Cancer and Molecular Diagnostics (with Advanced Practice) MSc

Program Overview

This MSc program in Cancer and Molecular Diagnostics equips you with advanced biotechnologies, state-of-the-art equipment, and bioinformatic tools to tackle global health challenges. Through research-intensive activities and collaboration with the National Horizons Centre, you'll gain expertise in cancer and molecular diagnostics, translating research findings into tangible improvements in clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Program Outline

Cancer and Molecular Diagnostics (with Advanced Practice) MSc, course

Degree Overview:

You'll engage in research-intensive activities, including a final-year project conducted within the cutting-edge facilities of the National Horizons Centre (NHC). The program's goals include:

• Developing expertise in advanced biotechnologies.

• Gaining proficiency in utilizing state-of-the-art equipment for comprehensive genomic, proteomic, and metabolomics analyses.

• Mastering the application of bioinformatic tools for data modeling and predictive model development.

• Acquiring the ability to translate research findings into tangible improvements in clinical diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options for various diseases.

The program's unique features:

• Collaboration with a reputable research community, including members of the NHC and bioscience research teams.

• Access to advanced research infrastructure and technologies.

• Focus on translational research, ensuring that your studies directly contribute to real-world solutions.

• Exploration of a wide range of research themes, including cancer, infectious diseases, respiratory illnesses, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.

This program is ideal for individuals who:

• Possess a strong interest in cancer and molecular diagnostics.
• Have a background in biosciences or related fields.
• Are passionate about contributing to advancements in healthcare.
• Seek a research-intensive program offering in-depth knowledge and practical experience.

Outline:

The curriculum covers a diverse range of topics:

• Advanced Biological Aspects of Diseases: This module explores the mechanisms and treatment of various diseases, including depression, Parkinson's, airway diseases, and cancer.
• Advanced Practice in Health and Life Sciences: This module allows you to gain professional experience through research or development internships.
• Analytical Techniques: This module provides expertise in advanced analytical instruments used in bioscience research, focusing on chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy.
• Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics: This module explores the latest technologies in cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment, including personalized medicine, cancer genomics, and bioinformatics.
• Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostic Techniques: This module delves into advanced clinical biochemistry, focusing on clinical analysis of biological materials for disease diagnosis and monitoring.
• Genomics and Bioinformatics: This module provides advanced knowledge and skills in genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics, covering cutting-edge technologies like next-generation sequencing, genome editing, and bioinformatic analyses.
You'll utilize advanced analytical and computational resources at the NHC.
• Pathobiology of Cancer: This module examines the underlying mechanisms and processes of cancer, including angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and immune evasion.
It explores the genetic and epigenetic alterations contributing to various malignancies.
• Other modules may be offered and vary across years.

The program utilizes various teaching methods:

• Lectures: Delivering core content, explanations of complex concepts, and background for independent learning.
• Seminars and Workshops: Facilitating interactive learning, guest lectures from professionals, and opportunities to present research findings.
• Laboratory sessions: Enabling hands-on experience with advanced research techniques in analytical methods, molecular analysis, and cell culture, utilizing the NHC's specialized facilities.
• Data Analysis and Visualization: Integrating software tools and computing facilities for statistical and bioinformatic analyses during lectures, seminars, and laboratory sessions.
• Research Project: Providing guidance, fostering autonomy, and encouraging critical thinking and ethical conduct during independent research.

Assessment:

Assessment tools include:

• Practical examinations: Assessing practical skills and competency in laboratory procedures.
• Oral presentations: Evaluating communication skills and knowledge presentation.
• Poster presentations: Assessing communication skills and research synopsis ability.
• Technical reports: Evaluating report writing skills, data interpretation, and analysis.
• Literature surveys, evaluations, and summaries: Evaluating research skills, critical analysis, and synthesis of information.
• Dissertation: Evaluating research project design, execution, analysis, and communication of research findings.

Teaching:

This ensures you receive instruction from experts who are actively contributing to the advancement of the field.

Diverse teaching methods cater to different learning styles and include:

• Lectures: Delivered by leading researchers, incorporating interactive elements and technology to enhance engagement.
• Seminars: Providing interactive discussions, guest lectures from industry professionals, and opportunities to present research findings.
• Workshops

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Full-time
2024/25 entry Fee for UK applicants £4,325 a year
• Fee for international applicants
£10,000 a year