Masters Degrees in Biological Sciences, Ireland

The MSc Biotechnology programme aims to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and experience that are needed to pursue a successful career in biotechnology. Through tutorials, lectures, assignments and a four-month research project, the programme focuses on the adaptation and application of biological processes for commercial and industrial use. This course would be suitable for graduates with a primary degree in the Biological Sciences who wish to extend their knowledge and skills for a career in the biotechnology sector.

Graduates have found employment in the pharmaceutical and food industries, and in diagnostic and research services, with companies such as Abbott, Allergan, ICON Clinical Research, Norbrook Laboratories and Pfizer. They are pursuing careers in manufacturing, quality assurance, product development and research, as well as the broader sectors of sales, marketing, and regulatory affairs.

Programme Content:

Core Modules

Research Project:

Five-month laboratory project with an academic research team on a biotechnology topic.

Frontiers in Biotechnology:

An interactive tutorial-based module that will develop students' transferable skill and knowledge of recent advances in biotechnology.

Current Methodologies in Biotechnology:

Experts will teach methodologies fundamental to biotechnological research and application.

Diagnostic Biotechnology:

A comprehensive overview of immunological and molecular diagnostics applied in current biotechnological applications.

Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology:

Fundamental understanding of how drugs work and how they are discovered and developed.

Protein Technology:

Enhancing protein production and function of biopharmaceutical and industrial proteins on a commercial scale.

Introduction to Business:

Concepts of marketing, management and accountancy and their application in biotechnology businesses.

Optional Modules (Choose 2)

Advanced Industrial Process:

This module is designed to develop an awareness of microbial technologies and their applications to biotechnology.

Applied Concepts of Pharmacology:

This module introduces students to autonomic pharmacology and drug discovery and development.

Scientific Writing:

This module aims to provide students with an in-dept understanding of the process of scientific publications.

Immunology:

Emphasis on the clinical value of manipulation of the immune system.

Quality Management Systems:

QMS for the efficient and safe running of commercial and industrial biotechnology enterprises.

Cell & Molecular Biology: Advanced Technologies

This module outlines the fundamentals of cell and molecular biology.

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Overview

This programme represents an innovative development in higher degree options in the biological sciences. It is targeted at biological and health science graduates who are interested in the major challenges in health and development today and who wish to broaden their understanding of immunology, its importance in global health and the factors that impact on immunological intervention strategies in health and disease. An important component of the course covers emerging and reemerging diseases including diseases of poverty

Course Structure

The programme will be delivered as 12 taught modules and a lab-based research project. The taught modules include fundamental, clinical and applied immunology, global health and diseases of poverty, epidemiology, medical geography, systems biology, clinical trials, patenting, licensing and bioethics. Each module includes tutorial and/or practical sessions that complement and expand on the lecture content. A series of weekly workshops and seminars will cover important aspects of postgraduate study, including study skills, grant and report writing, scientific writing etc.

Duration: 1 year Full-time

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Course Objective

The objective of this course is to introduce students to an inter-disciplinary approach to research, which utilises technologies and skills from a wide spectrum of scientific, engineering and clinical disciplines to address fundamental questions originating in biology and medicine. During the course students will carry out a number of practicals. They will be introduced to selected advanced experimental techniques used in biomedical science and industry. The techniques include:
DNA-microarray and RT-PCR, Immunostaining and Confocal Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy and Nano Hardness Tester, Mass Spectrometry, various chromatography methods and Infra-red spectroscopy.

Benefits of the Course

The programme offers the Biological Sciences graduate a means of achieving the mathematical, computational, and instrumentation skills necessary to work in biomedical science. Likewise the Physical Science/Engineering graduate will gain experience in aspects of cell biology, tissue engineering, and animal studies. The course work will draw mainly from courses already on offer to undergraduates in the Science faculty, but will also include new modules developed specifically for this course. Expertise from other research institutes and from industry will be used,where appropriate.

