Masters Degrees (Pharmaceutical Microbiology)

This programme is intended for graduates already working in Medical Microbiology laboratories, or in a closely-related field, who want to enhance their understanding of the role of microorganisms in health and disease.

You will study the theoretical aspects of medical microbiology, which encompasses: the biological and pathogenic properties of microbes; their role in health and disease; the reactions of the host to infection; and the scientific basis for the detection, control and antimicrobial treatment of infectious disease.

Upon successful completion of the course, you will possess a deeper knowledge of medical microbiology and highly developed management and research skills which will enhance your professional activities.

Programme structure

This programme is studied part-time over two academic years. It consists of eight taught modules and a research project.

Example module listing

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.

• Bacterial, Protozoal and Fungal Infections Part 1: Diseases
• Bacterial, Protozoal and Fungal Diseases Part 2: Treatment
• Introduction to Immunology
• Pathogenesis of Infectious Diseases 2
• Viral Infections
• Epidemiology, Disease Control and Public Health
• Management of Scientific Research
• Microbial Genetics and Molecular Biology
• Research Project

Short courses

All our lecture modules are offered as stand-alone short courses and are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences for the purposes of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Each module lasts for five or six weeks, with the lectures taking place on Wednesdays throughout the academic year. Individuals wishing only to attend the lectures may do so; alternatively, you may decide to take the assessment and acquire credits which may contribute to a postgraduate qualification, either at the University of Surrey or elsewhere.

You may take up to three modules as stand-alone courses before registering retrospectively for the MSc and counting the accumulated credits towards your degree.

The fee structure for short courses is different to that for registered students and details may be obtained upon enquiry to the programme administrator. Also contact the programme administrator for information regarding the timing of each module.

Who is the programme for?

The programme is intended for graduates already working in medical microbiology laboratories, or in a closely-related field, who want to enhance their understanding of the role of microorganisms in health and disease. This includes:

• Diagnostic microbiology staff
• Pharmaceutical research personnel
• Veterinary laboratory staff
• Food and water laboratory personnel

Other applicants seeking an understanding of the advances in modern medical microbiology and its associated disciplines will also be considered. This includes:

• Clinicians
• Public health personnel
• Nurses

Educational aims of the programme

This part-time two year programme is intended primarily for those who are already working in the field of Medical Microbiology who aspire to become leaders in their profession.

The programme has been designed to increase your scientific understanding of medical microbiology and develop your critical and analytical skills so that you may identify problems, formulate hypotheses, design experiments, acquire and interpret data, and draw conclusions.

It will allow you to study theoretical aspects of medical microbiology encompassing the biological and pathogenic properties of microbes, their role in health and disease, the reactions of the host to infection, and the scientific basis for the detection, control and anti-microbial treatment of infectious disease.

Programme learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

• Medical Microbiology and its underlying scientific basis
• Analytical skills to allow interpretation of data and formulation of conclusions
• Managerial and research skills required for further professional development as scientists

Intellectual / cognitive skills

• Appraise scientific literature
• Critically analyse new developments in technology
• Formulate hypothesis
• Critically analyse experimental data
• Design experiments

Professional practical skills

• Analyse numerical data using appropriate statistical packages and computer packages
• Articulate experimental data effectively through oral and written work
• Apply key Medical Microbiology laboratory skills to academic research
• Compose an original experiment independently

Key / transferable skills

• Critically analyse literature and data
• Solve problems
• Evaluate and exploit new technology
• Reason effectively
• Time management whilst working independently and as a team member
• Interrogate data using statistical and numerical skills
• Prepare high quality assignments using Information Technology including specialist packages

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.

Learn more about opportunities that might be available for this particular programme by using our student exchanges search tool.

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You'll receive the highest-quality teaching in the leading Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences in Scotland by staff dedicated to your personal and scientific development.

This course will provide you with a comprehensive three-part postgraduate life sciences training.

First, unlike many MSc courses, we offer you dedicated training in a broad suite of practical laboratory skills.

Secondly, this is complemented by two unique classes that develop your transferable skills in statistics, presentations, career development, and ethics, as well as honing your science writing skills and your ability to design experiments and analyse sophisticated datasets.

Thirdly, our taught classes capture the excitement of cutting-edge research fields and you will be taught by active researchers or practising clinical professionals. There is a choice of classes that allows you to select a pathway to suit your future aspirations.

Our MSc Molecular Microbiology focuses on the molecular biology of important microbial pathogens and industrial microorganisms.

Students study the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria cause disease or can be exploited for the synthesis of biotechnologically important products.

The course content and research projects are driven by the expertise in microbial genomics, genetics and biochemistry research that exists within the institute.

State-of-the-art research facilities, such as our own genome sequencer, protein purification facilities, mass spectrometers and fluorescence microscopes means that students obtain first-hand experience in the latest molecular microbiological techniques.

Together, the course provides the perfect springboard to future training at PhD level or gives you a range of skills and experience that will prove attractive to employers from industry or the health-care provision sector.

You'll study

-Vital transferable skills in statistics, communication, ethics, science writing and critical analysis of data
-Two semesters of postgraduate laboratories, giving you the practical abilities and interpretational skills that will prepare you for your project and future career
-Short optional classes in in vivo biology or drug discovery
-A compulsory Microbiology class together with a choice of either – Clinical Microbiology or Applied Microbiology
-A summer research project in molecular microbiology in an active research laboratory

Facilities

The course is taught in the Strathclyde Institute for Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences. It’s located in our new building with state-of-the-art laboratories.

