Masters Degrees in Medical Biotechnology, United Kingdom

Why take this course?

Biotechnology is a rapidly expanding global industry. It's driven by the development of new tools for molecular biological research, the expansion of the ‘green economy’ seeking biotechnical solutions to energy and industrial needs, and remarkable advances in the application of biotechnology to medical diagnosis, therapeutics and to biomedical research.

The MSc in Medical Biotechnology will give you sought-after advanced skills in molecular biotechnology in the context of diagnostics, therapeutics and in biomedical research. You will also gain a vital understanding of how these are applied in molecular medicine.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Develop practical and theoretical understanding of the molecular techniques used in the biotechnology sector
Learn how these are applied in diagnostics, therapeutics and molecular medicine
Develop your practical skills on high tech research equipment
Conduct your own medical biotechnology research

What opportunities might it lead to?

This Master's degree in Medical Biotechnology will prepare you for a role within either research or industry in the biotechnology sector and, more generally, in the bioscience and pharmaceutics areas.

Here are some routes our graduates can pursue:

product development
research scientist
diagnostics and pathology lab work
PhD

Module Details

The Medical Biotechnology course is made up of core and optional units so that you can tailor your learning. The core units give you both practical and research skills as well as the knowledge that would be expected of an advanced course in molecular biotechnology. The optional units allow specialisation towards pathology, drug development, business or bioinformatics. Further options are included through a wide choice of subjects for your research project.

Core units include:

Medical Biotechnology Diagnostics
Medical Biotechnology Therapeutics
Molecular Medicine
Medical Biotechnology Research Skills and Project
Options to choose from include:

Clinical Pathology
Business Skills for Biotechnology
Drug Design and Clinical Trials
Bioinformatics and Omics

Programme Assessment

The course is delivered to develop your practical and theoretical skills in Medical Biotechnology. Teaching is typically in small groups with a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops and practical work that includes case and problem-based learning. The course is delivered by a team of expert scientists who publish regularly in international journals. In the research project that forms a third of the course you will work alongside other researchers in a laboratory setting.

Assessment will cover all aspects of what is required to be a professional scientist using a variety of methods:

written exams
practical work
problem solving
presentations
essay
project work

Student Destinations

This Master's degree in Medical Biotechnology will equip you to meet the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises and global business in the area of Biotechnology, as well as public and private health service providers. The course covers the practical as well as theoretical skills for your new career.

Roles our graduates might take include:

product development
research scientist
diagnostics and pathology lab work
PhD student
sales
teaching

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Develop your understanding of key concepts and practices in the biotechnologies that drive new product innovation as well as the business principles underlying commercialisation of biomedical research.

This course is designed to enhance your career in the medical or pharmaceutical biotechnology sectors in a variety of research, product and technology development and leadership roles.

Medical Biotechnology will equip you with broad theoretical knowledge and critical understanding of advanced principles in biotechnology. You'll also gain the practical skills required to underpin a career within a business or research environment.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Medical-Biotechnology-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides detailed knowledge of key concepts in cell technology, bioprocessing and molecular analysis and how these approaches are applied in areas of specific relevance to medical and pharmaceutical applications such as drug design and discovery, immunology and microbial infection.

You’ll explore and critically evaluate the technologies driving discovery and modification of natural compounds for use in medicine; the relationship between progress in our understanding of disease and the development of diagnostics and treatments; as well as the application of theoretical concepts to the use of biological systems for production of drugs.

Business and entrepreneurship are also a core feature of this programme. You’ll address themes that influence the success of any biotechnology venture such as intellectual property, bioethics, sustainability and public perception through the development of a novel business concept.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices such as mammalian cell culture and fermentation. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project externally in a relevant organisation or bio-industry.

You’ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials, site visits and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This programme is also available as a Masters by Research: http://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/research-degrees/courses

Modules

• Cell technology
• Business and bioethics
• Research skills
• Biotechnology and drug discovery
• Molecular pathogenesis of microbial infection
• Research project

One optional module from
• Advanced immunology
• Current practice in drug development
• Molecular pharmacology and toxicology

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

Within the life sciences, biotechnology is the most rapidly growing sector and it is predicted that the global expansion in this field will be a key driver in the world economy.

This programme provides opportunities for laboratory-based or research management and product development work in a variety of industries ranging from multi-national companies to smaller biotechnology enterprises in the medical, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and biochemical sectors.

Opportunities may also exist in contract research companies and service providers to the biotechnology sector, in addition to research institutes and local government.

Successful completion of the MSc programme provides a sound platform for further study in a research setting; graduates will be qualified to continue to PhD studies in the bio-molecular sciences.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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This new programme offers an expansion of our already successful MSc in biotechnology into industrial biotechnology and business management, jointly run with Adam Smith Business School.