The course covers following areas:
Material Science and Biomaterials
Applied Biomedical Sciences
Cell & Molecular Biology: Advanced Technologies
Fundamental Concepts in Pharmacology
Human Body Structure
Protein Technology
Tissue Engineering
Bioinformatics
Radiation & Medical Physics
Molecular Medicine
Regulatory Compliance in Healthcare Manufacturing
Advanced Tissue Engineering
Introduction to Business
Scientific Writing

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc in Biomedical Science with undergraduate degrees in engineering and science have gone on to work within the medical device and pharmaceutical industry, hospitals and academia.

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The number of industries requiring highly skilled graduates in the biological and biomolecular sciences is rapidly expanding and remains based on the principle that employable graduates should possess a range of key skills. The MSc in Biological and Biomolecular Science by Negotiated Learning will afford students the flexibility to broaden their understanding of biological and biomolecular science against a backdrop of learning core technical, methodological and innovation skills relevant to the industry and academia.
Several innovative specialisations are available from a carefully chosen range of modules from the relevant disciplines within the UCD School of Biomolecular & Biomedical Science and the UCD School of Biology and Environmental Science. These provide students with an exciting prospect of studying and researching in the interdisciplinary fields of genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology and biodata analysis. This diverse offering aims to enhance and develop a student’s current knowledge and skill base using a wide range of taught components and applied research skills. Guidance from expert faculty is provided to tailor a programme that will meet the anticipated requirements of the student’s objectives and career goals.

Key Fact

This MSc in Biological and Biomolecular Science is the first of its kind offered in Ireland by Negotiated Learning. This offers students a unique opportunity to combine skills and learning from several related disciplines with guidance from expert faculty staff, and to deepen their knowledge in one of our specialisations.

Course Content and Structure

The course is divided into the following:
•Core Laboratory Research Skills (30 credits) – including techniques such as RT-PCR, western blotting and imaging studies.
•Core Professional Taught Skills Modules (20 credits) – including career development, quantitative tools, science writing and communication skills.
•Optional Taught modules (40 credits) – involves selecting one of the following specialisations and selecting specific modules within
these that meet the student’s learning objectives.

The Specialisations Available:
• Genetics and Cell Biology: investigates cellular signalling, architecture, imaging, trafficking and transport, genetic basis of disease, model organisms, epigenetics, etc.
• Microbiology and Infection Biology: investigates mechanisms of pathogenic micro-organisms, host response to infection, immunopathologies, host-pathogen interactions, development of diagnostics, applied microbiology, etc.
• Biochemistry and Synthetic Biology: investigates metabolism and disease, protein-protein interactions, cell signalling, protein structure and analysis.

Career Opportunities

This programme will enable you to choose from a wide range of careers and areas of postgraduate study. This multi-disciplinary course provides a solid grounding for careers in industry, health and research, such as Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Microbiology, Process control, Technical Transfer, Research and Development, and Regulatory Affairs, Scientific Editor or Writer, Lab Technician or Analyst roles.

An academic staff member will advise you on a specialisation and module choices based on the opportunities you hope to unlock.

Facilities and Resources

Students on this programme will benefit from the use of a research skills laboratory in the prestigious UCD Conway Institute, as well as state-of-the-art teaching and laboratory facilities in the new O'Brien Centre for Science.

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The MSc in Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation is a unique course aimed at highly-motivated students with an interest in biomedical research in the areas of cancer biology, infection/immunity or molecular neuroscience and entrepreneurial thinking. The course will provide you with a truly interdisciplinary educational experience by combining advanced discipline-specific training with core scientific research, technical expertise and business skills.

Visit the website: http://www.ucc.ie/en/ckr44/

Course Details

A distinctive feature of the MSc in Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation is that you will receive formal innovation and technology commercialisation training through modules from the College of Business and Law at UCC.

With three primary research themes – cancer biology, infection/immunity and molecular neuroscience, you will select projects with internationally-renowned research groups from the Schools of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Department of Anatomy/Neuroscience, following the completion of discipline-specific modules.

You will not only possess excellent research and technical skills on graduation but also the necessary business development and commercialisation skills for life science innovation.

Format

The course will consist of lectures, tutorials, hands-on workshops and a research dissertation based on individual research.