Course content

Compulsory classes
-Generic Skills for Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Students
-Entrepreneurship
-Statistics
-Advanced Techniques in Biomedical Research 1 & 2
-Postgraduate Studies in Microbiology
-Research project

Elective classes
-In Vivo Biology
-Drug Discovery
-Postgraduate Studies in Clinical Biochemistry
-Postgraduate Studies in Applied Microbiology

The course is delivered through lectures, tutorials and hands-on practical sessions.

If you successfully complete the required taught classes you may undertake a laboratory project for the MSc.

Assessment of taught classes is through multiple choice tests, computer quizzes, problem-solving scenarios, poster and oral presentations, essays, and formal written exams.

The laboratory project is assessed through a written thesis.

Careers

After graduating you should be ideally qualified for positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries as well as hospitals and universities.

You may wish to continue studies for an MPhil or PhD.

This course provides the background training for a career in:
-Pharmaceutical & biotechnology industry laboratory research posts
-Laboratory technical support
-Medical/pharmaceutical/life science sales
-Academia – following a further PhD route

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This programme is intended for those who wish to enhance their understanding of the role of microorganisms in animal health and disease, and provides an excellent grounding in molecular biology, immunology, epidemiology and microbiology.

This grounding leads into the study of the complex mechanisms of host/microbe interactions that are involved in the pathogenesis of specific animal diseases, and provides insights into diagnosis and interventions, such as vaccines, essential for disease control.

You will enhance your critical and analytical skills and gain hands-on experience in the diagnosis of veterinary diseases, such that you may identify problems, formulate hypotheses, design experiments, acquire and interpret data, and draw conclusions.

Programme structure

This programme is studied full-time over one academic year.

Example module listing

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.

• Microbiology and Veterinary Immunology 
• Microbial Genetics 
• Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases
• Transmission and Control of Infectious Diseases of Animals (Non-vector)
• Transmission and Control of Infectious Diseases of Animals (Vector)
• Infectious Diseases of Animals - Practical sessions (APHA, Pirbright ^ PHE/VMD)
• Diseases of Animal Systems: Gastro-intestinal Diseases of Animals
• Diseases of Animal Systems: Respiratory Diseases of Animals
• Diseases of Animal Systems: Multi-system Diseases of Animals
• Diseases of Animal Systems: CNS/Skin Diseases of Animals
• Research Project 

Who is the programme for?

This is a full or part-time programme, intended mainly for graduates, those already working in veterinary diagnostic/research laboratories and staff from other laboratories who want to enhance their understanding of the role of microorganisms in animal health and disease.

Pharmaceutical research personnel, policymakers, veterinarians, public health personnel and environmental biologists will also benefit.

Part-time and short course study

Most modules are offered as standalone short courses. The fee structure for short courses is different to that for registered students, and details may be obtained via admissions enquiries, please refer to the contact details on this page.

The option to study the MSc on a part-time basis is only available following successful completion of three modules as stand-alone/CPD. Please contact the [email protected] for further information.

Programme partners

This Masters programme is delivered by a consortium comprising the University of Surrey and two world class veterinary microbiology institutions: the BBSRC funded Pirbright Institute (PI), and the Government sponsored Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA).

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and Public Health England (PHE) also contribute to the programme.

Visits

You will have the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the diagnosis of important veterinary diseases within the world reference laboratories of the APHA and Pirbright Institute (PI).

There will also be an opportunity to visit Public Health England (PHE) to gain a detailed knowledge of how zoonotic diseases outbreaks are investigated, and to visit the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), a livestock abattoir and an intensive livestock farm.

Colleagues from the CEFAS laboratory will also contribute to the programme, and further research training will be provided during your practical research project.

Educational aims of the programme

This is a one year full-time programme aimed at preparing graduates to work in a range of fields in which a detailed understanding of veterinary microbiology is a valuable asset.

These fields include research, commerce, government and policy, reference laboratory and diagnostic work, epidemiology and disease mapping, veterinary science, farming especially animal production, wild and zoo animal conservation and education.

As such, it is intended that graduates will achieve the highest levels of professional understanding of veterinary microbiology within a range of contexts.

The programme combines the study of the theoretical foundations of, and scholarly approaches to, understanding the application and various practices of veterinary microbiology within the contexts described above along with the development of practical and research skills.

The main aims are to enable students to:

• Acquire sound knowledge of the major principles of veterinary microbiology
• Develop the skills to perform relevant interpretation and evaluation of data
• Apply those acquired skills in practice through research
• To utilise acquired knowledge and evaluative skills to communicate successfully with stakeholders

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.

The learning outcomes have been aligned with the descriptor for qualification at level 7 given in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) produced by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) for Higher Education.

Knowledge and understanding

Following completion of the programme, students should display knowledge of:

• The main principles of current veterinary microbiology
• The methods and approaches used for the molecular characterisation, and diagnosis of disease agents
• The main principles of infectious diseases epidemiology
• The analysis of disease and disease carriage that impact on the development and application of control measures to combat diseases
• Modes of control of infectious diseases
• Modes of transmission
• The various aspects of host pathology and immune responses to disease agents
• Analytical skills to allow interpretation of data and formulation of conclusions

Intellectual/cognitive skills

Following completion of the programme, students should be able to:

• Critically appraise scholarly and professional writing on a wide range of subjects pertaining to the various aspects of veterinary microbiology
• Critically analyse experimental data to enable the formulation of hypotheses
• Design relevant experiments to test formulated hypotheses
• Efficiently analyse new developments in technology and critically assess their utilisation to answer existing and new problems

Professional practical skills

Following completion of the programme, students should be able to:

• Plan and execute an experiment/investigation, act autonomously and demonstrate originality
• Analyse numerical data using appropriate computer tools including specialist computer packages
• Communicate experiments at a project level, including report writing
• Perform specific specialised experimental skills

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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Want to be at the forefront of scientific research into microbes and their role in developing new medicines, tackling diseases and improving the environment?