Why this programme

◾Ranked world top 100 for Biological Sciences.
◾If you wish to improve your knowledge of modern molecular, biochemical, cell biological and genetic techniques for biotechnological applications, this programme is designed for you.
◾You will gain a sound understanding of the nature of business based on bioscience knowledge and research, opportunities for innovation and regulatory requirement constraints, intellectual property and ethical issues.
◾You will learn how to assess the current literature, be encouraged to form opinions based on scientific merit, and implement these ideas in future research planning.
◾You will be taught by experts in the field of Biotechnology who run active, internationally recognised, research groups here at Glasgow.
◾The course involves extensive interaction with industry, through site visits, guest lectures and an "Industrial Networking Symposium" where representatives from the European biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry will discuss their companies and answer your questions on working in the industrial sector.
◾This course has a strong laboratory component, with courses that run throughout the year, giving you hands on experience of diverse biotechnological research skills.
◾The flexible independent research project provides valuable training for students wishing to proceed to a PhD or into an industrial career; this may also be completed as a business based project.
◾Additional programme components include industrial networking sessions and a dedicated career workshop on progression planning.
◾Our Masters in Biotechnology provides an advanced practical knowledge of how research and industry are being applied to solve real world problems.

Programme structure

Semester 1

You will be based in the Adam Smith Business School, developing knowledge and skills in management principles and techniques. We offer an applied approach, with an emphasis on an informed critical evaluation of information, and the subsequent application of concepts and tools to the core areas of business and management.

Core courses

◾Contemporary issues in human resource management
◾Managing creativity and innovation
◾Managing innovative change
◾Marketing management
◾Operations management
◾Project management.

Semester 2

You will study biotechnology courses, which aim to enhance your understanding of using biological processes, organisms, or systems to manufacture products intended to improve the quality of human life. These courses will provide training in state-of-the-art biotechnology applications what have resulted in ground-breaking developments in the areas of medicine, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and food production, environmental clean-up and protection and industrial processes.

Core course

◾Biotechnology Applications

Optional course

◾Omic Technologies for the biomedical sciences
◾Synthetic Biology: Concepts and Applications
◾Bioimaging
◾Biosensors and diagnostics
◾Plant Genetic Engineering
◾Crop Biotechnology.

Project or dissertation

If you are studying for an MSc you will undertake individual project in the summer period (May–August). This will give you an opportunity to apply and consolidate the course material and enhance your ability to do independent work, as well as present results in the most appropriate format. Project options are closely linked to staff research interests.

The aims of the courses are:
◾To enable students to study state-of-the-art biotechnology topics in depth;
◾To allow students to benefit from leading-edge research-led teaching;
◾To provide a critical appreciation of relevant theoretical, methodological and technical literature from the central business disciplines;
◾To develop students’ ability to critically appraise published research related to biotechnology;
◾To cultivate analytical and interpretive abilities and enable students to integrate these with essential managerial and business skills.
◾To develop students laboratory skills relevant to biotechnology;
◾To enhance students’ conceptual, analytical and presentation skills and to apply them to biotechnology problems;
◾To prepare students for management positions in the biotechnology industry or entry into PhD programmes.

Core and optional courses

Core

◾Contemporary Issues in HR
◾Managing Creativity and Innovation
◾Managing Strategic Change
◾Marketing Management
◾Operations Management
◾Project Management

Optional

◾Biotechnology Applications
◾Omic technologies for the biomedical sciences: from genomics to metabolomics
◾Synthetic Biology: Concepts and Applications
◾Bioimaging
◾Biosensors and diagnostics
◾Plant Genetic Engineering
◾Crop Biotechnology
◾Biotechnology project

Career prospects

This programme will prepare you for a career in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industrial sectors or for entry into PhD programmes.

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This programme will give you hands-on practical experience of both laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. You will also be trained in biotechnology research strategies. A strong practical foundation is provided in the first semester (Semester A) when you study two modules: 'Cellular Molecular Biology' and 'Core Genetics and Protein Biology'. These modules concentrate on the basic principles and the techniques used in modern molecular biology investigations, and on aspects of cellular molecular biology and development.

The second semester (Semester B) has a problem-based learning approach to the application of the knowledge you gained in Semester A. You will study two modules: 'Industrial Biotechnology' and 'Molecular Biotechnology'. These modules will give you an in depth understanding of the application of molecular biological approaches to the production of industrial and medicinal proteins. You will also learn how to apply and design industrial and environmental biotechnology processes, such as process kinetics and design, reactor design and oxygen transfer, sterilization kinetics and the application of biotechnology processes for the bioremediation of contaminated sites.

