical and bioinformatic approaches to human and population genetics. Opportunities to conduct laboratory or computational-based research projects are available in the laboratories of world-leading geneticists affiliated to the UGI.

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Understanding the molecular basis of disease

Aspiring to contribute to the development of new therapies for metabolic, infectious and immunological diseases or cancer? Radboud University's internationally acclaimed Research Master's programme in Molecular Mechanisms of Disease provides an excellent foundation for a career in academic or commercial research.

Only by dissecting the molecular mechanisms that trigger and advance diseases and dysfunctions can we design effective treatments and medicines. The Research Master's in Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (MMD) offers you an intensive two-year programme that provides you with in-depth knowledge and research experience of disease-related molecular mechanisms. In addition, you will acquire skills such as academic writing and presentation skills and learn how to successfully apply for grants and market yourself.

Passion for molecular biomedical research

As an MMD student you will be part of the unique research community that is found within the Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS). Like you, RIMLS researchers have a strong passion for research. They will assist you throughout the programme with guidance and expertise, supporting you in acquiring knowledge and developing excellent research skills. The RIMLS is one of the research institutes of the Radboud university medical center, so their research is closely linked to the clinic and thus aimed at translating results into treatments for patients. Examples include the translation of insights into the biology of antigen-presenting cells into new immunological cancer therapies and understanding the mutations underlying blindness into the development of gene therapies for patients with inherited blindness.

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/mmd

Why study Molecular Mechanisms of Disease at Radboud University?

- You will follow a broad biomedical programme that allows you to specialise in your specific field-of-interest.
- You will have intense daily contact with established researchers.
- You will participate in group-oriented education and be part of a small group of highly motivated national and international students.
- A personal mentor will help you to reflect on your study programme and career perspective.
- You will do two 6-months research internships one of which will be abroad.
- There is a 92% pass rate of MMD students within the two years.
- International MMD students can apply for scholarships from the Radboudumc Study Fund.

Career prospects

There is considerable demand for experts in the molecular biomedical sciences as well as in their application to the development of treatments for diseases such as cancer, autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, and metabolic diseases.

Graduates in MMD are equipped with cutting-edge knowledge of multidisciplinary research in the mechanisms of disease and in state-of-the-art diagnostic methods and technologies. During the programme, you will develop a highly critical, independent approach to problem-solving. You will also acquire the basic management skills needed to lead R&D projects in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Most of our graduates will enter an international PhD programme to continue with research in academia or industry.

PhD opportunities

The MSc Molecular Mechanisms of Disease aims to provide all skills and knowledge necessary to rapidly enter an international PhD programme. In the Netherlands and many places in Europe, it is impossible to start a PhD programme directly after obtaining a Bachelor's degree. This research Master’s programme seriously increases your chances for obtaining an excellent PhD training position by giving you a mature perspective and a broad range of experimental approaches. In fact, over 90% of our graduates has started a (funded) PhD project.

The Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS) recruits about fifty PhD students a year. MMD graduates are excellent candidates for these positions. Furthermore, the Radboud university medical centre offers the opportunity for its research-oriented Master's students to write their own research project. The best candidates are awarded a fully funded four-year PhD studentship at the department of their choice.

Our approach to this field

The molecular regulation of cellular processes is crucial for human development, and maintenance of health throughout life. It's evident that cellular malfunction is the cause of common multi-factorial diseases such as diabetes, immune and inflammatory disorders, renal disease, cardiovascular, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases as well as obesity and cancer.

The Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS) Graduate School plays a key role in developing new therapies for the fight against such diseases. RIMLS aims to improve diagnostics and develop new treatments by generating basic knowledge in the molecular biomedical life sciences and translating it into clinical application and experimental research in patients.

The RIMLS – which is part of Radboud university medical center – offers an exclusive Master's programme in Molecular Mechanisms of Disease. Top researchers and clinicians teach the programme.

Key themes

The MMD programme is organised along three major educational themes which reflect the main research areas present in the RIMLS and which each include both a fundamental and a disease-related aspect:
- Theme 1 Infection, Immunity and Regenerative Medicine / Immunity-related Disorders and Immunotherapy
- Theme 2 Metabolism, Transport and Motion / Metabolic Disorders
- Theme 3 Cell Growth and Differentiation / Developmental Disorders and Malignancies

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/mmd

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The burden of chronic disease in our society is growing, and innovative methods and highly trained individuals are needed to successfully tackle the problem from all sides. This vocational degree provides students with the opportunity to enhance their skills, knowledge and understanding of facilitating, managing and supporting behaviour change at individual, group and population levels.

There is a need, in a range of public health settings, such as clinical, healthcare, social care or public health departments for highly skilled, autonomous and analytical employees specialising in the prevention, assessment and management of chronic diseases.