Northumbria is the only UK university to offer Microbiology as an individual discipline, giving you the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and break new ground as a scientist.

Gain hands-on, immersive experience, in high tech facilities, working alongside leading academics. Advance your expertise in clinical and environmental microbiology, studying how viral and bacterial diseases work and how you can use microbes to create new medicines.

You’ll cover microbial taxonomy, bioinformatics and molecular biology, using bacteria and viruses to develop new technologies and substances through data analysis and genome sequencing.

With opportunities to develop your theoretical knowledge, advance your own research, and increase your profile through articles and publications, this course equips you for further PhD study or for a career in microbiology.

This course is also available part time - for more information, please view the web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/microbiology-dtpmgy6/

Learn From The Best

Specialising in a wide range of research areas, from developing enzymes for pharmaceutical, chemical and food industries, to life in extreme environments, your academic team reflect the varied, multi-disciplinary nature of microbiological science.

Tutors are active researchers in their chosen specialisms and share their knowledge through teaching, scientific conferences and publications. Many have established relationships with professional microbiology organisations and lead policy and practice within the profession.

Combining industry experience and research expertise, you’ll benefit from their knowledge and real-life insights as you develop your skills and understanding.

Teaching And Assessment

You’ll enhance your knowledge of this broad subject matter through in-depth, research focused and real-life learning.

You’ll gain skills in applying tools, techniques and methods related to molecular biology, microbial culture and classification and in functional analysis of microbial and viral genomes.

With an emphasis on individual learning and problem solving using the latest research, as part of the course, you’ll undertake a research project based on a currently relevant question. This will allow you to develop your particular specialism or interest and focus your study on practical research.

You’ll be assessed on your ability to apply your subject knowledge to real-world challenges in the form of assessment tasks as well as being measured in key laboratory skills.

Module Overview
AP0700 - Graduate Science Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0701 - Molecular Biology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0702 - Bioinformatics (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0703 - Subject Exploration (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0706 - Microbes and Disease (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0707 - Microbial Diversity (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0708 - Applied Sciences Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

You’ll get hands-on experience in our large, modern well-equipped laboratories with audio-visual facilities that help you observe, learn and question techniques and ideas.

High-tech wet and dry labs which are fully equipped for molecular biology manipulations are available to help you work on your own research projects.

While some modules are conventionally taught, you’ll benefit from a mixture of learning experiences including lectures, small group seminars and laboratory sessions, adding a practical edge to your theoretical understanding.

Research-Rich Learning

The internationally recognised and well-established group, led by Professor Iain Sutcliffe, apply scientific approaches to aspects of healthcare and extend understanding of diseases.

Research areas include:
-Bacterial cell envelope architecture and biosynthesis
-Control of parasitic arthropods
-Microbial diagnostics (in collaboration with Applied Chemistry)
-Microbial enzymes as biocatalysts (through our Nzomics Innovation Unit, in collaboration with Applied Chemistry)
-Molecular ecology and microbial community analysis in human health (COPD, cystic fibrosis and necrotising enterocolitis)
-Molecular ecology and microbial community analysis in the environment (Lake Suigetsu, Japan; Polar environments) and in agricultural management
-Genomics and proteomics of prokaryotes
-Novel antimicrobials (in collaboration with Applied Chemistry)
-Systematics and taxonomy of bacteria
-Virulence determinants in pathogenic streptococci

Microbiological and virological based techniques to study; virus-host interactions and phage genomics (through our Nu-omics). Research is funded by companies, charities and research council grants.

Give Your Career An Edge

This course has been designed to help you develop specific knowledge and practical skills in Microbiology based on work-related learning. Teaching and assessment throughout the course is based on problem solving linked to a practical approach to current research.

You’ll have opportunities for work-based learning and to be an ambassador for STEM activities, gaining valuable professional experience and applying your knowledge in real-world situations.

Your research project provides a chance to showcase your interests and ability to define, formulate and test a hypothesis through careful experimental design, method development, data capture and analysis and communicating your findings.

You’ll be able to demonstrate transferable skills valued by employers including critical thinking, working as part of a group, data mining and record keeping, alongside problem solving, independent learning, and communication with both technical and non-technical audiences.

Your Future

The MSc Microbiology course will support and inspire you to high achievement in employment or further education and research in your chosen specialism.

Building on your theoretical knowledge with practical and laboratory skills you’ll show that you can tackle complex problems with confidence, skill and maturity as you develop key strengths in critical thinking and expressing opinions based on evidence.

The practices and procedures of Microbiology and Virology, together with logical thinking, attention to detail and a questioning mind will equip you with skills suitable for a range of careers in human health and disease, environmental studies and industrial or biotechnical industries.

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Our research-intensive MSc program offers students the opportunity to conduct outstanding research projects and receive training in a broad range of fields within the pharmaceutical sciences. We provide you with exceptional mentors and supervisors, a rigorous learning environment, and access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities to conduct your research.

We accept students from a wide range of backgrounds. Students come to us with degrees in pharmaceutical sciences, medicine, biotechnology, the basic and biomedical sciences (e.g., chemistry, biology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, pharmacology), engineering (e.g., biomedical, chemical), economics and epidemiology. More than 50% of our graduate students come to us from other parts of the world, including the US and countries in Asia, Africa and Europe. We offer orientation events to help new students integrate into life here in Vancouver, as well as at UBC and within the Faculty itself. Our Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Society (PharGS) offers another fantastic way to feel at home at UBC.

