Study at Cardiff | Postgraduate

Biomedical Research (MRes)

Course Aims

The aim of the Programme is to offer individuals from a science or mathematical background the opportunity to explore, analyse and use, in an interdisciplinary environment, existing and developing biomedical and health-related research techniques. The Programme will facilitate professional and personal growth through a wide range of educational and practical experience, allowing students to obtain a M level qualification in Biomedical Research, to be used in their further career progression. For those who subsequently wish to study for a PhD it will provide a sound common level of knowledge to allow them to achieve maximum benefit from their chosen field of research.

Course Description

The Master of Research (MRes) Programme is in place to give students the opportunity to participate in an interdisciplinary Postgraduate Research Degree. The MRes award in Biomedical Research (Laboratory Science) or alternatively, Biomedical Research (Epidemiology), is a full-time Programme extending for 52 weeks with the inclusion of one exit point, providing for a Postgraduate Certificate in Biomedical Research Methods (minimum of 60 credits).

The MRes offers individuals from a relevant science or mathematical background the opportunity to explore, analyse and use, existing and developing biomedical laboratory or population-related research techniques. The MRes Programme consists of two compulsory taught modules followed by two short and one long research project in areas of biomedical research, in which the School has recognised international expertise.

The MRes is a one-year programme designed to provide a valuable postgraduate qualification that enables individuals who wish to improve their research skills. The programme would be ideal for someone thinking of undertaking a PhD but wishing to learn more about research. It also offers the award of a Postgraduate Certificate thus maximising accessibility to individuals working in industry or higher education, both at home or abroad.

Course Structure

The programme consists of 2 Stages, Part 1: Taught and Part 2: Research Projects:

Part 1: Taught (October – January)

Students complete taught modules totalling 60 credits, which can lead to the award of a Postgraduate Certificate.

Modules:

• Research Methodology (30 credits)
• either Laboratory Techniques or Epidemiology (30 credit)

Research skills sessions, including:

• Philosophy and Ethics of research
• Experimental design
• Statistical analysis
• Presentation skills
• Public Engagement

Laboratory methods sessions, including:

• Bioinformatics and proteomics
• Gene expression
• Flow cytometry
• Microscopy
• Recombinant protein and antibodies
• Critical appraisal  

Epidemiology sessions, including:

• Population health & its measurement
• Association & causation
• Critical Appraisal
• Qualitative methods  
• Screening programmes

Part 2: Research (January to September)

Students complete three research projects: two 8-week projects followed by one 26-week project (120 credits)

Projects will be offered within each of the principal research themes of the School of Medicine:

• Cancer Studies
• Cardiovascular Sciences
• Cellular and Clinical Metabolism
• Clinical Epidemiology
• Infection, Immunity and Inflammation
• Neuroscience and Mental Health

The Programme offers individuals from a science, psychology or mathematical background the opportunity to explore existing and developing methodology and technology in all areas of Biomedical Research.

Intake

The programme intake is approximately 20 students per academic session.

Entry Requirements

Relevant Science or Mathematical degree (or equivalent) at First or Upper Second class level.

If English is not your first language please check English language qualifications. If you do not have the required score you may wish to consider an English Language Course at Cardiff University.

Funding

We offer two bursaries of £1000. Allocation is awarded according to academic merit. Decisions are made by the Programme Committee.

International Scholarship - applications should be made directly to Cardiff University by 31st May 2013

How to Apply for MRes Biomedical Research

You can apply online (School of Medicine, Postgraduate Research) for the following starting dates: 1 October 2013.

MRes applications can be made until 31st July 2013. Later applications will be considered, but international students must bear in mind the time needed to obtain a visa.

Next intake: October each year

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