Neuromuscular Diseases MRes

Program Overview

This MRes program in Neuromuscular Diseases equips graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the causes, mechanisms, and treatment of neuromuscular diseases. Through taught modules and a research project, students develop research skills, knowledge, and expertise to pursue careers in research, industry, or academia. The program is delivered by leading researchers at Newcastle University's Institute of Genetic Medicine, providing access to cutting-edge research facilities and a competitive learning environment.

Program Outline

Neuromuscular Diseases MRes

Degree Overview:

This MRes program is designed for graduates with a BSc in life or other sciences. It is also suitable for intercalating and qualified MBBS or BDS students. It is a research-focused program, providing students with the opportunity to develop their research skills and knowledge in the area of neuromuscular diseases.

Objectives:

• Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the causes, mechanisms, and treatment of neuromuscular diseases.
• Develop students' research skills and enable them to carry out independent research in the field of neuromuscular diseases.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career in research, industry, or academia.

Program Description:

The program consists of two parts:

• Taught modules: Students will take a number of taught modules covering a range of topics in neuromuscular diseases, including muscle biology, neurophysiology, genetics, and pharmacology.
• Research project: Students will conduct a 24-week research project under the supervision of a leading researcher in the field.
The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical sessions. Students will have access to a range of cutting-edge research facilities, including the Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases and the Translational and Clinical Research Institute.

Outline:

Module 1: Molecular Basis of Neuromuscular Diseases

• This module will cover the molecular mechanisms underlying neuromuscular diseases, including muscle biology, neurophysiology, genetics, and immunology.
• Students will learn about the different types of neuromuscular diseases, their causes, and their clinical features.
• Students will learn about the diagnosis, management, and treatment of neuromuscular diseases.
• Students will learn about the different types of therapies, their mechanisms of action, and their clinical trial results.
• They will also gain an understanding of the challenges and opportunities in developing new treatments for neuromuscular diseases.

Module 4: Research Methods in Neuromuscular Diseases

• This module will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct independent research in the field of neuromuscular diseases.
• Students will learn about research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• They will also gain an understanding of the ethical considerations involved in research with human subjects.

Research Project:

The research project will be a major component of the program, accounting for 50% of the overall mark. Students will choose a research topic in consultation with their supervisor. They will then be responsible for carrying out their own research project, including:

• Designing and conducting experiments
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Writing a research thesis
The research project will provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world research problem. It will also develop their critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and independent working skills.

Assessment:

• The program will be assessed through a combination of coursework, examinations, and a research project.
• Coursework will typically consist of essays, presentations, and problem-solving exercises.
• Examinations will typically be in the form of written papers or oral examinations.
• The research project will be assessed by a combination of a written thesis and an oral presentation.

Teaching:

• The program will be taught by a team of leading researchers in the field of neuromuscular diseases.
• The teaching staff are all active researchers and have a wealth of experience in teaching at the postgraduate level.
• The program will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical sessions.
• Students will have access to a range of learning resources, including online materials, library resources, and research facilities.

Careers:

Graduates of the program have gone on to pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Research
• Industry
• Academia
• Clinical practice
• The Institute of Genetic Medicine is a world-leading research institute with a strong reputation in the field of neuromuscular diseases.
• The program is a highly competitive program, and only a limited number of places are available each year.