In the third semester (Semester C) you undertake a research project to develop your expertise further. The research project falls into different areas and may include aspects of fermentation biotechnology, genetic manipulation and protein engineering, bioinformatics, microbial physiology and environmental biotechnology.

Why choose this course?

-This course gives in-depth knowledge of biotechnology and molecular biology for biosciences or biological chemistry graduates
-It has a strong practical basis giving you training in biotechnology research strategies and hand-on experience of laboratory and bioinformatics techniques
-It equips you for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, as well as a wide range of non-research roles in industry
-Biosciences research facilities cover fermentation biotechnology, high performance liquid chromatography, (HPLC), cell culture, molecular biology and pharmacology
-There are excellent facilities for chemical and biomedical analysis, genetics and cell biology studies and students have access to the latest equipment for chemical synthesis and purification, PCR, qPCR and 2D protein gel analysis systems for use during their final year projects
-The School of Life and Medical Science will move into a brand new science building opening in September 2015 providing us with world class laboratories for our teaching and research. At a cost of £50M the new building provides spacious naturally lit laboratories and social spaces creating an environment that fosters multi-disciplinary learning and research

Careers

On successful completion of the programme you will be well qualified for research and development positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, to progress to a research degree or to consider non-research roles in industry such as management, manufacturing and marketing.

Teaching methods

The course consists of five modules including a research project:
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Industrial Biotechnology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Research project

All modules are 100% assessed by coursework which includes in-course tests.

Structure

Core Modules
-Biosciences Research Methods for Masters
-Cellular Molecular Biology
-Core Genetics and Protein Biology
-Industrial Biotechnology
-Molecular Biotechnology
-Project-Mol Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmacology

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The MSc Design for Medical Technologies is aimed at providing the key knowledge and experience to allow you to pursue a career in bioengineering, healthcare or biotechnology. The course will expose you to the leading edge of modern medical and surgical technologies, as well as exploring the role of entrepreneurship, business development and intellectual property exploitation.

Why study Design for Medical Technologies at Dundee?

The unique environments of medicine and biotechnology offer exacting challenges in the design of high technology products for use in these fields. Engineers and product designers involved in the development of new biomedical instrumentation, surgical tools or biotechnology products must understand the constrictions placed on them by this environment. As a result, bioengineering has been established as the fusion of engineering and ergonomics with a deep understanding of medical science.

Benefits of the programme include:
Knowledge and understanding of medical and surgical engineering and technology
Skills in research methods, communications, teamwork and management
Appreciation of entrepreneurship and the global 'Medtech' industry
Participation in research activities of world renowned research groups
Preparation for careers in industry, academia and commerce

What's great about Design for Medical Technologies at Dundee?

The University of Dundee is one of the top UK universities, with a powerful research reputation, particularly in the medical and biomedical sciences. It has previously been named Scottish University of the Year and short-listed for the Sunday Times UK University of the year.

The Mechanical Engineering group has a high international research standing with expertise in medical instrumentation, signal processing, biomaterials, tissue engineering, advanced design in minimally invasive surgery and rehabilitation engineering.

Links and research partnerships:

We have extensive links and research partnerships with clinicians at Ninewells Hospital (largest teaching hospital in Europe) and with world renowned scientists from the University's College of Life Sciences.

The new Institute of Medical Science and Technology (IMSaT) at the University has been established as a multidisciplinary research 'hothouse' which seeks to commercialise and exploit advanced medical technologies leading to business opportunities.

The start date is September each year, and lasts for 12 months.

How you will be taught

The structure of the MSc course is divided into two parts. The taught modules expose students to the leading edge of modern medical and surgical technologies. The course gives concepts and understanding of the role of entrepreneurship, business development and intellectual property exploitation in the biomedical industry, with case examples.

The research project allows students to work in a research area of their own particular interest, learning skills in presentation, critical thinking and problem-solving. Project topics are offered to students during the first semester of the course.

What you will study

The three taught modules are:
Imaging and Instrumentation for Medicine and Surgery (30 Credits)
Biomechanics and Biomedical (30 Credits)
Advanced Medical and Surgical Instrumentation (30 Credits)

These modules are followed by the biomedical research project (90 credits).

How you will be assessed

The course is assessed by coursework and examination, plus research project.

Careers

The MSc Design for Medical Technologies is aimed at providing the key knowledge and experience to allow you to pursue a career in bioengineering, healthcare or biotechnology. This opens up a vast range of opportunities for employment in these industries as a design, development or product engineer, research scientist, sales and marketing manager or Director of a start-up company. The programme also provides the ideal academic grounding to undertake a PhD degree leading to a career in academic research.

