Masters Degrees (Parasites)

The two contributing universities of Salford and Keele have considerable complementary research experience in the biology of parasites and the vectors which transmit them.

This has led to the development of this unique, pioneering joint Masters degree focusing on the molecular aspects of parasite infections and vector biology. It aims to give you a sound insight into the biology of parasites and their control. The course provides you with contemporary studies of research on immunological and molecular aspects of selected parasites and vector/parasite relationships. You will gain research experience in parasitology and/or entomology.

Key benefits:

• Innovative, collaborative course taught jointly by the University of Salford and Keele.
• Significant practical training in parasitology including intensive residential field trip to Malham Tarn.
• Excellent platform for a research career.

Suitable for

Graduates who wish to enter research, teaching, scientific laboratory management and careers in parasitology and vector biology including diagnostic centres and overseas fields centres.
Programme details

Course detail

Individual research projects can be based in any of the three institutions, choosing a topical aspect of parasitology, or vector biology.

This course has both full-time and part-time routes, comprising of three 14-week semesters or five 14-week semesters, which you can take within one or up to three years respectively.

Format

Teaching is delivered by research active staff from Salford and Keele Universities. Teaching sessions are primarily based at Salford, though the facilities at Keele are also utilised. Transport is provided for classes based at Keele.

Teaching sessions include lectures, laboratory practicals, field work, tutorials, guest lectures and guided reading.

The Dissertation can be based at Salford or Keele.

Part-time students study Fundamentals of Parasitology and Molecular Biology of Parasites in year 1, Vector Biology and Control, and Research Skills (Parasitology) in year 2. Students may wish to complete the Dissertation in year 2, or year 3 depending upon commitments.

Module titles

• Fundamentals of Parasitology
• Vector Biology and Control
• Molecular Biology of Parasites
• Research Skills (Parasitology)
• Dissertation

Assessment

The Research Skills (Parasitology) and Dissertation modules are assessed by coursework. The remaining modules are assessed by coursework and examination.

Career potential

Graduates from this course have entered employment as research assistants or research laboratory technicians in pharmaceuticals, drug design and pesticide research. Other careers have included pollution microbiologists with water authorities, and work in hospital laboratories investigating the haematology, molecular biology and immunology of infectious diseases.

The MSc equips students for PhD research and former students have gone onto PhD study at prestigious Universities, including Oxford, Glasgow, Liverpool and Manchester and Toledo (USA). The students at Toledo have now completed their PhD studies are have gained employment at US Ivy League Institutes (Harvard Medical School and Cornell). Other students have elected to work in hospital laboratories, or diversify their careers by taking medical sales or enter teacher training posts.

Former overseas students have returned to their home country to take academic, or government positions.

How to apply: http://www.salford.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/applying

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Overview

This course has been running for over 25 years and is one of only three in the country. The two contributing universities of Keele and Salford have considerable complementary research experience in the biology of parasites and the insect vectors that transmit them. This has led to the development of this unique, joint MSc degree between the two institutions, focusing on the ecology and molecular biology of parasitism, immunology of infection, treatment of infection, the ecology and molecular biology or insect vectors, and the control of their natural populations. The teaching is undertaken by staff from the two institutions and mostly based at Salford with specialized laboratory sessions at Keele. Students are able to carry out an extensive research project in the research laboratories of one of the two universities. The strong focus on the molecular aspects of parasitic infections, vector biology, and vector control, will appeal to recent graduates wishing to further their training before embarking upon a research career in Entomology, Parasitology, Molecular Biology or Immunology; to those considering a career in Biotechnology; and to overseas students seeking specialist training before entering a career in managing parasitological or vector-related research and control appropriate to their own country.

The vast majority of the teaching team on the course are internationally recognized experts in their field of research. As an example, most of the Keele teaching team belong to the Centre for Applied Entomology and Parasitology which is highly rated for its world-leading research and excellent research facilities. Therefore the course provides a unique opportunity to set a foot in the real world of research in Parasitology and Medical Entomology.

See the website https://www.keele.ac.uk/pgtcourses/molecularparasitologyandvectorbiology/

Course Aims

The aims of the course are to provide:
- A sound insight into the biology of parasitic diseases their transmission and control of the vectors

- Contemporary studies of current research on immunological and molecular aspects of selected parasites and vector/parasite relationships

- Training in research and modern techniques in the study of vectors and parasites

Teaching & Assessment

Assessment is through a variety of methods including exams, essays and practical work. MSc students will be required in addition to carry out a research project and write it up in a dissertation.

