In recent years the study of plant sciences has been revolutionised by the development of new tools and technologies which have allowed unprecedented progress in the study of plant biology – knowledge which is being applied to develop sustainable solutions to some of the major challenges of the 21st century.
This course will give you specialist training in the modern molecular aspects of plant science. A large part of your teaching will be delivered by academics from the University’s Centre for Plant Sciences (CPS) linked to the latest research in their areas of expertise.
You’ll explore the wide ranges of approaches used in biomolecular sciences as applied to plant science. This will cover theory and practice of recombinant DNA and protein production, bioimaging using our confocal microscope suite, practical bioinformatics and theories behind ‘omic technologies.
You’ll also learn how to design a programme of research and write a research proposal, read and critically analyse scientific papers in plant science and biotechnology and present the findings. A highlight of the course is your individual 80 credit practical research project.
The course is 100% coursework assessed (although some modules have small in course tests). Our teaching and assessment methods are designed to develop your independent thinking, problem solving, communication skills and practical ability, making you attractive to employers or providing an excellent foundation for further study (eg PhD).
You’ll study in a faculty ranked 6th in the UK for its research impact in the recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014).
Our Facilities
You’ll study in a stimulating environment which houses extensive facilities developed to support and enhance our faculty’s pioneering research. As well as Faculty operated facilities, the CPS laboratories are well equipped for general plant research. There is also a plant growth unit, including tissue culture suites with culture rooms, growth rooms and flow cabinets alongside transgenic glass-houses to meet a range of growth requirements.
On this course you’ll gain an overview of a range of modern techniques and methodologies that underpin contemporary biomolecular plant sciences.
You’ll also apply your knowledge to an extended practical investigation in the form of a laboratory-based mini project, involving practical training in a range of modern molecular biology and protein engineering techniques such as gene cloning, PCR, mutagenesis, protein expression, protein purification and analysis.
A module on plant biotechnology will address current topics such as the engineering of plants, development of stress-tolerant crop varieties and techniques for gene expression and gene silencing through reading discussion and critical analysis of recent research papers.
You’ll learn from the research of international experts in DNA recombination and repair mechanisms and their importance for transgene integration and biotechnological applications; plant nutrition and intracellular communication; and the biosynthesis, structure and function of plant cell walls.
You’ll also explore the wide range of approaches used in bio-imaging and their relative advantages and disadvantages for analysing protein and cellular function. Bioinformatics and high throughput omic technologies are crucial to plant science research and you will take modules introducing you to these disciplines.
In the final part of the course you'll work on an independent laboratory-based research project related to your course options. You’ll receive extensive training in experimental design, the practical use of advanced techniques and technologies, data analysis and interpretation, and will be assigned a research project supervisor who will support and guide you through your project.
Compulsory modules
You’ll have access to the very best learning resources and academic support during your studies. We’ve been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2017), demonstrating our commitment to delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
Your learning will be heavily influenced by the University’s world-class research as well as our strong links with highly qualified professionals from industry, non-governmental organisations and charities.
You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including formal lectures, interactive workshops, problem-solving, practical classes and demonstrations.
Through your research project and specialist plant science modules, you’ll receive substantial subject-specific training. Our teaching and assessment methods are designed to develop you into a scientist who is able to think independently, solve problems, communicate effectively and demonstrate a high level of practical ability.
We use a variety of assessment methods: multiple-choice testing, practical work, data handling and problem solving exercises, group work, discussion groups (face-to-face and online), computer-based simulation, essays, posters and oral presentations.
The strong research element of the Plant Science and Biotechmology MSc, along with the specialist and generic skills you develop, mean you’ll graduate equipped for a wide range of careers.
Our graduates work in a diverse range of areas, ranging from bioscience-related research through to scientific publication, teacher training, health and safety and pharmaceutical market research.
Links with industry
We have a proactive Industrial Advisory Board who advise us on what they look for in graduates and on employability-related skills within our courses.
We collaborate with a wide range of organisations in the public and commercial sectors. Many of these are represented on our Industrial Advisory Board. They include:
Industrial research placements
Some of our partners offer MSc research projects in their organisations, allowing students to develop their commercial awareness and build their network of contacts.
Our established programme in Biotechnology, which has been extensively updated, includes a wide range of modern molecular biology techniques and how biotechnology can be used by today's society. You will complement your theoretical studies with hands on experience of fully controlled fermenters that are up to pilot-plant scale, and are linked to modern monitoring and control systems.
You will study a range of subjects in considerable depth, including bioactive compounds, industrial bioprocesses, microbial physiology and fermentation technology, microbial production of novel metabolites, monitoring and control of fermentation, topics in biotechnology, and types of bioreactors.
