Masters Degrees in Population Genetics & Evolution, United Kingdom

Programme description

The revolution in genetic mapping technology and the advent of whole genome sequences have turned quantitative genetics into one of the fastest growing areas of biology.

Based in the internationally renowned Institute of Evolutionary Biology, this MSc draws from the wealth of expertise available there, as well as the teaching, research expertise and facilities of Scotland’s Rural College, the University’s Centre for Molecular Medicine, the Medical Research Council’s Human Genetics Unit and the Roslin Institute (birthplace of Dolly the sheep).

Each year the syllabus is fine-tuned to suit current issues in evolutionary, plant, human and animal genetics.

This programme forms part of the quantitative genetics and genome analysis suite of programmes offering specialist routes, which also include Animal Breeding & Genetics and Human Complex Trait Genetics.

Programme structure

This programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project, leading to a dissertation.

Courses are taught via lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer practicals. Assessment is by written examinations, in-course assignments and project work.

Compulsory courses:

• Population and Quantitative Genetics
• Genetic Interpretation
• Linkage and Association in Genome Analysis
• Statistics and Data Analysis
• Research Proposal
• Dissertation

Option courses:

• Molecular Phylogenetics
• Bioinformatics
• Molecular Evolution
• Genetics of Human Complex Traits
• Quantitative Genetic Models
• Functional Genomic Technologies
• Animal Genetic Improvement
• Evolutionary Quantitative Genetics

Learning outcomes

You will gain the knowledge and skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to undertake research in evolutionary and quantitative genetics, population genetics and evolutionary genomics.

• A thorough understanding of general concepts in population and quantitative genetics and genomics
• In-depth knowledge of evolutionary genetics
• A solid grounding in the statistical methods required for quantitative biology
• Development of independent research skills through individual mini- and maxi-research projects
• Development of generic skills (IT skills, experience in writing scientific papers, the ability to work independently)
• Presentation skills through student seminars, scientific presentation of project work and independent research projects.

Career opportunities

You will develop the in-depth knowledge and specialised skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to practical problems, in both the biomedical and animal science industries, and to undertake research in evolutionary genetics, population genetics and genome analysis.

Read less

The revolution in genetic mapping technology and the advent of whole genome sequences have turned quantitative genetics into one of the fastest growing areas of biology.

Based in the internationally renowned Institute of Evolutionary Biology, this MSc draws from the wealth of expertise available there, as well as the teaching, research expertise and facilities of Scotland’s Rural College, the University’s Centre for Molecular Medicine, the Medical Research Council’s Human Genetics Unit and the Roslin Institute (birthplace of Dolly the sheep).

Each year the syllabus is fine-tuned to suit current issues in evolutionary, plant, human and animal genetics.

This programme forms part of the quantitative genetics and genome analysis suite of programmes offering specialist routes, which include Animal Breeding & Genetics and Evolutionary Genetics.

Programme structure

This programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project, leading to a dissertation.

Courses are taught via lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer practicals. Assessment is by written examinations, in-course assignments and project work.

Compulsory courses:

• Population and Quantitative Genetics
• Genetic Interpretation
• Linkage and Association in Genome Analysis
• Genetics of Human Complex Traits
• Quantitative Genetic Models
• Statistics and Data Analysis
• Research Project Proposal
• Dissertation.

Option courses:

• Molecular Phylogenetics
• Bioinformatics
• Molecular Evolution
• Quantitative Genetic Models
• Functional Genomic Technologies
• Animal Genetic Improvement
• Evolutionary Quantitative Genetics

Learning outcomes

You will gain the knowledge and skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to practical problems in the biomedical industry, and to undertake research in quantitative and population genetics and genome analysis.

• A thorough understanding of general concepts in population and quantitative genetics and genomics
• In-depth knowledge of complex trait genetics in humans
• A solid grounding in the statistical methods required for quantitative biology
• Development of independent research skills through individual mini- and maxi-research projects
• Development of generic skills (IT skills, experience in writing scientific papers, the ability to work independently)
• Presentation skills through student seminars, scientific presentation of project work and independent research projects.