Core Scientific Modules (25 credits)

- Cell and Molecular Biology
- Human Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering Techniques
- Biological and Clinical Perspectives of Human Disease

Scientific Skills-Development Modules (10 credits)

- Biotechniques
- Scientific Communication of Current Topics in Molecular Cell Biology Core Business Modules (10 credits)
- Marketing for High Technology Entrepreneurs
- Technology and Business Planning

Elective modules (5 credits)

- Creativity and Opportunity Recognition
- Innovation Finance
- Intellectual Property Law for High-Tech Entrepreneurs

Research Project (40 credits)

You will select a project offered by internationally-renowned research groups from the Schools of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Microbiology and Anatomy/Neuroscience. With three primary research themes – cancer biology, infection/immunity and molecular neuroscience, you will complete a six month project based on individual research in one of these themes and compile the results into an MSc dissertation on completion.

You will gain invaluable hands-on, practical experience in experimental design, implementation and data interpretation and develop a wide array of transferable skills, including written and verbal communication; data recording, analysis and presentation; critical evaluation of published material; learning to work collaboratively and independently as well as project and time-management.

Further details on the content and modules are available on the Postgraduate College Calendar - http://www.ucc.ie/calendar/postgraduate/Masters/science/page04.html#molecular

Assessment

Taught modules are examined by formal written examination and continuous assessment. The research dissertation for the six-month research project must be submitted by the end of the first academic year of registration for examination by internal and external examiners.

Careers

You will be ideally positioned to enter into a PhD after graduation, but could also pursue a number of career paths including: technology transfer officer within higher education institutions and national agencies, R&D project manager, commercialisation manager within a life science start-up, or development manager within the pharmaceutical sector. The course will also equip you with the skills required to develop your own start-up venture.

A first destination surveys from 2012 - 2014 have revealed that 100% of our graduates are in employment or further education within one-year of completing the MSc in Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation.

How to apply: http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/how/

Funding and Scholarships

Information regarding funding and available scholarships can be found here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/cblgradschool/current/fundingandfinance/fundingscholarships/

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Key Features of the MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology

The MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology at University College Cork is a research-intensive course designed to maximize a student's hands-on laboratory experience and research skills. The 12-month research project is supervised by an internationally-recognized investigator based in the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Research projects are available in the areas of bioanalysis, bioinformatics, proteomics, cancer biology, cell signaling, gene expression, trafficking, molecular genetics, neurobiology, RNA biology, translational control and synthetic biology. The MRes has a strong focus on presentation and writing skills that are required for a successful research career, including research planning proposal writing. In addition to this, students develop their general and transferable skills in laboratory techniques and safety, research ethics and integrity, information literary, science communication and statistics. Students are also required to attend weekly research seminars presented by both external and internal speakers.

Core and Elective Modules

Students in the MRes programme begin their research projects with a selected supervisor in week two, following a research induction and orientation. In addition to the research component, the following modules must be completed:
- Scientific Communication of Current Topics in Molecular Cell Biology
- Scientific Research Planning and Proposals
Students must also complete one (10-credit) or two (5-credit) electives from several options:
- Scientific Training for Enhanced Postgraduate Studies
- Biotechniques
- Information Literacy Skills
- Scientific Outreach and Communication
- Introduction to Research Ethics
- Statistics and Data Analysis for Postgraduate Research Students

Why choose the MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology?

With an emphasis on the individual, the MRes has a dedicated director and experienced academic staff who will help students fulfill their research career ambitions. The School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology is a strong research unit based at University College Cork, Ireland's first 5 star university (QS) and the world's first 'Green Campus'. Recently named 'University of the Year 2016' by The Sunday Times and located within walking distance of Cork city centre, UCC enjoys a great location and a vibrant campus.
Students who complete the MRes will be competitive to secure a PhD position or enter directly into employment within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sectors. All of the students in our current class have ambitions of continuing on to a PhD.

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The MSc Marine Biology aims to train graduates in multiple areas of marine biology and equip them with professional certificates in Sea Survival, Powerboat Handling, Marine Radio and First Aid as well as necessary field skills.

The areas of marine biology covered in this master’s course include fisheries and aquaculture, genetics, marine ecology and conservation, marine mammals and ecological aspects of Geographic Information System (GIS). In addition, the course has a significant field work component including ship work as well as survey and sampling techniques training. This course, run entirely by the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences at University College Cork, will provide an understanding of these various disciplines and skills needed in order to meet the growing demand for trained marine biologists at home and abroad.

