Pharmacology and Biotechnology

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Biotechnology and biomedical research have experienced a revolution with the development of gene manipulation. Biotechnology provides us with therapeutic proteins from cloned genes for example insulin, growth hormone and tissue plasminogen activator, a protein which helps to dissolve blood clots in treating thrombosis and myocardial infarction.

The discovery of the molecular basis of genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis and cancer is helping the design of treatments including gene therapy. Also, the discovery of new types of molecules promises new treatments for many diseases including chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma.

A detailed knowledge of the structure and role of molecules involved in neurotransmission is allowing the development of a new generation of more specific and effective drugs for various neurological disorders.

Many diseases, however, still need to be conquered. Developments in pharmacology, particularly using biotechnology, promise new and more effective treatments.

This course gives you advanced education and training in current molecular and cell biology, and therapeutic rationales for treatment. We emphasise the use of cellular models to study drug actions and applying biotechnology to pharmacology.

You can take course modules individually as short courses.

Core modules * cell biology
* recombinant DNA technology
* molecular biotechnology
* molecular pharmacology
* research methods
* research project

Options * cell pathology
* human molecular genetics
* immunology
* biology of infectious diseases
* neurobiological basis of brain disease
* new drug development
* bioinformatics
* dissertation

This course contains eight modules (five core modules with three selected from options) and a research project. You can choose from a range of projects. Studies for PgCert and PgDip consist only of the taught components. This means there are four core modules for the PgCert, and an additional four modules, including research methods, for the PgDip.

Assessment

Mostly by written examination and coursework including problem solving exercises, case studies and input from practical laboratory work. Research project assessment includes a written report and viva voce.

Normally one of the following * an honours degree in a biological subject, or equivalent * a professional qualification of equivalent standing to the above, for example MIBiol by examination, FIMLS * other qualifications such as an HND, HNC or unclassified degree in a biological subject plus significant relevant work experienceYou must also be proficient in English, typically shown by IELTS level 6.0 or 235 on TOEFL or equivalents for non-native English speakers. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 75 (Grade B) IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.