The MPhil in Biological Sciences provides students with an opportunity to undertake a period of study and research in Cell Science, one of the Faculty’s key research pathways.

Cells are the fundamental functional units of life, from single celled organisms, such as bacteria, protozoa and fungi, to multi-cellular eukaryotes. Yet we still cannot claim that we understand cells well enough. Each cell has its own structural and functional features, engaged in complex communication with its immediate milieu and capable of plasticity. It is the behaviour, function and fate of cells that ultimately govern organismal state, both in physiological and pathological settings. Knowing how cells work informs our understanding of how the growing number of human disease genes can cause pathology. In this exciting time of technological innovation, the field is evolving rapidly, allowing us to extract a plethora of fine-grained information and to look into the cellular world with a holistic, interdisciplinary perspective.

This MPhil aims to convey a detailed understanding of a diverse range of biological processes, examined at the level of an intact cell as well as cell manipulations for biomedical applications. The topics covered include cellular organisation with in-depth insight into the structures and functions of key organelles, communication within and between cells, cell stress, cell fate (division, differentiation, regeneration and death) and cell therapy/regenerative therapeutics. As such the concepts and experimental approaches covered in this course are central to the full range of present-day life sciences. Although we will not focus on specific diseases, the workshops and discussions will often include relevant pathophysiological contexts to aid our understanding of disease mechanisms.

The course will draw upon the breadth and international strengths in cell science within the University of Cambridge and associated research institutes; notably the Departments of Biochemistry, Genetics, Pathology, Pharmacology, Physiology Development and Neuroscience, Plant Sciences, Zoology, the Gurdon Institute, the MRC Toxicology Unit, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, the Sainsbury Laboratory and the Wellcome-MRC Stem Cell Institute.

The MPhil is offered by the Faculty of Biology as a full-time period of study and research and introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge in Cell Science.

The MPhil course adopts interactive and discussion-based teaching, much of which is seminar-style where student participation and discussion are strongly encouraged. This is complemented with extensive lab-based training during a research project (up to 32 weeks + 6 weeks writing up time) with students integrated into one of the many participating research groups (selected after starting the MPhil, having been introduced to projects and groups).

The main aims 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 acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests;
• to be introduced to the skills of experimental design, project management and time management that are needed in research;
• to become familiar with the practicalities of laboratory research, including record keeping, data handling and professional laboratory practice;
• to learn analytical techniques needed to understand and contextualise their research;
• to become familiar with scientific writing and presentation skills.

The MPhil in Biological Sciences provides students with an opportunity to undertake a period of study and research in Biomolecular Science, one of the Faculty’s key research pathways.

Biomolecular science is the study of biological processes at the molecular level, whether within a cell, a tissue, a whole organism or an ecosystem. As such its concepts and experimental approaches are absolutely central to the whole range of present-day life sciences. Biomolecular science is a rapidly evolving field: in the technologies it exploits to understand life at the macromolecular level and in its conceptual advances that drive basic research and support biotechnology applications. By combining traditional areas of science to unravel how molecular machines execute biological processes, biomolecular science transcends boundaries between the single disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science.

This MPhil aims to convey a comprehensive understanding of biological processes at the molecular level. We will discuss the major biological macromolecule families, including, DNA, RNA, proteins and lipids. We will explore the properties of biological membranes, biomolecular recognition, signalling and therapeutics. The understanding and application of advanced technologies are crucial to the advancement of biomolecular science and these will be explored in depth. Although we will not focus on specific diseases, the workshops and discussions will include relevant pathophysiological contexts, as understanding the molecular basis of disease will be imperative to developing innovations, from target-based therapeutics to agricultural applications.

The course will draw upon the breadth and international strengths in biomolecular science within the University of Cambridge and associated research institutes; notably the Departments of Biochemistry, Genetics, Pathology, Pharmacology, Physiology Development and Neuroscience, Plant Sciences, Zoology, the Gurdon Institute, the MRC Toxicology Unit, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, the Sainsbury Laboratory and the Wellcome-MRC Stem Cell Institute.

Completing this MPhil will be a springboard for entry into a wide range of careers, including advanced research in industry or academic settings.

The MPhil is offered by the Faculty of Biology as a full-time period of study and research and introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge in Biomolecular Science.

The MPhil course adopts interactive and discussion-based teaching, much of which is seminar-style where student participation and discussion are strongly encouraged. This is complemented with extensive lab-based training during a research project (up to 32 weeks + 6 weeks writing up time) with students integrated into one of the many participating research groups (selected after starting the MPhil, having been introduced to projects and groups).