Visit the website: http://www.ucc.ie/en/ckr38/

Course Details

On successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

- demonstrate a clear understanding and integration of knowledge of marine flora and fauna, the marine environment and its biological and physical properties and processes
- assess the sustainability of exploitation (fisheries and aquaculture) and assess the impact of other anthropogenic factors on the marine environment
- define the roles of management and conservation across the marine environment
- demonstrate a wide range of research skills (field and laboratory) including safety-related and professional qualifications
- apply the knowledge and skills acquired in this course in the working environment enabling the development of policy.

Format

This full-time 12-month course is split into Part I taught modules running from September to April and Part II, a four-month research project for students passing Part I. The course includes ship time experience aboard the Irish State research vessel, Celtic Voyager and field work day trips to various locations in County Cork as well as a week-long residential field course in the West of Scotland in March. In addition, students undertake professional certificate courses in January and February at the National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy, Cork

Part I of the course consists of eight taught modules to the value of 60 credits involving lectures, practicals, seminars and fieldwork. Part II is a substantial research project (BL6017) to the value of 30 credits for those passing Part I. Each of the prescribed taught modules will be examined by a written paper and/or continuous assessment. Each student progressing to Part II of the course must submit the research project in an area of marine biology by a date as prescribed by the School of BEES.

Part I

BL6010 Characteristics of the Marine Environment (5 credits)
BL6012Marine Megafauna (10 credits)
BL6013Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture (10 credits)
BL6014Marine Fieldwork and Survey Techniques (10 credits)
BL6015Practical Marine Workplace Skills (5 credits)
BL6016Marine Ecology and Conservation (10 credits)
BL6019 Ecological Applications of Geographical Information Systems (5 credits)
BL6020 Genetics and the Marine Environment (5 credits)

Part II - Four-Month Research Project

BL6017Marine Biology Research Project (30 credits)

Assessment

The taught modules in the course are assessed by a combination of written examinations and continuous assessment elements (including essays, practical reports, critiques, seminars, dossiers and analytical elements). The four-month research project is assessed by a dissertation, project seminar and an assessment of your practical ability throughout the duration of the project.

Careers

As well as a number of professionally certified courses that will be provided throughout the course, students will also gain a variety of technical skills associated with research and computer skills (GIS in particular). Many transferable skills are also fostered through different learning approaches, including critical thinking, problem solving, report writing, oral presentations, statistical analysis, independent research and time management.

How to apply: http://www.ucc.ie/en/study/postgrad/how/

Funding and Scholarships

Information regarding funding and available scholarships can be found here: https://www.ucc.ie/en/cblgradschool/current/fundingandfinance/fundingscholarships/

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There is a separate entry on admission to the P.Grad.Dip. in Molecular Medicine.

This course aims to give participants an indepth understanding of the emerging field of molecular medicine which draws together developments in molecular and cellular biology to describe disease processes at a functional level - that of molecular interactions.

The course aims to provide students with an understanding of the molecular basis of human disease and its implications for the practice of clinical medicine and research in the life sciences. The course will ensure that students from all disciplines have the skills necessary to conduct research and critically evaluate the scientific and medical literature.

The course includes lectures on cellular biology and molecular genetics as they apply generally to normal cell and tissue function and to disease processes. Modules on molecular signalling and therapeutics, bioinformatics and ethical-legal aspects of the discipline are included, as well as literature reviews, laboratory practicals and a laboratory project.