All Masters students must pass modules 1-5 at 50% to give them 180 credits. Students gaining 120 credits will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma. Students gaining 60 credits will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate.

Additional Costs

Apart from additional costs for text books, inter-library loans and potential overdue library fines we do not anticipate any additional costs for this post graduate programme.

Scholarships

There are substantial scholarships available, please see this link: http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/internationalfunding/postgraduate/
or
http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/

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This course provides core training in the theoretical and practical aspects of medical parasitology, covering the protozoan and metazoan parasites of humans and the vectors which transmit them. Students will gain specialised skills to enable them to pursue a career in research, control or teaching related to medical parasitology.

Graduates enter a range of global health fields ranging from diagnostics through to applied basic research and operational control to higher degree studies and academic/teaching-related positions.

The Patrick Buxton Memorial Medal and Prize is awarded to the best student of the year. Founded by relatives of Patrick Alfred Buxton, Professor in Entomology, who died in 1955.

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

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

Additional Requirements

An additional preferred requirement for the MSc Parasitology is an interest in parasites of public health importance and disease transmission. Any student who does not meet the minimum entry requirement above but who has relevant professional experience may still be eligible for admission. Qualifications and experience will be assessed from the application.

Objectives

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

- detailed knowledge and understanding of the biology, life cycles, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of parasitic infections in humans and their relevance for human health and control

- detailed knowledge and understanding of the biology and strategies for control of the vectors and intermediate hosts of human parasites

- carry out practical laboratory identification of parasite stages both free and in tissues and diagnose infections

- specialised skills in: advanced diagnostic, molecular, immunological, genetic, chemotherapeutic, ecological and/or control aspects of the subject

- the ability to design a laboratory or field-based research project, and apply relevant research skills

- prepare a written report including a critical literature review of relevant scientific publications, and show competence in communicating scientific findings

Structure

Term 1:
There is a two-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

Recommended module: Molecular Biology

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*
Molecular Biology & Recombinant DNA Techniques*
Advanced Immunology 1
Designing Disease Control Programmes in Developing Countries

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

- Slot 3:
Vector Sampling, Identification & Incrimination*
Advanced Training in Molecular Biology
Spatial Epidemiology in Public Health
Tropical Environmental Health

- Slot 4:
Immunology of Parasitic Infection: Principles*
Molecular Biology Research Progress & Applications*
Vector Biology & Vector Parasite Interactions*
Epidemiology & Control of Communicable Diseases
Genetic Epidemiology

- Slot 5 :
Antimicrobial Chemotherapy*
Integrated Vector Management*
Molecular Cell Biology & Infection*
AIDS

Further details for the course modules - http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/currentstudents/studentinformation/msc_module_handbook/section2_coursedescriptions/tmpa.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 research project, for submission by early September. This may be based on a critical review of an approved topic, analysis of a collection of results or a laboratory study.Students undertaking projects overseas will require additional funding of up to £1,500 to cover costs involved.

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/msmp.html#sixth

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MSc Biology

The two year MSc Biology concerns understanding the complexity of biological systems, at scales ranging from single molecules to whole ecosystems, provides a unique intellectual challenge. The biosciences aim to understand living systems and to help preserve biodiversity and our environment and simultaneously produce sufficient healthy and safe food.

Programme summary

Biological issues are at the forefront of the technological progress of modern society. They are central to global concerns about how we effect and are affected by our environment. Understanding the complexity of biological systems, at scales ranging from single molecules to whole ecosystems, provides a unique intellectual challenge. The MSc Biology allows students to get a broad overview of the latest developments in biology, ranging from genes to ecosystems. They learn to critically discuss the newest scientific developments in the biological sciences. Within their area of specialisation, students deepen their knowledge and skills in a certain subject. To prepare for a successful international career, we strongly encourage our students to complete part of their programme requirements abroad.

Specialisations

The MSc Biology offers nine specialisations:

Animal Adaptation and Behavioural Biology
This specialisation focuses mainly on subjects as adaptation, mechanisms involved in these adaptations and behaviour of animals.

Bio-interactions
In this specialisation, you obtain knowledge about interactions between organisms. You learn to understand and interpret interactions on different levels, from molecular to ecosystem level.

