Study at Cardiff | Postgraduate

Biophotonics (MSc)

Course Aims

To offer knowledge and expertise for a career in a biophotonics-related industry or further postgraduate research in the biological and optical science, medicine and healthcare fields. The course will be relevant to a wide range of companies associated with medical and biological instrumentation and pharmaceuticals.

Special Features

A multidisciplinary programme taught by expert scientists in Cardiff School of Physics and Astronomy and the School of Biosciences.

Course Description

This new MSc in Biophotonics is a unique programme offering innovative training at the interface between laser optics, cell biology and medicine. Whether you are an emerging researcher or plan a future in a biophotonics-related industry, we can provide the fundamental understanding and hands-on experience necessary for work in this rapidly developing field. Much of the research in this area is inter-disciplinary in nature, drawing on expertise from different areas across the life science, physical science and engineering disciplines.

The MSc in Biophotonics covers a broad range of subject areas including advanced light microscopy, cell and tissue imaging, laserbased techniques, nanoparticles as optical biolabels, biosensors, research techniques in bioscience and medical applications.

Introductory material in the autumn semester gives both life and physical scientists the necessary tools for tackling the advanced modules in the spring semester, covering the latest developments in this rapidly evolving area. Subject to satisfactory progress, students are placed with an industrial collaborator or a university research group to undertake the project module, which is of four months’ duration.

This programme is jointly taught by staff in the School of Physics and Astronomy and Cardiff School of Biosciences. For further details please see www.cardiff.ac.uk/biosi/biophotonics

Available Modules

• Research Techniques in Bioscience, 20 credits, Autumn.
• Mathematical Tools in Photonics and Biology, 20 credits, Autumn.
• Optics and Light Spectroscopy including Optical Properties of Biomolecules, 20 credits, Autumn.
• Modern Light Microscopy Techniques, 20 credits, Spring.
• Advanced Optical Bio-sensing Methods, 10 credits, Spring.
• Medical Biophotonics, 10 credits, Spring.
• Nanostructures and Optical Manipulation, 10 credits, Spring.
• Study Skills in Biophotonics, 10 credits, Autumn & Spring.
• MSc Biophotonics Project, 60 credits, June to September.

Career Prospects

Photonics techniques are increasingly important and applied in biological and medical research, as well as in healthcare as diagnostic tools and in treatment. The MSc Biophotonics will be relevant to a wide range of companies related with medical and biological instrumentation and pharmaceuticals. We have established industrial links and students will be able to use the acquired skills to facilitate new developments in high-tech industrial companies or academic research environments.

Some of our recent graduates have gone on to further study or full-time employment in medical research.

Entry Requirements

The course is suitable for graduates in a biological or physical science or engineering. Applications from students in subjects such as physics, chemistry, material sciences, electrical engineering, biology, optometry and pharmacy are welcomed.

Applicants should possess a minimum of a second class honours degree or equivalent in a physical, biological or engineering science. Please contact the admissions tutor in the event of any query.

Applicants whose first language is not English are normally expected to meet the minimum University requirements (e.g. 6.5 IELTS).

Supporting materials required:

• Research Proposal                       
• Two academic references and copies of full transcripts

Note: International students pursuing part-time programmes of study are not eligible for Tier 4 (General Student) visas and must have alternative leave to remain in the UK if they intend to study at the University in person.

---

Application Deadline: 31^st July preceding entry year

---

Available Funding

A small number of bursaries are available for exceptional candidates based on academic performance.

Next intake: October each year

More information

• Learn more about Cardiff School of Physics and Astronomy
  Learn more about Cardiff School of Biosciences
• How to apply
• New Search