Microbiome Science MSc

Program Overview

The MSc Microbiome Science program at UCC is a one-year, full-time program that combines microbiology and computational biology, with an emphasis on practical skills training. It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of the microbiome in health, disease, and sustainability, and prepares them for careers in the rapidly emerging microbiome science sector. Students will have access to world-leading research laboratories and faculty, and will develop skills in data analysis, technical skills, communication, and presentation of ideas and data.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Microbiome Science is a one-year, full-time program designed to meet the demands of academia and industry in the field of microbiome science. It offers a unique combination of microbiology and computational biology, with a strong emphasis on practical skills training alongside state-of-the-art academic and theoretical content.

Objectives:

• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of the microbiome in health, disease, and sustainability.
• To equip students with the necessary skills to evaluate the current place of microbiome science in society.
• To develop career-related skills such as data analysis, technical skills, communication, and presentation of ideas and data in written and oral formats.
• To prepare students for careers in the rapidly emerging microbiome science sector, including the identification and development of probiotics, biotherapeutic products, biomanufacturing, and personalized medicine.

Outline:

The MSc Microbiome Science comprises 90 credits, including 60 credits of taught modules followed by a 30-credit research dissertation.

• MB6003 Functional Foods for Health (5 credits): This module explores the role of functional foods in promoting health and well-being.
• MB6302 Computational Microbiome Analysis (5 credits): This module focuses on the computational methods used to analyze microbiome data.
• MB6401 Cross-kingdom Signalling in Microbe-Host Interactions (5 credits): This module examines the complex interactions between microbes and their hosts.
• MB6402 Ecology of Microbial Communities (5 credits): This module explores the ecological principles that govern the structure and function of microbial communities.
• MB6403 Microbiomes in Health and Disease (5 credits): This module investigates the role of the microbiome in human and animal health and disease.
• MB6405 Practical Skills in Microbiome Science (10 credits): This module provides hands-on training in the practical techniques used in microbiome research.
• MB6406 Literature Review in Microbiome Sciences (10 credits): This module develops students' skills in conducting literature reviews and critically evaluating scientific research.
• ML6005 Molecular Techniques in the Life Sciences (5 credits): This module covers the molecular techniques used in life sciences research.
• PG6001 STEPS Scientific Training for Enhanced Postgraduate Studies (5 credits): This module provides training in research skills and professional development.

Part II (March/April to August):

• MB6407 Research Dissertation in Microbiome Sciences (30 credits): Students undertake a mentored research project within a research laboratory at UCC, APC Microbiome Ireland, or another institution.

Assessment:

• Taught Modules: Assessed using a combination of continuous assessment and final written exams.
• Research Project: Assessed via the dissertation submitted by the student.

Teaching:

• Taught by academic staff in UCC and APC Microbiome Ireland.
• Guest lectures and seminars by experts from industry, research and innovation, and regulatory affairs.

Careers:

• MSc Microbiome Science graduates are highly sought-after in the rapidly emerging microbiome science sector.
• Potential career paths include:
• Research Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Product Development Specialist
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist
• Consultant

Other:

• Microbiomes impact upon health and disease in humans, animals, and plants, as well as underlying biogeochemical cycles which are key to global sustainability.
• Microbiomes can be manipulated and/or exploited for a variety of industrial and clinical purposes.
• UCC is uniquely positioned as a world-leading site for microbiome research through the activities of internationally-recognised research centres/institutes such as APC Microbiome Ireland, Environmental Research Institute (ERI), and MaREI.
• APC Microbiome Ireland is a world-leading Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) research centre focused on understanding the gastrointestinal bacterial community and harnessing the power of the microbiome for the health and well-being of people and the planet.
• Students have access to world-leading research laboratories, allowing them to carry out cutting-edge research projects in the field of microbiome science.
• The MSc has both research dissertation and literature review modules.
• Students wishing to undertake the research project outside of UCC will first discuss this proposal with the course director.
• Students wishing to avail of an international research placement can utilize the network of academic collaborations already in place with this program.
• UCC is recognized as a world leader in the field of microbiome research, with an excellent influx of post-doctoral fellowships.