Our graduate degree programs offer you enormous potential in terms of fulfilling career opportunities in industry, government and academia, as well as in other health professions.

Quick Facts

- Degree: Master of Science
- Specialization: Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Subject: Health and Medicine
- Mode of delivery: On campus
- Program components: Coursework + Thesis required
- Faculty: Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences

WHERE YOUR DEGREE CAN TAKE YOU

A master's in pharmaceutical sciences is a launching pad to success in countless fields. As just a handful of examples, our grads have gone on to: fine-tune treatments for diseases like tuberculosis; lecture internationally about female contraceptives; study the regulation of cardiac metabolism following diabetes; optimize medication dosages for organ transplantation; and improve mental health outcomes through better understanding antipsychotics.

The possibilities are limitless with a UBC graduate degree in pharmaceutical sciences. You might consult for physicians. You might work in research and quality control, or as an administrator in a hospital or government setting. Maybe you'll consult on drug products, or health policy. Or maybe you'll find your place in teaching, mentoring and developing up-and-coming leaders in the field.

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This course is designed for graduates of chemistry, pharmacy and other related sciences who are contemplating a career in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, the NHS or with government agencies such as drug licensing authorities.

The programme provides a good background in basic pharmaceutical sciences followed by advanced training in drug discovery, drug product design, drug delivery, pharmacology, microbiology and regulatory processes. It also offers advanced practical experience and supervised training, together with an opportunity to undertake an in-depth research project as part of an active research group.

This course is suitable for both UK and non-UK graduates, and international students benefit from our excellent support networks.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for this course. Please click the link below for more information.
https://www.brighton.ac.uk/studying-here/fees-and-finance/postgraduate/index.aspx

Course structure

This course is one calendar year, full-time, involving 30 weeks of taught modules divided into two 15-week semesters, and a project which is largely carried out during the remaining time.

Students may have the opportunity to undertake a short industrial placement (optional) during their second semester. A four-month research project is integrated into the second semester, on completion of which you will be required to submit a 10,000 word dissertation. The assessment of each taught module includes coursework and a written examination paper at the end of semester two.

Past research project topics include the development of novel transdermal formulations containing naturally occurring antioxidants as sunscreen agents, and the use of mucoadhesive gels for vaginal drug delivery.

Syllabus

During the course you will:

• develop knowledge and understanding of the role of drug discovery; biological processes involved in drug action; drug product design; quality assurance, quality control and regulatory affairs
• develop knowledge and understanding of the chemical principles underlying the design, action and disposition of drug molecules
• appreciate aspects of drug ADME and the underlying mathematical principles, mechanisms of action and adverse effects of drug treatments and the phenomenon of drug interactions
• develop an understanding of the microbiological processes involved in the development and quality assurance of non-sterile and sterile medicines and devices including biotechnology products
• develop knowledge and understanding of the basic principles and current trends in the formulation design and manufacture of pharmaceutical dosage forms
• deveop an appreciation of the physicochemical and biological factors which affect uniformity, performance, stability and bioavailability of pharmaceutical products.

Modules:

Research Project
Research Methods
Pharmacology and Drug Development
Regulatory Affairs
Industrial Pharmacy, QA and QC
Current Research in Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Options:

Industrial Placement
Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis
Advanced in Biochemical and Clinical Analysis
Quality Issues in Complementary Therapies That Utilise Plants
New Medicinal Products: From Inception to Market
Industrial Manufacturing Processes
Advanced Drug Delivery

Careers and Employability

This course will equip you for a career in the pharmaceutical industry, NHS, academic centres, research institutions or with government agencies such as drug licensing authorities. Our graduates are also well placed to apply for a PhD.

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Our course is ideal if you are a graduate looking to develop your skills as a microbiologist.

The MSc and postgraduate diploma in Medical Microbiology are intensive full-time or part-time postgraduate taught courses encompassing the medical and molecular aspects of bacteriology, virology, mycology and immunity to infection.

Our microbiology course is unique because you will spend much of your time actually in the laboratory, learning how to be a microbiologist.

We aim to give you a significant level of theoretical and practical understanding of the subject, which will be important if you want to follow a career in clinical sciences or academic and industrial research.

The course runs in parallel with the MSc in Medical Virology and the MSc in Medical Mycology.

The MSc Medical Microbiology course has its roots in a prestigious qualification developed in the early 1920s by Professor WWC Topley.
As such, it can be considered to be the oldest taught postgraduate microbiology qualification in the country, and probably in the world.

Aims

We aim to provide you with an understanding of the scientific basis of traditional and modern microbiological concepts.
In addition, you will develop the knowledge, specialist practical skills and critical awareness needed to pursue a career in medical microbiology.

Special features

This course has a significant component of practical-based teaching, ensuring that you gain maximum exposure to the practical and theoretical aspects of a wide range of clinically relevant pathogens. You will gain practical skills that are valued by potential employers.

Teaching and learning

Teaching is delivered using lectures, seminars, tutorials and comprehensive practical classes.

Other teaching includes the use of face-to-face sessions and blended learning methods with some material delivered and assessed online.

Coursework and assessment

You will be assessed via continual assessment and formal theory and practical examinations. The course is delivered by academics from the University and NHS specialists in infectious disease and medical microbiology.

Career opportunities

Our graduates typically find employment in the NHS and related organisations, or as medical microbiologists in industrial and pharmaceutical settings.

