Primary tabs
The Cambridge Stem Cell Institute is a world-leading centre for stem cell research with a mission to transform human health through a deep understanding of stem cell biology. Our scientists study stem cell behaviour, both normal and pathological, and use their findings to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
The Institute consists currently of approximately 28 outstanding research groups, working across three key research themes: Stem Cell States, Stem Cells in Disease and Stem Cells & Therapeutics.
Specialist postgraduate training in Stem Cell Biology and Medicine is essential to produce a stream of highly skilled and innovative investigators equipped with a deep understanding of stem cell science and its significance for future medicine.
Our overarching goal is to produce well-trained and rounded postgraduates who have generated significant and original research findings and are fully prepared for an ambitious and challenging career, whether continuing in stem cell science or moving to another profession.
The educational aims of the MRes are:
- to give students with relevant experience at first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focussed research in the discipline under close supervision;
- to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests; and
- to give students a comprehensive overview of both fundamentals and emerging themes in stem cell biology
Learning Outcomes
The first year of the programme works towards a Master of Research in Biological Science (Stem Cell Biology). This MRes year is mostly research-based, with some weekly seminars and discussion courses. By the end of this programme, students will have:
- a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
- demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
- shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies;
- demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research; and
-
demonstrated ability to effectively communicate their data to their peers, both in the production of high quality written reports and effective and informative oral presentations.
Continuing
Continuation onto the PhD in year 2 is conditional: students must pass the MRes in year one (receiving the Master of Research in Biological Science (Stem Cell Biology)); and in addition, they must also have a PhD proposal approved by their MRes examiners, although the proposal does not form part of assessment for the MRes itself. The final assessment of continuation is made at an MRes viva held at the end of year one, where a PhD proposal report is discussed at length between the student and internal and external assessors, in addition to the rotation project reports which are examined for award of the MRes itself. Continuation recommendations are then passed onto the relevant degree committee for approval.
Open Days
The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.
See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.