The MSc in Chronic Disease Management at St Mary’s University is rooted in developing your skills at promoting and supporting behaviour change, expanding your research expertise, equipping you to obtain a Public Health Skills and Knowledge Framework Passport, and enhancing your ability to tackle chronic disease in individuals and through public bodies. This course is ideal for those looking to progress their career within their current organisation, or provide the vital skills and experience necessary to embark on a career working with individuals and groups to tackle chronic disease.

Why St Mary's?

The structure of the course embeds a work placement into the programme, allowing students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience as they progress through their studies. This enables students to observe and work within a professional environment working in high level sport or clinical settings providing an insight into the demands of helping people to make lifestyle improvements in roles they may wish to fulfil upon graduating.

The degree is underpinned by a detailed understanding of theoretical and practical approaches to behaviour change, a detailed appreciation of public health frameworks, and lifestyle management including nutrition and physical activity to manage and prevent chronic disease. St Mary’s University maintains fantastic links with local health, educational, social care and charity organisations through the Centre for Work-Based Learning and the University’s own Health and Wellbeing Centre. This course operates a blended learning approach that is suitable for those completing the course alongside existing work commitments and also those who wish to focus solely on their study. We use cutting edge technology to ensure tutor and peer support is maximised on campus and through distance learning.

Course Content

The course has three possible exit points. Successfully completing 60 credits worth of modules gains the Postgraduate Certificate. Successfully completing 120 credits, gains the Postgraduate Diploma and the full Masters is awarded on successful completion of 180 credits, comprising six taught modules plus a 13,000 word dissertation of the requisite quality. Module details are below:
-Public Health and Prevention of Chronic Disease (Optional)
-Behaviour Change for Lifestyle Management (Core)
-Nutrition and Chronic Disease Management (Optional)
-Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Management (Optional )
-Work-based Learning and Professional Issues in Healthcare (Core)
-Research Methods (Core)
-Self-care, Mindfulness and Patient Empowerment (Optional)
-Research Dissertation (Core)

The teaching will be delivered using a combination of a few intensive week-long blocks spread throughout the year and blended learning involving bi-monthly on-site teaching and on-line seminars and discussion. There will be a time-commitment for 8 mid-week sessions per semester and 4 of these will require on-site attendance. Students will participate in regular on-line discussion throughout the course. An additional 15 day commitment is required for completion of the embedded work placement. A number of different work formats are available for the work placement and students working in relevant areas may be able to complete this in their current workplace. Assessment is by on-line discussion, essays, case studies, reflective accounts, presentations, practical assessment, evaluative report and research dissertation.

Career Prospects

Integral to all parts of the course is the development of skills and competencies in areas highlighted as a priority by Public Health England. This will include preventative approaches and tackling emerging conditions early, engaging hard to reach groups in the prevention and management of chronic disease, including males, ethnic minorities, pregnant women, the elderly and those from low socio-economic groups. They will be informed by the competencies put forward in the Public Health Skills and Knowledge Framework at Level 7. The course will include a work-based learning component whereby students are involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation of a particular project and this will place graduates in a favourable position to climb the career ladder in organisations with a chronic disease focus.

Please note: This programme will not be running in September 2017.

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Veterinary epidemiology is a key component in a number of the global grand challenges relating to disease control, food security and climate change. Consequently, there is a need to improve our ability to understand, predict and respond to patterns and dynamics of disease and to control outbreaks.

The R(D)SVS and SRUC partnership creates the greatest concentration of research power in veterinary and agricultural sciences in the UK. The MSc draws on this wealth of experience and research activity to provide scientific knowledge of the fundamental biological processes (e.g. behaviour, physiology, immunology, ecology) and environmental and farming management practices (e.g. husbandry, nutrition, livestock trade) driving disease transmission, persistence, prevalence and spread in livestock production systems. This enables in-depth understanding of complex environmental patterns of disease, which facilitates prediction of disease risk and control. This multidisciplinary systems approach will provide you with the skills to make significant contributions to tackling food security, climate change and disease control in your role as an animal health professional.

By the end of the programme you will not only have a detailed understanding of the biology driving disease persistence and prevalence, but also how the biology scales up from individuals to populations. You will understand how this interacts with agricultural management practices to determine the efficacy of disease control strategies and livestock production (i.e. interdisciplinary systems thinking and communication). Furthermore, the systems approach offers a way to frame disease challenges and problem solve disease risk at a range of scales (e.g. from veterinarians tackling specific outbreaks to the consequences of climate change on disease risk). To this end the programme provides training in methodological skills for the design, implementation, analysis, interpretation and communication of epidemiological studies, disease surveillance and disease control in animal populations and wider host communities.

Courses are delivered by active researchers presenting their own research, which is placed into context with global grand challenges. As such, you will be exposed to and taught skills appropriate for developing a research career.

Online learning

The programme will use the University’s award winning online learning environments, which includes video podcasts, web-based discussion forums and expert tuition.

Programme structure

The programme is delivered part-time by online learning over period of 3-6 years.