Molecular Ecology
In this specialisation, you learn to use molecular techniques to solve ecological questions. You will use, for example, molecular techniques to study the interaction between a virus and a plant.

Conservation and Systems Ecology
This specialisation focuses initially on fundamental processes that play a key role in ecology. You learn to interpret different relations, for example, the relation between chemical (or physical processes) and bioprocesses. Furthermore, you learn to analyse different ecosystems. You can use this knowledge to manage and conserve these ecological systems.

Evolution and Biodiversity
The systematics of biodiversity in an evolutionary perspective is the central focus of this specialisation. Subjects that will be addressed in this specialisation are: evolution, genetics, biosystematic research and taxonomic analysis.

Health and Disease
This specialisation focuses on regulatory mechanisms that have a central role in human and animal health.

Marine Biology
Choosing this specialisation means studying the complexity of the marine ecosystem. Moreover, you learn about the impacts of, for instance, fishery and recreation on this ecosystem or the interaction between different species in this system.

Molecular Development and Gene Regulation
This specialisation focuses on gene regulations and the different developmental mechanisms of organisms.

Plant Adaptation
This specialisation focuses on the adaptations that different plants gained in order to adjust to various conditions. You learn to understand the regulation processes in plants that underlie these adaptations.

Your future career

Many graduates from the MSc Biology study programme enter careers in fundamental and applied research or go on to become PhD students. Some find a position as communication officer, manager or policymaker. Compared with other Dutch universities, many biology graduates from Wageningen University find a position abroad.

Alumna Iris de Winter.
"I work as a PhD student at Wageningen University. In my research, I aim to understand the effect of human disturbance on the parasites prevalence in lemurs. I also look at the potential risks of the transmission of diseases and parasites from lemurs to humans, but also vice versa, from humans (and their livestock and pets) to wild lemur population. I alternate my fieldwork in Madagascar with parasite identification, analyses and writing manuscripts in the Netherlands. With this research, I hope to gain more insight in the factors that increase parasite prevalence in natural systems and hereby to improve the protection of both lemurs and their natural habitat."

Related programmes:
MSc Molecular Life Sciences
MSc Animal Sciences
MSc Plant Sciences
MSc Forest and Nature Conservation
MSc Biotechnology
MSc Plant Biotechnology
MSc Aquaculture and Marine Resource Management
MSc Organic Agriculture.

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The MSc programme in Parasitology and Pathogen Biology is designed for students seeking training in parasite-borne infectious diseases that severely undermine: human health in the developing world and tropics; agri-food production systems globally (including plant health and animal health and welfare).

Students taking the course will develop expertise directly applicable to human, plant and animal health and welfare, food security and the future sustainability of food production, particularly within livestock and plant/crop production systems.

The course will be run entirely by research active and will offer students the opportunity to gain experience in internationally competitive laboratories.

PROGRAMME CONTENT
The MSc programme in Parasitology and Pathogen Biology is designed for students seeking training in parasite-borne infectious diseases that severely undermine: human health in the developing world and tropics; agri-food production systems globally (including plant health and animal health and welfare). Students taking the course will develop expertise directly applicable to human, plant and animal health and welfare, food security and the future sustainability of food production, particularly within livestock and plant/crop production systems.

Students undertaking this MSc course will study the folling modules:

- Foundation for Research in the Biosciences 20CATS
- Fundamental Parasitology & Advanced Skills 20CATS
- Advanced Parasitology I 20CATS
- Advanced Parasitology II 20CATS
- Bio-Entrepreneurship & Advanced Skills 20CATS
- Literature Review 20CATS
- Research Project 60CATS

CAREER PROSPECTS
It is anticipated that the skills set and knowledge acquired will equip participants with a comprehensive academic and methodological repertoire to undertake careers in agriculture, plant science, animal and human health, pharmaceutica, academia and food security, underpinning the transdisciplinary nature of the programme.

Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes alongside sterling integration with business experts helps our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.

WHY QUEEN'S?
The MSc programme embraces the One Health approach to these infectious diseases, with strong recognition of the interplay between health and disease at the dynamic interface between humans, animals and the environment.

In addition to embedded generic skills training, students will have the opportunity to acquire subject-specific skills training, e.g. molecular biology techniques, diagnostics, epidemiology (human, animal and plant diseases), drug/vaccine development, pathogen management/control, host-parasite interaction, immunobiology, drug resistance and the potential impact of climate change on parasites and their vectors.

