IGC Graduate Research & Training

Masters programmes

Information for prospective Masters students.

MSc by Research

MSc by Research degrees are research only degrees. The below degrees all consist of a one year (or two year part-time) research project in a specific lab in the Institute of Genetics and Cancer with no taught component:

  • MSc by Research in Genetics and Molecular Medicine
  • MSc by Research in Genomics and Experimental Medicine
  • MSc by Research in Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre

Who should apply?

The MSc by Research programme is designed for those with a relevant undergraduate degree or international equivalent.

Please note that we cannot consider applications for an MSc for Research unless you have identified a suitable supervisor within the Institute for your MSc, they have agreed to take you on and you have discussed bench fees.

For further information, please contact student-admin@igc.ed.ac.uk

Masters in Medical Sciences (MMedSci)

The University of Edinburgh’s Masters in Medical Sciences programme is the only one of its kind in the UK.

Although this is a research degree, the first month of the programme gives students an overview of the whole range of techniques used in medical research, followed by two weeks practical workshops in cell biology and molecular medicine. After this essential training, students embark on their research project to develop new research skills in a laboratory setting.

Drawing on strengths in the Institute of Genetics and Cancer, and on existing collaborations between the Universities of Edinburgh and St Andrews, the NHS and industry, Molecular Pathology research projects are offered within the MMedSci programme.

A broad variety of research projects are offered at the Institute of Genetics and Cancer including optical diagnosis of cervical cancer, cell free DNA monitoring as a non-invasive follow up tool in cancer care, exome and genome sequencing efficacy in foetal pathology, personalised Immunotherapy for Sarcoma. 

Who should apply?

The programme is designed for high-calibre medical graduates and clinical scientists who want to explore and benefit from a period of hands-on research, to enhance their skills and perhaps with a view to pursuing a PhD or a career in research or molecular pathology.

Students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors to discuss their research interests and specialities in order that projects can be tailored to best suit the student’s training needs.

Further information

Further information on Masters programmes at the University of Edinburgh