MPhil Molecular Biology: The University of Manchester

Course description

The MPhil is a one-year research degree where students get the opportunity to study a specific research project. The MPhil degree can act as a stand-alone degree for applicants who would like to gain experience in a specific area, or can be linked to a PhD programme. Rather than register on a direct entry 3 or 4 year PhD, some postgraduates may first register on a one-year MPhil programme. Subsequently students may then wish to transfer on to a full PhD programme with a further 2 or 3 years of study.

Molecular biology is fundamental to almost all research that studies microbial, animal and plant systems. Many research groups in the Faculty of Life Sciences are concerned with clinically related subjects including cancer, embryology, development, movement disorders, arthritis, bacterial pathogenesis, tissue injury and its repair. The unifying theme examines how genes are expressed and how they interact with other molecules to exert a biological effect. Fundamental studies of the mechanisms which control gene expression involve investigation of transcriptional and post-transcriptional events. Likewise, the study of cellular processes formulates an understanding of the roles of genes in effecting cellular mechanisms and organisation in living systems. In vitro and in vivo investigations exploit state-of-the-art technologies to visualise the activity of genes and gene products in real time. Model organisms such as C. elegans, mice, Drosophila and Arabidopsis are also used to understand the biological function of individual genes. Gene discovery is closely linked with their strengths in Bioinformatics.

Examples of the breadth and diversity of molecular biology within the Faculty include:

• Transcription Factors & Signal Transduction
• RNA Processing
• Apoptosis & Cell Fate
• Molecular Basis of Inherited Diseases
• Cell & Tissue Morphogenesis
• Cytoplasmic Inheritance
• Transgenic Technologies
• Biological Clocks

Career opportunities

The majority of their MPhil students choose to study for a subsequent 2 or 3 years to gain a PhD qualification. Other students use the skills they have acquired to move into related areas such as education, information technology, consultancy and management, helped by the comprehensive skills training they gain during their programme of study.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview:

The standard entry requirement for MPhil study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by appropriate relevant experience, may be acceptable.

English language:

For MPhil applicants whose first language is not English an IELTS score of 6.5, TOEFL 577 (paper based), TOEFL 233 (computer based) or TOEFL 90 (internet based) is required as a minimum.