In addition, many graduates progress to PhD study and a research or academic career.

Accrediting organisations

The MSc is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Scientists (IBMS).

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This programme is designed for graduates in chemistry or closely related discipline who wish to contribute to drug development in the pharmaceutical industry.

The programme provides training in pharmacokinetics, drug metabolism, drug synthesis, methods to identify potential drug targets and drug candidates, and methods to assess the biological activities of drug compounds.

Additional modules cover the key techniques in analytical chemistry used to support the pharmaceutical sciences.

Core study areas include research methods, pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism, drug targets, drug design and drug synthesis, spectroscopy and structural analysis, professional skills and dissertation and a research training project.

Optional study areas include separation techniques, mass spectrometry and associated techniques, innovations in analytical science and medicinal chemistry.

See the website http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/chemistry/pharmaceutical-science-medicinal-chemistry/

Programme modules

Compulsory Modules
Semester 1:
- Research Methods
- Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism
- Drug Targets, Drug Design and Drug Synthesis

Semester 2:
- Spectroscopy and Structural Analysis
- Professional Skills and Dissertation
- Research Training Project

Selected Optional Modules
Semester 1:
- Separation Techniques
- Mass Spectrometry and Associated Techniques

Semester 2:
- Innovations in Analytical Science
- Innovations in Medicinal Chemistry

Assessment

Examination and coursework.

Careers and further study

Careers in a variety of industries, particularly the pharmaceutical and related industries, including drug metabolism, medicinal chemistry (organic synthesis), drug screening (action / toxicity), patents and product registration; also as preliminary study for a PhD.

Scholarships and sponsorship

A number of bursaries and scholarships are available to UK and EU students towards tuition fees (excluding Environmental Studies MSc).
Departmental bursaries, in the form of fee reduction, are available to self-funded international students.
The programmes also benefit from industrial sponsorship which provides support in the form of equipment, materials, presenters and project placements.

Why choose chemistry at Loughborough?

The Department of Chemistry has about 350 students studying taught programmes, including around 50 on MSc courses, 10 postdoctoral research fellows, 50 research students (MPhil / PhD), and 25 academic staff, many of whom have strong links with industry.

In recent years, the Chemistry building has undergone extensive refurbishment and provides modern facilities and laboratories for the teaching and research needs of analytical, organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, as well as specialist laboratories for radiochemistry, environmental chemistry, microbiology and molecular pharmacology.

- Facilities
The Department has a number of specialist instruments and facilities, including: 2 x 400 MHz, 500 MHz and solid-state NMR spectrometers, single crystal and powder X-ray diffractometers, a high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer, sector field organic MS, GC-MS and linear ion trap LC-mass spectrometers, ion mobility spectrometers and gas and liquid chromatographs.

- Research
The Department typically has well over 50 research students and a dozen postdoctoral researchers. In addition there are usually around 50 MSc students in the department. Many students come to study from abroad, and there are research students and visitors from all over the world currently studying and carrying out research in the department.
The Department is very well equipped to carry out research spanning all the traditional branches of chemistry (analytical, environmental, inorganic, organic and physical) and which contributes to four active research themes (Energy, Environment, Security and Health).

- Career Prospects
90% of our graduates were in employment and/or further study six months after graduating. Graduates can expect to develop their careers in the pharmaceutical and food industry, analytical and environmental laboratories, public and regulatory utilities, industrial laboratories, or go on to study for a PhD.

Find out how to apply here http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/chemistry/pharmaceutical-science-medicinal-chemistry/

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This course is designed to give you the opportunity to study and analyse the theoretical and practical basis of medical microbiology and many of the specialist areas within it. You will gain greater insight into the importance and role of medical microbiology, with an emphasis on cutting edge areas such as molecular diagnostics and genomics, emerging pathogens and antibiotic resistance.

You will study a range of core and option modules that will allow you to tailor studies to your own requirements. You will expand your knowledge of the basic science and analytical techniques relating to medical microbiology and gain an up-to-date understanding of the application of medical microbiology in bioscience/pharmaceutical research, as well as in diagnostic and therapeutic medicine. There will be an emphasis in the course on development of critical analysis skills in assessment of scientific literature and laboratory data. In addition you will have the opportunity to design and execute your own research project. The course team is supported by visiting lecturers who are practising scientists in the field, which helps to ensure that taught material is current and relevant.

Modules

The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.

Core modules
-CLINICAL ASPECTS OF MICROBIAL PHYSIOLOGY AND CHEMOTHERAPY
-INFECTIOUS DISEASES AND PUBLIC HEALTH
-MOLECULAR SCIENCE AND DIAGNOSTICS
-POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH METHODS
-POSTGRADUATE PROJECT

Option modules
-AUTOMATION IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES
-COMMUNICATING SCIENCE
-EXTENDED POSTGRADUATE PROJECT
-IMMUNOPATHOLOGY
-MOLECULAR BIOINFORMATICS
-PRINCIPLES OF MOLECULAR MEDICINE
-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY

Professional recognition

The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

Associated careers

As well as gaining knowledge and skills in medical microbiology and other associated subject areas you will develop numerous other skills that are designed to make you competitive in the jobs market. Some students will already be working in healthcare and public health laboratories in the UK and overseas while others will be gaining the skills they need to work as a Biomedical or Clinical Scientist.

The course will also allow you to work in industry including the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors as well as regulatory affairs. You will also be well prepared for a career in research including further study at PhD level.