You may undertake the programme by intermittent study (flexible progression route), accruing credits within a time limit of:

• 1 years for the Certificate (maximum period 2 years)
• 2 years for the Diploma (maximum period 4 years)
• 3 years for the MSc (maximum period of 6 years including a maximum period of 12 months from the start of your written reflective element to it being completed)

The programme is modular in structure, offering a flexible student-centred approach to the choice of courses studied; other than the three core courses required for the certificate, students may choose to study individual courses, to complete a sufficient number of credits to be awarded the:

• Certificate (60 credits)
• Diploma (120 credits)
• MSc (180 credits)

Postgraduate Professional Development

Postgraduate Professional Development (PPD) is aimed at working professionals who want to advance their knowledge through a postgraduate-level course(s), without the time or financial commitment of a full Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.

You may take a maximum of 50 credits worth of courses over two years through our PPD scheme. These lead to a University of Edinburgh postgraduate award of academic credit. Alternatively, after one year of taking courses you can choose to transfer your credits and continue on to studying towards a higher award on a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme. Although PPD courses have various start dates throughout a year you may only start a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme in the month of September. Any time spent studying PPD will be deducted from the amount of time you will have left to complete a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme.

• More information on PPD

Learning outcomes

• Acquire knowledge about disease systems in livestock production environments and the interactions between the biological and livestock management processes driving disease dynamics.
• Acquire specific skills to link individual farm environments and management practices to disease risk and production efficiency at farm and national scales.
• Be able to interpret, be critical of and communicate scientific results and information in research.

Career opportunities

The courses and programme as a whole will provide:

• general postgraduate training (e.g. for people in education, government, policy-making, agricultural and veterinary organisations) to enable promotion, further employment opportunities or personal fulfilment
• general postgraduate training for people considering a career in research (e.g. a precursor to a PhD)
• topic-specific postgraduate training (e.g. for veterinarians for continuing professional development) to enable promotion, further employment opportunities or personal fulfilment

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The World Health Organisation Global Burden of Disease Study has shown that non-communicable chronic disease accounts for ~ 60% of deaths globally. Major contributors include cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic kidney disease. Inflammation is the central driving force in much of this burden of chronic degenerative disease. This MSc course is therefore designed to integrate current cutting-edge research in the fields of molecular and cellular biology and immunology and use this to demonstrate:

- The fundamental processes of inflammation
- The molecular and cellular mechanisms of disease progression that are driven by inflammation

The course is carefully integrated and combines up-to-date practical and theoretical teaching methods to prepare students for careers in postgraduate biomedical research, medicine, and the bio-pharmaceutical industry.

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The Institute of Genetic Medicine brings together a strong team with an interest in clinical and developmental genetics. Our research focuses on the causes of genetic disease at the molecular and cellular level and its treatment. Research areas include: genetic medicine, developmental genetics, neuromuscular and neurological genetics, mitochondrial genetics and cardiovascular genetics.

As a research postgraduate in the Institute of Genetic Medicine you will be a member of our thriving research community. The Institute is located in Newcastle’s Life Science Centre. You will work alongside a number of research, clinical and educational organisations, including the Northern Genetics Service.

We offer supervision for MPhil in the following research areas:

Cancer genetics and genome instability

Our research includes:
-A major clinical trial for chemoprevention of colon cancer
-Genetic analyses of neuroblastoma susceptibility
-Research into Wilms Tumour (a childhood kidney cancer)
-Studies on cell cycle regulation and genome instability

Cardiovascular genetics and development

We use techniques of high-throughput genetic analyses to identify mechanisms where genetic variability between individuals contributes to the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. We also use mouse, zebrafish and stem cell models to understand the ways in which particular gene families' genetic and environmental factors are involved in the normal and abnormal development of the heart and blood vessels.

Complex disease and quantitative genetics

We work on large-scale studies into the genetic basis of common diseases with complex genetic causes, for example autoimmune disease, complex cardiovascular traits and renal disorders. We are also developing novel statistical methods and tools for analysing this genetic data.

Developmental genetics

We study genes known (or suspected to be) involved in malformations found in newborn babies. These include genes involved in normal and abnormal development of the face, brain, heart, muscle and kidney system. Our research includes the use of knockout mice and zebrafish as laboratory models.

Gene expression and regulation in normal development and disease

We research how gene expression is controlled during development and misregulated in diseases, including the roles of transcription factors, RNA binding proteins and the signalling pathways that control these. We conduct studies of early human brain development, including gene expression analysis, primary cell culture models, and 3D visualisation and modelling.

Genetics of neurological disorders

Our research includes:
-The identification of genes that in isolation can cause neurological disorders
-Molecular mechanisms and treatment of neurometabolic disease
-Complex genetics of common neurological disorders including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease
-The genetics of epilepsy

Kidney genetics and development

Kidney research focuses on:
-Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS)
-Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR)
-Cystic renal disease
-Nephrolithiasis to study renal genetics

The discovery that aHUS is a disease of complement dysregulation has led to a specific interest in complement genetics.

