Drug Discovery and Translational Biology

The MSc in Drug Discovery and Translational Biology at the University of Edinburgh is a comprehensive and innovative programme designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to advance new therapeutic agents from the laboratory to clinical application. This interdisciplinary course combines principles of chemistry, biology, pharmacology, and translational research to prepare graduates for careers in pharmaceutical industries, biotech companies, and academic research institutions. Throughout the programme, students will delve into the fundamental mechanisms of disease, drug target identification, the chemistry of drug design, and the processes involved in preclinical and clinical development. They will engage in both theoretical coursework and practical laboratory training, gaining hands-on experience with modern techniques such as high-throughput screening, molecular modeling, and in vivo testing.

The curriculum emphasizes translational biology, bridging the gap between basic research and clinical application, thereby enabling students to understand the pathway from bench to bedside. Students will explore the regulatory, ethical, and commercial considerations associated with drug development, gaining a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field. The programme is delivered by a team of experienced academic staff who are active in research and industry collaborations, providing students with exposure to current innovations and real-world applications.

In addition to core modules, students will have opportunities to participate in independent research projects, often in collaboration with pharmaceutical or biotech partners. The programme fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates to contribute to the discovery of new medicines and improve patient outcomes. Suitable for graduates with backgrounds in natural sciences, life sciences, medicine, or related disciplines, the MSc in Drug Discovery and Translational Biology offers a robust foundation for those aspiring to make significant impacts in healthcare through scientific innovation. Graduates will be well-positioned for careers in research and development, regulatory affairs, or further academic study such as PhDs.

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

Compulsory courses:

• Applicable Mathematics
• Molecular Modelling and Database Mining
• Quantitating Drug Binding
• Protein Structure Determination
• Commercial Aspects of Drug Discovery
• Project Proposal and Literature Review
• Preparative Methods for Structural Biology
• Drug Discovery

Option courses:

• Biochemistry A & B
• Bioinformatics 1
• Chemical Medicine
• Functional Genomic Technologies
• Biophysical Chemistry for MSc Biochemistry
• Introduction to Scientific Programming
• Practical Skills in Biochemistry A & B
• Introduction to Website and Database Design for Drug Discovery;
• Detailed Characterisation of Drug or Ligand Interactions Using Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR);
• Bioinformatics Programming & System Management
• Bioinformatics Algorithms
• Information Processing in Biological Cells
• Bioinformatics 2
• Protein Molecular Modelling Practical Skills
• Tools for Synthetic Biology

• A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics or pharmacology.
• We will also consider your application if you have a background in chemistry, physics or computer science.
• We may consider your application if you have a background in another science or medicine; please contact us to check before you apply.
• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component
• TOEFL-iBT: total 92 with at least 20 in each section

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of financing options to support students enrolled in the Drug Discovery and Translational Biology MSc program. Tuition fees for this postgraduate course vary depending on the student's domicile. For home (UK) students, the tuition fee is approximately £13,650 per year, while international students are typically charged around £30,200 annually. Applicants are encouraged to explore various funding opportunities to assist with these costs. The university provides several scholarships, bursaries, and funding schemes specifically for postgraduate students. These include merit-based scholarships awarded on academic excellence, which can cover part or all of the tuition fees. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources such as government loans, research council grants, and charitable bursaries that support postgraduate healthcare and biomedical sciences studies. The University of Edinburgh also offers part-time work opportunities on and around campus, allowing students to supplement their income while studying. Some students may also be eligible to apply for student loans facilitated through the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) or other relevant agencies, depending on their residency status. For EU students, specific funding arrangements may be available, but these are subject to changing policies post-Brexit. It is recommended that prospective students contact the university's Student Funding Office or visit the official university website for detailed and up-to-date information on all available funding options, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. The university's comprehensive financial support services are designed to help students manage the costs associated with their studies and reduce financial barriers to advanced education.

The MSc in Drug Discovery and Translational Biology at the University of Edinburgh is a specialized postgraduate program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in the development of new pharmaceuticals. This interdisciplinary course combines principles from biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and translational medicine to prepare graduates for careers in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, or research institutions. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of drug design, target identification, and validation, as well as the preclinical and clinical development of new therapies. The program emphasizes practical skills through laboratory work, research projects, and industry placements, fostering a strong foundation in experimental techniques and data analysis. It also covers key aspects of regulatory affairs, intellectual property, and commercialization strategies, providing a well-rounded education relevant to the complex landscape of drug development. The course is suitable for students with backgrounds in life sciences, biomedical sciences, or related fields who are keen to pursue roles in drug discovery and translational research. Taught by experienced faculty members and industry experts, the program encourages critical thinking, innovation, and collaboration. Graduates of this program are well positioned to undertake leading roles in the biopharmaceutical sector or pursue doctoral research in related areas. The University of Edinburgh’s strong connections with the pharmaceutical industry and its vibrant research community enable students to engage with cutting-edge developments and networking opportunities. The program typically includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and a substantial research project, culminating in a dissertation. It provides a balanced combination of theoretical knowledge, experimental skills, and industry insight, making it an excellent choice for those committed to advancing healthcare through innovative drug discovery.