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This masters course is an integrated, industrially focused programme aimed at graduates in chemical, biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences wishing to develop their research skills in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.

Graduates are equipped with a well-rounded, laboratory-based skill set and are fully prepared for employment within the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences industries, as well as for further academic study.

Throughout the course, you have the opportunity to assess your suitability for a career in industry or further research training. The research project provides a real intellectual challenge and allows you to demonstrate your creativity and initiative.

You will develop and carry out a significant piece of research covering a wide range of specialities, ranging from the development of new treatments to diagnostic procedures which enhance detection, prevention and cures for diseases found in modern society.

A series of supporting taught courses make up the remainder.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for this course. Please click the link below for more information.
https://www.brighton.ac.uk/studying-here/fees-and-finance/postgraduate/index.aspx

Areas of study

The course provides a flexible opportunity to gain high-level research training and to develop your professional skills. The focus of the course depends on your choice of research topic, which also affects what you study on your modules, so the MRes is to some extent individual to each student.

As you progress through the programme, you will gain: a critical appreciation of the stages of the research process; extensive training in research methodology; the capacity to design and undertake a substantial research project; awareness of the specialist techniques appropriate to your research subject; the ability to provide a rationale for the selection of specialist analytical techniques; and a contextualised understanding of the potential relevance of scientific research to business and industry.

Compulsory modules:

Research project
Research Methods
Applied Molecular Biology
Advances in Biochemical and Clinical Analysis

Options:

Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis
Introduction to Statistics Using Excel and Minitab
Advanced Statistical Analysis
Research Placement
New Medicinal Products from Inception to Market
Current Research in Chemistry
Symposia in Pharmacy Research
Pharmacology and Drug Development
Industrial Microbiology
Bioscience Independent Study
Clinical Infection Sciences
Evaluating Research in Biomedical Sciences
Current Research in Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Careers and Employability

The course intends to maximise both your personal and professional potential, and in particular provides a foundation for careers in research, industry, the public sector and academia.

On course completion, you will be equipped with practical research based training, plus the necessary transferable skills to prepare you for career progression.

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This course provides comprehensive knowledge and practical training in the spread of microorganisms (predominantly bacterial and viral pathogens), disease causation and diagnosis and treatment of pathogens significant to public health. The increasing incidence of microbial infections worldwide is being compounded by the rapid evolution of drug-resistant variants and opportunistic infections by other organisms. The course content reflects the increasing importance of genomics and molecular techniques in both diagnostics and the study of pathogenesis.

In response to a high level of student interest in viral infections, the School has decided to offer the opportunity for students who focus on viruses in their module and project choices to be awarded a Master's degree in Medical Microbiology (Virology). This choice will depend on the module selection of the individual student in Terms 2 and 3 and choice of project.

Graduates from this course move into global health careers related to medical microbiology in research or medical establishments and the pharmaceutical industry.

The Bo Drasar Prize is awarded annually for outstanding performance by a Medical Microbiology student. This prize is named after Professor Bohumil Drasar, the founder of the MSc Medical Microbiology course.

The Tsiquaye Prize is awarded annually for the best virology-based project report.

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

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

Objectives

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

- demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of the nature of viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi and basic criteria used in the classification/taxonomy of these micro-organisms

- explain the modes of transmission and the growth cycles of pathogenic micro-organisms

- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and the outcomes of infections

- distinguish between and critically assess the classical and modern approaches to the development of therapeutic agents and vaccines for the prevention of human microbial diseases

- demonstrate knowledge of the laboratory diagnosis of microbial diseases and practical skills

- carry out a range of advanced skills and laboratory techniques, including the purification of isolated microbial pathogens, study of microbial growth cycles and analyses of their proteins and nucleic acids for downstream applications

- demonstrate research skills

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 course-specific sessions, followed by two compulsory modules:

- Bacteriology & Virology
- Analysis & Design of Research Studies

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.). The list below shows recommended modules. There are other modules that can be taken only after consultation with the Course Director.

- Slot 1:
Clinical Virology
Molecular Biology & Recombinant DNA Techniques

- Slot 2:
Clinical Bacteriology 1
Molecular Virology

- Slot 3:
Advanced Training in Molecular Biology
Basic Parasitology

- Slot 4:
Clincal Bacteriology 2
Molecular Biology Research Progress & Applications

- Slot 5:
Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
Molecular Cell Biology & Infection
Mycology
Pathogen Genomics

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

Project Report

During the summer months (July - August), students complete a laboratory-based original research project on an aspect of a relevant organism, for submission by early September. Projects may take place within the School or with collaborating scientists in other colleges or institutes in the UK or overseas.

The majority of students who undertake projects abroad receive financial support for flights from the School's trust funds set up for this purpose

Course Accreditation

The Royal College of Pathologists accepts the course as part of the professional experience of both medical and non-medical candidates applying for membership. The course places particular emphasis on practical aspects of the subjects most relevant to current clinical laboratory practice and research.

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

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Developed in response to the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), and after extensive consultation with industry, this programme is designed for graduates in chemistry or closely related disciplines who wish to contribute to drug development and analysis, a process that requires multidisciplinary skills.

The programme comprises a broad range of modules covering the major aspects of analytical and pharmaceutical chemistry, complemented by studies in transferable and professional skills.

Core study areas include research methods, separation techniques, pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism, spectroscopy and structural analysis, professional skills and dissertation and a research training project.

Optional study areas include mass spectrometry and associated techniques, drug targets, drug design and drug synthesis, sensors, innovations in analytical science and medicinal chemistry.