The course is available in a one-year, full-time and a two-year, part-time format. It consists of lectures on cellular biology and molecular genetics as they apply generally to normal cell and tissue function and more specifically to disease processes such as cancer, immune dysfunction, and diseases with an inherited component. The course content includes molecular signalling and therapeutics, molecular and population genetics, nanoscience, and high content cell analysis. There is a core, 'Research Skills' module which encompasses bioinformatics and ethical-legal aspects of the emerging discipline, literature reviews, and laboratory practicals in basic molecular and cellular techniques. Candidates will complete a laboratory project of three months (full-time) or six months (part-time) duration. Candidates must also complete the taught module, Molecular Mechanisms of Human Disease I. This course provides the applicant with state-of-the-art information and critical analysis of: The human genome at a molecular level, the integration of molecular and cellular biology in relation to human diseases; the molecular basis of human genetic disease; the molecular interactions between microbiological pathogens and the human host; the technology currently employed in researching molecular medicine; the molecular basis of common human inflammatory diseases and malignancies; the utilisation of knowledge on the molecular basis of human disease in planning and design of novel therapies, using pharmacological agents or gene therapy; the ethical and legal aspects of molecular medicine as it impinges on clinical practice. You will also gain a working appreciation of molecular and cellular biology at the practical level and development of the ability to perform independent research with the ability to apply bioinformatic and computational techniques in medical and biological research, and information retrieval. The student is examined on the basis of a submitted critical literature review essay, a written examination, assessment of laboratory practicals and the writing of a dissertation based on a research project. Candidates from health science (medical, dental, veterinary), biological science and other science disciplines (e.g. chemical or pharmacy), are invited to apply.

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This programme aims to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of the emerging field of molecular medicine, which draws together developments in molecular and cellular biology to describe disease processes at a functional level - that is, at the level of molecular interactions. The Diploma in Molecular Medicine is designed to make available a high quality course to those individuals who cannot avail of a full-time programme, due to the high demands it makes on a candidate's time. The diploma may therefore be an attractive option for, among others, people working in business, clinical industry, or other disciplines, who wish to gain a comprehensive knowledge in this area with a view to progressing professionally, or going on to do a higher degree.

This programme offers a comprehensive and thoroughly up-to-date overview of the area, which provides participants with the skills necessary to critically evaluate the literature and understand the central concepts of molecular medicine, such as the molecular basis of human disease and its implications for the practice of clinical medicine and research in the life sciences. The course includes lectures on cellular biology and molecular genetics as they apply generally to normal cell and tissue function and to disease processes. Advanced modules cover topics such as molecular oncology, signalling, development and therapeutics, immunology and infectious agents among others. A selection of modules on issues such as bioinformatics, research methodology, statistics and ethicallegal aspects of the discipline may be undertaken on an optional basis.

Students choose a minimum of 10 units totalling a minimum of one hundred contact hours teaching. Students are also required to complete a written review of a relevant part of the literature. Students are examined on the basis of the submitted critical literature review essay, and written examinations of the modules taken. Examinations are undertaken at the end of each term.

Candidates should normally have a minimum of a 2.1 honors degree or equivalent in a biological science; a clinical science such as medicine, dentistry or veterinary; a pharmaceutical science such as pharmacy, or related area. However individuals with other appropriate or industrial experience (for example those working in the life sciences sector) will also be considered. The candidate may be interviewed to establish his/her suitability for the course.

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Biotechnology encompasses all aspects of the industrial application of living organisms and/ or biological techniques. It is a collection of technologies that capitalise on the attributes of cells and biological molecules, such as DNA, to work for us. The primary biotechnology activity carried out in Ireland is research and development. Ireland has experienced massive growth across the biotechnology sector including food, environmental and pharmaceutical industries in the last decade. Ireland is home to nine of the top 10 global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, such as GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Merck, BristolMyers Squibb and Genzyme, with seven of the 10 world blockbuster pharmaceuticals made here. The MSc in Biotechnology is taught by leading
academics in the UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and focuses on broadening your knowledge and understanding of the current technologies and processes in the biotechnology industry, including approaches being applied to further advance the discovery and design of new and highly innovative biotech and pharmaceutical products and technologies. It also provides modules on food and environmental biotechnology, as well as industrially relevant expertise in facility design, bioprocess technology, regulatory affairs and clinical trials.

Key Fact

During the third semester you will conduct research in an academic or industrial lab. Projects will be carried out within research groups of the UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science using state-of-the-art laboratory and computational facilities or in Irish and multinational biotechnology companies, across the spectrum of the dynamic biotechnology industry in Ireland.

