Immunology of Infectious Diseases (MSc)

Having started to establish my academic career in microbiology and immunology, I was looking for Msc programme that would give me in depth immunological and research skills in infectious diseases particularly tropical diseases. Working experience for almost two years at Bugando University College of health sciences in Tanzania gave me good experience and I felt that I needed more immunological skills to expand my knowledge. Through support from my employer I was able to begin Msc Immunology of infectious diseases at LSHTM
Although some of the Msc titles sound specific the materials and flexibility within the modules choices in each programme create good opportunities and accessibilities for every one’s needs. I found this programme would be perfect for me and has really fulfilled what I had hoped to learn and introduced me to different research areas and opportunities. Participating in immunology congress at Glasgow and having advanced immunology module has broadened my way of thinking in different research areas. LSHTM has not only given me good experience in immunological skills but has also fulfilled my passion for research. It is really incredible learning environment with excellent learning facilities, encouragement motivation and compassion.
One of the most striking things about the school is its diversity in international multicultural backgrounds and academic disciplines, and this is what makes the school such an interesting place to study. Studying at LSHTM has been one of the best experiences of my school life. The teaching is of high standard and lectures are given by personnel with high calibre within and outside the school. The support from tutors and other staff and the extent to which they assist students in any way possible is remarkable and create good learning environment. Cultural diversity from colleagues and lecturers enriches the process of learning enormously. I highly recommend the school for different disciplines in tropical medicine and mostly Msc. Immunology of infectious diseases to anyone interested in Immunology and/or thinking of establishing career in research and/or academia afterwards.

Before this MSc I did my undergrad at VU University in Amsterdam. I studied Health Sciences and specialised in infectious diseases and biomedical aspects of healthcare. I did an internship in collaboration with a project of the World Bank into the predictors of childhood stunting in children in Guyana. For my MSc I wanted to study infectious diseases, but wanted something different to what I had done before. Plus I wanted to gain more lab experience and dive further into the molecular field. The modules that are offered and the lecturers are inspirational and super interesting. Therefore, the MSc Immunology of Infectious Diseases was the perfect choice for me.

At the moment I am doing my summer project for which I spend a lot of time in the lab. And I am loving every bit of it! It is just so much fun. What I have really liked over the past year were some of the guest lecturers. It has been really inspirational to hear such experts talk about their field of research. But what I maybe love most about the School are my fellow students. All are equally enthusiastic about being here, very social and incredibly friendly. They’re the best! I think this degree has been the right platform for me to do a PhD afterwards.

Studying Immunology of Infectious Diseases at the School will be of huge benefit to my career because the course has given me a deeper insight into this particular branch of biological research, enabling me to pursue a more defined path in my scientific career. By focusing on particular aspects of immunology, and specific infections, I can learn better and apply what I have learned in a more efficient manner. If we each focus on one brick, all together we can build a house and be stronger.