See the website http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/chemistry/analytical-pharmaceutical-science/

Programme modules

Compulsory Modules
Semester 1:
- Research Methods
- Separation Techniques
- Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism

Semester 2:
- Spectroscopy and Structural Analysis
- Professional Skills and Dissertation
- Research Training Project

Selected Optional Modules
Semester 1:
- Mass Spectrometry and Associated Techniques
- Drug Targets, Drug Design and Drug Synthesis
- Sensors

Semester 2:
- Innovations in Analytical Science
- Innovations in Medicinal Chemistry

Assessment

Examination and coursework.

Careers and further study

The programme is for those who wish to extend their knowledge in a particular area or broaden their field in order to increase their career prospects.

Scholarships and sponsorship

A number of bursaries and scholarships are available to UK and EU students towards tuition fees (excluding Environmental Studies MSc).
Departmental bursaries, in the form of fee reduction, are available to self-funded international students.
The programmes also benefit from industrial sponsorship which provides support in the form of equipment, materials, presenters and project placements.

Why choose chemistry at Loughborough?

The Department of Chemistry has about 350 students studying taught programmes, including around 50 on MSc courses, 10 postdoctoral research fellows, 50 research students (MPhil / PhD), and 25 academic staff, many of whom have strong links with industry.

In recent years, the Chemistry building has undergone extensive refurbishment and provides modern facilities and laboratories for the teaching and research needs of analytical, organic, inorganic and physical chemistry, as well as specialist laboratories for radiochemistry, environmental chemistry, microbiology and molecular pharmacology.

- Facilities
The Department has a number of specialist instruments and facilities, including: 2 x 400 MHz, 500 MHz and solid-state NMR spectrometers, single crystal and powder X-ray diffractometers, a high resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer, sector field organic MS, GC-MS and linear ion trap LC-mass spectrometers, ion mobility spectrometers and gas and liquid chromatographs.

- Research
The Department typically has well over 50 research students and a dozen postdoctoral researchers. In addition there are usually around 50 MSc students in the department. Many students come to study from abroad, and there are research students and visitors from all over the world currently studying and carrying out research in the department.
The Department is very well equipped to carry out research spanning all the traditional branches of chemistry (analytical, environmental, inorganic, organic and physical) and which contributes to four active research themes (Energy, Environment, Security and Health).

- Career Prospects
90% of our graduates were in employment and/or further study six months after graduating. Graduates can expect to develop their careers in the pharmaceutical and food industry, analytical and environmental laboratories, public and regulatory utilities, industrial laboratories, or go on to study for a PhD.

Find out how to apply here http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/programmes/departments/chemistry/analytical-pharmaceutical-science/

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Investigate the effects of pathogens on the body, the intricacies of the human immune system and the impact of infections. You will also explore advanced medical microbiology, studying specific global health issues and the procedures involved in medical diagnostics.

Gain advanced laboratory skills and an in-depth knowledge of investigative methods being applied within the search for novel antimicrobial agents.

You will carry out extensive practical investigations, including quantifying the antimicrobial effects of compounds against specific microorganisms, or studying the mechanisms of microbial resistance to therapeutics. You'll have access to Class 2 microbiology facilities, along with cell culture, molecular virology and epigenetic research methods. With our new biomedical sciences research laboratory you will be able to conduct project work in a dedicated research environment and benefit from an enhanced range of equipment.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: twice as many of our staff - 220 - were entered into the research assessment for 2014 compared to the number entered in 2008.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/microbiology_biotechnology

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

You will be able to go into a range of careers, including those within pharmaceutical companies, food manufacturing, chemical facilities or developing further investigative and innovative research. A move into a more senior position will be available to you, such as senior researcher or laboratory analyst roles, where you would be involved in designing research projects and analysing the data generated.

- Medical Research Scientist
- Labratory Analyst
- Microbiologist

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

You will spend a considerable proportion of your time in a hands-on environment, spending over 200 hours within the biomedical science laboratories, completing practicals and working on a specific research project that interests you and aligns with our expertise.

We will give you access to Class 2 microbiology facilities, along with cell culture and micro-electric fabrication equipment. With our new dedicated biomedical sciences research laboratory (opened in 2013) you will be able to conduct project work in a dedicated research environment and will benefit from an enhanced range of equipment.

You'll benefit from working with a first class teaching team. One of our lecturers, Dr Margarita Gomez Escalada, developed internationally-recognised research data on treating acne using the ingredient thyme, with a student who performed all the practical tests for her project.

Core Modules

Contemporary Research In Biomedical Science
Discuss and evaluate current research in biomedical sciences and relate this both to the theoretical basis of the subject and to the methodologies used to generate the data.

Advanced Professional Practice and Research
Gain a grounding in the different approaches to research, including quantitatative and qualitative data collection methods. You will then be able to plan research, effectively search for and evaluate research literature and be able to apply and analyse data using appropriate statistical tests.

Bio-analytical Techniques
Combine theory and practice of many modern analytical techniques that are used in biological, medical and chemical analysis, and learn the important steps in the development and assessment of analytical measures.

Infection and Immunity
Develop an in-depth understanding of the infection process, taking into consideration the pathogenesis process both from the point of view of the pathogen as well as the host where the immune response will be investigated.

Advanced Medical Microbiology
Look at different aspects of current trends in microbiological research, and use laboratory sessions to undertake problem solving activities such as the planning of a class lab activity and mini projects.

Applied Biotechnology
Study up to date issues concerning current biotechnological products and processes, especially with regard to the use of microorganisms and recombinant DNA techniques.

