Course description

Discoveries in cell and molecular biology underpin most of what is known about the development of cancer. Analysis of alterations in diverse cell functions including cell communication, cell division, cell metabolism, cell movement, genetic modifications and changes in gene expression are central to our understanding of the disease and ultimately its treatment. This full-time postgraduate degree will provide you with cutting-edge knowledge and practical training in those aspects of molecular and cell biology which are required to understand the current approaches to cancer research.

The course comprises a period of intensive taught lab work, tutorials and lectures followed by an independent laboratory research project. As well as developing your understanding of the cellular and molecular processes and techniques used in cancer research, you will learn how to critically analyse research data and research papers and how to communicate complex scientific concepts and processes.

Teaching and learning

Teaching consists of lectures, tutorials, demonstrations and intensive laboratory classes comprising six distinct practicals each lasting either four or eight days. Successful completion of the taught phase is required to proceed to the project stage. Assessment is a mixture of written lab reports, a 3,000-word essay and three formal exams. Assessment of the independent laboratory research project is based on your lab performance, the written dissertation and the project presentation.

Careers and employability

The research training you receive and the research project you conduct will provide you with skills that PhD supervisors and employers value highly when recruiting their postgraduate research students from around the world.