Radiation Biology

The one-year, full-time, taught course in radiation biology leading to an MSc awarded by the University of Oxford. The MSc in Radiation Biology comprises a five-month core theoretical course covering the emerging areas of fundamental biology for oncology and its treatment by radiotherapy and a six-month high-quality basic and clinically-applied research project.

Graduates move to PhD/DPhil positions both in Oxford, across the UK and internationally. Among other destinations, many students go into, or back to, medicine.

Applicants are strongly advised to visit the Medical Sciences Graduate School website to help them identify the most suitable course and supervisors.

The MSc can form the first year of training for students who may wish to continue in academic research at the DPhil/PhD level at the University of Oxford or elsewhere.

It will also provide a MSc degree for individuals who wish to continue in academic research in radiation biology at other universities or to start a career in other professions that require knowledge of radiation biology, eg academic personnel associated with radiation protection issues.

Fundamental radiation biological science and laboratory methods/practical skills are taught in the first term (Michaelmas) and the first half of Hilary term, over a series of 12 modules. Each module is delivered over a period of one or two weeks and together the 12 modules comprise the core content of the course.

Lectures will be given by local, national and international experts, with additional tutorials and practical sessions given by local staff. Sessions using distance learning material will complement these and give you a wide knowledge and understanding of radiation biology.

Demonstration and practical sessions will enable you to learn particular techniques that are used in this speciality subject area.

The remaining six months is allowed for a high quality laboratory research project.

Five short essays and a series of journal clubs will be assessed to provide formative assessment of your progress. You will also sit a qualifying examination in week 9 of Michaelmas term based upon modules 1 to 6, normally in an MCQ format. You will submit an extended essay in week 6 of Hilary term and a second examination comprising short questions is sat in week 9 of Hilary term. You will submit an assignment and the research dissertation of approximately 10,000 words based on your project and you will be examined by research dissertation, by oral presentation and by a short viva voce.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in a biological, medical, chemical, mathematical and physical science background.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

However entrance is highly competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement:1,000 words
• Written work:Either one essay of 4,000 words or two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

Funding for the Radiation Biology program at the University of Oxford is available through a variety of sources to support both domestic and international students. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options designed to assist students in covering tuition fees and living expenses. Applicants are encouraged to explore the Oxford Scholarships and Financial Aid webpage to identify scholarships for which they may be eligible. These include needs-based bursaries, merit-based scholarships, and funding specific to health sciences or biological sciences.

The university also participates in external funding programs, such as government-sponsored scholarships like the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) grants and international fellowship schemes. Students admitted to the Radiation Biology program may apply for these external awards, which often require a separate application process and adherence to specific eligibility criteria.

Additionally, some students finance their studies through self-funding, loans, or sponsorship from their home country or employer. The University of Oxford's Graduate Funding Office provides comprehensive advice and resources to help students identify suitable financial support options, including fellowship opportunities, grants, and part-time work opportunities on campus.

Research students enrolled in Radiation Biology may also have the chance to secure funding through research assistantships or participation in funded research projects, contributing to their financial stability during their studies. The university's strong research environment and collaborative ties with healthcare and research institutions enhance opportunities for students to access research grants and stipends.

Prospective students are advised to begin their funding application process early, as many scholarships and financial aid programs have deadlines well in advance of program start dates. Overall, the Oxford university community and its network of funding partners aim to ensure that financial barriers are minimized, enabling talented students to pursue advanced studies in Radiation Biology with the necessary financial support.

The Radiation Biology program at the University of Oxford offers an in-depth exploration of the biological effects of radiation on living organisms, combining principles from biology, medicine, and physics. Designed for students with a background in biological sciences or related fields, this program provides a comprehensive understanding of how ionising and non-ionising radiation interacts with biological tissues, the mechanisms of DNA damage and repair, and the implications for human health and disease. Students gain knowledge of radiation exposure assessment, radiobiology research methodologies, and the development of radiation safety protocols. The curriculum includes modules on molecular and cellular biology, radiation physics, medical applications of radiation, and radiation protection. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, enabling hands-on experience in experimental radiobiology. The program also emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in medical physics, radiology, radiation protection, sector regulation, or academic research. Throughout the course, students participate in seminars, research projects, and collaborative investigations, often working alongside leading experts in the field. The university's strong links with healthcare providers and research institutions provide students with opportunities for placements, internships, and networking. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute to innovations in radiation therapy, diagnostic imaging, and radiation safety, addressing global health challenges and advancing scientific knowledge in radiobiology. The program typically spans one year for full-time students and offers an intellectually stimulating environment that fosters scientific inquiry, professional development, and interdisciplinary collaboration.