Plant Science and Biotechnology MSc

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The Plant Science and Biotechnology MSc program at the University of Leeds equips students with advanced skills in molecular plant science and its applications. Through coursework and a hands-on research project, graduates gain expertise in bioinformatics, molecular biology, and sustainable crop production, preparing them for careers in research, academia, and industry. The program emphasizes practical experience and career development support, ensuring students are well-equipped for success in their chosen field.

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Plant Science and Biotechnology MSc - University of Leeds

Degree Overview:

This MSc program focuses on developing expertise in molecular plant science and its applications. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to contribute to sustainable solutions for global challenges related to food, energy, and materials. The program emphasizes the theoretical and practical aspects of modern biomolecular plant sciences, including molecular biology methods, genomics, proteomics, and structural biology. Students will gain hands-on experience through individual research projects and benefit from the University's excellent research facilities.

Outline:

The program is a full-time, 12-month MSc program assessed entirely through coursework. It is structured into three semesters:

Semester 1:

• Practical Bioinformatics: Introduces students to relevant tools and approaches in bioinformatics, a crucial aspect of plant science research.
Students gain hands-on experience with bioinformatics methods for exploring and evaluating sequence information.
• Research Planning and Scientific Communication: Develops transferable skills essential for scientific research, including reading and understanding research papers, literature searching, writing a literature review, and writing a grant proposal for a research program.
• Sustainable Crop Production: Examines drivers for change in food and agricultural systems, UK and global food security, and climate adaptation.

Semester 2:

• Advanced Biomolecular Technologies: Provides theoretical background on cutting-edge techniques and develops skills in data analysis and interpretation.
Students apply their knowledge to an extended practical investigation in the form of a laboratory-based mini-project, involving practical training in modern molecular biology and protein engineering techniques such as gene cloning, PCR, mutagenesis, protein expression, protein purification, and analysis.
• Crop Science and Biotechnology: Explores future crops, advanced plant breeding techniques, and new techniques for genome engineering underpinning sustainable crop production.

Semester 3:

• Masters Research Project: Students choose and undertake an independent research project on a specific topic related to plant science and/or biotechnology.
They receive extensive specialist training in experimental design, advanced techniques and technologies, data analysis and interpretation, and are assigned a research project supervisor for guidance and support.

Assessment:

The program is 100% coursework assessed. Assessment methods include:

• Practical work
• Data handling and problem-solving exercises
• Group work
• Literature reviews
• Research paper critiques
• Posters
• Oral presentations
The individual research project is written up in a research paper format. These assessment types develop skills relevant to future careers in academia and various roles in public and commercial science.

Teaching:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Formal lectures
• Interactive workshops
• Seminars and tutorials
• Problem-solving
• Practical classes and demonstrations
A significant component of the course is delivered via small group sessions. Students receive substantial subject-specific training through their research project and specialist plant science modules. The teaching and assessment methods are designed to develop students into scientists capable of independent thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, and demonstrating a high level of practical ability.

Careers:

The strong research element of the program, combined with the specialist and generic skills developed, prepares graduates for a wide range of careers. Graduates work in diverse areas, including:

• Bioscience-related research
• Scientific publication
• Teacher training
• Health and safety
• Pharmaceutical market research
The program has a proactive Industrial Advisory Board that advises on industry expectations and employability-related skills. The University collaborates with various organizations in the public and commercial sectors, many of which are represented on the Industrial Advisory Board. The Masters career development program supports students in:
• Exploring career options and career planning
• Understanding the PhD application process and optimizing PhD applications
• Learning how to use LinkedIn and other social media for effective networking and career opportunities
• Practicing interviews for both job and PhD applications
Students also have access to seminars and presentations from industry professionals, including alumni, at faculty-led career events. Regular research seminars presented by leading academics from around the world on their specialist subjects are also available.

Other:

• The program is taught by expert academics, from lecturers to professors, as well as industry professionals and trained postgraduate researchers.
• The program emphasizes the development of independent thinking, problem-solving, communication skills, and practical ability, making graduates attractive to employers or providing an excellent foundation for further study, such as a PhD.

UK: £13,500 International: £31,000