Mitochondrial disease

Our research includes:
-Investigation of the role of mitochondria in human disease
-Nuclear-mitochondrial interactions in disease
-The inheritance of mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy
-Mitochondrial function in stem cells

Neuromuscular genetics

The Neuromuscular Research Group has a series of basic research programmes looking at the function of novel muscle proteins and their roles in pathogenesis. Recently developed translational research programmes are seeking therapeutic targets for various muscle diseases.

Stem cell biology

We research human embryonic stem (ES) cells, germline stem cells and somatic stem cells. ES cell research is aimed at understanding stem cell pluripotency, self-renewal, survival and epigenetic control of differentiation and development. This includes the functional analysis of genes involved in germline stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Somatic stem cell projects include programmes on umbilical cord blood stem cells, haematopoietic progenitors, and limbal stem cells.

Pharmacy

Our new School of Pharmacy has scientists and clinicians working together on all aspects of pharmaceutical sciences and clinical pharmacy.

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*Please note that it is our intention to transform this programme into a new programme Biology of Cardiovascular Disease from September 2017 onwards. The option to focus on areas other than cardiovascular disease then will be limited.*

The Master's in Biology of Disease focuses on the translation of disease into a scientifically secure experiment/model, in order to study its underlying mechanisms and reveal potential therapies.

The Master's programme in Biology of Disease offers the opportunity to study disease mechanisms in the broadest sense via internships in pre-clinical and clinical research in medical, biomedical, biological, industrial and veterinary labs; and to focus on more than one clinical specialty enabling you to conduct research projects on different subjects and diseases. Alternatively this programme offers the possibility to focus on cardiovascular research.

This two year research programme comprises theoretical courses, elective courses, seminars, a major and minor research project, and the writing of a Master's thesis. The core component of this two year research programme consists of independently planning and conducting the two research projects, which will take 15 months in total. The minor research project may be completed elsewhere in the Netherlands or abroad; or it may be replaced by a specific profile: Management, Teaching and Communication or Drug Regulatory Sciences. Graduates of this programme are prepared for PhD studies (approximately 65% choose for this option); or to take on a position in the medical-technical or pharmaceutical industry, or in science journalism.

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Medical Life Sciences is an English-taught two-year Master’s programme in molecular disease research and bridges the gap between the sciences and medical studies. You will get to know clinical research from scratch; you will learn how to investigate diseases/disease mechanisms both in ancient and contemporary populations, how to translate research results into prevention, diagnosis and therapies of diseases.
From the basics of medical science to lab experiments for the Master’s thesis, individual scientific training takes first priority. Experimental work in state-of-the-art research labs is essential in Medical Life Sciences; clinical internships, data analysis, lectures, seminars and electives complement the Medical Life Sciences curriculum.
Evolutionary biology will train you in thinking from cause to consequence. Molecular paleopathology and ancient DNA research tell you a lot about disease through human history. These insights help to fight disease today, which is why evolutionary medicine is becoming a cutting-edge research field. Whether you want to focus on ancient populations and paleopathology or on specific disease indications nowadays, here you get the tools and skills to do both.
To lay the foundation for working in medical research, Medical Life Sciences includes courses on clinical manifestations of diseases, molecular pathology and immunology. Hands-on courses in molecular biology, bioinformatics, clinical cell biology, medical statistics, and human genetics broaden your knowledge and make the interfaces between medicine and the sciences visible. You will learn how to acquire knowledge, verify and use it.. That biomedicine has many facets to discover is the great thing that keeps students fascinated and well-equipped for finding a job in academia or the industry.

Focus Areas

From the second semester, you additionally specialise in one of the following focus areas:

INFLAMMATION takes you deep into the molecular mechanisms of chronic inflammatory diseases, the causal network between inflammatory processes and disease, genetics and environment. New research results for prevention, diagnosis and therapy will be presented and discussed. An internship in specialised clinics helps to see how “bed to bench side”, i.e. translational medicine, works.

EVOLUTIONARY MEDICINE looks at how interrelations between humans and their environment have led to current disease susceptibility. Why do we suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity? Is our lifestyle making us sick? Why are certain genetic variants maintained in populations despite their disease risk? Evolutionary medicine focuses on bridging the gap between evolutionary biology and medicine by considering the evolutionary origins of common diseases to help find new biomedical approaches for preventing and treating them.

ONCOLOGY delves deep into molecular research on malignant diseases, the interplay of genetics and environment, cell biology of tumours, and many other aspects. You will achieve a better understanding of unresolved problems and opportunities of current research approaches.

LONGEVITY focuses on molecular mechanisms that seem to counteract the detrimental effect of ageing. The disease resilience and metabolic stability of extraordinarily fit people well over 90 years of age are of special interest. This research is complemented by experiments on model organisms. You will also look at the molecular pathways of ageing, and which role genes and the environment play. How the intricate web of counteracting effects triggering ageing and/or longevity works stands as the central focus of this area.