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Whether you are a new graduate or already employed and seeking to further your career prospects, this course offers a solid career development path. You can also choose this course if you wish to pursue research in biotechnology at PhD level.

Biotechnology is the application of biological processes and is underpinned by • cell biology • molecular biology • bioinformatics • structural biology. It encompasses a wide range of technologies for modifying living organisms or their products according to human needs.

Applications of biotechnology span medicine, technology and engineering.

Important biotechnological advances including

• the production of therapeutic proteins using cloned DNA, for example insulin and clotting factors
• the application of stem cells to treat human disease
• the enhancement of crop yields and plants with increased nutritional value
• herbicide and insect resistant plants
• production of recombinant antibodies for the treatment of disease
• edible vaccines, in the form of modified plants
• development of biosensors for the detection of biological and inorganic analytes

You gain

• up-to-date knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of biological processes
• an advanced understanding of DNA technology and molecular biotechnology
• knowledge of developing and applying biotechnology to diagnosis and treatment of human diseases
• practical skills applicable in a range of bioscience laboratories
• the transferable and research skills to enable you to continue developing your knowledge and improving your employment potential

The course is led by academics who are actively involved in biotechnology research and its application to the manipulation of proteins, DNA, mammalian cells and plants. Staff also have expertise in the use of nanoparticles in drug delivery and the manipulation of microbes in industrial and environmental biotechnology.

You are supported throughout your studies by an academic advisor who will help you develop your study and personal skills.

What is biotechnology

Biotechnology is the basis for the production of current leading biopharmaceuticals and has already provided us with the 'clot-busting' drug, tissue plasminogen activator for the treatment of thrombosis and myocardial infarction. It also holds the promise of new treatments for neurodegeneration and cancer through recombinant antibodies.

Genetically modified plants have improved crop yields and are able to grow in a changing environment. Manipulation of cellular organisms through gene editing methods have also yielded a greater understanding of many disease states and have allowed us to understand how life itself functions.

Course structure

You begin your studies focusing on the fundamentals of advanced cell biology and molecular biology before specialising in both molecular and plant biotechnology. Practical skills are developed throughout the course and you gain experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR and sub cloning alongside tissue culture.

Core to the program is the practical module where you gain experience in a range of techniques used in the determination of transcription and translational levels, for example.

All practicals are supported by experienced academic staff, skilled in the latest biotechnological techniques.

Research and statistical skills are developed throughout the program. Towards the end of the program you apply your skills on a two month research project into a current biotechnological application. Employability skills are developed throughout the course in two modules.

The masters (MSc) award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits.

The postgraduate certificate (PgCert) is achieved by successfully completing 60 credits.

The postgraduate diploma (PgDip) is achieved by successfully completing 120 credits. 

Core modules:

• Cell biology (15 credits)
• Biotechnology (15 credits)
• Plant biotechnology (15 credits)
• Molecular biology (15 credits)
• Applied biomedical techniques (15 credits)
• Professional development (15 credits)
• Research methods and statistics (15 credits)
• Research project (60 credits)

Optional modules :

• Human genomics and proteomics (15 credits)
• Cellular and molecular basis of disease (15 credits)
• Cellular and molecular basis of cancer (15 credits)

Assessment

As students progress through the course they are exposed to a wide range of teaching and learning activities. The assessment strategy of the postgraduate course considers diverse assessment methods. Some modules offer dedicated formative feedback to aid skills development with assessments going through several rounds of formative tutor and peer feedback. Summative assessment methods are diverse, with examinations present in theory-based modules to test independent knowledge and data analysis. Several modules are entirely coursework-based, with a portfolio of skills such laboratory practical's and research proposals generated throughout the course forming the summative tasks. In all cases, the assessment criteria for all assessed assignments are made available to student prior to submission. 

Employability

The course is suitable for people wishing to develop their knowledge of molecular and cell biotechnology and its application to solving health and industrial problems.

You can find career opportunities in areas such as

• biotechnology research
• medical research in universities and hospitals
• government research agencies
• biotechnology industry
• pharmaceutical industry.

Students on this course have gone on to roles including experimental officers in contract research, research and development in scientists, diagnostics specialists and applications specialists. Many of our graduates also go on to study for PhDs and continue as academic lecturers.

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If you’re looking to pursue a career in medical biotechnology, this course will give you an extensive and valuable base of knowledge. It’s especially relevant if you come from a biomedical background.

