MPhil in Biological Science (MRC Toxicology Unit) by thesis

The MRC Toxicology Unit's mission is to deliver mechanistic toxicology research, with a particular focus on the study of the links between exposure to chemicals, radiation, and therapeutic agents, including new classes of biologics, molecular initiating events, and adverse outcome pathways. The Unit uses a range of systems-based approaches to address key questions in this area. The Unit continues to develop the translation of its basic research into clinically- and public health-relevant outcomes; a short video about the Unit's research activities can be found here.

The Unit aims to train and mentor the next generation of toxicologists by providing a supportive learning environment designed to meet the scientific and transferable skills required for an internationally competitive career. Our MPhil Programme aims to train scientists for the future, giving them rewarding research projects with access to world-class facilities and expertise.

The structure of the MPhil is a period of supervised research followed by the submission and assessment (by an oral examination) of a written thesis. 

It is suited to those who wish to pursue research at a level beyond that of an undergraduate degree and will give a good basic training in laboratory work.

The course will provide students with the opportunity to:

• develop their research skills
• receive advanced-level training in toxicology research
• obtain a wide range of specialist knowledge pertaining to their research project

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have gained postgraduate training in toxicology, specifically:

• a comprehensive understanding of research techniques pertinent to cutting-edge toxicology
• a thorough knowledge of toxicology literature relevant to their project
• a broad overview of the multiple applications of toxicology
• experience in producing original research
• a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field

Continuing

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to pass the MPhil at a sufficient level to satisfy the departmental postgraduate education committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.  Candidates will need to apply for the PhD via the postgraduate applicant portal. 

Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

• Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

• Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.