Course Content and Structure

Taught masters Taught modules Individual research project
90 credits 60 credits 30 credits
You will gain experimental and theoretical knowledge in the following topics:
• Pharmacology and Drug Development
• Medical Device Technology
• Biomedical Diagnostics
• Recombinant DNA Technology
• Microbial and Animal Cell Culture
• Food Biotechnology
• Facility Design
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Regulatory Affairs
• Drug Development and Clinical Trials
• Bioprocessing Laboratory Technology
Assessment
• Your work will be assessed using a variety
of methods including coursework, group
and individual reports, written and online
exams, and presentations

Career Opportunities

This advanced graduate degree in Biotechnology has been developed in consultation with employers and therefore is recognised and valued by them. A key feature is the opportunity to carry out a project in industry which will allow graduates to develop connections with prospective employers, thereby enhancing chances of employment on graduation. You will also have the opportunity to become part of a network of alumni in the fi eld of Biotechnology. Prospective employers include Abbott; Allergan; Amgen; Baxter Healthcare; Beckman Coulter; Biotrin International Ltd.; Boston Scientifi c; Elan Corporation; Eli Lilly and Co.; Celltech; GlaxoSmithKline; Icon Clinical Research; Johnson & Johnson Ltd.; Kerry Group Plc.; Merck Sharp & Dohme; Quintiles; Sandoz; Serology Ltd.

Facilities and Resources

• The UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science is closely linked to the UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, which provides cutting edge core technologies including the premier Mass Spectrometry Resource in the country, NMR spectroscopy, real time PCR, electron microscopy, light microscopy, digital pathology and fl ow cytometry.

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Biotechnology encompasses all aspects of the industrial application of living organisms and/ or biological techniques. It is a collection of technologies that capitalise on the attributes of cells and biological molecules, such as DNA, to work for us. Ireland has experienced massive growth across the Biotechnology sector including Food, Environmental and Pharmaceutical industries in the last decade. Ireland is home to nine of the top 10 world pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, such as GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Merck, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Genzyme, with seven of the 10 world blockbuster pharmaceuticals made here.
The MSc in Biotechnology and Business is an exciting programme designed for non-business graduates who want to become managers or entrepreneurs in complex business environments in technology and science-based fields. The MSc in Biotechnology and Business provides you with a solid knowledge of techniques used in modern biotechnology including hands-on experience of bioprocessing. You will also receive a comprehensive business education. You will learn to identify and solve business problems
in local and international settings, enhance your communication and leadership skills, and improve your ability for independent thinking and developing creative solutions. The programme is the result of a close collaboration between the UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business, which is Ireland’s leading business school.

Key Fact

The programme is the result of a close collaboration between the UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business, which is Ireland’s leading business school.

Course Content and Structure

90 credits 70 credits 20 credits
taught masters taught modules group business plan research project
You will spend 50% of your time studying biotechnology and 50% of your time studying business. You may choose optional biotechnology modules to ensure that you specialise in your area of interest.
Depending on your chosen subjects you will also gain experimental and theoretical knowledge in the following topics:
• Drug Discovery
• Medical Device Technology
• Biomedical Diagnostics
• Regulatory Affairs
• Bioprocessing
• Marketing Management
• Corporate Finance
• Entrepreneurship
• Business plan development
• Biotechnology Case Study

Career Opportunities

This advanced graduate degree in Biotechnology and Business has been developed in consultation with employers and therefore will be recognised and valued by them. A key feature is the opportunity to carry out a business development plan which will allow graduates to develop connections with prospective employers, thereby enhancing chances of employment on graduation.
Prospective employers include: Abbott; Allergan; Alpha Technologies;
Amgen; Avonmore Foods; Baxter Healthcare; Beckman Coulter; Biotrin International
Ltd.; Boston Scientifi c; Elan Corporation; Eli Lilly and Co.; Celltech; GlaxoSmithKline; Icon
Clinical Research; ImmunoGen Inc.; Janssen Pharmaceutical Ltd.; Johnson & Johnson Ltd.;
Kerry Group Plc.; Medtronic; Merck Sharp & Dohme; Olympus Diagnostica; Quintiles;
Quest International; Sandoz.; Seroba Kernel; Serology Ltd.

Facilities and Resources

The UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science is closely linked to the UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, which provides cutting-edge core technologies including the premier Mass Spectrometry resource in the country, NMR spectroscopy, real-time PCR, electron microscopy, light microscopy, digital pathology and fl ow cytometry.

