Biology - Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation MSc

Program Overview

The MSc Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation at UCC is a multidisciplinary program that combines scientific research, technical expertise, and business skills. It provides a comprehensive understanding of molecular cell biology, genetics, and entrepreneurial thinking, preparing students for careers in biomedical research and life science innovation. The program features discipline-specific lectures, hands-on workshops, and a six-month research project, equipping students with the knowledge and abilities to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation (MSc MCB) program is a unique, multidisciplinary master's program designed for highly motivated students interested in biomedical research and its applications. The program offers a truly interdisciplinary educational experience by combining advanced discipline-specific training with core scientific research, technical expertise, and business skills.

Outline:

The MSc Molecular Cell Biology with Bioinnovation program is a full-time program that runs for 12 months from the date of first registration. The program consists of lectures, tutorials, hands-on workshops, and a research dissertation based on individual research.

Structure:

• Total Credits: 90 credits
• Core Modules: 45 credits (including a 5-credit elective module)
• Research Dissertation: 40 credits (ML6001)

Course Schedule:

• Discipline-specific lectures primarily take place from Monday to Wednesday, designed to align with lectures offered by the College of Business and Law.
• Students are expected to attend seminars in the Schools of Biochemistry and Cell Biology and the Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience as advertised.
• The six-month research project is full-time, starting in April.

Individual Modules:

Core Modules:

• IS6306 Technology and Business Planning (5 credits): This module focuses on the planning and development of technology-based businesses.
• ML6002 Biological and Clinical Perspectives of Human Disease (10 credits): This module explores the biological and clinical aspects of human diseases.
• ML6003 Scientific Communication of Current Topics in Molecular Cell Biology (5 credits): This module focuses on effective communication of current research in molecular cell biology.
• ML6005 Molecular Techniques in the Life Sciences (5 credits): This module covers various molecular techniques used in life sciences research.
• ML6006 Human Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering Techniques (5 credits): This module explores human molecular genetics and genetic engineering techniques.

Elective Modules (Choose one):

• IS6032 Venture Capital and Private Equity - Evaluating Early Stage Investments (5 credits): This module focuses on evaluating early-stage investments in the context of venture capital and private equity.
• IS6307 Creativity and Opportunity Recognition (5 credits): This module explores creativity and the process of recognizing business opportunities.

Research Module:

• ML6001 Molecular Cell Biology Research Dissertation (40 credits): This module involves a six-month research project under the guidance of internationally-renowned research groups from the Schools of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Microbiology, and the Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience.
Research fields include cancer biology, infection and immunity, and molecular neuroscience.

Project Details:

• The research project theme is chosen in collaboration with research groups.
• The project provides hands-on experience in experimental design, implementation, data interpretation, and communication skills.
• Students develop transferable skills, including written and verbal communication, data recording, analysis, presentation, critical evaluation, project management, and collaboration.

Assessment:

• Taught Modules: Formal written examinations and continuous assessment.
• Research Dissertation: Submitted by the end of the first academic year for examination by internal and external examiners.

Teaching:

• Faculty: The program team includes Professor Aideen Sullivan (Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience), Professor Rosemary O’Connor (School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology), Dr Kellie Dean (School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology), and Dr John Morrissey (School of Microbiology).
• Teaching Methods: Lectures, tutorials, hands-on workshops, seminars, and individual research projects.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a connected curriculum, connecting students, learning, research, and leadership.
It also incorporates modules from the College of Business and Law, providing students with business development and commercialization skills for life science innovation projects.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Technology transfer officer, R&D project manager, commercialization manager, development manager in the pharmaceutical sector, and starting a life science venture.
• Opportunities: The program equips students with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in research, development, and commercialization within the life sciences industry.
• Outcomes: Graduates are well-positioned to enter PhD programs at UCC or internationally.

Other:

• The program emphasizes the connection between students, learning, research, and leadership through its Connected Curriculum approach.
• The program has a strong track record of producing successful entrepreneurs, with alumni founding companies like GlowDX, which focuses on developing diagnostics for neglected tropical diseases.
• The program provides students with a unique blend of scientific and business skills, preparing them for a wide range of career opportunities in the life sciences sector.