In addition to the taught elements of the course, MSc students will undertake a research project working in research active laboratories (academic or industrial), or in the field, e.g. the impact of helminth infections on animal welfare, the economic impact of parasites on agriculture, the role of vectors in emerging diseases, the ecology of zoonotic diseases, the molecular basis of anthelmintic resistance, emerging technologies for drug discovery, the pathology of infection, parasite immunomodulation of the host.

The transferrable skill set and knowledge base acquired from the programme will equip students with a highly desirable qualification that is suited to those wishing to pursue careers in human health/infectious disease, animal health, veterinary medicine, animal/plant biology, pharmaceutical sciences and food security.

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The taught Infection Biology MSc will help you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria, viruses and parasites cause disease in humans and in domesticated animals, and the immune responses generated by these hosts to such pathogens. You can choose to specialise in virology, microbiology (bacteriology) or parasitology.

Why this programme

◾This degree in Infection Biology allows you to study in an Institute housing two UK National centres of excellence, in Virology and Parasitology, and active in the Scottish Infection Research Network (SIRN), a key clinical focus on healthcare-related
◾You will work in the laboratories of internationally recognized infection biology researchers, conducting high quality basic, translational and clinical science.
◾We have exciting scholarship opportunities.
◾This MSc in Infection Biology provides access to a combination of highly specialised equipment, unique in Scotland, including cutting edge in vitro and in vivo research facilities for biological imaging, high content screening microscopy , and a state of the art polyomics facility bringing together metabolomics, proteomics, genomics, transcriptomics, and integrations of data sets with bioinformatics.
◾You can attend guest lectures and workshops from scientists and clinicians working in the pharmaceutical, diagnostic and biotechnology fields.
◾You can carry out a research project in an internationally recognized centre of excellence, working with world-leading researchers in infection biology.
◾This Infection Biology degree integrates infection biology with cutting edge molecular and cellular techniques.
◾The MSc in Infection Bilogy offers breadth, covering bacteria, viruses and parasites.
◾Students can opt to specialise in one of the three areas of infection biology, and will graduate with a named specialism e.g. MSc Infection Biology (Microbiology).
◾Optional courses allow students to develop their interests: ◾Technology transfer and commercialisation of bioscience research.
◾Drug discovery
◾Diagnostic technologies and devices
◾Current trends and challenges in biomedical research and health

◾We have excellent opportunities to engage with industrial and clinical scientists, with guest lecturers from the pharmaceutical industry, medical diagnostic laboratories and bioscience business.
◾Students have the opportunity to carry out a research project in an internationally recognized centre of excellence, working with world-leading researchers in infection biology.

Programme structure

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 compulsary courses and two chosen from a series of options.

The PgCert programme consists one core taught course over 3-4 months.

Core Courses and Project
◾Host-pathogen interactions and immune responses to infection
◾Omic technologies for the biomedical sciences: from genomics to metabolomics
◾Designing a research project: biomedical research methodology
◾Infection Biology Research project (laboratory based or non-laboratory based, in Virology, Parasitology, or Microbiology)

Optional Courses
◾Drug discovery
◾Diagnostic technologies and devices
◾Current trends and challenges in biomedical research and health
◾Technology transfer and commercialisation of bioscience research

Teaching and Learning Methods

A variety of methods are used, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, laboratories and problem-based learning. These are supplemented by a wide range of course-specific electronic resources for additional learning and self assessment. As a result, you will develop a wide range of skills relevant to careers in infection biology research, diagnostics or drug development. These skills include team-working, data interpretation and experimental design. You will use the primary scientific literature as an information resource.


Electronic Resources

Our online resources were voted the best in the United Kingdom in the International Student Barometer in 2012, and include:
◾a continually updated Moodle (virtual learning environment) with extensive additional teaching and self-assessment materials
◾over 35,000 online textbooks and e-journals available through the University library website, 24/7
◾academic databases of biological sciences and medicine
◾Henry Stewart Talks - animated audio visual presentations by world leading experts covering many topics in infection biology.

Career prospects

The University of Glasgow MSc in Infection Biology provides you with many career opportunities.

Research: About half of our MSc students enter a research career, mainly by undertaking further postgraduate research studies towards a PhD), or by working in research laboratories in clinical or academic settings, including national government laboratories.

