Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology

This course provides an in-depth understanding of the core principles and methodologies underlying modern bioscience research and its exploitation.

It aims to equip graduates with the relevant skills to pursue careers in applied biosciences and biotechnology in the industrial and public sectors in the UK and overseas.

It includes both taught and research-based elements encompassing biochemistry, molecular cell biology, systems and synthetic biology, bioinformatics, and entrepreneurship.

After completion of compulsory taught modules, you will focus on a specialised dissertation and research projects that are consistent with your interests and career aspirations.

The course is comprised of three parts: a taught component, a tutored dissertation, which includes a mini-conference, and a research component. The taught component in weeks 1-30 will include lectures, seminars, computer practicals and tutorials.  Computer based practicals will be held throughout weeks 1-14.  The dissertation will be carried out in weeks 31-35.  A full time laboratory based research project will be carried out from week 36 to 52.

Weeks 1-15: Induction week followed by courses in Biochemistry, Molecular Cell Biology, Bioinformatics, Systems Biology and Statistics which introduce students to the fundamental concepts of modern biology, including cell biology, genomics, proteomics, experimental techniques and data handling. Assessment will be through a written examination in week 15.

Weeks 16-30: All students attend two modules comprising advanced lectures in applied bioscience and biotechnology encompassing: industrial biotechnology, glycol-technology, structural biology, cellular damage, repair and ageing, genes and genomics, infection and immunity, stem cells and regenerative medicine, neurobiology in health and disease, integrative systems biology and synthetic biology. Additional seminars and workshops will introduce students to innovation and entrepreneurship. All students will attend weekly seminars from invited external speakers from industry and the public sector. Assessment will be through two written examinations in week 30.

Weeks 31-35: Students will undertake a full-time tutored dissertation followed by a mini-conference.

Weeks 36-52: Students will undertake full-time individual projects in the research laboratories of the Department of Life Sciences.

Graduates with a first class (1st) or upper second class (2:1) honours degree in biochemistry, biology or a related subject, or an equivalent international qualification, are welcome to apply.

If your first degree is from a country other than the UK, you may find the guidelines within our Country Index helpful. Please note that these guidelines indicate the College minimum. Our requirement is usually higher.

Tuition fees (2015–2016):

• Home/EU Full-time — £9,200
• Overseas Full-time — £26,100