MPhil in Computational Biology

The MPhil in Computational Biology course is aimed at introducing students in the biological, mathematical and physical sciences to quantitative aspects of modern biology and medicine, including bioinformatics. The course was developed by the Cambridge Computational Biology Institute (now C2D3 Computational Biology) and is run by the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics.

The course is intended for mathematicians, computer scientists and others wishing to learn about the subject in preparation for a PhD course or a career in industry. It is also suitable for students with a first degree in biosciences as long as they have strong quantitative skills (which should be documented in the application).

Core modules include bioinformatics, scientific programming with R and genomics. All students joining this course are required to attend an introductory course in molecular biology (usually scheduled at the start of the academic year, just before formal lectures commence). Courses are delivered in association with several departments from across the University and neighbouring institutes. The course concludes with a three-month research project in a university or industrial laboratory.

Learning outcomes
After completing the MPhil in Computational Biology, students will be expected to have:

acquired a sound knowledge of a range of tools and methods in computational biology;
developed the capacity for independent study and problem-solving at a higher level;
undertaken a research project within a laboratory or group environment, and produced a project report; and
given at least one presentation on their project.

Applicants for this course should have achieved a High II.i Honours Degree.