By developing your understanding of key technical, business and societal issues, you’ll broaden your existing experience and emerge as an informed medical biotechnology professional. You’ll enjoy a multidisciplinary learning experience, benefiting from the expertise of industrial experts as well as academics within the School of Life Sciences and Warwick Business School. The 10 core modules (Fundamentals of Biotechnology; Molecular Biology & Genetic Engineering; Regenerative Medicine; Biopharmaceutical Product & Clinical Development; Entrepreneurship & Commercialisation; Medical Diagnostics; Essentials of Medical Genomics; Business Strategy; Marketing Management; Accounting & Finance) and two optional modules are delivered through a mixture of lectures, case studies and group work. You’ll also complete a dissertation.

Our graduates leave well prepared to pursue a role in project management, business development or general management within the field of medical biotechnology.

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This Masters in Biotechnology programme provides you with an advanced practical knowledge of biotechnology and molecular genetic technologies underpinning modern biotechnology and how they can be applied to solve real world problems. The programme offers training in a broad range of topics including; environmental biotechnology, synthetic biology, plant engineering, stem cell therapies and vaccine development.

Why this programme

◾Ranked world top 100 for Biological Sciences
◾If you wish to improve your knowledge of modern molecular, biochemical, cell biological and genetic techniques for biotechnological applications, this programme is designed for you.
◾You will gain a sound understanding of the nature of business based on bioscience knowledge and research, their opportunities for innovation and regulatory requirement constraints, intellectual property and ethical issues.
◾We have exciting scholarship opportunities.
◾You will learn how to assess the current literature, be encouraged to form opinions based on scientific merit, and implement these ideas in future research planning.
◾You will be taught by experts in the field of Biotechnology who run active, internationally recognised, research groups here at Glasgow.
◾The course involves extensive interaction with industry, through site visits, guest lectures and an "Industrial Networking Symposium" where representatives from the European biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry will discuss their companies and answer your questions on working in the industrial sector.
◾This course has a strong laboratory component, with courses that run throughout the year, giving you hands on experience of diverse biotechnological research skills.
◾The flexible independent research project provides valuable training for students wishing to proceed to a Ph.D. or into an industrial career; this may also be completed as a business based project.
◾Additional programme components include industrial networking sessions and a dedicated career workshop on progression planning.
◾Our Masters in Biotechnology provides an advanced practical knowledge of how research and industry are being applied to solve real world problems.

Programme structure

The programme is made up of five teaching modules and a dissertation project. Each module explores different aspects of Biotechnology. The dissertation allows you to specialise the degree through a chosen field of research. You will undertake this project with the support and guidance of your chosen academic expert.

The aims of the course are:
◾To enable students to study a wide range of biotechnology topics in depth;
◾Allow students to benefit from leading-edge research-led teaching;
◾To enhance students' conceptual, analytical and generic skills and to apply them to biotechnology problems;
◾To prepare students for leading positions in the biotechnology industry or entry into PhD programmes.

Core and optional courses

◾Molecular Research Skills
◾Industrial and Environmental Microbiology
◾Bioscience Commercialisation
◾Recombinant Protein Expression
◾Omics Technologies
◾Synthetic Biology
◾Bioimaging for Researchers
◾Plant Biotechnology
◾Biotechnology Research Project

Career prospects

This programme will prepare you for a career in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industrial sectors or for entry into PhD programmes.

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This exciting cross-disciplinary course is designed to enable students to develop a range of key skills fitting them for subsequent employment or further study in Medical Biotechnology by provision of a progressive, coherent challenging programme emphasising advanced training on research skills

The course offers students the opportunity to study recent, vibrant advances in biotechnological and bioinformatic approaches, which offer great hope for major breakthroughs in designing new medical therapies. and to equip themselves with the research skills necessary to complement and deepen their academic or clinical laboratory abilities.

The course encourages and enables students to make original and substantial contributions to knowledge and practice through critical understanding of current advances in medical biotechnology and development of appropriate laboratory practices.

It also allows students of diverse academic backgrounds and abilities entry at appropriate levels and to achieve to the maximum of their ability.

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How can biological processes and organisms be used in the development of new technologies? Biotechnology enables us to improve practices in diverse fields including genetics, agriculture, bioremediation, immunology, diagnostics, energy production, and age-assisted living.

Our course provides you with knowledge, understanding and hands-on experience in modern biotechnology, and with practical insights into current commercial applications. It creates access to a broad range of career opportunities in this rapidly growing key technology.

You will learn about and appraise the approaches that can be used to address the challenges facing our planet, including:
-The development of biofuels, pharmaceuticals and crops to support and feed the growing human population
-Industrial, plant and medical biotechnology
-Gene and protein technology
-Synthetic biology
-Bioinformatics

The course has a very high proportion of practical work that provides valuable experience for your career, and in addition to this, our optional module Creating and Growing a New Business Venture challenges you to think creatively. This increases your value to organisations, including small enterprises, which are a growing part of the biotechnology sector.