Career opportunities

You will develop the in-depth knowledge and specialised skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to practical problems, in both the biomedical and animal science industries, and to undertake research in evolutionary genetics, population genetics and genome analysis.

Read less

The revolution in genetic mapping technology and the advent of whole genome sequences has turned quantitative genetics into one of the fastest growing areas of biology.

Quantitative Genetics & Genome Analysis is part of a suite of programmes offering specialist routes in Animal Breeding & Genetics, Evolutionary Genetics, or Human Complex Trait Genetics.

Based in the internationally renowned Institute of Evolutionary Biology, this MSc draws from the wealth of expertise available there, as well as the teaching, research expertise and facilities of Scotland’s Rural College, the University’s Centre for Molecular Medicine, the Medical Research Council’s Human Genetics Unit and the Roslin Institute (birthplace of Dolly the sheep).

Each year the syllabus is fine-tuned to suit current issues in evolutionary, plant, human and animal genetics.

Applicants who wish to select their area of specialisation during the programme should apply for this umbrella programme. Applicants with a preferred programme option should apply via the following links:

• Animal Breeding and Genetics
• Evolutionary Genetics
• Human Complex Trait Genetics

Programme structure

This programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project, leading to a dissertation.

Compulsory courses

• Population and Quantitative Genetics
• Genetic Interpretation
• Statistics and Data Analysis
• Linkage and Association in Genome Analysis
• Research Proposal
• Dissertation

Option courses (selected according to degree specialisation):

• Quantitative Genetic Models
• Molecular Evolution
• Genetics of Human Complex Traits
• Animal Genetic Improvement
• Functional Genomic Technologies
• Molecular Phylogenetics
• Bioinformatics
• Evolutionary Quantitative Genetics

Career opportunities

You will develop the in-depth knowledge and specialised skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to practical problems, in both the biomedical and animal science industries, and to undertake research in evolutionary genetics, population genetics and genome analysis.

Read less

Programme description

The revolution in genetic mapping technology and the advent of whole genome sequences have turned quantitative genetics into one of the fastest growing areas of biology.

Based in the internationally renowned Institute of Evolutionary Biology, this MSc draws from the wealth of expertise available there, as well as the teaching, research expertise and facilities of Scotland’s Rural College, the University’s Centre for Genomics and Experimental Medicine, the Medical Research Council’s Human Genetics Unit and the Roslin Institute (birthplace of Dolly the sheep).

Each year the syllabus is fine-tuned to suit current issues in evolutionary, plant, human and animal genetics. This programme forms part of the quantitative genetics and genome analysis suite of programmes offering three specialist routes, which also include Human Complex Trait Genetics and Evolutionary Genetics.

Programme structure

This programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project, leading to a dissertation.

Courses are taught via lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer practicals. Assessment is by written examinations, in-course assignments and project work.

Compulsory courses:

• Population and Quantitative Genetics
• Genetic Interpretation
• Statistics and Data Analysis
• Linkage and Association in Genome Analysis
• Animal Genetic Improvement
• Quantitative Genetic Models
• Research Proposal
• Dissertation

Option courses:

• Molecular Phylogenetics
• Bioinformatics
• Molecular Evolution
• Genetics of Human Complex Traits
• Functional Genomic Technologies
• Evolutionary Quantitative Genetics

Learning outcomes

• An understanding of general concepts in population and quantitative genetics and genomics
• A solid grounding in the statistical methods required
• In-depth knowledge of animal improvement and complex trait analysis
• Development of independent research skills through individual mini- and maxi-research projects
• Development of generic skills (IT skills, experience in writing scientific papers, the ability to work independently)
• Presentation skills through student seminars, scientific presentation of project work and independent research projects.

