Program Overview

MSc Molecular Microbiology

The MSc Molecular Microbiology program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the molecular biology of microorganisms and their interactions with the environment and human health.

Key Facts

• Start date: September
• Study mode and duration: 12 months full-time

Course Description

The course focuses on the molecular biology of important microbial pathogens and industrial microorganisms, studying the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria cause disease or can be exploited for the synthesis of biotechnologically important products. Students will develop knowledge and skills in areas such as genomics, molecular genetics, and synthetic biology, as well as gain transferable skills in statistics, communication, ethics, science writing, and critical analysis of data.

Course Content

• Semester 1:
  • Essential Skills and Employability for Masters Students (20 credits)
  • Postgraduate Studies in Microbiology (20 credits)
  • Entrepreneurship (10 credits)
  • Advanced Techniques in Biomedical Research 1 (10 credits)
  • In Vivo Biology (10 credits) or Drug Discovery (10 credits)
• Semester 2:
  • Advanced Techniques in Biomedical Research 2 (10 credits)
  • Advanced Topics in Biomedical Research (20 credits)
  • Postgraduate Studies in Clinical Microbiology (20 credits)
  • In Vivo Biology (10 credits) or Drug Discovery (10 credits)
• Summer Research Project:
  • 60 credits, with options for laboratory-based experimental projects, critical analysis, data analysis, or data-mining projects

Facilities

The course is taught in the Strathclyde Institute for Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences, with state-of-the-art research facilities including a genome sequencer, protein purification facilities, mass spectrometers, and fluorescence microscopes.

Teaching Staff

The teaching staff includes experts in various fields of microbiology, such as membrane proteins, marine microorganisms, chromosome segregation, and antibiotic synthesis.

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements: Minimum second-class (2:2) Honours degree, or international equivalent, in a biological or chemical discipline.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 (with no component below 5.5)

Fees & Funding

• Scotland: £11,900
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £11,900
• Republic of Ireland: £11,900 (if meeting specific criteria)
• International: £31,250
• Available scholarships: Various options, including a Pre-Masters preparation course for international students

Careers

After graduating, students should be ideally qualified for positions in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, as well as hospitals and universities. The course provides background training for a career in laboratory research posts, technical support, medical/pharmaceutical/life science sales, or academia, following a further PhD route.

Learning & Teaching

The course is delivered through lectures, tutorials, and hands-on practical sessions. Assessment of taught classes is through multiple choice tests, computer quizzes, problem-solving scenarios, poster and oral presentations, essays, and formal written exams. The laboratory project is assessed through a written thesis.