Your research project is a major component of this course, for which you perform novel laboratory and/or bioinformatic research in one of our academic laboratories, or (subject to approval) carry out research in an industrial or hospital setting.

Two-thirds of our research is rated “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” (REF 2014), and you learn from and work alongside our expert staff.

Our expert staff

As one of the largest schools at our University, we offer a lively, friendly and supportive environment with research-led study and high quality teaching. You benefit from our academics’ wide range of expertise and research on important national and international problems using cutting-edge techniques.

The University of Essex has a Women's Network to support female staff and students and was awarded the Athena SWAN Institutional Bronze Award in November 2013 in recognition of its continuing work to support women in STEM.

Specialist facilities

Recent investment has provided modern facilities for functional genomics, computational biology, and imaging biological systems. On our course you have the opportunity to:
-Work in an open and friendly department, with shared staff-student social spaces
-Conduct your research alongside leading academics and PhD students in shared labs
-Learn to use state-of-the-art equipment

Your future

Our graduates are well placed to find employment in the ever-growing bio-based economy, and postgraduate study is often a requirement for becoming a researcher, scientist, academic journal editor and to work in some public bodies or private companies.

Many of our Masters students progress to study for their PhD, and we offer numerous studentships to support our students in their studies.

We work with our university’s Employability and Careers Centre to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Example structure

Postgraduate study is the chance to take your education to the next level. The combination of compulsory and optional modules means our courses help you develop extensive knowledge in your chosen discipline, whilst providing plenty of freedom to pursue your own interests. Our research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field, therefore to ensure your course is as relevant and up-to-date as possible your core module structure may be subject to change.

Biotechnology - MSc
-Research Project: MSc Biotechnology
-Protein Technologies
-Gene Technology and Synthetic Biology
-Genomics
-Professional Skills and the Business of Biotechnology
-Creating and Growing a New Business Venture (optional)
-Industrial Biotechnology: Enzymes, Biochemicals and Biomaterials (optional)
-Molecular Medicine and Biotechnology (optional)
-Plant Biotechnology (optional)
-Rational Drug Design (optional)

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Do you want to focus your scientific career on one of the fastest moving sectors of science? The UK has hundreds of biotech companies and is a leader in innovating specialist products from living organisms. Biotech applications are enhancing food production, treating medical conditions, and having a significant impact on the global future.

Given the common expectation for job candidates to have some form of postgraduate qualification, this Masters course offers a route to careers in biotechnology as well as the broader life sciences industry. If your first degree included the study of genetics and molecular biology, and a research module, you’re well-placed to join us.

This course can also be started in January (full time 21 months) - for more information please view this web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/biotechnology-dtfbty6/

Learn From The Best

The quality of teaching in life sciences at Northumbria has been recognised by strong performance in student-led awards, Further evidence of academic excellence is the number of invitations to members of our team to join the editorial boards of scientific journals.

Our teaching team maintains close links with biotech companies and research labs, including via on-going roles as consultants, which helps ensure an up-to-date understanding of the latest technical and commercial developments. Several academics are involved in biotech ventures that make use of the University’s facilities: Nzomics Biocatalysis develops enzyme alternatives to chemical processes, and Nu-omics offers DNA sequencing services.

Teaching And Assessment

We aim for interactive teaching sessions and you will engage in discussions, problem-solving exercises and other activities. Teaching can start in the lab or classroom and then you make the material your own by exploring and applying it. Technology Enhanced Learning makes this easier; each module has an electronic blackboard site with relevant information including electronic reading lists and access to websites, videos and other study materials that are available anytime, anywhere.

You will undertake assignments within small groups and we provide training in communication skills relevant for scientific communication. The course aims to foster your ability to work at a professional standard both individually and as part of a team.

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)
AP0704 - Industrial Biotechnology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0705 - Current Topics in Biotechnology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0708 - Applied Sciences Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

The technical facilities at Northumbria University are excellent. We are fully equipped for molecular biology manipulations and imaging – techniques include RT-PCR to show whether or not a specific gene is being expressed in a given sample. We also have pilot scale bioreactors so that we can scale up experiments and processes.

For cell biology and immunology, we have two multi-user laboratories. Technologies include assays for measuring immune responses at the single-cell level, and for monitoring the functioning of cells in real time. Further capabilities include biomarker analysis, flow cytometry, chemical imaging and fluorescence microscopy. For genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, our capabilities include genomic sequencing, mass spectrometry, 2D protein electrophoresis and nanoflow liquid chromatography.