Career opportunities

You will develop the in-depth knowledge and specialised skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to practical problems, in both the biomedical and animal science industries, and to undertake research in evolutionary genetics, population genetics and genome analysis.

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Population genetics studies the genetic variation that exists in wild populations, and the forces, such as selection, mutation and genetic drift, that shape this variation. Particular interests in the School involve the molecular genetic variation of humans, and variation in wild populations of molluscs, foraminiferans and Drosophila. Projects may include studies on molecular evolution and phylogenetics using computer analysis of DNA and protein sequences; the genetic changes that are associated with speciation; evolution of transposable elements; and the population genetics of genome structure.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
After identifying which Masters you wish to pursue please complete an on-line application form
https://pgapps.nottingham.ac.uk/
Mark clearly on this form your choice of course title, give a brief outline of your proposed research and follow the automated prompts to provide documentation. Once the School has your application and accompanying documents (eg referees reports, transcripts/certificates) your application will be matched to an appropriate academic supervisor and considered for an offer of admission.

COURSE STRUCTURE
The MRes degree course consists of two elements:
160 credits of assessed work. The assessed work will normally be based entirely on a research project and will be the equivalent of around 10 ½ months full-time research work. AND
20 credits of non-assessed generic training. Credits can be accumulated from any of the courses offered by the Graduate School. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/gradschool/research-training/index.phtml The generic courses should be chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor(s).

ASSESSMENT
The research project will normally be assessed by a dissertation of a maximum of 30,000 to 35,000 words, or equivalent as appropriate*. The examiners may if they so wish require the student to attend a viva.
*In consultation with the supervisor it maybe possible for students to elect to do a shorter research project and take a maximum of 40 credits of assessed modules.

The School of Life Sciences will provide each postgraduate research student with a laptop for their exclusive use for the duration of their studies in the School.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/international-applicants/scholarships-fees-and-finance/scholarships/masters-scholarships.aspx

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Genetics is the scientific study of inheritance and as such is a very broad research area. Within the School of Life Sciences, research in Genetics is focussed on the Institute of Genetics, most groups of which are located within the Queen's Medical Centre. Projects in genetics cover a wide spectrum from population and evolutionary genetics through to molecular and biochemical genetics. They have the common aim of understanding how the genetic material achieves its functions and how it is passed down through generations. Some of the research involves classic genetic approaches including the isolation of mutants with specific phenotypes and the study of their behaviour in genetic crosses. These studies involve model organisms that include bacteria, yeasts and other fungi, Xenopus, zebrafish and mice. Other research in Genetics at Nottingham employs molecular techniques and bioinformatics to address fundamental evolutionary problems such as the evolution of AIDS viruses, the genetic changes that are associated with speciation and the evolution of transposable elements and genome structure. There also projects available in Genetics research groups who are focussing on the systems responsible for maintaining gene and genome integrity and securing accurate chromosome transmission in bacteria, archaea, yeast and vertebrates.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

After identifying which Masters you wish to pursue please complete an on-line application form
https://pgapps.nottingham.ac.uk/
Mark clearly on this form your choice of course title, give a brief outline of your proposed research and follow the automated prompts to provide documentation. Once the School has your application and accompanying documents (eg referees reports, transcripts/certificates) your application will be matched to an appropriate academic supervisor and considered for an offer of admission.

COURSE STRUCTURE
The MRes degree course consists of two elements:
160 credits of assessed work. The assessed work will normally be based entirely on a research project and will be the equivalent of around 10 ½ months full-time research work. AND
20 credits of non-assessed generic training. Credits can be accumulated from any of the courses offered by the Graduate School. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/gradschool/research-training/index.phtml The generic courses should be chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor(s).

ASSESSMENT
The research project will normally be assessed by a dissertation of a maximum of 30,000 to 35,000 words, or equivalent as appropriate*. The examiners may if they so wish require the student to attend a viva.
*In consultation with the supervisor it maybe possible for students to elect to do a shorter research project and take a maximum of 40 credits of assessed modules.