Scientists and clinicians will make you familiar with these topics in lectures and seminars. You will discuss different research approaches, perspectives and the latest developments in medical research. Lab practicals in state-of-the-art research labs, a lab project, and the experimental Master's thesis will provide ample opportunity to be involved in real-time research projects.

Electives

To widen your perspective, you choose one of three electives designed to complement the focus areas. The schedules are designed so that you can take part in more than one elective if places are available. Tracing Disease through Time looks at disease etiology by analysing biomolecules, diets and pathogens in archaeological specimens. You may opt for Epidemiology to immerse yourself in epidemiological approaches with special emphasis on cardiovascular diseases, one of the greatest health threats in modern societies. Another option is Molecular Imaging, which gives you insight into the world of high-tech imaging in medical research.

Additional electives such as Neurology, Tissue Engineering or Epithelial Barrier Functions and Soft Skills courses such as Project Management, Career Orientation and English Scientific Writing are integrated into the curriculum.

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Programme Description

The Cell Signalling in Health and Disease MRes is a research-based qualification with a taught component that is of an equivalent standard to an MSc. The course provides a springboard into a career that involves a working knowledge of scientific research in academia and industry.

The course is designed for graduates with a BSc in the life sciences or other science disciplines, and for intercalating and fully qualified MBBS or BDS students. It can be taken either as a stand-alone qualification or as an entry route onto a PhD or MD.

The taught component of the course includes subject-specific content in the area of cell signalling in health and disease. You have the flexibility to develop your own bespoke course by selecting additional, complementary modules. You will also participate in training in general research principles, and other professional and key skills.

Your research project comprises the major element of the course. This project will involve 24 weeks of research in an area of cell signalling in health and disease under the supervision of an expert academic researcher in the field.

The course allows you to experience an internationally competitive research area, predominantly in academia but also potentially in industry.

Cell Signalling in Health and Disease MRes is closely linked to a suite of MRes courses that you may also be interested in:
•Ageing and Health MRes
•Animal Behaviour MRes
•Biotechnology and Business Enterprise MRes
•Cancer MRes
•Cardiovascular Science in Health and Disease MRes
•Diabetes MRes
•Epidemiology MRes
•Evolution and Human Behaviour MRes
•Medical Genetics MRes
•Medical Molecular Biosciences MRes
•Mitochondrial Biology and Medicine MRes
•Molecular Microbiology MRes
•Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA) MRes
•Neuromuscular Diseases MRes
•Neuroscience MRes
•Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine MRes
•Systems Biology MRes
•Toxicology MRes
•Translational Medicine and Therapeutics MRes
•Transplantation MRes

Faculty of Medical Sciences Graduate School

Our Medical Sciences Graduate School is dedicated to providing you with information, support and advice throughout your research degree studies. We can help and advise you on a variety of queries relating to your studies, funding or welfare.

Our Research Student Development Programme supports and complements your research whilst developing your professional skills and confidence.

You will make an on-going assessment of your own development and training needs through personal development planning (PDP) in the ePortfolio system. Our organised external events and development programme have been mapped against the Vitae Researcher Development Framework to help you identify how best to meet your training and development needs.

Modules, Fees and How to Apply

Full information in our Prospectus online.

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Delivered by leading experts at the front-line of research and practice, this programme is the only evidence-based Masters’ degree in Nutritional Medicine in Europe.

It will provide you with a deep understanding of the complex relationships between nutrition and health, and the range and potential of nutritional management to postpone or treat disease.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

Nutritional medicine concerns itself with the part that nutrition plays in health, disease, lifecycle and ageing.

The aim of the programme is to inform and educate those to whom the public turns for advice on nutritionally-related aspects of health and disease and those involved in the manufacture of foods and food supplements.

It is appropriate for the in-service training of doctors, dietitians, pharmacists and healthcare workers.

The programme consists of three-day taught periods at the University, preceded by preparatory study, and followed by consolidation and assessment. It will teach you to take a critical and scholarly approach to the theory, practice, literature and research findings within the subject.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

This programme is studied part-time. On successful completion of the programme students may apply for registration as a Nutritionist on the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists via the Association for Nutrition. The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.
-Principles of Nutritional Science
-Principles of Applied Nutrition and Epidemiology
-Antioxidants, Phytoprotectants and Disease
-Obesity, Diabetes and Eating Disorders
-Diet, the Gut, Food Allergy and Intolerance
-Nutritional Aspects of Pregnancy, Infancy and Childhood
-Nutrition and Ageing
-Lipids and Essential Fatty Acids
-Dietary Minerals in Health and Disease
-Clinical Nutrition and Nutritional Support
-Nutrition and Exercise for Health and Sports Performance
-The Brain and Nervous System: Diet and Behaviour
-Research Project

EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME

The aim of the programme is to provide Masters-level learning in Nutritional Science related to health and disease. Students will gain knowledge and skills necessary to investigate, understand and apply the concepts of Nutritional Medicine in relation to current health issues. Specifically, the programme aims:
-To further the students’ knowledge of the mechanisms underlying disorders with nutritional aetiologies at both the biochemical and molecular level
-To develop evidence-based knowledge and practice in students in healthcare roles, private practice or industry who provide nutrition-related care or advice
-To enhance the critical and analytical skills of students through taking a critical and scholarly approach to theory, practice, literature and research findings within the subject resulting in a greaterunderstanding of the range and potential of nutritional management of disease risk
-To provide opportunities for professional development, encourage the acquisition of intellectual scientific, technical and transferable skills to promote self-directed and life-long learning, allowing students to show evidence of their development and support their career progression

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities and other attributes in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding
-A breadth of knowledge across a broad range of specialised topics (the principles of applied nutritional science are explored)
-The current dietary requirements/guidelines and evidence, related to adequacy of nutritional intakes in various populations
-Epidemiology of nutritional status and related health in the UK and other populations
-The methods and approaches used for the purposes of nutritional assessment
-Human nutrition and metabolism in health and in the pathogenesis of disease
-The specific roles of macro, micro and phytonutrients in health and disease
-The concept of optimal nutrition - the application of nutrition principles to health as well as disease management, prevention or prophylaxis.
-The therapeutic use of nutrition in the management of disease
-Analytical skills to allow interpretation of data or evidence and formulate conclusions

Intellectual / cognitive skills
-Integrate knowledge across a broad range of specialised topics
-Develop a critical, scholarly and evidence based approach to theory and practice in Nutritional Medicine
-Find and critically evaluate scientific literature and other appropriate sources of material
-Critically evaluate research and findings as an evidence base for practice
-Use acquired knowledge and appropriate skills to make professional judgement
-Design research and data analysis to understand or undertake a nutrition research project

Professional practical skills
-Demonstrate competence in commonly used nutrition-research methodology
-Measure food intake and be aware of the pitfalls in such measurements
-Know how to evaluate the nutritional status of individuals
-Develop some ability in helping patients achieve dietary-behaviour change
-Describe food sources of particular nutrients
-Formulate appropriate information on nutrient sources
-Plan a diet for a specific health-related purpose
-Design/plan/undertake an appropriate research project

Key / transferable skills
-Communicate ideas, principles and theories effectively by oral, written and visual means
-Work effectively and independently and in small groups and teams towards a common goal/outcome
-Apply basic statistical and numerical skills to nutritional data
-Assess critically a journal paper or article
-Use judgement to draw conclusions and make recommendations
-Be able to communicate knowledge appropriately to patients

GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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This course combines theoretical and practical training in biology and control of disease vectors and the human pathogens they transmit. Students will gain specialised skills in the molecular biology of infectious diseases, and will cover all aspects of major vector-borne diseases. The course also offers a thorough grounding in the systematics of medically important arthropods, processes regulating vector populations, and the biology of vector–parasite and vector–vertebrate interactions.

Graduates enter operational control programmes, applied basic research and academic fields. Students benefit from close interaction with staff who have extensive international expertise.

The James Busvine Memorial Medal and Prize, donated by Professor James Busvine in 1987, is awarded each year for outstanding performance.

- Full programme specification (pdf) (http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/edu/qualityassurance/medic_progspec.pdf)
- Intercalating this course (http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/intercalate)

Visit the website http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/masters/msbcdv.html

Objectives

By the end of this course students should be able to:

- demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of the biology of vectors and intermediate hosts of human pathogens together with methods for their control

- describe the biology, pathogenesis and diagnosis of parasitic infections in humans and relate these to human health and disease control strategies

- demonstrate a range of specialised technical and analytical skills relevant to vectors and vector-borne diseases

- design and carry out a research project on biology or control of disease vectors, analyse and interpret the results and prepare a report including a critical literature review

- design, undertake and evaluate vector control interventions, and show written and verbal competence in communicating scientific information

Structure

Term 1:
There is a one-week orientation period that includes an introduction to studying at the School, sessions on key computing and study skills and an introduction to major groups of pathogens, followed by three compulsory core modules:

- Parasitology & Entomology
- Analysis & Design of Research Studies
- Critical Skills for Tropical Medicine

Sessions on basic computing, molecular biology and statistics are run throughout the term for all students.

Terms 2 and 3:
Students take a total of five modules, one from each timetable slot (Slot 1, Slot 2 etc.). Some modules can be taken only after consultation with the Course Director.

*Recommended modules

- Slot 1:
Epidemiology & Control of Malaria*
Designing Disease Control Programmes in Developing Countries
Molecular Biology & Recombinant Techniques

- Slot 2:
Advanced Diagnostic Parasitology*
Design & Analysis of Epidemiological Studies
Statistical Methods in Epidemiology

- Slot 3:
Vector Sampling, Identification & Incrimination (compulsory)

- Slot 4:
Vector Biology & Vector Parasite Interactions*
Epidemiology & Control of Communicable Diseases
Molecular Biology Research Progress & Applications
Population Dynamics & Projections

- Slot 5:
Integrated Vector Management (compulsory)

Further details for the course modules - http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/currentstudents/studentinformation/msc_module_handbook/section2_coursedescriptions/tbcd.html

Residential Field Trip

There is a compulsory one week field course, after the Term 3 examinations, on vector and parasite sampling and identification methods. The cost of £630 is included in the field trip fee.

