MSc Human and Molecular Genetics

I believe the analytical skills and techniques I have learned so far have helped me to stand out in my application for the NHS Scientist Training Programme and were critical in landing me a job in this competitive career!

Graduate role: NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) Genomic Counselling, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust

Poppy secured a place on the competitive NHS Scientist Training Programme whilst studying for her MSc Human and Molecular Genetics degree and she feels that studying at Sheffield is one of the best decisions she's made.

“I learnt about the MSc Human and Molecular Genetics course whilst studying for my undergraduate Medical Biochemistry degree here at the University of Sheffield. Sheffield provided me with a full experience of student life whilst receiving an extremely high-standard of education, which was part of the reason why I stayed on here. My interest in genetics attracted me to the MSc along with my hope for a job in healthcare science.

"Lecture modules during the MSc provided me with an in-depth understanding of basic genetic principles as well as the latest innovations in genomic science. Projects during the course trained me to competently perform many techniques in the lab, enhancing both my teamwork and leadership skills.

"The course also provided me with opportunities to undertake NHS placements, including placements with the pre-karyotyping oncology team at Sheffield’s Children’s Hospital and NHS Next-Generation Sequencing training. I was able to use the knowledge and skills I gained from the MSc during interviews, which was crucial in helping me to secure a place on the genomic counselling NHS Scientist Training Programme. My decision to study at the University of Sheffield was one of the best decisions I have made.”

Now: PhD Research Scientist, Molecular Genetics, University of Sheffield

Through the MSc Human and Molecular Genetics, Hasan further explored his interest in molecular genetics. It was the training on this course that helped him to secure his current PhD position within the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology here at Sheffield.

"The first time I came to Sheffield was during a training course in summer 2013. I was fascinated by Sheffield’s nature, and went on hikes in the Peak District National park exploring its magnificent hills. This is when I met Dr. Adam Hodgson, Course Director for MSc Human and Molecular Genetics. By the time the course was advertised I was very interested in genetics, especially genetic disorders and the molecular pathology behind them. I applied to the course where the lecture modules increased my interest in the subject, and the practical modules increased my skills in scientific research.

"As an international student the most valuable skill I developed was my scientific writing skills where we were asked to write a literature review in the first term. I was faced with difficulties in the beginning but the department helped me finding my weaknesses to develop my writing skills further. The academic training and the clinical aspect of this course helped me to decide what I want to do. In addition to the lecture modules, the weekly departmental seminars opened my eyes to the type of research I want to do. All of this helped me in securing a PhD position in the department, studying the molecular pathways that govern chromosome segregation during cell division."