The School of Life Sciences will provide each postgraduate research student with a laptop for their exclusive use for the duration of their studies in the School.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/international-applicants/scholarships-fees-and-finance/scholarships/masters-scholarships.aspx

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Infectious diseases remain a major contributor to the global burden of disease, with HIV, malaria, measles, diarrhoeal disease and respiratory infections responsible for over 50% of premature deaths worldwide. However the availability of resources for interventions is limited in comparison with the scale of the challenges faced. Over the last decade there has been increasing recognition of the value of epidemiological analysis and mathematical modelling in aiding the design and interpretation of clinical trials from a population perspective and, downstream, to guide implementation, monitoring and evaluation of intervention effectiveness. The Epidemiology, Evolution and Control of Infectious Diseases (EECID) stream provides a research-based training in infectious disease epidemiology, mathematical modelling and statistics, genetics and evolution, and computational methods. The focus of the course is inter-disciplinary, with a strong applied public health element.

Based in the Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology in the Faculty of Medicine, the stream provides an opportunity to learn, in a supportive and stimulating environment, from leaders in the field who are actively engaged in research and advise leading public health professionals, policy-makers, governments, international organisations and pharmaceutical companies, both nationally and internationally, on a range of diseases include pandemic influenza, HIV, TB, malaria, polio and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

This stream is linked to the Wellcome Trust 4-year PhD programme in the Epidemiology, Evolution and Control of Infectious Diseases which includes up to 5 funded studentships each year. Up to 3 further 1+3 MRC studentships are also available each year.

The emphasis of the course will be to provide a thorough training in epidemiology, mathematical modelling and statistics, and genetics and evolution, as applied to infectious diseases. This research-orientated training will incorporate taught material, practical sessions in statistical software (R) and C programming as well as wider generic training in the research and communication skills needed to interact with public health agencies. Through the two research-based projects students will be exposed to the latest developments in the field and will gain first-hand experience in applying the methods they are taught to questions of public-health relevance.

Individuals who complete the course will have developed the ability to:

-Describe the biology, epidemiology and control of major global infectious diseases
-Interpret and present epidemiological data
-Undertake statistical analysis of infectious disease data including applying modern methods for statistical inference
-Develop and apply mathematical models to understand infectious disease dynamics, evolution and control
-Analyse genetic data using modern techniques and interpret their relevance to infectious disease epidemiology
-Critically evaluate research papers and reports
-Write and defend research reports and publications
-Communicate effectively through writing, oral presentations and IT to facilitate further study or employment in epidemiology and public health
-Exercise a range of transferable skills

This will be achieved through a course of lectures, seminars, tutorials and technical workshops. Please note that Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates for part-completion are not available for this course.

The stream will be based in the Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology on the St Mary’s campus of Imperial College London.

Each student chooses two projects over the course of the year from the wide range available. Students are guided in this choice by the stream organiser and their personal tutor and are advised to take contrasting projects to ensure a balanced training.

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The field of Ecology, Evolution and Development describes how the molecular and genetic regulation of development changes in response to evolutionary forces to generate organismal diversity. Understanding development, and its regulation in ecological and evolutionary contexts is critical for developing emerging molecular medical techniques, understanding biodiversity and tracing evolution.

See the website http://www.brookes.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/ecology-evolution-and-development/

Why choose this course?

- Development of interdisciplinary research skills and experience.

- Opportunity to carry out an in-depth research project to address open questions in this field.

- Hands-on research driven training in field work, advanced wet laboratory techniques and state-of-the-art bioinformatics.

- Intensive one week introductory workshop for students from all backgrounds.

- Enhanced ability of graduates to successfully compete for PhD positions in the UK and internationally.

- Training will provide skills that will increase the employability of graduates in the biotechnology, commercial and health sectors.

- Teaching by world class researchers in this field with recognised excellence and experience in teaching and learning.

Teaching and learning

Teaching and learning methods used in the course reflect the wide variety of topics and techniques associated with ecology, evolution and development.