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The MSc in Cancer Research is aimed at life science and medical graduates who wish to specialise in the field of cancer research. The purpose of the programme is to provide students with extensive research-laboratory training and an overarching theoretical knowledge of cancer biology. The course has a unique, research-oriented approach with taught modules, resulting in an internationally recognised MSc degree. The obtained knowledge and skillset enables our graduates to pursue a career as a research-scientist in academia, in the medical field or in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sector.

Specifically the course aims to:

1. Provide a broad and in-depth knowledge in molecular-, cellular- and clinical cancer biology.

2. Provide knowledge in a broad range of classic as well as state-of-the-art research technologies applied in cancer research.

3. Provide training in laboratory and research skills both at basic and advanced levels by assigning students a laboratory research project through which they will develop both technical competencies and critical thinking abilities.

4. Facilitate the interdisciplinary approach of cancer research by engaging clinical and nonclinical scientists, enabling the cross-fertilisation of ideas and thus promoting medically-focused research.

The MSc in Cancer research is a modular course, consisting of 30% taught material (equalling 25 ECTS units) combined with a strong, 70% research element (equal to 65 ECTS) allowing ample time for the students to gain in-depth research exposure.

The course material is delivered using a blended learning format (combination of face-to-face/traditional-format lectures, tutorials, self-directed learning and assignments) that will not only deliver the information the students have to attain, but also trains the students how to research independently and evaluate the information critically, which are key and valuable skills for a highly qualified cancer research scientist.

The research element will encompass two semesters. After an induction phase, the students will work on one research project throughout the two semesters allowing them to acquire a broad range of research skills ranging from state-of-the-art technologies through data interpretation to experimental design and data presentation. Available research project titles in participating laboratories of the School of Natural Sciences and other programme-associated Institutes will be provided to the students from which they can choose their project options. The students will write the MSc thesis on the findings of their research project..

Overall, the knowledge and laboratory experience providesour graduates with a great advantage when competing for either academic or industry-linked careers.

For further information please visit: http://www.nuigalway.ie/courses/research-postgraduate-programmes/structured-phd/cancer-research.html


How to apply:
Applications are made online via Postgraduate Applications Centre (http://www.pac.ie/nuigalway). The following documents must be supplied:
- A Curriculum Vitae
- A personal statement of approximately 600 words explaining why the the applicant wishes to undertake the Structured MSc in Cancer Research programme and how the programme fits into their career objectives.
Academic transcripts, unless the applicant is a graduate or current student of NUI Galway.

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The MSc in Biotherapeutics and Business educates students on the practical uses of molecular advances in the discovery of proteins and other biomolecular drug candidates and their development into biotherapeutics. It will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the development of biotherapeutics, beginning with pre-clinical modelling and target identification together with antibody engineering, biochemical and biophysical characterisation, and development issues for bioprocessing.
Systems biology of biotechnological processes and approaches to the analysis of proteomicsbased discovery data will be covered in detail, together with mathematical modelling, bioinformatics analysis and data integration strategies. Regulatory issues, and innovation and commercialisation strategies, will also be covered. Mammalian cell culture and bioprocess laboratory structure will be comprehensively covered in addition to novel approaches to therapeutic development. You will also receive a comprehensive business education. You will learn to identify and solve business problems in local and international settings, enhance your communication and leadership skills, and improve your ability for independent thinking and developing creative solutions.

Key Fact

The programme is the result of a close collaboration between the UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and the UCD
Michael Smurfit Graduate School of Business, which is Ireland’s leading business school.

Course Content and Structure

90 credits 60 credits 30 credits
taught masters taught modules project modules
The structure of the programme is as follows:
Semester 1
• Professional Career Development
• Management & Org. Behaviour
• Corporate Accounting & Finance
• Business of Biotechnology & Science
• Biotherapeutic Pipeline I
• Recombinant DNA Technology
• Biomedical Diagnostics
• High Content Screening Microscopy
• Pharmacology & Drug Development
Semester 2
• Professional Career Development
• Biotherapeutic Pipeline II
• Systems Biology in Drug Development
• Bioprocessing Laboratory
• Emerging Issues in Biotechnology
• Regulatory Affairs
• Microbial & Animal Cell Products
Semester 3
• Valuation and Commercialisation of Biotherapeutics
• Biotherapeutics Case Study
Modules and topics shown are subject to change and are not guaranteed by UCD.