Industry: Other students go on to work in the pharmaceutical, diagnostic or biotechnological industries.

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Deepen your knowledge and experience in a rigorous biology graduate program customized to you and your research interests. At Acadia, you will be part of one of the most vibrant and community-focused departments in the region.
In Acadia's Master of Science in Biology you will enhance your expertise in modern research methods in biology and deepen your knowledge in your chosen area of study. Although we have a wide variety of research areas to suit your interest, you will benefit from a small school experience, working closely with your supervisor and others in the same research group, and developing a close relationship with your fellow graduate students.

Within our graduate program emphasis is placed on research rather than coursework. You will work with your supervisor and advisory committee to determine an individualized program of study suited to your research interests. Through many of our research programs you will also gain experience working with individuals and organizations in the local community.

Be Inspired

Acadia is located near the tidal mud flats of the Bay of Fundy (named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World) and within the Annapolis Valley, so our location provides you with access to a variety of ecosystems including, aquatic, wetland, farm, and forest. These habitats are used in field-based research work to give you a balance of outdoor and indoor learning experiences throughout the program.

We have also taken leadership roles in some of the largest projects in the Atlantic region. Acadia, through the Acadia Tidal Energy Institute, is actively involved in tidal power initiatives in the Bay of Fundy. Acadia is a partner with Ducks Unlimited Canada in waterfowl and wetlands conservation projects. Watershed management and estuarine systems are studied through the Acadia Centre for Estuarine Research, the only centre of its kind in Canada.

Research Interests

-Animal movement and its relationship to population dynamics and conservation
-Cancer immunology
-Coevolution of parasites and hosts
-Conservation biology
-Developmental biology, and its relation to evolutionary change
-Ecology and health of coastal habitats
-Fungal endophytes of coastal and marine plants
-Immune cell developmental pathways
-Impacts of anthropogenic disturbances in coastal ecosystems on fish
-Insect pheromone processing and behaviour
-Interaction between parasites and host ecology
-Management and recovery of species at risk
-Molecular evolution and molecular systematics in bivalves and mammals
-Natural history of beetles and birds in forested and agricultural landscapes
-Floral character evolution in family Rosaceae and genus Vaccinum
-Pest management in forestry and agriculture
-Plant ecology
-Plant systematics, phylogeny and evolution
-Population dynamics
-Role of relaxin family peptides and their receptors in neuroprotection
-Tidal energy and its impacts
-Watershed management

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Research projects are available in the field of Molecular Cell Biology that include; the analysis of structure, function and dynamics of telomeres in yeast and parasites, and of centromeric DNA in mammalian cells; investigation of stress-response networks in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and of micro RNAs during the evolution of developmental processes in Drosophila; establishment of the relationship between nuclear structure and function using the giant nuclei of amphibian oocytes; analysis of biological membranes, biomaterials and biophysical aspects of cellular interactions as well as filopodia, lamellipodia and stress fiber formation; investigation of blood substitutes from microbial cell factories and of artificial gas-carrying fluids for enhancing growth of cells in culture.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

After identifying which Masters you wish to pursue please complete an on-line application form
https://pgapps.nottingham.ac.uk/
Mark clearly on this form your choice of course title, give a brief outline of your proposed research and follow the automated prompts to provide documentation. Once the School has your application and accompanying documents (eg referees reports, transcripts/certificates) your application will be matched to an appropriate academic supervisor and considered for an offer of admission.

COURSE STRUCTURE
The MRes degree course consists of two elements:
160 credits of assessed work. The assessed work will normally be based entirely on a research project and will be the equivalent of around 10 ½ months full-time research work. AND
20 credits of non-assessed generic training. Credits can be accumulated from any of the courses offered by the Graduate School. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/gradschool/research-training/index.phtml The generic courses should be chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor(s).

ASSESSMENT
The research project will normally be assessed by a dissertation of a maximum of 30,000 to 35,000 words, or equivalent as appropriate*. The examiners may if they so wish require the student to attend a viva.
*In consultation with the supervisor it maybe possible for students to elect to do a shorter research project and take a maximum of 40 credits of assessed modules.