- Structure
This course is designed to provide you with both the conceptual framework of this interdisciplinary field and develop practical and academic skills as a platform for the research project. An intensive one week Research Methods module will introduce you to key topics and practical approaches. These are then elaborated on during the three other taught modules in Developmental Biology, Bioinformatics, and Molecular Ecology and Population Genetics, before the students embark on the research project. A variety of teaching and learning methods are employed in this course, all underpinned by research.

- Lectures
By providing the framework, essential background and knowledge base for each module, the lectures encourage you to probe more deeply by reading widely. Analysis, synthesis and application of material introduced in lectures are achieved through practical work in the field and laboratories, and in tutorials and seminars with your tutors and fellow students.

- Practical work
This offers you training and hands-on experience in important aspects of field and laboratory work, and computational biology. We ensure that teaching is up-to-date by integrating research findings in lectures and practical classes, and staff involved with major international developments in the field bring these advances to your teaching. An important component of the course is that you read and present key papers that emphasise the application of interdisciplinary approaches to their tutor and peers during tutorials.

- Guest seminars
During the Research Methods module, guest seminars provide you with the chance to hear about other areas of research in ecology, evolution and development. Emphasis is placed on critical evaluation of existing information and identifying knowledge gaps and areas of controversy, fostering the development of academic and research literacy, and developing your critical self-awareness.

- Research project
Standards that are expected in research are also widely taught and practised, developing your research literacy. You are provided with the opportunity to undertake substantial research specific activities in the Research Module, and undertake projects in labs with active research in this field.

- Digital literacy
This is enhanced by the use of advanced information retrieval techniques, data handling and the development of professional presentation techniques. Furthermore, you will develop skills in programming which underpin the application of state-of-the-art tools in bioinformatics and biostatistics.

How this course helps you develop

Training provided by this course will give you the research and transferable skills necessary for further research in field, lab and computational biology in both academic and industrial sectors. We anticipate that many of our graduates will go on to study for PhDs in the UK and abroad. In this respect, our programme will increase the opportunities for UK graduates to compete for PhD positions here and be eligible to apply for PhD programmes elsewhere in the EU. We also anticipate that, given their skills sets, our graduates will be highly competitive for employment in research support and sales, biotechnology, heath care, education, administration, and consultancy.

Careers

- PhD
- Employment in others sectors including biotechnology, healthcare and commercial.

Free language courses for students - the Open Module

Free language courses are available to full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students on many of our courses, and can be taken as a credit on some courses.

Please note that the free language courses are not available if you are:
- studying at a Brookes partner college
- studying on any of our teacher education courses or postgraduate education courses.

Research highlights

In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014, 95% of our research in Biological Sciences was rated as internationally recognised, with 58% being world leading or internationally excellent. That makes us the top post’92 University for its Biological Sciences submission.

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Programme description

The understanding of plant diversity and resources has never been more important. As we face the unprecedented challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, effective environmental surveillance and conservation depend upon detailed knowledge of plants and their habitats.

This programme is run jointly by the University and the world-renowned Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE).

This programme is run jointly by the University and the world-renowned Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE). The RBGE is home to one of the world’s best living collections of plants (15,000 species across four sites, amounting to five per cent of known world species), a herbarium of three million preserved specimens and one of the UK’s most comprehensive botanical libraries.

RBGE offers collections-based biodiversity research opportunities across a wide spectrum of organisms and geographical regions. This diversity, coupled with the RBGE’s world-leading research in different continents, provides an unrivalled masters programme in plant biodiversity.

Programme structure

This programme is full time and consists of two semesters of lectures, practicals, workshops and investigations, followed by a four-month research project. The programme includes a two-week field course in a tropical country (recently Belize).

The programme is delivered mainly at RBGE but also at the University’s King’s Buildings campus.

There are no option elements to the programme – all courses are compulsory.

