Research themes
Research themes are delivered principally through a 20-week practical research project, as well as seminars, lab meetings, presentations, and journal clubs
We are particularly keen to encourage student presentations and stimulate interactive discussion with staff and your research groups.
Theme selection
Before the Programme begins, for Project 1, you will be asked to identify a preferred theme from the following list of options:
Project 1 (September to February)
Delivery in Blocks 1-3 (SEM 1-2):
Genes and Disease 1
Cancer Biology 1
Infection, inflammation and immunity 1
Project 2 (April to August)
Choices for themes associated with Project 2 are made around February from the following list:
Delivery in Block 5 and beyond (SEM 2)
Genes and Disease 2
Cancer Biology 2
Infection, inflammation and immunity 2
Students may also be able to undertake projects in Integrative Neuroscience or in other areas of Biomedical Sciences, with the permission of the Programme Director. These students would be required to attend the taught element of one of the above Themes as appropriate.
Students will receive a detailed Project Portfolio that will describe the Projects available under the various themes. During the first couple of weeks of term, students will meet supervisors and the Programme Director, and discuss the portfolio of projects and the particular area the student wishes to study. You will then prioritise projects that interest you and following discussions, will be allocated to a Theme and Project for Project 1.
Theme allocation
The final decision on research theme allocation will be at the discretion of the Programme Director, and there are minimum and maximum numbers needed for each theme. As far as possible we will try to accommodate students' interests.
To undertake projects within the available themes, it is of benefit if you have a background in molecular cell biology. Additional laboratory experience is useful but not essential.