The School of Life Sciences will provide each postgraduate research student with a laptop for their exclusive use for the duration of their studies in the School.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/international-applicants/scholarships-fees-and-finance/scholarships/masters-scholarships.aspx

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The Parasite Biology and Immunogenetics Group works on understanding the biology of the major parasites of both humans and animals. Of particular interest is gaining an understanding of immunity and the contribution of genetics to host susceptibility and parasite immune evasion strategies. These core interests underpin the search for novel immunotherapies for the major tropical diseases including gastrointestinal nematodes, filariasis, malaria and schistosomiasis.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

After identifying which Masters you wish to pursue please complete an on-line application form
https://pgapps.nottingham.ac.uk/
Mark clearly on this form your choice of course title, give a brief outline of your proposed research and follow the automated prompts to provide documentation. Once the School has your application and accompanying documents (eg referees reports, transcripts/certificates) your application will be matched to an appropriate academic supervisor and considered for an offer of admission.

COURSE STRUCTURE
The MRes degree course consists of two elements:
160 credits of assessed work. The assessed work will normally be based entirely on a research project and will be the equivalent of around 10 ½ months full-time research work. AND
20 credits of non-assessed generic training. Credits can be accumulated from any of the courses offered by the Graduate School. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/gradschool/research-training/index.phtml The generic courses should be chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor(s).

ASSESSMENT
The research project will normally be assessed by a dissertation of a maximum of 30,000 to 35,000 words, or equivalent as appropriate*. The examiners may if they so wish require the student to attend a viva.
*In consultation with the supervisor it maybe possible for students to elect to do a shorter research project and take a maximum of 40 credits of assessed modules.

The School of Life Sciences will provide each postgraduate research student with a laptop for their exclusive use for the duration of their studies in the School.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/international-applicants/scholarships-fees-and-finance/scholarships/masters-scholarships.aspx

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Programme description

Livestock are vital to the lives of millions of people, but endemic and epidemic diseases that affect livestock limit productivity and exacerbate poverty.

The diseases that can be transmitted between animals and people also threaten the health of livestock keepers, their families and their communities. In many developing regions farmers and animal health workers are often ill equipped to deal with this risk.

This programme draws together expertise from across the University to deliver first-class teaching and research to tackle these issues.

Building on a solid foundation of biological, immunological, pathological and epidemiological principles, this online MSc will equip you with the skills needed to identify, control and manage animal diseases and the expertise to tackle the international animal health challenges of the 21st Century.

This programme is affiliated with the University's Global Health Academy.

Online learning

Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

Online Learning

Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

Programme structure

Students may study to certificate, diploma or masters level.

Year 1: certificate

Applied Epidemiology and Surveillance

Host Responses to Infection

Pathogen Strategies for Transmission and Survival

Year 2: diploma

You will undertake the following compulsory course:

Zoonotic disease

Choose one one of the following two courses:

Surveillance and control of transboundary diseases affecting international trade

An introduction to transboundary diseases and their impact on trade and wildlife populations

Then choose from the following electives (up to 60 credits):

Control of economically important parasites

Environmental and nutritional diseases of livestock of international importance

New developments in epidemiology and the control of vector borne disease

Veterinary vaccinology

Wildlife animal health and environment

Technology advances in veterinary diagnostics

Animal disease survey design and analysis

Project planning and decision support for animal disease control

Animal healthcare systems in the post-privatisation era

Introduction to health and production of aquatic species

Introduction to GIS and spatial data analysis

Advanced GIS and spatial epidemiology and modelling

An Introduction of Project Cycle Management

Globalisation and health

The Modern Zoo

The Use of Artificial Reproductive Technologies in Threatened Species

Pastoralism and herd health

Zoonotic diseases in a global setting

Socioeconomic Principles for One Health

Year 3: masters

For a masters, you will choose either to conduct a written reflective element of 10–15,000 words or to take Project Cycle Management and Funding Application Preparation.

Career opportunities

This programme has been designed to enhance your career in animal management throughout the world with first-rate expertise and a highly regarded qualification.

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We have a strong international reputation for making original contributions to Bayesian methodology, bioinformatics and biostatistics. We invite postgraduate research proposals in any of these three areas.

As a research postgraduate in the School of Mathematics and Statistics you will be supported by a team of experts in your chosen field. You will also have the opportunity to develop and enhance your skill set through appropriate research training.

To help you identify a topic and potential supervisor, we encourage you to find out more about our staff specialisms and read about the PhD projects undertaken by some of our recent postgraduate students. A list of example statistical projects currently offered is also available.

As a PhD student you will be supported by team supervision. You will also go through a research training analysis to identify any skills that you need to develop.

