MSc Molecular Microbiology at University of Strathclyde

Study with us

• develop knowledge and skills in areas such as genomics, molecular genetics and synthetic biology
• gain transferable skills in statistics, communication, ethics, science writing and critical analysis of data
• design experiments and analyse complex datasets
• gain a comprehensive three-part postgraduate life sciences training

Why this course?

First, unlike many MSc courses, we offer you dedicated training in a broad suite of practical laboratory skills.

Secondly, this is complemented by two unique classes that develop your transferable skills in statistics, presentations, career development, and ethics, as well as honing your science writing skills and your ability to design experiments and analyse sophisticated datasets.

Thirdly, our taught classes capture the excitement of cutting-edge research fields and you'll be taught by active researchers or practising clinical professionals. There is a choice of classes that allows you to select a pathway to suit your future aspirations.

The course provides the perfect springboard to future training at PhD level or gives you a range of skills and experience that will prove attractive to employers from industry or the health-care provision sector.

What you'll study

You'll focus on the molecular biology of important microbial pathogens and industrial microorganisms and study the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria cause disease or can be exploited for the synthesis of biotechnologically important products.

The course content and research projects are driven by the expertise in microbial genomics, genetics and biochemistry research that exists within the Institute.

Studying a combination of compulsory and optional classes and a research project, you'll gain vital transferable skills in statistics, communication, ethics, science writing and critical analysis of data. In addition, you'll undertake:

• two semesters of postgraduate laboratories, developing the practical abilities and interpretational skills that will prepare you for your project and future career
• short optional classes in in vivo biology or drug discovery
• a compulsory Microbiology class together with a choice of either Clinical Microbiology or Applied Microbiology
• a summer research project in molecular microbiology in an active research laboratory

Careers

After graduating you should be ideally qualified for positions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries as well as hospitals and universities.

You may wish to continue studies for an MPhil or PhD degree.

This course provides the background training for a career in:

• pharmaceutical & biotechnology industry laboratory research posts
• laboratory technical support
• medical/pharmaceutical/life science sales
• academia – following a further PhD route