Our facilities include:
Students normally find employment in the biotechnology industry e.g.
We have links with Sekisui Diagnostics, an international company that manufactures enzymes for diagnostic purposes and students get the opportunity to visit their facilities and experience first-hand how an industrial scale bioprocess operates.
You will gain a broad understanding of molecular plant sciences before specialising in a specific area. You’ll study the biology of plants at the molecular level.
You will focus on topics including mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity, cell and molecular biology of pollen-stigma recognition, signalling in flowering plants and genomics and gene networks. You’ll have access to facilities including a GM glasshouse and tissue culture for plant and mammalian cells.
Your studies will help you develop the skills you need to move into a wide range of careers in the sciences or to take on further research. Our graduates have an excellent employment record with companies and academic institutions across the globe. Graduates have moved into roles with employers including BBSRC, Oxford University and Morvus-Technology Limited.
If you already have extensive and relevant research experience and would like to specialise, you might consider an MRes programme.
Visit the website http://www.bath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-2018/taught-postgraduate-master-s-courses/msc-molecular-plant-sciences/
- 90% of our research judged to be internationally recognised, excellent or world-leading
- Our current research funding portfolio stands at £14 million, supporting internationally excellent research in the biosciences
The aim of each of our MSc programmes in Biology and Biochemistry is to provide professional-level training that will develop highly skilled bioscientists with strong theoretical, research and transferable skills, all of which are necessary to work at the forefront of modern biosciences.
For further information please see our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/)
Since graduating, our students have gone on to employment or further research at institutions in the US, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa.
Recent employers include:
Morvus-Technology Ltd
Janssen-Cilag
Royal United Hospital, Bath
Ministry of Defence
State Intellectual Property Office, Beijing
Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford University
AbCam
Salisbury Foundation Trust Hospital
BBSRC
Lonza
Find out more about the department here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/
Find out how to apply here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/how-to-apply/
Learn the fundamentals of the biology of plants and their molecules. Study the specialist area of industrial biotechnology.
This course is for you if you want to go into a research career or study for a PhD in the field of molecular plant sciences.
You will have the opportunity to study molecular problems from epigenetics through to food crops. Themes include mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity and host plant defence in temperate and tropical species, cell and molecular biology of pollen-stigma recognition and signalling in flowering plants, plant hormone and G protein signalling pathways, genomics and gene networks, and molecular biology of stress responses in the important tropical crop cassava. You’ll have access to facilities including a GM glasshouse and tissue culture for plant and mammalian cells.
The MRes provides a unique mix of taught components, extended laboratory projects, literature reviews and preparation of a grant proposal based on a research dissertation. You’ll gain an insight into a range of research activities and techniques, gaining the transferable skills training needed for all early stage researchers. You’ll also address the scientific, ethical and commercial context within which the research takes place.
All of the MRes courses can be studied as the first year of our Integrated PhD course.
Visit the website http://www.bath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-2018/taught-postgraduate-master-s-courses/mres-molecular-plant-sciences/
- 90% of our research judged to be internationally recognised, excellent or world-leading
- Our current research funding portfolio stands at £14 million, supporting internationally excellent research in the biosciences
MRes degree programmes are designed for graduates who are contemplating a research career and who may go on to study for a PhD or to a position in industry involving interaction with research scientists.
For further information please see our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/).
Since graduating, our students have gone on to employment or further research at institutions in the US, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa. Recent employers include:
Morvus-Technology Ltd
Janssen-Cilag
Royal United Hospital, Bath
Ministry of Defence
State Intellectual Property Office, Beijing
Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford University
AbCam
Salisbury Foundation Trust Hospital
BBSRC
Lonza
Find out more about the department here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/
Find out how to apply here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/how-to-apply/
This programme is aimed at students who wish to pursue a career in agriculture and sustainable development in the private sector, research, NGO or government communities. It provides a firm grounding in research methods applicable to the study of sustainable agriculture and the intellectual tools for understanding sustainable agriculture systems. The courses combine theoretical approaches and empirically based learning from case studies of real projects and agricultural scenarios.
Many of NRI's academics are research active. Teaching will focus on case studies from NRI's corporate experience. You will look at how research into agricultural issues, both in the natural and social sciences, can be translated into knowledge and products that have real impact on increasing the effectiveness of agriculture in enhancing livelihoods for all stakeholders. The potential role of agricultural innovations, both in technology, including biotechnology, knowledge systems, extension services and institutional partnerships in promoting development are also a strong theme in courses.
The aims of the programme are:
As of the 2018/2019 session the courses offered on this programme will be revised and the programme title may change, but the content will still focus on sustainable agriculture.
