Precision Medicine: Genomic Data Science MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in Precision Medicine: Genomic Data Science at the University of Leeds equips students with skills to analyze large volumes of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data. The program focuses on advanced technologies, statistical and computational methods, and preparing students for careers in analytical genomics in industry, the NHS, and academia. It is supported by The Alan Turing Institute and offers access to real-life data sets, industry speakers, and research opportunities.

Program Outline

Precision Medicine: Genomic Data Science MSc - University of Leeds

Degree Overview:

This MSc program focuses on the rapidly evolving field of precision medicine, equipping students with the skills needed to work in this data-driven discipline. The program aims to address the growing demand for biomedical scientists with analytical skills in genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and related fields.

Objectives:

• Develop skills to analyze large volumes of complex data, including genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, phenotypic data, epidemiology, and clinical trial investigations.
• Improve understanding of disease mechanisms through data analysis.
• Prepare students for careers in analytical genomics within industry, the NHS, and academia.

Outline:

Course Content:

• Introduces advanced technologies used to generate large-scale genomics data.
• Covers statistical and computational methods, including:
• High-throughput sequencing, proteomics, and metabolomics
• Genome-wide genotyping, bioinformatic, and gene expression data
• Regression, classification, and random forests
• Emphasizes highly interdisciplinary learning and teaching.

Course Structure:

• Year 1 Compulsory Modules:
• High-Throughput Technologies (15 credits)
• Biopharmaceutical Development: Clinical (15 credits)
• Analytical Skills in Precision Medicine (15 credits)
• Research Project: Genomics and Analytics (60 credits)
• Introduction to Genetic Epidemiology (15 credits)
• Statistical Theory and Methods (15 credits)
• Statistical Learning (15 credits)
• Big Data and Rare and Common Disorders (15 credits)
• Cancer Drug Development (15 credits)

Assessment:

• Students are assessed throughout the year through a combination of:
• Coursework (data analyses, essays, poster presentations, oral presentations)
• Written exams
• Independent research project (assessed through a written dissertation and oral presentation)

Teaching:

• Methods:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Hands-on computing practicals
• One-to-one supervision within a research group for the project
• Faculty:
• Expert academics (lecturers to professors)
• Industry professionals with years of experience
• Trained postgraduate researchers
• Unique Approaches:
• Access to real-life data sets generated through University research.
• Lectures delivered by external speakers from industry and the NHS.
• Focus on transferable skills (teamwork, project work, ethical guidelines for research data use).

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• PhD in genomics and data analytics
• Computational biology
• Data analytics functions
• Clinical genetics
• Disease Biologist
• Clinical Scientist
• Clinical leadership in genomic medicine
• Opportunities:
• Roles within industry, the NHS, and academia.
• Annual industry awareness day with guest speakers from the NHS and pharmaceutical industry.
• Outcomes:
• Graduates have gone on to PhDs and data analytical roles in the NHS, academia, and the biopharmaceutical industry.

Other:

• The University of Leeds is a partner of The Alan Turing Institute, the UK’s national institute for data science.
• The program is supported by national programs such as the MRC’s Medical Bioinformatics scheme.
• The University has received significant investments in artificial intelligence and digital pathology.
• The program is taught by the Faculty of Biological Sciences.
• The program is highly interdisciplinary, combining expertise from three faculties: Biological Sciences, Medicine and Health, and Engineering and Physical Sciences.

UK fees £14,000 (Total) International fees £31,000 (Total)