Courses

• Conservation and Sustainability
• Taxonomy and Plant Collections
• Biodiversity of Angiosperms
• Evolution of Cryptogams and Fungi
• Evolution of Angiosperms
• Plant Geography
• Phylogenetics and Population Genetics
• Biodiversity of Cryptogams and Fungi

Research

Your research project will be chosen in consultation with your supervisor, and will link directly with active research programmes at RBGE or other research institutions.

The field trip, together with training and a short practical exam, qualifies you for the RBGE Certificate in Practical Field Botany.

Career opportunities

The programme is good preparation for roles in taxonomy, while many graduates have also continued to PhD studies. Past students have entered a wide variety of jobs at research institutions, conservation agencies and elsewhere.

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The MSc DNA Profiling is a Forensic Science Society UK (FSSoc) accredited course that aims to instruct in current concepts in molecular biology techniques and laboratory management as applied in the field of Forensic DNA Profiling. The various interpretational skills taught in the course follow International Society of Forensic Genetics (ISFG) and SWGDAM guidelines. The course syllabus exceeds the recommendation of the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) USA for the educational requirements for a DNA laboratory technical leader. Intellectually challenging and highly rewarding, the MSc provides excellent hands-on practical learning in various laboratory techniques. It also builds the capabilities to plan and execute a research project. You’ll be well prepared for the forensic DNA profiling sector, including relevant areas like molecular biology, genetics and population genetics.

INDUSTRY LINKS

We have a wide variety of links with local, national and international laboratories and academic institutions, all of which provide valuable contacts for students wishing to enter professions related to DNA profiling. Further details and contacts are available from members of the teaching team.

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION

Masters in DNA profiling has received the prestigious accreditation from the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

You will, on average, attend fifteen hours of lectures/seminars/practicals per week and may participate in both workshops and tutorials. Personal study also forms an integral part of the programme. The students are required to complete challenging assessments that are mostly course work, group projects, presentations, moot court and practical assessments. There is only one theory based examination in the course.

We do our best to give our students key employability and transferable skills which will serve them in the various scientific and non-scientific fields thus our students emerge as well rounded individuals.

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At Nottingham, we exploit our expertise in population genetics, animal behaviour / ecology, and evolutionary biology to explore a wide range of key research questions in conservation biology. Research projects in this area are likely to either involve intensive field work, laboratory experiments, or data analysis / mathematical modelling. Recent work within the School has been concerned the conservation genetics of several endangered European carnivores, including critically endangered European mink. Other members of staff are applying genetic methods to study populations of the endangered fen raft spider, in order to inform the management of this species, the biodiversity of lichen-forming fungi in Antarctica, and the distribution and abundance of harvest mice.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
After identifying which Masters you wish to pursue please complete an on-line application form
https://pgapps.nottingham.ac.uk/
Mark clearly on this form your choice of course title, give a brief outline of your proposed research and follow the automated prompts to provide documentation. Once the School has your application and accompanying documents (eg referees reports, transcripts/certificates) your application will be matched to an appropriate academic supervisor and considered for an offer of admission.

COURSE STRUCTURE
The MRes degree course consists of two elements:
160 credits of assessed work. The assessed work will normally be based entirely on a research project and will be the equivalent of around 10 ½ months full-time research work. AND
20 credits of non-assessed generic training. Credits can be accumulated from any of the courses offered by the Graduate School. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/gradschool/research-training/index.phtml The generic courses should be chosen by the student in consultation with the supervisor(s).

ASSESSMENT
The research project will normally be assessed by a dissertation of a maximum of 30,000 to 35,000 words, or equivalent as appropriate*. The examiners may if they so wish require the student to attend a viva.
*In consultation with the supervisor it maybe possible for students to elect to do a shorter research project and take a maximum of 40 credits of assessed modules.