Attendance is flexible and agreed between you and your supervisors depending on the requirements of your research project. You are expected to undertake 40 hours of work per week, with an annual holiday entitlement of 35 days (including statutory and bank holidays).

Research areas

We have broad research interests covering applied and medical statistics, and a lively seminar programme.

Our work breaks down into the following research groups:
-Bayesian statistics
-Biostatistics
-Statistical bioinformatics and stochastic systems biology

Research funding

We undertake projects funded by the Research Councils, major trusts, government departments and the EU. Since 2008, members of the School have been named on over £16m of research awards. Many of these awards were for large interdisciplinary projects, in which the School played a vital role, including:
-A £5.5m Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council grant to explore the potential of microorganisms to provide clean water
-A £1.5m European Commission project to study eukaryotic genomic origins, parasites, and the essential nature of mitochondria
-A £2.1m Medical Research Council funded project on ways to advance health and wellbeing in later life

In total, £3.5m of funding was attributed to the School.

Facilities

We are located in the Herschel building which has well-equipped seminar and meeting rooms. You will have access to online research facilities via your own desktop PC in a shared postgraduate work space. There is also a teaching cluster (of about 150 PCs) within the School. Computing support is provided by two specialist technical staff who are expert in providing assistance with fast numerical and distributed processing.

As well as the library resources provided by the main Robinson Library, you will have access to the School's mathematics and statistics library and reading room.

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Overview
Advances in molecular biology have enabled major developments in biotechnology which in turn has lead to huge advances in medicine, molecular biology and industry. Students choosing this MSc degree will enjoy a comprehensive course that covers the key aspects of practical and theoretical medically-related molecular biology, developing advanced skills in this area.

Description
The course is composed of a modular 120-credit taught component and a 60-credit research project and dissertation. The taught component covers a broad range of medical molecular topics and techniques and includes thorough laboratory training. The course is run in conjuncture with our School of Medicine to ensure that students gain a broad view of modern molecular biology and laboratory techniques.

Overseas Students
A two-year course aimed at students from non-European Union countries who come to the UK requiring pre-MSc level training in English language and basic pre-MSc molecular biology. The first year of this course will bring students up to a level where they will be capable of studying for a full MSc degree and it will develop English language skills to the minimum level required for MSc level learning. Year one will be run in conjunction with ELCOS (English Language Courses for Overseas Students). Students can obtain the minimal English certification for MSc entry.

Module list (1st year of English-life sciences modules)
The English language content and life sciences teaching are integrated to enable students to undertake MSc level life-sciences modules through the medium of English

Life-sciences for none native English speakers - 50 credits
Academic Writing & Grammar
Speaking & Listening
Ad.Vocabulary Use & Reading
Near Native English 1
Near Native English 2

Modules list: (for first year of 1 year course and 2nd year of 2 year course)

Semester 1
Molecular and Medical Techniques
Techniques of molecular biology and biotechnology
Medical microbes viruses and parasites
Development, cancer and the human body
Genomes and Genetics
IT skills for medical and molecular research

Semester2
Project preparation course
Medical Biotechnology
Cellular causes of disease
Biomarkers in autoimmunity

Summer term
Research Project (Experimental research into a medical/molecular or genetics research topic)

Aims and Objectives
* Provide an excellent grounding in laboratory techniques and a critical approach to research planning and implementation.
* Develop understanding of molecular biology and the molecular basis of disease.
* Develop transferable skills, including their ability to work as a member of a team, and communicate in scientific writing and speech.
* Provide the opportunity for students to gain and enhance skills required by research organisations and biotechnology companies.
*Provide the ability to attain a level required to carry out research for a higher degree (PhD) in medical molecular and related areas.

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Drawing on the expertise of our biogeography and ecology research group, this MRes programme advances your academic standing and enables you to conduct an original ecological research project.

It prepares you either for a PhD or for industry-based work, as you gain experience with a host of modern research methods and build on your theoretical knowledge of the subject area.

The research interests of our department include:

• wetland ecology and management
• GIS and landscape ecology
• conservation biology
• molecular ecology
• human-wildlife conflict
• mammal behaviour, ecology and conservation.

Course structure

The Ecology MRes is typically completed as a full-time, one-year degree. It largely consists of core modules, but also allows you to choose from a host of optional modules as part of the 180-credit MSc requirement. If you choose to opt out of the course early, you can qualify for a PGCert with 60 credits and a PGDip with 120 credits.