The main aims are to give students with relevant experience at the first-degree level the opportunity:

• to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision;
• to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests;
• to be introduced to the skills of experimental design, project management and time management that are needed in research;
• to become familiar with the practicalities of laboratory research, including record keeping, data handling and professional laboratory practice;
• to learn analytical techniques needed to understand and contextualise their research;
• to become familiar with scientific writing and presentation skills.

The Department of Veterinary Medicine houses a wide range of skilled staff, facilities and equipment and has a wide clinical patient group to support students' research. It also has strong ties with world-class groups elsewhere in the University and its surrounding Research Institutes.

We have particular Research strengths in Disease Dynamics, Infection and Immunity, and Systems Pathology. We offer a wide range of potential research subjects, including clinical studies, laboratory work, field work and computational biology.

The PhD degree by research is carried out over a minimum of three and a maximum of four years (full-time), including a probationary period of one year. Each student is assigned a primary Supervisor, who will then assign an advisor or supervisory team to assist the student under their supervision.

Many research projects are carried out primarily within the department, but some of your studies may occur elsewhere or abroad. Depending on the funder, some courses include lab rotations in the first year. Multiple training opportunities are available across the University, and all students are expected to participate in the Postgraduate School of Life Science's Researcher Development Programme.

At the end of their first year of study, students are required to complete a satisfactory first-year report and assessment. A short report is also expected at the end of the second year, and students are expected to participate in departmental events such as Seminars, Journal clubs and Research Days. The final examination is by submission and a viva voce examination of a thesis.

The Wellcome Sanger Institute occasionally takes on research MPhil students, provided they have the support of a faculty member. Students should contact faculty members directly to obtain support. For information on our faculty members’ research interests, please visit the Potential Supervisors page on the Sanger Institute website.

This is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time research MPhil that starts in October. Assessment is by submission of a thesis and an oral examination.

Please note that part-time study may not be viable, depending on the project, and will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you are considering part-time study, please get in touch with the Sanger Institute Postgraduate Office (gradoffice@sanger.ac.uk) to discuss this option before applying for this study mode.

The MPhil aims to provide research opportunities in the field of genomics that reflect the unique nature of Sanger Institute science, with an emphasis on large-scale, high-throughput approaches and the development of a blend of wet-lab and computational skills. The Institute also aims to provide students with general research and transferable skills training in addition to training in their specific research area.

Applicants will often have a bioscience background, but applicants with a computational or mathematical background are also strongly encouraged to apply.

The Wellcome Sanger Institute is one of the world's premier genomics research institutes and is at the forefront of this fast-developing field. We use large-scale DNA sequencing, informatics and analysis of genome variation to further our understanding of gene function in health and disease, and the genomic diversity of complex organisms. The Institute's PhD programme is open to UK and overseas applicants, and we aim to attract the brightest and best young scientists worldwide.

The PhD programme aims to provide training and research opportunities in genomics that reflect the unique nature of Sanger Institute science. It emphasises large-scale, high-throughput approaches, and the development of a blend of wet-lab and computational skills. The Institute also aims to provide students with general research and transferable skills training in addition to training in their specific research area. Applicants will often have a bioscience background, but applicants with a computational or mathematical background are also strongly encouraged to apply.

During the first eight months, full-time students on our PhD programme undertake rotations in three different research groups. This ensures exposure to different disciplines in genomics and allows the students to gain an understanding of the full range of science being carried out at the Institute and the different technologies that are available. In particular, all students are required to carry out at least one informatics rotation and one experimental laboratory rotation. This helps students to develop wide-ranging skills both at the bench and in data analysis. The final PhD project is chosen towards the end of the third rotation period, and students start their PhD project on 1 June. Students are expected to submit their PhD thesis within four years of starting the programme.

Students are also expected to attend a number of training courses in transferable and general research skills, the postgraduate student lecture series and the students' journal club. There is an active seminar programme on site and at the University of Cambridge, and students are encouraged to present their work at both national and international scientific meetings, as well as to the Institute. Since our students are registered with the University of Cambridge and are members of a Cambridge college, they are able to take an active part in the University's academic and social life. They have access to events and courses run by the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences, and University facilities such as the library and the careers service. For further details, visit the PhD Programme page on our website.

To apply for a place funded by the Sanger Institute, please apply directly to the Institute. Follow this link for further information. Also any candidates that have already secured their own competitively won scholarship funding should apply directly to our Programme at the Sanger Institute.

Please note that applications submitted directly to the Sanger Institute are not applications to the course through the University of Cambridge. Students who are successful in gaining a place at the Sanger Institute will also subsequently be required to submit an application through the University's Applicant Portal.

If you are applying for funding from the Gates Cambridge Scholarship Programme or any other University of Cambridge funding opportunity, you will need to submit an application directly through the University's Applicant Portal by the relevant funding deadline. You will also need to name a Sanger Institute Faculty member in your application who has agreed to supervise your proposed project.