Research Project
Undertake an independent research project within the remit of expertise of our course team. Design experimental methods to test your aims or hypotheses and report the findings in the form of both a thesis and an oral presentation.

Dr. Margarita Gomez Escalada

Senior Lecturer

"I find it really exciting to generate new data and ideas alongside my students and collaborators, which may one day lead to changes in the ways in which we tackle diseases caused by microorganisms. Teaching allows me to share and explore these latest findings with those who will go on to work in the field."

Margarita recently produced internationally-recognised research treating acne with herbal compounds. Working with a student, she discovered that an extract of thyme was more effective than traditional chemical-based creams.

Facilities

- Biomedical Research Laboratory
The latest scientific testing equipment lets you put your learning into practice and break new ground in biomedical research.

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- Biomedical Sciences Laboratory
Housing state-of-the-art IT and AV facilities, our new Biomedical Sciences laboratory provides important, cutting edge facilities for our students including walk-in cold rooms.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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Research in the School of Biosciences revolves around understanding systems and processes in the living cell. It has a strong molecular focus with leading-edge activities that are synergistic with one another and complementary to the teaching provision.

Our expertise in disciplines such as biochemistry, microbiology and biomedical science allows us to exploit technology and develop groundbreaking ideas in the fields of genetics, molecular biology, protein science, biophysics and computational biology. Fields of enquiry encompass a range of molecular processes from cell division, transcription and translation through to molecular motors, molecular diagnostics and the production of biotherapeutics and bioenergy.

Visit the website https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/1239/microbiology

About the School of Biosciences

The School of Biosciences is among the best-funded schools of its kind in the UK, with current support from the BBSRC, NERC, MRC, Wellcome Trust, EU, and industry. It has 38 academic staff, 56 research staff (facility managers, research fellows, postdoctoral researchers and technicians), approximately 100 postgraduate research students and 20 key support staff. The school's vibrant atmosphere has expanded to become a flourishing environment to study for postgraduate degrees in a notably friendly and supportive teaching and research environment.

In addition to research degrees, our key research strengths underpin a range of unique and career-focused taught Master’s programmes that address key issues and challenges within the biosciences and pharmaceutical industries and prepare graduates for future employment.

Course structure

Our research degrees are based around lab-based and computational research projects. MScs are based around one-year research projects (Full Time). In all our research degrees you undertake a single, focused, research project from day one, and attend only certain components of our transferable skills modules. Our research degree students are supervised by supervisory teams which comprise their main supervisor(s) as well as supervisory chairs that give independent advice on progression.

You can select topics for the MSc from any of the research areas covered in the Research Areas section.

Research areas

Research in the School of Biosciences is focused primarily on essential biological processes at the molecular and cellular level, encompassing the disciplines of biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology and biomedical research.

The School’s research has three main themes:

- Protein Science – encompasses researchers involved in industrial biotechnology and synthetic biology, and protein form and function

- Molecular Microbiology – encompasses researchers interested in yeast molecular biology (incorporating the Kent Fungal Group) and microbial pathogenesis

- Biomolecular Medicine – encompasses researchers involved in cell biology, cancer targets and therapies and cytogenomics and bioinformatics.

Each area is led by a senior professor and underpinned by excellent research facilities. The School-led development of the Industrial Biotechnology Centre (IBC), with staff from the other four other schools in the Faculty of Sciences, facilitates and encourages interdisciplinary projects. The School has a strong commitment to translational research, impact and industrial application with a substantial portfolio of enterprise activity and expertise.

Careers

A postgraduate degree in the School of Biosciences is designed to equip our graduates with transferable skills that are highly valued in the workplace. Our research-led ethos ensures that students explore the frontiers of scientific knowledge, and the intensive practical components provide rigorous training in cutting edge technical skills that are used in the modern biosciences while working in areas of world-leading expertise within the School.

Destinations for our graduates include the leading pharmaceutical and biotechnological companies within the UK and leading research institutes both at home and abroad.

Find out how to apply here - https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/apply-online/1239

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Developed in partnership with the pharmaceutical industry, the four pathways of our MSc in Pharmaceutical Industrial Advanced Training (PIAT) are postgraduate-level training programmes designed for scientists and managers working in the pharmaceutical industry and NHS in the fields of product development, manufacturing and quality assurance.

-Clinical Trials : This is ideal for those wishing to specialise in this key area and is of relevance to those working in the NHS, as well as in industrial settings.
-Pharmaceutical Microbiology : We work with PharMIG on the content and curriculum of this programme, ensuring that it is recognised as a leader within the field.
-Pharmaceutical Business Development and Licensing : Our programme is delivered in partnership with the Pharmaceutical Licensing Group, enabling you to learn from leaders in networking and the legal field.
-Industrial Pharmacy : This programme covers the industrial pharmacist role from formulation through to QA and QC, and also regulatory affairs and lean processes (including Six Sigma).

Many of our units have been developed to support those seeking to build their QP portfolio and our team includes QPs who are willing to support your development through this pathway.

You can also take individual units as standalone CPD courses. Please contact us for further details of the units that can be taken.

We offer a three-day summer school each year to allow you to meet fellow students and your tutors while attending workshops to support your learning and development in the units.

For our Business Development and Licensing pathway, we offer a two-day winter school held in London that covers the units within this key course for business development executives.

Career opportunities

Our alumni have used the learning and opportunities gained from this course to advance their careers in a range of roles and areas.

Some have moved to management positions, while others have taken on roles with more responsibility, becoming team leaders, heads of projects or responsible for new and larger areas, regions or territories.

As part of the course, our students build networks of contacts and join a growing community of leaders within the industry.

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