Areas of study

The research project is central to the course and allows you to work at the forefront of the discipline as you advance your knowledge of research methods and ecological principles. You design your own project under the supervision of one or more members of the Biogeography and Ecology Research Group.

Modules:

Research project
Research Methods
Issues in Ecology and Conservation

Options:

Ecology Field Skills
Molecular Ecology and Conservation
Introduction to GIS
GIS in Environmental Applications
Water Quality Analysis
Work-in-Progress Seminars
Introduction to Statistics using Excel and Minitab
Advanced Statistical Analysis

Past projects

Examples of past projects include:

• Pollinator conservation and the value of domestic gardens
• Social interactions of urban foxes in Brighton and Hove
• Habitat use of the northern clade pool frog at their reintroduction site in Norfolk, UK
• Protozoan parasites of bivalve molluscs: appearance and spread of diseases among bivalve molluscs in relation to climate change
• The impact of dry heathland management techniques on vegetation composition and Coleoptera abundance, species richness and diversity

Careers and Employability

Graduates from this course are thoroughly equipped to enter a PhD programme in ecological science, as well as careers in industry and the public sector. The MRes provides well-rounded and practical training, plus the necessary transferable skills to prepare you for employment.

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Programme description

This new three-year, part-time, online postgraduate programme leads to the degree of Masters of Science in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (CMID).

Aimed at junior doctors currently undergoing, or about to undertake, specialty training in an infection discipline, this programme is open to trainees in the UK and worldwide.

This degree will also be attractive to those who have completed their training but wish to fulfill continuing medical education requirements or those who wish obtain a formal qualification in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

The programme is aligned with JRCPTB and RCPath training in infection disciplines: Combined Infection Training and Higher Specialty Training in Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology and Medical Virology.

This programme is designed to support trainees/specialists in preparation for FRCPath Part 1/Diploma in Infection, Infection Specialty end of training assessments and hospital-based practice.

Programme participants will have access to key texts and research bases and will have direct contact with leading clinicians and clinical scientists, providing a repository of information on infection disciplines that can be accessed at any time.

Online learning

Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to the University of Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

Programme structure

This programme is taught entirely online. The structure of the degree is designed to meet the needs of trainees and specialist practitioners from all over the world.

Courses are offered as five week courses, each worth 10 credits. Courses in Year 1 are compulsory. Year 2 is a mix of compulsory and optional modules.

Year 1:

Introduction to Immunology
Science and biology of bacteria
Science and biology of viruses
Science and biology fungi, parasites and prions
Laboratory practise in microbiology, virology and serology
Anti-infective therapy and resistance

Year 2:

Immunopathology
Molecular diagnostics of infection
Community acquired infections and public health
Infection prevention & control
HIV infection and other immune-compromised patients
Clinical syndromes and infection
The returning traveller: Diagnosis, investigation and management of imported infection
Bioinformatics and study design in infectious diseases
Emerging Infectious Diseases

Year 3:

Research in Infection Medicine, written reflective element (project)

Career opportunities

This unique programme will offer the student the knowledge and skills required to enhance their career progression in clinical or academic medicine. The programme will offer an alternative to traditional classroom based research training for those candidates who do not wish to take time away from their professional commitments.

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Harper Adams is the UK’s only provider of a postgraduate course in Plant Nematology. There is currently a shortage of expertise in this important topic, which is a key element in the effort to ensure global food security and mitigating the effects of climate change. By successfully completing this course you will develop a range of abilities that will prepare for an interesting and fulfilling career in an area with considerable opportunities.

Although food production has tripled in the last 40 years, approximately one billion people still go hungry, with an average of 30 per cent of all available food being wasted during production, processing and distribution. Crop losses through nematode infestations are an important component of these losses. To date, over 4100 species of nematodes have been recorded to be plant parasites and have been estimated to cause £73.4b annual losses to world crops.

The aim of the course is to provide students with specialised training in nematology.

The course will:
◾ prepare students for a career in nematology
◾ offer vocational training in the area of applied nematology
◾ prepare students for PhD studies

The course is intended to provide a detailed understanding of basic and applied nematology and the issues associated with current production systems and control strategies. The course is underpinned by an extensive programme of agri-environment research at Harper Adams and longstanding collaborations with research institutes and other organisations in the UK and overseas.

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