MRes Molecular Medicine

About This Course

Molecular Medicine is a discipline which researches the causes and mechanisms of disease at a molecular level and applies this knowledge to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. The Master of Research (MRes) degree in Molecular Medicine uses a multi-disciplinary, research-based approach to teach students the skills needed to pursue a research career in academia, industry or research institutes.

The main aim of this program is to develop the Scientific Research Skills of motivated postgraduate students aiming for a career in scientific research. The program will combine laboratory research with supportive and integrative taught content tailored to equip the student to effectively interpret and communicate scientific findings. The program aims to develop rigorous research and analytical skills, a concept of good laboratory practice and ability to critically interpret and evaluate both the scientific literature and self-generated data. Creativity and originality in students approach to laboratory research will be encouraged. Successful graduates will also attain wider employability skills including multi-disciplinarity, data management, numeracy, statistics, translating research into practice and in silico data analysis necessary for a successful career in both academic and industrial sectors.

Course Content

What will you study on this course?

The programme consists of a 60 credit taught element, which includes a choice of modules (e.g. Human Molecular Genetics; Human Immunology and Disease; Stem Cells, Disease and Therapy; see below).

In preparation for the Research Project (120 credits), students will follow the Research Skills module (which includes writing a literature review, attending research seminars, etc.), and can choose between two intense practical modules, Laboratory Molecular Research or Molecular Diagnostics.

The main emphasis of the degree is on the Research Project. This is worth 120 credits, significantly more than in a typical taught Masters degree. The project will be performed under direct supervision of a research group leader in one of the well-equipped laboratories of the School of Medical Sciences and the North West Cancer Research Institute.

The taught element of this MRes course is assessed through a combination of course work and final exams. The research project is assessed by a written report, oral presentation and the lab book.

After successful completion of this degree, students will have obtained all the theoretical and practical skills necessary for the successful pursuit of a research career and have a strong competitive advantage over holders of an undergraduate or taught masters degree to secure a PhD position or employment in research.

Careers

A postgraduate degree is essential for students which want to pursue a scientific research career in academia or industry. The main aim of this programme is to develop the scientific research skills of motivated postgraduate students aiming for a career in scientific research. The programme will combine laboratory research with supportive and integrative taught content tailored to equip the student to effectively interpret and communicate scientific findings. The program aims to develop rigorous research and analytical skills, a concept of good laboratory practice and ability to critically interpret and evaluate both the scientific literature and self-generated data. Creativity and originality in students’ approach to laboratory research will be encouraged. Successful graduates will have the knowledge, understanding and proficiency for career progression in medically related PhD level molecular research, or as specialist technical/medium grade scientists in academic, medical or industrial biomedical/medical organisations.