Career Opportunities

This advanced graduate degree in Biotherapeutics and Business has been developed in consultation with employers and therefore will be recognised and valued by them. A key feature is the opportunity to carry out a business development plan, which will allow graduates to develop connections with prospective employers, thereby enhancing chances of employment on graduation.
Prospective employers include: Abbott; Allergan; Amgen; Baxter Healthcare;
Eli Lilly and Co.; Dignity Sciences; GlaxoSmithKline; Icon Clinical Research;
ImmunoGen Inc.; Janssen Pharmaceutical Ltd.; Johnson & Johnson Ltd.; Merck
Sharp & Dohme; Quintiles; Quest International; Sandoz; Seroba Kernel.

Facilities and Resources

Students on this programme will benefi t from the use of a research skills laboratory in the prestigious UCD Conway Institute, as well as state-of-the-art teaching and laboratory facilities in the new O’Brien Centre for Science.

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This programme has been designed to provide students with a sound theoretical and practical grounding in the science of biological diversity and its conservation. The programme is taught in modules, and these are grouped into theoretical components, practical research skills, and modules dealing with individual desk-based and experimental research projects. The course is taught through a variety of methods - lectures, practical classes, field-based learning, guided reading and discussion groups and web-based methods. A variety of assessment procedures are used - essay writing, oral presentations, web-based tests, examinations and dissertations. The approach is to develop, progressively, a high degree of independent thinking and academic excellence in students completing the course.

Following successful completion of the taught part of the course, students embark on a closely supervised research project of approximately three months duration, intended to expand the skills and knowledge base acquired in earlier modules.

This is a full-time, intensive programme that will run over a twelve-month period. All modules are compulsory for M.Sc. candidates while P.Grad.Dip. candidates are required to take all modules except the Research Project.

The programme provides in-depth training and experience for those looking to further their career in various aspects of biodiversity and its conservation, for students wishing to pursue further post-graduate research in this area, and for professionals already working in conservation biology wishing to obtain relevant qualifications.

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Overview

Students entering the Structured Postgraduate Programme in Biology will be under the supervision of an experienced researcher. All academic staff members in the Biology Department are experienced and active researchers and can supervise research students. Information about their research can be found on the Biology Department Website (https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/biology/our-research) and interested students should initially contact researchers directly to discuss potential MSc projects.

In most but not all instances, your stipend, university fees, consumable, equipment and travel costs will be paid from a research grant from a national or international grant agency or charity. Your supervisor usually competitively obtains this grant, but students can also obtain their own scholarships.

Upon entering the programme each student will be assigned two additional mentors, an Advisor and an Assessor. The Advisor provides additional mentorship for the student throughout the programme and is someone the student can discuss issues with in addition to their supervisor. The Assessor is a member of staff who will provide an annual constructive critique of the students work programme and will aid, together with the Advisor, in outlining possible future research plans.

In addition to the research project, training is provided through compulsory attendance of a variety of generic and transferable skills as well as subject specific modules. For example, the established Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning will provide research students with experience in practical class demonstrating and teaching and learning methodologies. Training in subject specific skills is provided through modules offered either through the Biology Department or as part of the Dublin Region Higher Education Alliance (DRHEA). Advanced modules in many life science topics are already established within the Biomedical Sciences and Chemistry strands of the DRHEA provides a variety of to students on the programme. Finally, research students will be encouraged to attend at least one international conference during their programme, at which they will be expected to present an oral or poster presentation.

Closing date

Research applications are generally accepted at any time

Commences

September

Course Structure

Students must take a minimum of 10 credits in taught modules (at least 5 in generic/ transferable modules and at least 5 in subject specific/advanced specialist modules).

Career Options

Students must take a minimum of 10 credits in taught modules (at least 5 in generic/ transferable modules and at least 5 in subject specific/advanced specialist modules).

Duration: 2 years Full-time, 3 years Part-time

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