The Cambridge Biosciences DTP is a four year fully-funded PhD programme that aims to create highly skilled and employable people. The programme offers training across 23 University Departments/Institutes and 3 Partner Institutes providing access to a wide range of research areas related to the strategic themes of the BBSRC. We offer three types of DTP studentships:

• DTP Standard
• Targeted
• iCase

During the programme, DTP Standard and Targeted students will undertake two ten-week rotations in different labs before commencing their PhD. They will receive training in a variety of areas including but not limited to statistics, programming, ethics, data analysis, scientific writing and public engagement. Students will also undertake a 12-week internship (PIPS).

iCase students are not required to undertake rotations but may do so if they feel that this training would be useful. They must undertake a placement with their Industrial Partner for a minimum of three months and a maximum of 18 months.

Students will be expected to submit their thesis at the end of the fourth year.

Part-time study, whilst not the norm, may be viable, depending on the project, and will be considered on a case by case basis so please discuss this option with your proposed supervisor before making an application for this mode of study.

The full-time MPhil comprises one year of research with an individual supervisor, followed by the examination of a research thesis in an oral examination.

Candidates most commonly take the MPhil as a standalone research degree with only one year of funding. If this course is taken as part of a route to the PhD, a further three years of study and funding are required, as well as satisfactory performance in the MPhil. The PhD project may draw on the topic of the MPhil, but the same work cannot be presented for both degrees.

Individual staff members will be pleased to answer informal enquiries about specific research areas. If you are certain of your field of interest, you are encouraged to contact a potential supervisor at an early stage to see whether your research interests can be accommodated. We have a systematic training programme for research students, giving instruction in research methods, data analysis, and presentational skills.

The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

• to give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision
• to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests

The Department of Plant Sciences is an outstanding University Centre for research in plant and microbial sciences. It offers excellent research and training opportunities in the following areas of plant and microbial science:

• Cell function and responses to the environment
• Developmental biology and signalling
• Genetics and epigenetics
• Ecosystem function and conservation
• Evolution and diversity
• Microbiology and biotic interactions
• Plant pathology and epidemiology
• Systems and mathematical biology
• Enhancing photosynthesis
• Biotechnology and engineering

The Crop Science Centre is an alliance between the University of Cambridge's Department of Plant Sciences and the crop research organisation NIAB. It is a global hub for crop science research and a base for collaborations with research partners worldwide.

The research MPhil degree essentially follows the PhD format but is compressed into one year (full-time) or two years (part-time). The work consists of research and courses as required under academic supervision. Applicants should contact a potential Supervisor before proceeding with their MPhil application. You can browse the personal/group pages of the Research Group Leaders to check the details of their research.

The course aims to provide master's-level training in practical aspects of Plant Sciences, augmented by appropriate lecture courses delivered within the department.

The course provides training in a wide range of disciplines, including plant genetic engineering, plant development, plant molecular biology, plant biochemistry, plant-microbe interactions, microbiology, plant ecology, crop biology, plant virology, plant epigenetics, epidemiology, plant taxonomy, plant physiology, eco-physiology, and bioinformatics.

Having identified a research area of interest and contacted the appropriate Supervisor, the first stage in developing an application should be to draft an appropriate research summary of the training to be undertaken.

MPhil students must submit a thesis for examination within the maximum period of their study.

All postgraduate students attend induction and safety training courses in the department.

In addition to undertaking their research, students will attend relevant courses and lectures, such as instrumentation, sequencing and database use, statistics, experimental design, analysing data, writing reports and a thesis, and giving effective scientific presentations. Students are also expected to take part in the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences' Researcher Development Programme.

Students receive termly reports on their work.

The Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience (PDN) offers excellent opportunities and facilities for training in research, leading to the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) degree.

This MPhil is a full-time research degree. Students also attend relevant lectures and seminars and participate in skills development training activities organised by the department and the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences (PSLS).

The main aims of the course are:

• to give students with relevant experience at the first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision
• to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests

Students usually start their project in October and submit a thesis of not more than 20,000 words by the end of August. We also accept students to begin in January and April.

Full information on potential supervisors and research projects can be found on the department website's Postgraduate Education page. Candidates are required to contact potential supervisors in advance of applying. General enquiries concerning postgraduate opportunities within the Department of PDN can also be directed to postgradinfo@pdn.cam.ac.uk. Initial enquiries should be made as early as possible.

The MPhil is assessed by a written thesis and by an oral examination and 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. It is not suitable for candidates who wish to undertake a taught master's degree course involving assessed components, in order to enhance their undergraduate training.

The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

to give students with relevant experience at the first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and

to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.

In addition to the research training provided within the department, as part of the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences (PSLS), students will have access to courses to widen their experience and enable them to acquire generic skills.