Project Report

During the summer months (July - August), students complete a field or laboratory research project on an appropriate entomological topic, for submission by early September.

Titles of some of the recent summer projects completed by students on this MSc

Due to our collaborative networking, students are given the opportunity to conduct research projects overseas. This unique experience provides students with skills that are highly desirable to potential employers. The majority of students who undertake projects abroad receive financial support for flights from the School's trust funds set up for this purpose.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/masters/msbcdv.html#sixth

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About the course

This course blends theory and practice to help you develop the skills required for a career in molecular and cellular biology. Our teaching focuses on integrated mammalian biology and animal models of human disease, drawing on our pioneering biomedical research.

Where your masters can take you

Graduates with skills in stem cell and regenerative medicine are in demand. Your degree will prepare you for a career in research in academia or industry, or in a clinical-related field. Our graduates are working all over the world – from the UK to China, India and the USA – and over half go on to doctoral study.

Learn from the experts

The 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) rates us No 1 in the UK for research in this field. Our international reputation attracts highly motivated staff and students. Sheffield is a vibrant place to take a masters based on pioneering research.

Regular seminars from distinguished international experts help you to connect your studies to the latest developments. We’re also part of collaborative research groups for developmental biology, cell biology, physiology, pharmacology, neuroscience, models of human disease, stem cell science and regenerative medicine.

Our three research centres focus on translating laboratory research to the clinical environment: Bateson Centre, the Centre for Stem Cell Biology, and the Centre for Membrane Interactions and Dynamics.

Leaders in our field

We have a long track record of groundbreaking discoveries. These include breakthroughs in human stem cells for hearing repair, and the generation of animal models for Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, muscular dystrophies and their use for therapeutic studies.

Labs and equipment

We have purpose-built facilities for drosophila, zebrafish, chick and mouse genetics and for molecular physiology. Other facilities provide all the tools you’ll need to examine and analyse a range of cellular structures. We have an electron and a light microscopy centre, a PCR robotics facility, a flow cytometry unit and an RNAi screening facility.

Teaching and assessment

There are lectures, practical classes, tutorials and seminars. In small group teaching classes you’ll discuss, debate and present on scientific and ethical topics. Laboratory placements within the department provide you with one-to-one attention, training and support to do your individual research project. Assessment is by formal examinations, coursework assignments, debates, poster presentations and a dissertation.

Our teaching covers ethics, practical scientific skills and an overview of the current literature. You’ll also develop useful career skills such as presentation, communication and time management.

Core modules

Literature Review; Practical Research Project; Analysis of Current Science; Ethics and Public Understanding.

Examples of optional modules

Integrated Mammalian Biology; Practical Cell Biology; Practical Developmental Genetics; Cancer Biology; Modelling Human Diseases; Epithelia in Health and Disease.

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What is public health and communicable disease control?

Public health and communicable disease control focuses on tropical population health needs, particularly the spread of infectious disease.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for health professionals with a suitable undergraduate degree or recognised professional qualification in a relevant discipline. It provides the skills and knowledge to use infection controls within hospitals and health care settings, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Course learning outcomes

JCU graduates are committed to lifelong learning, intellectual development, and to the display of exemplary personal, professional and ethical standards. They have a sense of their place in the tropics and are charged with professional, community, and environmental responsibility. JCU graduates appreciate the need to embrace and be acquainted with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia. They are committed to reconciliation, diversity and sustainability. They exhibit a willingness to lead and to contribute to the intellectual, environmental, cultural, economic and social challenges of regional, national, and international communities of the tropics.
Upon successful completion of the Master of Public Health, graduates will be able to:
*Devise appropriate strategies to detect, prevent and control communicable and non-communicable diseases ensuring safe and healthy environments for tropical, rural, remote and Indigenous communities
*Critically assess, analyse and communicate public health information relevant to tropical, rural, remote and Indigenous communities
*Communicate theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions through advanced literacy and numeracy skills to specialist and non-specialist audiences
*Critically reflect upon the socio-ecological nature of health promotion and its application in optimising the health and wellbeing of tropical, rural, remote and Indigenous communities
*Critically reflect upon and engage in professional public health practice based on ethical decision-making and an evidence based approach, including consideration of recent developments in the field
*Apply advanced human, project and organisational management skills within a public health and policy context to effect efficient and equitable gains in public health
*Apply knowledge of research principles and methods to plan and ethically execute a substantial research-based project, capstone experience and/or piece of scholarship.

Graduates with a MPH Health Promotion major will also be able to:
*Integrate and apply an advanced body of theoretical and technical knowledge in the discipline of public health, with depth in population health assessment and health promotion planning, implementation and evaluation.