All our equipment is supported up by highly skilled technical staff who will help you make the best use of all the facilities that are available.

Research-Rich Learning

In fast-moving fields like biotechnology, it’s particularly important for teaching to take account of the latest research. Many of our staff are conducting research in areas such as molecular biology, bio-informatics, gene expression and micro-biology of extreme environments. They bring all this experience and expertise into their teaching.

As a student, you will be heavily engaged in analysing recent insights from the scientific literature. You will undertake a major individual project in molecular and cellular science that will encompass all aspects of a scientific study. These include evaluation of relevant literature, design and set-up of experiments, collection and processing of data, analysis of results, preparation of a report and presentation of findings in a seminar.

Give Your Career An Edge

Many recruiters in the biotech industry expect candidates to have studied at postgraduate level so our Masters qualification will help you get through the door of the interview room. Once there, your major project and other assignments will help ensure there is plenty to catch their attention. Employers are looking for the ability to solve problems, think critically, work with others and function independently – which are exactly the attributes that our course develops to a higher level.

During your time at Northumbria, we encourage you to participate in the activities organised by the Career Development Service. We also encourage you to apply for associate membership of the Royal Society of Biology, with full membership becoming possible once you have at least three years’ postgraduate experience in study or work.

Your Future

The biotech industry has made huge progress in the last few decades and the years ahead promise to be even more transformational. With an MSc Biotechnology, you will be ready to contribute to the changes ahead through a rigorous scientific approach and your grasp of the fundamental knowledge, insights and skills that underlie modern biotechnology.

Scientific research is at the heart of the course and you will strengthen pivotal skills that will enhance your employability in any research-rich environment. By developing the practices, standards and principles relevant to becoming a bioscience professional, you will also prepare yourself for success in other sectors of the life sciences industry and beyond.

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IN BRIEF:

• Excellent career prospects in biotechnology and related fields
• Multidisciplinary course uniquely integrating molecular biology, genomics, and proteomics with both medical and green biotechnology
• Biotechnology is a priority growth area in the UK (particularly the North West) as well as a globally important industry
• Part-time study option
• International students can apply

COURSE SUMMARY

This course provides strong scientific training in many issues at the forefront of modern biotechnology, as well as the professional skills that you will need to work in the field.  

Course content is well balanced across the areas of biology, biomedicine, biochemistry and molecular biology, and covers topics such as green and medical biotechnology, genomics and bioinformatics, microbiology and proteomics; you will be taught by specialists in these fields. You will also have the  opportunity  to  study a module in Bioscience with Enterprise that has been uniquely developed to allow you to advance your business skills along with core scientific skills.

TEACHING

You will be supervised by expert staff who are actively engaged in international research programmes. Teaching is by:

• Lectures
• Tutorial
• Practical sessions
• Guided reading
• Guest lectures
• Research projects

ASSESSMENT

Assessment is by a combination of written examinations, oral presentations, coursework, laboratory reports and submission of the dissertation.There are eight taught 15 credit modules each of which have only one assessment (100%). Each exam is 2 hours.

FACILITIES

The School is home to state-of-the-art laboratories with dedicated research labs for your research project. The University has invested £3m in the world-class teaching facility equipped with the latest technologies, which has been specially designed to promote an excellent student teaching experience.

The Bodmer Lab is a bright, modern space and has been designed with interconnecting walls which can be easily configured into two, three or four separate laboratories, for maximum flexibility and occupancy. An AV system allows the lecturer to be linked visually and audibly with some or all of the interconnected labs.

A new Translational Medicine Lab will be opened in mid-2017.

CAREER PROSPECTS

This course is particularly suited to those who wish to pursue a career in the biotechnological or pharmaceutical industries, which are priority areas in both the UK and abroad. However, this course will also equip you to pursue careers in hospital laboratories and research institutes, or to continue to a PhD programme.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

Certain modules include industrial site visits and research projects may be carried out at other institutions (recently Universities in Bremen or France and the Cancer Research UK Manchester institute). We also invite visiting lecturers to share their expertise on the subject areas.

FURTHER STUDY

After completion of this course you may wish to specialise in a chosen subject area in one of the School’s two main research centres: Ecosystems and Environment Research Centre (EER) or Biomedical Research Centre (BRC).

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Research in biotechnology at Newcastle spans the Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS) and the Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering (SAgE). We invite proposals for MPhil and PhD projects in biotechnology across the fields of medical sciences, biological, agricultural and environmental sciences, and marine science and technology.