The School of Life Sciences will provide each postgraduate research student with a laptop for their exclusive use for the duration of their studies in the School.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/international-applicants/scholarships-fees-and-finance/scholarships/masters-scholarships.aspx

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This programme covers the origins and appearance of organisms and their genes as well as their interactions within the environment. It includes not only theoretical and experimental studies of evolutionary biology within the laboratory studying genes, genomes and phylogeny but also field work and applications to real problems, biodiversity and conservation science.

The MSc programmes in Biology & Biochemistry are designed for students who wish to specialise further in a particular field or wish to change direction from their first degree (in a related area).

If you already have extensive and relevant research experience and would like to specialise, you might consider an MRes programme (http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/).

Visit the website http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/msc-evolutionary-and-population-biology/

Why study Biology and Biochemistry with us?

- Biology & Biochemistry ranked 2nd in the Sunday Times University Guide 2013
- 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

What will I learn?

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 visit our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/postgraduate/)

Career opportunities

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/

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• This programme currently has a 100% employment rate in the ecology and ecological consultancy sectors
• The only UK programme to have over half of its modules overseen by consultants
• Designed in partnership with RSK Group consultancy to provide the skills and knowledge demanded by consultants
• Focuses on hands-on and field-based training
• Offers the opportunity for a six-month placement (with bursary) with an ecological consultant

What will you study?

Sample modules:

• Vegetation survey and assessment
• Invertebrate survey and assessment
• Vertebrate survey and assessment
• Professional skills
• Field trips

Please note that all modules are subject to change. Please see our modules disclaimer for more information.

What career can you have?

All our master’s programmes emphasise the practical skills that employers need, whether that is the ability to identify plants, carry out environmental assessments or use the latest cutting-edge molecular techniques. As a University of Reading MSc graduate, you will be well equipped to work in the field or the lab, and in the private or public sector. Many of our graduates go on to study for a PhD and pursue a career in research either in industry or in universities.

Typical roles of graduates from our ecology and wildlife-based MSc programmes include conservation officers, project managers, field ecologists and environmental consultants. Graduates from our biomedical MSc programme typically go on to pursue PhD studies or work in the pharmaceutical industry.

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The MSc in Conservation Genetics addresses the essential theoretical background and develops applied skills in this new and rapidly expanding field. You will be trained in the use of molecular tools for aspects of taxonomy and classification, species conservation and in the application of the principles of genetics to the conservation management of small populations. You will develop problem-solving approaches to different evolutionary and population genetics scenarios. A range of option units are available and there is a compulsory residential fieldtrip to either Poland or Tanzania which will provide you with practical experience of the essential techniques in the field of conservation genetics.

The MSc is completed by a research-based project which can be completed in the UK or overseas, often in collaboration with an external organisation. There are also opportunities to work within Manchester Met research projects in Tanzania, Kenya, the Philippines, Mauritius and Madeira.

Non means-tested loans of up to a maximum of £10,000 will be available to postgraduate master’s students.

Features and benefits of the course

-There is a residential fieldtrip to either Poland or Tanzania which will provide you with practical experience of the essential techniques in the field of conservation genetics
-The research-based project can be carried out in the UK or overseas, often in collaboration with an external organisation
-The course provides flexibility for students who have to work in order to fund their course.

Placement options

Your research-based project can be carried out in the UK or overseas, often in collaboration with an external organisation. There are also opportunities to work within Manchester Met research projects in Tanzania, Kenya, the Philippines, Mauritius and Madeira.

About the Course

You will be trained in the use of molecular tools for aspects of taxonomy and classification, species conservation and in the application of the principles of genetics to the conservation management of small populations. A range of option units are available and there is a residential fieldtrip to either Poland or Tanzania which will provide you with practical experience of the essential techniques in the field of conservation genetics.

Course delivery is flexible and most lectures take place in the evening. Lectures, other course material and assessment information is available via our online learning platform, Moodle. Teaching for this course begin in September 2016 and January 2017. Please note that January starters sit their examinations in January the following year, making the course duration 12 months.

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The primary aim of this course is to train graduates interested in the clinical application of advances in human genetics and genomics so that they can provide and critically evaluate genetic and genomic counselling services.