Graduates with a MPH Biosecurity and Disaster Preparedness major will also be able to:
*Integrate and apply an advanced body of theoretical and technical knowledge in the discipline of public health, with depth in disaster health and humanitarian response

Graduates with an MPH Aeromedical Retrieval major will also be able to:
*Integrate and apply an advanced body of theoretical and technical knowledge in the discipline of public health, with depth in the epidemiology, history, physiological effects, and management of patients undergoing aeromedical retrieval in a range of aircraft and settings including the impact of ethical, cultural, legal and financial issues

Graduate with a MPH Communicable Diseases major will also be able to:
*Integrate and apply an advanced body of theoretical and technical knowledge in the discipline of public health, with depth in principles of communicable disease control.

Award title

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH)

Entry requirements (Additional)

English band level 3a - the minimum English Language test scores you need are:
*IELTS – 7.0 (no component lower than 6.5), OR
*TOEFL – 577 (plus minimum Test of Written English score of 5.5), OR
*TOEFL (internet based) – 100 (minimum writing score of 23), OR
*Pearson (PTE Academic) - 72

If you meet the academic requirements for a course, but not the minimum English requirements, you will be given the opportunity to take an English program to improve your skills in addition to an offer to study a degree at JCU. The JCU degree offer will be conditional upon the student gaining a certain grade in their English program. This combination of courses is called a packaged offer.
JCU’s English language provider is Union Institute of Languages (UIL). UIL have teaching centres on both the Townsville and Cairns campuses.

Minimum English language proficiency requirements

Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 3a – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy.

Why JCU?

James Cook University provides several programs unique to Australia. James Cook University has:
*The Anton Breinl Centre for Public Health and Tropical Medicine, which is one of the leading tropical research facilities in the world
*teaching staff awarded the Australian Learning Teaching Councils’ National Citation for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning
*cutting-edge teaching laboratories and research facilities.

Application deadlines

*1st February for commencement in semester one (February)
*1st July for commencement in semester two (mid-year/July)

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The MRes in Biomedical Research - Molecular Basis of Human Disease provides training and teaching in multidisciplinary approach to understand disease mechanisms. The emphasis of the MRes is on a broad range of training from structural and chemical biology to clinical applications in order to gain knowledge across the biological scales from atoms, molecules to whole cell/organisms on pressing human diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, metabolic and cellular disease as well as pathogen infection and resistance.

Like the other MRes streams, this course exposes students to the latest developments in the field through two research projects that are complementary in training, with one focusing on molecular mechanism while the other one on disease pathways and/or clinical applications. This course is further supplemented by lectures, tutorials and seminars.

Students will gain experience in applying technologically advanced approaches to biomedical questions. Individuals who successfully complete the course will have developed the ability to:

-Perform novel laboratory based research and exercise critical scientific thought in the interpretation of results.
-Undertake two research projects in line with the multidisciplinary culture of the Section and Division.
-Demonstrate practical and intellectual dexterity in the research project elements.
-Develop an appreciation of cutting edge technologies addressing molecular mechanisms and current understanding of key diseases pathways and mechanisms.
-Be able to interpret and present scientific data
-Be able to interrogate relevant scientific literature and develop research plans.
-Be able to write a grant application, through the taught grant-writing exercise common to all MRes streams.
-Be able to write and defend research reports through writing, poster presentations and seminars.
-Exercise a range of transferable skills by taking a minimum number of short courses taught through the Graduate School.

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Learn the necessary skills to function in a modern biomedical/clinical environment specialising in cardiology, and will be relevant to researchers, day-to-day NHS hospital practice and general practice.

Why Study Cardiovascular Disease with us?

The incidence of cardiovascular disease has been increasing worldwide.

You will receive training in the skills required in the reading and interpretation of the literature and translating that into evidence-based practice.

The course culminates in the Research Dissertation, which will be assessed through your production of two publishable scientific articles. Our aim will be to develop these to publication with you if suitable.

The content of the course is mapped to The Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board Speciality Training Curriculum for Cardiology.

If biomedical or clinical research is your interest, successful completion of the MSc will allow you to directly register onto PhD study and join our team of researchers at the Institute of Medicine.

What will I learn?

Our modules investigate in detail the likely causes and effects of cardiovascular disease as well as the various complications and treatments. You will review current guidelines and their evidence base in the therapeutic management of cardiovascular disease, and explore potential new therapies.

Seminars and tutorials will be held with various healthcare professionals and clinical researchers. You will also attend cardiovascular clinics in one of our partner hospital trusts.

How will I be taught?

Our course consists of taught modules and a Research Dissertation.

We deliver taught modules as three-day intensive courses to facilitate attendance from students in employment. Weekly support sessions and journal club supplement learning – all held in our modern facilities in Bache Hall on the Countess of Chester Hospital Campus.
The total number of contact hours for the whole course are 360 hours, out of a total study time of 1,800 hours.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed via coursework assignments, which may focus on clinical reviews, laboratory reports, posters, oral presentations, or data manipulation exercises.

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