MSc Molecular Genetics

Join an internationally-recognised centre for pioneering research into genetics with specific expertise in patterns of human inheritance, identification of genetic determinants of human diseases, cancer genetics, circadian rhythms and microbial pathogenesis. Our renowned research includes the discovery by Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys of the technique of DNA fingerprinting and, more recently, for the identification of the bones of Richard III. We are proud of our cross-organism approach, which emphasises the fundamental importance of genetics as a common language for understanding the biology of organisms as diverse as bacteriophages, bacteria, yeast, fruit flies, insects, plants and humans.

The MSc in Molecular Genetics is a one-year full-time degree for biological sciences graduates to learn and develop an understanding of current concepts in modern molecular genetics and how to apply these techniques to research. The course is divided into a taught phase (semester 1) and an extended research project (semester 2) within the College of Life Sciences. 

The taught phase comprises of three months of intensive lectures and taught laboratory work, which will provide you with scientific knowledge underpinning the basis of modern techniques. 

A key component of the course is the six month research project, which will give you the opportunity to study and research one of the department’s key research areas in much greater depth. As well as developing your understanding of the processes and techniques used in molecular genetics, you will learn how to critically analyse data and research papers whilst contributing to the world-leading research that each laboratory undertakes. 

Assessment method
The taught phase of the course runs between September and December and is based around a series of hands-on lab experiments and small group teaching that will introduce you to a variety of modern molecular techniques and research strategies. One day a week is reserved for a supporting lecture programme in diverse topics related to molecular genetics and biosciences.

In this taught phase, continuous assessment exercises will be a major element of the course and written assignments will be used to assess your analysis and understanding of the taught practical modules; there are also two exams. To allow you to complete written assignments and to prepare for exams, some weeks are set aside for private study and revision.

Between January and July, you will undertake a full-time laboratory research project in a topic and lab chosen from a broad range offered by the College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology, the MRC Toxicology Unit, or collaborating research institutes or industrial partners (when available).

The spread of projects covers a wide variety of disciplines involving molecular genetics and a variety of organisms, and some work conducted by students has contributed to peer reviewed publications.