We offer MPhil supervision in the following research areas:

Medical sciences

In medical sciences our research focuses on translational medicine, from drug discovery and development to effective product commercialisation and process optimisation. Our key areas are:
-The development of drugs for the treatment of cancer and psychiatric disorders
-Novel antibiotic innovation
-Design and development of integrated electrochemical and bio-microelectromechanical (bio-MEMS) sensors for application to point-of-care diagnosis of disease processes and sensor technologies for real-time, high content intracellular analysis using polymer-based nanosensor systems

Biological, agricultural and environmental sciences

In biological, agricultural and environmental sciences our research focuses on:
-The search and discovery of commercially significant natural products
-The production of crops with novel traits
-The fundamental role played by micro-organisms in the turnover of pollutants and the production of high value novel compounds, including pharmaceuticals and pesticides.

Marine science and technology

Our work has led to pioneering advancements in developing novel antibiotics and omega-3 oils from plankton. We also explore the industrial applications of marine organisms such as the development of environmentally friendly antifouling coatings.

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Our Biotechnology and Business Enterprise MRes is a research-based course with a taught component that is equivalent to an MSc. It provides a springboard into a career that involves a working knowledge of scientific research.

The course is for students with a BSc in the life sciences or another science discipline. It is also for intercalating and qualified MBBS or BDS students. You can study the course as a stand-alone qualification or as an entry route to a PhD or MD.

The taught part of the course includes biotechnology and business enterprise specific content. You have the flexibility to select complementary modules and develop a bespoke course. You will also receive training in general research principles and in professional and key skills.

The course focuses on how to turn research laboratory breakthroughs into successful biotechnology companies. Subjects covered include:
-Business models
-Securing funding from venture capitalists and other sources
-Establishing licensing, contracts and legal ownership
-Critical aspects of business planning and project management
-The science of the biotechnology industry and processing

You will attend presentations and workshops by:
-Entrepreneurs
-Academics with business experience
-Business and legal advisers

Your research project is the major element of the course. Your project involves 24 weeks of research in biotechnology and business enterprise. Supervision is by expert academic researchers in your field of interest.

Biotechnology and business enterprise is a competitive research area. Your studies will be mainly based in academia, though potentially in industry too.

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This programme equips you for the biotechnology/life science profession or enables you to progress to PhD research studies. Designed and delivered with industry input, it is career-focused and vocationally-relevant.

About the programme

The programme will develop your knowledge and understanding of a range of theoretical and practical skills relevant to the biotechnology industry; advance your understanding of the industry; and grow your research skills.

Your understanding of the principles of commercialisation in the biotechnology industry will be developed through either a bioindustry
or work-related learning module. This combination of theory and practice will fully prepare you for employment in the biotechnology sector or for progression to further research.

The University’s Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Health Research (IBEHR) brings together life, physical and environmental scientists in a holistic approach to research. Your research skills are developed throughout the programme and applied in the individual research project.

Practical experience

You will develop practical laboratory skills through taught modules and apply these in your research project. It is possible to undertake a work related learning module.

Your learning

The programme offers current theory and practical skills in a range of relevant techniques including microbiology, immunology, and cell culture. The MSc is awarded on successful completion of 180 credits at Level 11. Full-time students study three 20 credit modules in trimesters 1 and 2 and a 60 credit research project in Trimester 3.

Modules include:
• Nucleic Acid and Protein Technology
• Microbial Technology
• Medical Biotechnology
• Bioanalysis
• Research Design
• Bioindustry or Placement Learning

MSc

Upon successful completion of the taught modules listed above you will undertake the MSc research project.

Our Careers Adviser says

Many of our students continue their studies to PhD level, either in the UK or abroad. It may also be possible to complete the MSc project abroad, bringing a global perspective to your studies. It’s not unusual for our graduates to travel further afield, for example we have a graduate studying for a PhD at Kyushu University, Japan, and another at Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies. Alternatively you could go on to secure employment within the life science industry in the UK or abroad. One of our graduates is project co-ordinator at Quintiles.

Financial support

In session 2015/16 the Postgraduate Diploma element of this programme carried SAAS postgraduate loan funding for eligible students. Check http://www.saas.gov.uk for 2016/17 loan info.

Note: To obtain the MSc, students will usually take 9 months to gain the Postgraduate Diploma and then normally an additional 3 months of study to gain the MSc, from the date of commencement of the project.

First-class facilities

Get the hands on experience you need to succeed. We have excellent specialist facilities which support our research students and staff. These include an advanced chemical analysis lab: with state-of-theart chemical analysis for isotopic and elemental analysis at trace concentrations using ICPMS/OES and the identification of organic compounds using LCMS; and the Spatial and Pattern Analysis (SPAR) lab: providing high specification workstations, geographical information system (GIS) software, geochemical and image processing facilities to support data management in science research.

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