You will be given a thorough grounding in human genomics, genetics, genetic analysis and bioinformatics, in communication and counselling skills, and in the skills required for you to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team providing genetic and genomic counselling for families. 

The course is particularly suitable for students interested in pursuing a career as a genetic counsellor. It is designed to meet the UK Genetic Counsellor Registration Board (GCRB) Set ‘A’ educational requirement to submit a Notification of Intention to Register with the GCRB (see http://www.gcrb.org.uk/), as well as the European Board of Medical Genetics (EBMG Genetic Counsellors division) educational requirement to submit a Notification of Intention to Register with the EBMG.

Distinctive features:

The MSc in Genetic and Genomic Counselling is an innovative part-time, largely distance learning course.  Being a ‘blended learning’ course, this opens up our well established genetic counsellor training expertise to a European and international audience, as it removes the need for you to relocate to Cardiff for full time study to train as a genetic counsellor.  Instead, you will attend short intensive teaching blocks in Wales (UK) and engage in the online learning components throughout the remainder of each year.  Approved placement learning in your own location is also undertaken in year 2. 

We are committed to developing your practice in evidence-based genetic and genomic counselling, with a strong emphasis on preparing you to contribute to clinical and health services research in genetic and genomic counselling.  The programme team includes world-class researchers in genetic and genomic counselling and counselling skills are taught by an expert counsellor.

Structure

The MSc programme consists of two stages: The taught stage which lasts for a total of 24 months and the dissertation stage R which lasts for a further 12 months, following completion of the taught stages.  The total normal duration to complete the full MSc programme is three academic years, from the date of initial registration on the programme.

A placement module runs throughout Year 2 of the course.  This is supported by significant patient interaction.  Access to and concrete plans for your genetic counselling placement is a criterion for selection at interview. 

Core modules:

Introduction to Healthcare
Introduction to Genetic and Genomic Counselling
Counselling and Communication Skills
Research Methods
Introduction to Genetics, Genomics, Molecular Science and Bioinformatics
Applied Genetics and Bioinformatics in Clinical Care
Advanced Genetic and Genomic Counselling
Placement: Genetic and Genomic Counselling
Dissertation: Genetic and Genomic Counselling

Teaching

You will be taught through a combination of face-to-face and online lectures, tutorials, seminars, self-directed study and experiential learning on placement.

Lectures take a range of forms but generally they aim to provide a broad structure for each subject, to introduce key concepts, and to convey relevant up-to-date information.  In tutorials and seminars, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss particular genetic counselling and genomic counselling topics, to consolidate and receive feedback on your individual learning and to develop skills in oral presentation.  Tutorials will enable you to make individual contributions to group study, for example by summarising a particular genetic condition or your dissertation project for the group.

You will have the opportunity to practise and develop counselling, intellectual, team-working and presentational skills by participating in diverse learning activities, such as solving clinical problems, small-group discussions, debates, oral presentations, independent research tasks and written assignments as well as your practical placement activities in year 2. 

Assessment

You will be assessed through a combination of means including written work (blogs, essays), presentations, reflective pieces, video skills assessment and a dissertation.

Career Prospects

Career prospects for graduates with an appropriately accredited MSc in Genetic and Genomic Counselling are excellent.  In the UK and in the US, the demand for genetic counsellors has increased in recent years.  The US has seen, over the past 2—3 years, a rise in job postings from about 300/year (mirroring US graduate numbers) to over 600 in 2015.  Proportionately similar increases in job postings are being seen in the UK.  Graduates from existing UK MSc in Genetic (and Genomic) courses will be insufficient to meet the needs of the UK NHS over the next few years, as many UK genetic counsellors are approaching retirement.  The Transnational Alliance of Genetic Counsellors (a partnership of genetic counsellor educators from eighteen countries) have strongly emphasized the need for training more genetic counsellors to practice internationally, specifically across the EU, Asia and South America.

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