MSc Developmental Biology and Stem Cells (Research)

Our MSc Developmental Biology and Stem Cells (Research) course is designed to train those who wish to pursue a research career in, or to work in associated areas in health or science. You will undertake two interrelated research projects on a specific topic in developmental biology and stem cell research, alongside taught units providing up-to-date knowledge of fundamental cell and developmental research and training in research skills. You do not need any prior research experience before starting the course. Our course will give you hands-on experience of cutting-edge technologies applicable to the study of normal development as well as rare developmental disorders, and transferable to other areas of medical research. You will also gain training and experience in scientific writing and developing a research proposal and receive a grounding in a wide range of cell and developmental biology issues by attending seminars in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health. We will also give you the opportunity to contribute to public domain research output. Most of our students do so either during or after the course, with output including conference presentations (national and international conferences), published abstracts, published papers (first or co-authored papers), and awards for oral presentations, essay prizes and travel grants to BSCB and BSDB Society meetings. You will graduate with an in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge cell and developmental research and its translational relevance from bench to bedside, as well as advanced research skills and experience of running your own research project. Your strong understanding of the ethical issues and social implications of research in fundamental research will provide you with a strong CV for your future research or medical career.

We require a BSc (First or Upper Second) or MBChB or equivalent from a British university (or overseas equivalent) in an appropriate biological or medical subject. This course is also available for intercalating medical students, both from The University of Manchester and other UK universities. For intercalating MBChB students, we require satisfactory achievement in Years 1-3 or 1-4, with normally no failure at any examination, as well as research motivation. We will consider applicants with other professional or research-related experience.