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses
Students are required to choose 60 credits from this list of options
All courses are subject to student numbers
Assessment consists of a combination of:
This programme provides specialist expertise for those working or seeking to work in agricultural development or research, or pursuing an advanced agricultural or development qualification in the UK and overseas. Students graduate with a broad general knowledge of agricultural applications in sustainable development and also more focused in-depth knowledge.
If you are interested in the growth of biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries in the UK and worldwide you will be interested in studying this programme. This is a unique programme to commercialise scientific research and refine skills to support this. University of Aberdeen offers one of the best medical schools in the UK and there are an impressive number of graduates who have started their own spin out enterprises as a result of studying these discipline areas. The Scottish Government has also seen the need for highly qualified professionals in its innovation centres, many of which need skills that overlap the aims of each of them. http://www.innovationcentres.scot/ Biotechnology and Bio-business now drive the traditional areas of pharmaceuticals and new business innovation areas in the UK. with facilities set up to assist in upstream testing and small scale production in Scotland IBioIC (Glasgow) and England CPI (Darlington and Wilton) at respective innovation centres.
If you come from life sciences, pharmacy, medical biosciences or other similar scientific discipline this programme is specifically aimed at improving your career prospects in working in established business NPD departments or starting your own business with your own research ideas taken to commercialisation. The programme gives you the advanced level skills on the scientific side of things in research and development and the commercialisation side of business in understanding regulation. You learn by self directed and practical sessions and you get plenty of application to ensure you get repeated exposure. This is interdisciplinary and you learn with leading industry experts and academics.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
Find out about fees
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php
*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/
Find out more about:
Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs
Biofilms consists of a microbial community within an extracellular matrix and, in this form, they allow bacteria to colonise otherwise hostile environments. Biofilms represent a challenge to a number of sectors, including industry (e.g. food and drink) and medicine/public health. This is partly due to the difference in behaviour of bacteria within a biofilm compared to free-living cells, including resistance to biocides and antibiotics. It is known that bacteriophages (phages; viruses that specifically attack bacteria resulting in bacterial cell lysis and death) are capable of infecting bacteria within the biofilm. Due to bacterial genus, species and strain specificity, phages therefore offer the potential for targeted ‘knock-out’ of a species of interest in a multispecies community thereby facilitating development of our understanding of biofilm development, and also offering the potential for development of a targeted strategy to destroy biofilms.
Dental plaque is a mixed-species biofilm in which oral streptococci play a pivotal role. The complex nature and diversity of these biofilms makes it difficult to identify the specific contributors to disease outcomes (e.g. dental caries). The goal of our research is therefore to determine the impact of phages on oral streptococci in a mixed-species oral biofilm and, in so doing, develop phages as a tool to both understand and control oral biofilm development. This is significant given the prevalence of dental decay amongst adults and pre-school children, and the increasing evidence that biofilms leading to dental caries can negatively impact on systemic health in adults.
The specific aim of this MRes will be the isolation and characterization of phages infecting oral streptococci from saliva and dental plaque, followed by preliminary analysis of the impact on biofilm development.
The project will be in collaboration with the Edinburgh Dental Institute and will include Dr Jennie Foley (Senior Clinical Lecturer/consultant) as a supervisor.
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in Microbiology or in biology with a good fundamental knowledge of microbiology.
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online
• Experience of fundamental microbiology laboratory techniques including routine culturing of bacteria and basic molecular biology techniques of DNA isolation and PCR
• Competent in data analysis and MS Office
• Knowledge of molecular biology
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management
Bioinformatics
This is a fees-only studentship and a stipend is not included. Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Applied Sciences will pay for the UK fees for a full time Masters by research (MRes) degree for 12 months and the associated laboratory and reagent costs. Non-UK/EU residents are eligible to apply but must cover the difference between the UK/EU and overseas tuition fees.
We will provide you with in-depth training in life sciences and technologies. We will deliver a focused teaching experience that includes a placement with industry-relevant training.
You will be given specific training to address the skills gap identified by the Biopharma/Life sciences industry. This is the focus of the MSc Industrial Biotechnology programme. As part of the industrial placement, which will have direct relevance to industry needs, you will have access to a wide range of opportunities. This could be in the university or with external spin-out companies, local SMEs or Medical laboratories as part of the placement. The Institute of Medical Sciences features a cutting edge technology facilities (Centre for Genome Enabled Biology & Medicine, Proteomics, Cytometry, In Vivo Imaging and Analytical Chemistry).
A number of exciting courses will be available for you to choose from. After you graduate, you will be skilled to meet industry demand.
Semester 1 - Compulsory
Semester 1 - Optional
Semester 2 - Compulsory
Semester 2 - Optional
Semester 3 - Compulsory
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
Find out about fees
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php
*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page
https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/
Find out more about:
Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs
