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Transcript of PG Biological Sciences
Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
Biological Sciences
www.ed.ac.uk
Welcome to the University of Edinburgh:Influencing the world since 1583
THE UNIVERSITY of EDINBURGH
Our proud history and alumni ambassadors For more than 400 years our people have been making their mark on the world. They’ve explored space, revolutionised surgery, won Nobel
Prizes, published era-defining books, run the country, paved the way for life-saving breakthroughs and laid the foundations for solving the
mysteries of the universe. By choosing further study or research at Edinburgh you will be joining a community of scholars who have been at
the forefront of knowledge since 1583.
We are associated with 15 Nobel Prize winners, including physicists Charles Barkla and Max Born, medical researcher Peter Doherty,
economist Sir James Mirrlees and biologist Sir Paul Nurse. Our famous alumni include NASA astronaut Piers Sellers, former
MI5 Director-General Dame Stella Rimington, Olympians Sir Chris Hoy and Katherine Grainger and historical greats such as philosopher
David Hume, physicist and mathematician James Clerk Maxwell, inventor Alexander Graham Bell and Sherlock Holmes creator Sir Arthur
Conan Doyle.
Teaching and research excellence We are consistently ranked as one of the world’s top 50* universities. As host to more than 30,000 students from some 130 countries,
studying across 100 academic disciplines, the University of Edinburgh continues to attract the world’s greatest minds. World-leading
research is produced by 96 per cent** of our academic departments, placing Edinburgh in the top five in the UK for research. Our excellent
teaching was also confirmed in the latest report from the Quality Assurance Agency, which awarded us the highest rating possible for the
quality of the student learning experience.
Collaborations and international partnerships As an internationally renowned centre of academic excellence, Edinburgh is the site of many world-class research collaborations. Our
postgraduate students are crucial to our continued success and development and, along with our staff, they forge research links through regular
travel and overseas exchanges. We take pride in our partnerships with other institutions such as the California Institute of Technology, Stanford
University, the University of Melbourne, Peking University, the University of Delhi and the University of KwaZulu-Natal – to name but a few.
1The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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ContentsWelcome to the School of Biological Sciences 2
Facilities and resources 3
Community 4
Employability and graduate attributes 5
Taught masters programmes 6
Online distance learning 11
Research at the School of Biological Sciences 12
Research opportunities 13
Funding 16
How to apply 18
Get in touch 20
Campus map 21
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“You are now in a place where the best courses upon Earth are within
your reach... such an opportunity you will never again have.”
Thomas Jefferson
American Founding Father and President (speaking to his son-in-law,
Thomas Mann Randolph, as he began his studies in 1786)
Linking research and commerceEdinburgh was one of the first UK universities to actively develop commercial links with industry, government and the professions.
Edinburgh Research and Innovation (ERI) has continued, for the past four decades, to develop the promotion and commercialisation
of the University’s research excellence. ERI assists our postgraduates in taking a first step to market, whether it is through collaborative
research, licensing technology or providing consultancy services.
Enhancing your careerWith the best track record for graduate employment in the Russell Group, the University of Edinburgh is committed to embedding
employability into the teaching and learning experience. From offering access to volunteering schemes to providing support from our
sector-leading Careers Service, the University gives students myriad opportunities to develop the skills, knowledge and experience to give
them the edge in a competitive job market.
An inspiring destinationYour first-class education will take place in one of Europe’s most striking capital cities, which is regularly voted one of the best places in the
world to live. Edinburgh enjoys a solid reputation as a centre for innovation, whether as home to the 18th-century Scottish Enlightenment or
as a modern source of pioneering science, medicine and technology. You couldn’t ask for a more inspiring setting in which to further your
knowledge and broaden your horizons.
Join usEdinburgh offers unparalleled academic breadth and diversity, making it a vibrant, challenging and stimulating environment for postgraduate
study. Whether you plan to change direction, enhance your existing career or develop in-depth knowledge of your area of study, the
University of Edinburgh provides a world-class learning experience.
*Times Higher Education World University Rankings ** Research Assessment Exercise 2008
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Welcome to the School of Biological Sciences
We are constantly seeking to shed light on the
secrets of life through our wide-ranging
research – the majority of which was ranked
‘internationally excellent’ or ‘world leading’ in
the latest Research Assessment Exercise.
Our commitment to pioneering science,
supported by a healthy flow of grant funding,
helps create an environment where world firsts
are possible, for example the first genetically
engineered vaccine against hepatitis B was
developed here at the School of Biological
Sciences. By joining us you will experience a
unique opportunity to examine life processes
at the very highest level.
Thriving communityOur School houses about 120 principal
investigators, both academic teaching staff
and independently funded senior research
fellows, about 200 research assistants, most
of whom are postdoctoral, 170 research
technicians and more than 250 PhD students.
Some 90 administrative and technical staff
support the School’s academic activities.
Research institutesOur world-class research takes place at one of
six research institutes:
•The Institute of Cell Biology
•The Institute of Evolutionary Biology
•The Institute of Immunology and Infection
Research
•The Institute of Molecular Plant Sciences
•The Institute for Stem Cell Research
•The Institute of Structural and
Molecular Biology
Many of our researchers also participate in one
or more of our numerous cross-disciplinary
research centres.
Programmes Postgraduate teaching takes every advantage
of our School’s expertise to give you
outstanding opportunities to study your
chosen field, from programmes taught at the
world-famous Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
to those that explore biological data through
technology. Our students can be found
discovering how to develop new products for
human and animal health, or applying the
latest engineering principles to the exploration
of biological networks.
Effective outcomesFrom producing last year’s Nexxus Young Life
Scientist of the Year to offering industry with a
full suite of services, the School of Biological
Sciences continues to make its mark on the
future.
As you make your contribution, you will not
only come into contact with people and
opportunities in Edinburgh that will give you a
distinct advantage, but you will also learn to
expect an excellence in yourself and others
that will keep you in demand throughout your
future career.
Our vibrant community of staff and students are continuing a 400-year history of scientific exploration with innovative work that seeks to shape tomorrow’s world.
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Facilities and resources
Microscopy and flow cytometry are two of our
major strengths. Our microscopy facilities
house state-of-the-art widefield and confocal
fluorescence, and transmission and scanning
electron microscopes. Our flow cytometry
facilities offer cutting-edge analytical and
sorting capabilities.
Extensively equippedWe have protein production and biophysical
characterisation facilities, including surface
plasmon resonance, ITC and spectroscopic
equipment. We host more than 1,000m2 of
controlled environment growth space and
glasshouse space, and have computing
resources for evolutionary biology, including
four dedicated computer clusters for
phyloinformatics, comparative genomics
and population and quantitative trait to
locus genetics.
Excellent student facilitiesWe are based almost wholly at the University’s
King’s Buildings campus, located about a
15-minute bus ride from the city centre.
Students will be able to take advantage of the
new Noreen and Kenneth Murray Library –
named after the pioneer of the first genetically
engineered hepatitis B vaccine and his late
molecular geneticist wife – which opens in
summer 2012, as well as the KB Learning and
Teaching Cluster and the social and sports
facilities at KB House. Masters students have
their own dedicated common room and all
postgraduate research students are given their
own desk space in shared student offices.
Whatever tools you need to conduct your research, you’ll find the latest versions at the School of Biological Sciences. Our GenePool sequencing service leads the way, playing host to the NERC National Sequencing Facility and Medical Research Council Hub Facility.
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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CommunityThe School forms one of the largest academic groupings of biological scientists in the UK. Whether you are following a taught postgraduate programme or embarking on a research degree, you will be welcomed into a supportive and enthusiastic community of students and staff.
The MSc experienceAs an MSc student, there is always something
to keep you motivated and inspired – from
Innovative Learning Week to the Edinburgh
International Science Festival. Each of our MSc
programmes has a dedicated administrator
who is there to help you with any queries you
may have.
Research supportAll postgraduate research students are
members of the Graduate School, which boasts
an active academic and social calendar. We
provide every opportunity to take part – from
peer support groups and journal clubs to
BioDocSoc, our society run by and for research
students and staff.
Inspiring environmentOur environment of shared knowledge and
expertise has led to groundbreaking and
globally recognised research achievements.
Our research institutes provide a forum for
development of ideas, collaboration and
dissemination of results, along with an
environment for training, development and
mentoring of research students and early
career researchers. BioSkills, a database
developed by our own researchers, makes it
easy to identify fellow researchers in Edinburgh
who can share their skills and expertise
with you.
Links and partnershipsOur participation in the work of a wide variety
of interdisciplinary research centres reflects the
importance we place on the collaborative
approach to research. Through these
connections, you’ll come into contact with
researchers from varied academic backgrounds
and gain insights into new approaches and
techniques.
We are linked with:
•Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology
•MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine
•SynthSys – Centre for Synthetic and Systems
Biology
•Centre for Translational & Chemical Biology
•Centre for Bioinformatics
•Wellcome Trust Centre for Infection,
Immunity & Evolution
•Edinburgh Infectious Disease
Many of our research projects also involve
collaborations with the Scottish Agricultural
College, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh,
and many other academic and commercial
organisations.
The School of Biological Sciences is lead
partner in the EASTBIO Doctoral Training
Partnership, a collaboration between the
universities of Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh
and St Andrews. Funded by the Biotechnology
and Biological Sciences Research Council,
EASTBIO awards 34 fully funded PhD
studentships annually and provides enhanced
training to its students. For further details visit
www.eastscotbiodtp.ac.uk.
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Employability and graduate attributes
Institute for Academic DevelopmentAll of our postgraduate students have the opportunity to benefit from the University’s Institute for Academic Development (IAD), which provides information, events and courses to develop the skills you will need now and in the future.
The IAD offers one of the most established university research and career skills training packages in the UK. Our IAD experts will help you gain the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to move on to the next stage in your
career, be that in a professional sector or
within academia.
The Institute provides PhD researchers
and masters by research students with
dedicated training in topics such as research
management; personal effectiveness;
communication skills; public engagement,
networking and teamworking; leadership; and
career management. You can gain expertise in
information technology and presentation skills;
confidence in undertaking independent and
creative research; the ability to critically
evaluate source materials; and the capacity to
construct intellectually rigorous arguments.
For taught postgraduates, the IAD provides a
growing range of tailored study-related and
transferable skills workshops, plus online advice
and learning resources. These are all designed
to help you settle into postgraduate life,
succeed during your studies, and move
confidently onwards to the next stage of
your career.
By developing these broader professional skills
and qualities, our postgraduate students are
always in high demand.
For more information please visit
www.ed.ac.uk/iad/postgraduates.
Careers ServiceThe University’s award-winning Careers Service
aims to expand the horizons of all our
students, enabling you to make informed
career decisions in order to progress towards
high personal and professional achievement
and a fulfilling future, whether in work or in
further study. Our goal is to offer you a
world-class service.
Our teams of subject-specific expert advisers
are here to help at any time during your
programme of study. We offer impartial
guidance and information, and can draw on
relationships with a wide range of employing
and training organisations. For more
information on the full range of services
available, including advice on starting your
own business, getting published, working
internationally or even volunteering, visit our
website at www.ed.ac.uk/careers.
Science communicationThere are plenty of opportunities to develop
science communication skills. The student-run
BioPod series of podcasts covers stories from
across the School – you might find yourself the
subject of one, or helping to produce them.
Similarly, our Press Gang works with the
University’s Press and PR Office to spread the
word on the School’s pioneering work. Many
of our students are part of the EUSci team,
publishing a regular science magazine, and
there are also opportunities to get involved
with the annual Edinburgh International
Science Festival.
The School of Biological Sciences offers a research-rich environment in which to develop as scientists or entrepreneurs. However, you will learn skills that will benefit your personal and professional development regardless of the direction your career may take. The University hosts a range of services and opportunities to help you make the most of your time here.
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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Taught masters programmes BiodivErSiTy & Taxonomy oF PlanTSwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/1
MSc 1 yr FT
PGDip 9 mths FT
Programme descriptionThe understanding of plant diversity and resources has never been more important. As we face the unprecedented challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, effective environmental surveillance and conservation depend upon detailed knowledge of plants and their habitats.
This programme is run jointly by the University and the world-renowned Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGEE), home to one of the world’s best living collections of plants (15,000 species across four sites, amounting to five per cent of known world species), a herbarium of three million preserved specimens and one of the UK’s most comprehensive botanical libraries.
RBGE offers collections-based biodiversity research opportunities across a wide spectrum of organisms and geographical regions. This diversity, coupled with the RBGE’s world-leading research in different continents, provides an unrivalled masters programme in plant biodiversity.
Programme structureThis programme consists of two terms of lectures, practicals, workshops and investigations, followed by a four-month research project. The programme includes a two-week field course in a tropical country (recently Belize).
The programme is delivered mainly at RBGE but also at the University’s King’s Buildings campus. There are no optional elements to the programme – all courses are compulsory.
Courses: Conservation and Sustainability; Taxonomy and Plant Collections; Biodiversity of Angiosperms; Evolution of Cryptogams and Fungi; Evolution of Angiosperms; Plant Geography; Phylogenetics and Population Genetics; Biodiversity of Cryptogams and Fungi.
Your research project will be chosen in consultation with your supervisor, and will link directly with active research programmes at RBGE or other research insitutions. The field trip, together with training and a short practical exam, qualifies you for the RBGE Certificate in Practical Field Botany.
Career opportunitiesThe programme gives you a good preparation for roles in taxonomy, while many graduates have also continued to PhD studies. Past students have entered a wide variety of jobs at research institutions, conservation agencies and elsewhere.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:1 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), in biological or environmental science. Relevant work experience
is desirable.
English language requirements: See page 18
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme directors:
Dr Andrew Hudson/Dr Louis Ronse de Craene
T: +44 (0)131 650 8651 E: [email protected]
BioinFormaTiCSwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/2
MSc 1 yr FT
PGDip 9 mths FT
Programme descriptionBioinformatics is the application of computer-based approaches to understand biological processes. Modern high-throughput technologies, such as genome sequencing and microarray profiling, generate huge amounts of data.
The aim of this MSc is to equip you with a strong background in biology, plus the computing skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the vast wealth of modern biological data. On completing this programme you will be able to take up PhD studies or bioinformatics posts in academia or in industry.
The programme covers programming skills, statistical analysis and database science as well as bioinformatics. Optional courses allow students to specialise in several aspects of bioinformatics.
Programme structureThe MSc comprises two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project and dissertation. The project is a key element in deciding how your career in bioinformatics should develop further. Teaching is through lectures, tutorials, seminars, computer practicals and lab demonstrations.
Compulsory courses: Bioinformatics Research Proposal; MSc Dissertation (Bioinformatics).
Optional courses: Applied Databases; Building a Bioinformatics Workstation; Bioinformatics 1; Human–Computer Interaction; Information Processing in Biological Cells; Introduction to Scientific Programming for MSc in Drug Discovery & Translational Biology; Molecular Modelling and Database Mining; Perl for Bioinformatics; Quantitating Drug Binding; Statistics and Data Analysis; Text Technologies; Bioinformatics Algorithms; Bioinformatics 2; Computational Systems Biology; Data Mining and Exploration; Functional Genomic Technologies; Introduction to Website and Database Design for Drug Discovery; Molecular Phylogenetics; Next Generation Genomics; Software Architecture, Process, and Management; Drug Discovery.
ResearchThe research project is carried out independently, but under the guidance of a supervisor during the summer, with results presented in a dissertation. A wide range of projects is available through both the School of Biological Sciences and the School of Informatics.
Career opportunitiesThe programme will give you a good preparation for further academic research or for technical or managerial roles in various commercial sectors, from medical electronics to defence.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:1 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), in biological sciences. You must have a strong background in
molecular biology, biochemistry or related sciences and some experience of
computer science or mathematics. Students with degrees in chemistry, physics,
mathematics or engineering will be considered.
English language requirements: See page 18
Tuition fees in 2012/13*1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme Director: Dr Simon Tomlinson T: +44 (0)131 651 7052 E: [email protected]
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BioTEChnologywww.ed.ac.uk/pg/676
MSc 1 yr FT
PGDip 9 mths FT
Programme descriptionChanging demographics and growing demand for food, fuel and agricultural and environmental sustainability are among the key challenges the world faces today.
In this MSc you will learn research and development skills using biological principles to enable the creation of new products and services. You will investigate the economic basis for current biotechnology structures and areas of future demand, including the global pharmaceutical industry, carbon sequestration, biofuel production, innovations in drug and vaccine design and regenerative medicine. You will learn how technology can be applied to solve pressing real-world biological problems and gain the skills and expertise needed for future developments in biotechnology.
Programme structureThis programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project or industrial placement.
Compulsory courses: Research Project or Industrial Placement (as available); Economics and Innovation in the Biotechnology Industry; Intelligent Agriculture; Research and Development: The Laboratory Foundation Part 1 and 2; Vaccine Development and Clinical Testing.
Optional courses: Information Processing in Biological Cells; Enzymology and Biological Production; Gene Expression and Microbial Regulation; Molecular Modelling and Database Mining; Commercial Aspects of Drug Discovery; Management of R&D and Product Innovation; Building a Bioinformatics Workstation; Regenerative Medicine; Bioinformatics; Stem Cell Systems for Translational Medicine; Stem Cells for Regenerative Medicine: a Roadmap for the Clinic; Drug Discovery; Social Dimensions of Systems and Synthetic Biology.
Research and laboratory workThere will be a considerable practical element to the programme. You will work in a biotechnology laboratory and will learn how experimental technology is designed and operated. Group and class projects will centre on bioelectricity, biofuels and other areas of biotechnology.
Industrial placementYou can pursue a traditional laboratory-based project on campus, resulting in a dissertation, or choose to undertake an industrial placement. Support from the Scottish Funding Council has led to a new scheme enabling students to do their dissertation in a workplace setting or consultancy role, working with employers in the Scottish biotechnology sector.
Career opportunitiesThe programme will open up a wide variety of career opportunities, ranging from sales and marketing, to research and development, to manufacturing and quality control and assurance.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:1 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), with a strong background in biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular
biology or related sciences.
English language requirements: See page 18
We strongly recommend that students exceed the specified minimum
levels as presentations and report writing are a significant aspect of
this programme.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme Director: Professor David Arnot T: +44 (0)131 650 8643 E: [email protected]
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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drUg diSCovEry & TranSlaTional Biologywww.ed.ac.uk/pg/3
MSc 1 yr FT
PGDip 9 mths FT
Programme descriptionPharmaceuticals have traditionally been developed from herbal remedies or from the screening for beneficial effects of natural or synthetic chemicals. Today, the process of drug discovery is being transformed by technology.
This MSc will help you explore current methods of developing drugs and therapeutic compounds for humans and animals and disease control agents for plants. You will learn about marketing, licensing and regulations, which are all part of the development process.
Our multidisciplinary approach will help you link structural biology, bioinformatics, chemistry and pharmacology. You will investigate the fundamental scientific problems and techniques of drug discovery and design, alongside the challenges of developing principles for new therapeutic strategies. You will have hands-on experience of crystallographic computer programming and computation for bioinformatics.
As part of the transferable skills aspect to the programme, you will consider the moral and ethical aspects of the agrochemical and pharmaceutical industries through case studies, seminars and discussions.
Programme structureThis programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project or industrial placement.
Compulsory courses: Applicable Mathematics; Molecular Modelling and Database Mining; Quantitating Drug Binding; Protein Structure Determination; Commercial Aspects of Drug Discovery; Project Proposal, Literature Review and Research Project; Ethics in Science; Preparative Methods for Structural Biology Drug Discovery.
Optional courses: Chemical Pharmacology; Bioinformatics 1; Functional Genomic Technologies; Synthetic Biology: Modelling; Biophysical Chemistry for MSc Drug Discovery and Translational Biology; Introduction to Scientific Programming; Medicinal Chemistry; Introduction to Website and Database Design for Drug Discovery; Detailed Characterisation of Drug or Ligand Interactions Using Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR); Perl for Bioinformatics; Building a Bioinformatics Workstation; Bioinformatics Algorithms; Management of R&D and Product Innovation; Information Processing in Biological Cells.
Career opportunitiesThis MSc is designed to help you pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry or relevant government agencies, and it will provide a good background for managerial or technical roles in research, design and development. It is also a solid basis from which to continue your studies to PhD level.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:1 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), in biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics or pharmacology.
Applicants with a background in chemistry, physics or computer science will also
be considered. Students with other scientific or medicine backgrounds should
contact the Programme Director.
English language requirements: See page 18
We strongly recommend that students exceed the specified minimum levels as
presentations and report writing are a significant aspect of this programme.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme Director:
Dr Paul Taylor T: +44 (0)131 651 7052 E: [email protected]
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QUanTiTaTivE gEnETiCS & gEnomE analySiSwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/6
MSc 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
PGDip 9 mths FT
Specialist options within this programme are:
animal BrEEding & gEnETiCSwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/763
MSc 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
PGDip 9 mths FT
EvolUTionary gEnETiCSwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/764
MSc 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
PGDip 9 mths FT
hUman ComPlEx TraiT gEnETiCSwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/765
MSc 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
PGDip 9 mths FT
Programme descriptionQuantitative Genetics & Genome Analysis is a suite of programmes offering specialist routes in Animal Breeding & Genetics, Evolutionary Genetics, or Human Complex Trait Genetics.
The revolution in genetic mapping technology and the advent of whole genome sequences has turned quantitative genetics into one of the fastest growing areas of biology. Based in the internationally renowned Institute of Evolutionary Biology, this MSc draws from the wealth of expertise available there, as well as the teaching, research expertise and facilities of the Scottish Agricultural College, the University’s Centre for Molecular Medicine, the Medical Research Council’s Human Genetics Unit and the Roslin Institute (birthplace of Dolly the Sheep). Each year the syllabus is fine-tuned to suit current issues in evolutionary, plant, human and animal genetics.
You will develop the in-depth knowledge and specialised skills required to apply quantitative genetics theory to practical problems, in both the biomedical and animal-science industries, and to undertake research in evolutionary genetics, population genetics and genome analysis.
Programme structureThis programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project.
Compulsory courses: Population and Quantitative Genetics; Genetic Interpretation; Statistics and Data Analysis; Linkage and Association in Genome Analysis; Mini Research Project; either Bioinformatics or Molecular Phylogenetics.
Optional courses (selected according to degree specialisation): Quantitative Genetic Models; Molecular Evolution; Genetics of Human Complex Traits; Animal Genetic Improvement; Evolution and Climate Change.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:2 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), in biological or biomedical sciences, medicine, agriculture or animal
sciences, with evidence of quantitative skills. Alternatively a background in
mathematics, statistics or physics with evidence of an interest in genetics.
English language requirements: See page 18
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international: £17,200
2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme Director: Professor Andrew Leigh Brown T: +44 (0)131 650 5513 E: [email protected]
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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SySTEmS & SynThETiC Biologywww.ed.ac.uk/pg/649
MSc 1 yr FT
PGDip 9 mths FT
Programme descriptionWe offer an opportunity to train in one of the newest areas of biology: the application of engineering principles to the understanding and design of biological networks. This new approach promises solutions to some of today’s most pressing challenges in environmental protection, human health and energy production.
The MSc will provide you with a thorough grounding in the fundamentals of system and synthetic biology, ranging from understanding genome-wide data to designing and synthesising ‘Biobricks’. You will learn quantitative methods of modelling and data analysis to inform and design new hypotheses based on experimental data.
The University hosts the new SynthSys Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology, a hub for world-leading research in this area.
Programme structureThe programme consists of two semesters of taught courses followed by a research dissertation, which can be a modelling or laboratory-based project. Students are advised to take our four recommended courses, which are supplemented with their choice of optional courses.
Recommended courses: Information Processing in Biological Cells; Synthetic Biology: Modelling; Computational Systems Biology; Social Dimensions of Systems and Synthetic Biology.
Optional courses: Neural Computation; Probabilistic Modelling and Reasoning; Molecular Modelling and Database Mining; Introduction to Java Programming; Functional Genomic Technologies; Models and Languages for Computational Systems Biology; Machine Learning and Pattern Recognition; Data Mining and Exploration; Information Theory; Perl for Bioinformatics; Regenerative Medicine; Research and Development: the Laboratory Foundation Part 1 and 2; Statistics and Data Analysis; Stochastic Models in Biology; Bioinformatics; Bioinformatics Algorithms; Biological Physics; Computational Cognitive Neuroscience; Methods for the Analysis of Networks; Molecular Phylogenetics; Next Generation Genomics; Stem Cell Systems for Translational Medicine; Bioinformatics 1; Management of R&D and Product Innovation; Drug Discovery.
Career opportunitiesThe programme is designed to give you a good basis for managerial or technical roles in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. It will also prepare you for entry into a PhD programme.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:1 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), with a strong background in one or more of the following areas:
bioinformatics, computer sciences and modelling, molecular biology and
related sciences, engineering or biotechnology. Physics, mathematics or other
backgrounds will also be considered.
English language requirements: See page 18
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme Director:
Professor Peter Swain T: +44 (0)131 651 7052 E: [email protected]
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Online distance learning
nExT gEnEraTion drUg diSCovEry www.ed.ac.uk/pg/766
MSc 3 yrs PT (online distance learning)
PGDip 2 yrs PT
Programme descriptionThis online programme aims to address the global problem of the falling rate at which new drugs come to market.
You will study the challenges in developing novel drugs; the science underlying emerging fields of drug discovery; the application of new ideas to the field; how drug discovery relates to real-world health problems; the commercial aspects of drug discovery; and potential future developments.
The programme offers a research-rich environment in which you can develop as a scientist and entrepreneur.
Programme structure This is a distance learning programme taught entirely online via a virtual learning environment. You will learn through a variety of teaching methods, including online tuition, peer-to-peer discussion and individual study. You will take six taught courses in each of the two first years of the MSc – a mixture of compulsory and optional courses. In your final year you pursue a research project leading to a dissertation.
You can follow a single year of part-time study to qualify for a certificate, two years to achieve a diploma, and three years for the MSc. You can expect to spend about 10 hours a week on your studies.
Compulsory courses: Professional Skills in Drug Discovery; Introduction to Modelling Biological Systems; Measuring Drug Binding; Structure Determination
of Drug Targets; Systems Approach to Modelling Cell Signal Transduction; Modelling Metabolic Pathways; In Silico Drug Discovery; Molecular Modelling; High Throughput Drug Discovery; Commercial Aspects of Drug Discovery.
Optional courses: Introduction to Biological Kinetics; Computing Skills for Drug Discovery; Chemistry for Drug Discovery; Druggable Systems.
Career opportunitiesYou will enhance your career prospects with marketable analytical and presentation skills.
Minimum entry requirements
A UK 2:1 degree, or its international equivalent (www.ed.ac.uk/international/
country), in biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, medicine, molecular
biology, pharmacology or related sciences.
English language requirements: See page 18
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
3 yrs PT: UK/EU £4,350 per year; international £4,350 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees see
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Programme Director:
Dr Paul McLaughlin T: +44 (0)131 651 7052 E: [email protected]
Our award-winning online learning technology enables you to interact with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your home or workplace. In fact, you will have the same access to our staff as you would if you were on campus. Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources but they get the opportunity to become part of a supportive online community.
You may also be interested in:MSc Translational Medicine (Medicine & Veterinary Medicine Prospectus)
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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Research at the School of Biological Sciences
Pursuing postgraduate research in the School of Biological Sciences will place you within one of the largest and most highly rated centres of its kind in the UK and one of the top 25 worldwide for life sciences*. With the majority of our research judged as either world-leading or internationally significant in the latest Research Assessment Exercise, and with a successful record of research grant applications, we can offer an environment that boasts the most up-to-date equipment and facilities to encourage research excellence and innovation.
You’ll be part of an active Graduate School,
numbering about 200 students, and will
benefit from the support of more than 120
principal investigators, many of whom hold
independent personal fellowships funded by
prestigious bodies. Through our innovative
‘skills database’, you’ll have access to a broad
range of expertise within our comprehensive
research areas, the output of which has been
assessed as second in the UK for the volume of
‘internationally excellent’ and ‘world-leading’
research.
Research routesOur School is divided into six discipline-based
research institutes that cover the full spectrum
of biology, from molecular structure to
evolutionary and population biology.
We offer two routes to a PhD: a four-year
programme that includes a substantial training
element and a three-year programme for
students with a strong background in their
chosen area.
High rate of career successWe find the overwhelming majority of our
students have an academic career in mind
when applying for research degrees. Our latest
figures show that 84 per cent of our graduates
achieve this, and are now establishing
themselves in universities and other research
institutions worldwide. It’s a significant
achievement, one which demonstrates the
quality of both our research and our standing
within the international academic community.
Of course, some students plan to develop a
career outside academia and they are also
supported.
Liam Worrall PhD Structural Biology
“I completed a PhD in Structural
Biology at the University of
Edinburgh. I originally joined the
Walkinshaw group as a bioinformatics
PhD candidate but through his
supportive and motivational
mentorship took up the exciting
challenge of X-ray crystallography,
which I have continued to investigate
through a postdoctoral fellowship at
the University of British Columbia,
Vancouver, Canada.”
* Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2011/2012
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Research opportunities
CEll Biologywww.ed.ac.uk/pg/7
PhD 3 yrs FT (6 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MPhil 2 yrs FT (4 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MSc by Research 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
Research environment
The Institute of Cell Biology (ICB), including the Wellcome Trust Centre
for Cell Biology, hosts 32 laboratories carrying world-class research into
fundamental mechanisms relating to cellular function. A significant
proportion of our research involves systems biology approaches and
mathematical modelling.
Our research groups comprise one of the largest communities of cell
biology researchers in the UK. Many of our staff are Fellows of the Royal
Society and acknowledged leaders in their field. Most PhD students who
train at the ICB continue with their academic career or join research in
the industry, often becoming independent group leaders.
Diversity of interests
We offer a wide scope of projects covering different areas of cell
biology, including the synthesis, processing, localisation and
degradation of RNA; epigenetic control of gene expression,
chromosome function and genome stability; mechanisms of cell growth
and duplication; the rules that govern cellular architecture;
biotechnology, synthetic biology and microbial regulation. A variety of
courses in microscopy, bioinformatics and proteomics are available to
all our PhD students.
State-of-the-art facilities
The ICB provides an exceptional working environment. The Wellcome
Trust Centre for Cell Biology is home to the Central Optical
Instrumentation Laboratory (COIL), while image analysis at the boundary
of biology and physics are provided through the nearby Collaborative
Optical Spectroscopy Micromanipulation & Imaging Centre (COSMIC).
The ICB is proud of its cutting-edge proteomics facility and automated
drug-screening platforms that facilitate discovery of new molecules that
impact on cellular functions.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
PhD 3 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
PhD 6 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MPhil 2 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
MPhil 4 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MSc by Research 1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
MSc by Research 2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees
see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
EvolUTionary Biologywww.ed.ac.uk/pg/8
PhD 3 yrs FT (6 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MPhil 2 yrs FT (4 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MSc by Research 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
Research environment
As a research student at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology you will
join the UK’s largest and most dynamic community of researchers in
the field. With about 30 research groups, which includes about 50 PhD
students, you’ll benefit from a busy programme of seminars, journal
clubs and other research-furthering activities and will be encouraged
to publish your findings. You’ll also take part in student-led courses
and talks.
We have an enviable record in academic career success. Our institute
reflects the School-wide figure of 84 per cent for students achieving
academic posts after they complete their PhD.
We go beyond the study of animal behaviour to focus on the
underpinnings of the science of evolution, down to the level of DNA,
to look at just how organisms fundamentally develop as a result of
natural selection.
Our current research falls under three broad themes: evolutionary
and quantitative genetics, evolutionary ecology and behaviour, and
biodiversity and ecology. Researchers are working on everything from
viral evolution and host-parasite co-evolution to natural selection in the
wild and plant conservation genetics.
First-class facilities
Topping our list of impressive research tools is the GenePool, one of the
UK’s biggest and best university-based genomics facilities. Attracting
visiting researchers from all over the UK and internationally, this
next-generation facility opens up new ways of creating research data.
If your study involves bioinformatics, the Ashworth Bioinformatics
Support Service provides a vital link with the expertise and facilities
on offer through our world-leading School of Informatics.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
PhD 3 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
PhD 6 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MPhil 2 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
MPhil 4 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MSc by Research 1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
MSc by Research 2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees
see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
The School offers a wide range of research areas for postgraduate-level research, but you may also be interested in opportunities in the University’s College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine (www.ed.ac.uk/medicine-vet-medicine) or School of Chemistry (www.chem.ed.ac.uk).
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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immUnology & inFECTion rESEarChwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/488
PhD 3 yrs FT (6 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MPhil 2 yrs FT (4 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MSc by Research 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
Research environment
Immunology and Infection Research has a proud tradition here at the
School of Biological Sciences. As a researcher, you’ll be following in the
footsteps of Nobel Prize winners – from malaria pioneer Sir Ronald Ross
to the 2001 laureate Sir Paul Nurse – and other great names who have
made groundbreaking discoveries over the years. Our leadership in
infectious disease research has emerged alongside the School’s strength
in population biology and quantitative genetics; our close association
with biologists in these areas can be a valuable asset to your work.
Our institute has more than 20 research group leaders, including nine
professors. While genetics is a core discipline, our work extends over
molecular and cell biology, immunology, evolutionary biology and
epidemiology.
Themes
We cover a number of overlapping themes of study. In fundamental
immunology, we look at how B and T lymphocytes interact and develop
in response to antigen challenge, and how responses are initiated by
dendritic cells and dampened by regulatory cells. Immune regulation
of disease projects aim to design immunological interventions to
ameliorate pathology or to enhance host immunity, in conjunction with
new vaccines against parasites and therapies for autoimmunity. Work on
molecular biology and genetics of parasites focuses on the identification
of vaccine candidates and virulence factors in malaria parasites, the cell
and molecular biology of trypanosomes and Leishmania parasites, and
proteomics and transcriptomics of helminth worm parasites.
In molecular microbiology, we look at the cell biology and post-genomic
functional analysis of intracellular bacterial pathogens including Listeria
and Helicobacter; and host-pathogen population biology integrates
conventional immunology, pathogen research and systems-level
quantitative biology, using mathematical approaches in both
experimental models and the epidemiology of human and animal
infections.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
PhD 3 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
PhD 6 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MPhil 2 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
MPhil 4 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MSc by Research 1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
MSc by Research 2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees
see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
STEm CEll rESEarChwww.ed.ac.uk/pg/11
PhD 3 yrs FT (6 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MPhil 2 yrs FT (4 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MSc by Research 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
Research environment
Our role in the development of stem cell research began in the early
1990s, with researchers at the formerly known Centre for Genome
Research producing the subject’s early publications. We grew into the
first stem cell research institute in the UK, and this formed the basis of
what is now a world-leading centre for multidisciplinary research in
mammalian stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. As a PhD
student, you’ll study in a unique environment, thanks to our location
within the MRC-funded Scottish Centre for Regenerative Medicine
(SCRM). This unique cross-disciplinary initiative is aimed at studying the
properties and behaviour of stem cells to develop new therapies.
Field of focus
Research groups within SCRM cover a diverse range of areas, exploring
the possibilities offered by embryonic, fetal and adult tissue stem cells.
Each group focuses on a highly specific aspect of research. The themes
we address include: the properties of stem cells and their niches; control
of stem cell self-renewal and differentiation in vitro and in vivo; the role
of stem cells in the ageing process; and the mechanisms underlying
tissue degeneration and repair. The Centre’s overarching goal is to
harness this knowledge to develop new therapies. We attract highly
committed and motivated students and reward them with an
interdisciplinary research environment that fosters achievement at the
highest levels.
Cutting-edge facilities
You’ll be studying in the spectacular SCRM building, built in late 2011.
You’ll be part of a cutting-edge PhD programme that integrates basic
and clinical research, and you’ll enjoy the benefits of a shared suite of
facilities and operational expertise that are second to none. A
centralised cell culture facility, a transgenic animal facility, a flow
cytometry service, an imaging facility and SPF animal facilities are just
some of the specialised resources you’ll have at your disposal. Your
colleagues will include members of the University’s College of Medicine
& Veterinary Medicine who can provide a clinical perspective and as
you’ll be located a stone’s throw from the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh,
you’ll also have access to hospital facilities and practising clinicians.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
PhD 3 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
PhD 6 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MPhil 2 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
MPhil 4 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MSc by Research 1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
MSc by Research 2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees
see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
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PhD 3 yrs FT (6 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MPhil 2 yrs FT (4 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MSc by Research 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
Research environment
With world-class facilities and lively collaborations, our Institute of
Molecular Plant Sciences provides you with the ideal environment in
which to pursue postgraduate research. We’re the most active
university department for plant sciences in the UK, hosting one of the
country’s few plant-based research and teaching institutes. Our 14
research groups each make vital contributions to new discoveries. You’ll
be able to choose from a broad range of topics, applying
multidisciplinary approaches – from computational biology to
molecular genetics and cell biology and to subjects ranging from plant
growth, development and evolution to plant pathogen interactions.
Broad scope
We offer a wide range of research interests, including developmental
biology; speciation and natural variation (making use of our strong
connections with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh); circadian clocks
and photobiology; bio-imaging; biochemistry and cell biology; and
molecular plant pathology.
Investment in facilities
Our institute was recently refurbished and since then, substantial
investment has been made in ensuring the equipment and facilities
you’ll use are as good as those anywhere in the world. You’ll work in
purpose-built laboratories and specialist facilities for plant growth,
including a high-throughput Arabidopsis genetics facility, a suite of
biochemistry equipment, more than 700m2 of controlled environment
growth rooms and 2,200m2 of glasshouses, including a new Category 3
containment glasshouse. Our strong links with SynthSys, the Centre for
Synthetic and Systems Biology and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
give you access to an even broader range of facilities and expertise, as
do our associations with the Scottish Crop Research Institute.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
PhD 3 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
PhD 6 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MPhil 2 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
MPhil 4 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MSc by Research 1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
MSc by Research 2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees
see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
STrUCTUral & molECUlar Biologywww.ed.ac.uk/pg/12
PhD 3 yrs FT (6 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MPhil 2 yrs FT (4 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
MSc by Research 1 yr FT (2 yrs PT available for UK/EU students)
Research environment
Closely allied with the Institute of Cell Biology, our group studies the
structure and impact of biomolecules, from their atomic structure and
assembly into molecular machines, to studying the large-scale effects
of these molecular assemblies. We offer a combination of world-class
facilities and training that sets us apart as one of the premier centres
for this type of research in the UK. You’ll be supported by well-published
staff who are leaders in their field and will benefit from a
comprehensive programme of seminars, symposiums, distinguished
visitors and social events.
Finding answers
Our groups investigate molecular structure using techniques such
as biomolecular nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray crystallography,
computational structure prediction and cryo-electron microscopy.
We also cover the full panoply of methods for protein production
and biological characterisation. A growing area of our research is the
development of technologies that combine chemical library generation
with proteomics and high-speed imaging methods to allow
identification of new ligand-protein interactions. Through links with
medicine and veterinary medicine, we aim to make a real impact on
healthcare through drug discovery projects.
Outstanding facilities
Your work will benefit from our strong links with a number of on-site
research centres, including the Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology,
the Centre for Science at Extreme Conditions, the Centre for
Translational and Chemical Biology, and SynthSys, the Centre for
Synthetic and Systems Biology. We offer outstanding laboratories,
equipment and training, particularly in the areas of protein production
and characterisation, cryo-EM and macromolecular X-ray
crystallography.
Tuition fees in 2012/13*
PhD 3 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
PhD 6 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MPhil 2 yrs FT: UK/EU £3,828; international £15,000 per year
MPhil 4 yrs PT: UK/EU £1,914 per year
MSc by Research 1 yr FT: UK/EU £5,750; international £17,200
MSc by Research 2 yrs PT: UK/EU £2,875 per year
*Fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information about fees
see www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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Funding
University of Edinburgh scholarships
China Scholarships Council/University of Edinburgh Scholarships A number of scholarships for PhD study to candidates who are citizens and
residents of China. www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/china-council
College of Science & EngineeringThe College of Science & Engineering has funds from endowments and donations
that are available to provide funding for studentships.
Edinburgh Global Masters Scholarships A number of scholarships available to international students for masters study.
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/masters
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships These scholarships are designed to attract high-quality international research
students to the University. www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/global-research
Edinburgh Santander Masters Scholarships Several scholarships are available to students from a number of countries for
masters study. www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/santander
Edinburgh UK/EU Masters Scholarships Scholarships for UK and EU students who have been accepted on a full-time
masters degree programme. www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/uk-masters
Principal’s Career Development PhD Scholarships A number of awards, open to UK, EU and international PhD students.
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/development
Principal’s Indian Masters Scholarships 15 scholarships are available to students from India for masters study.
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/masters-india
School of Biological Sciences Research ScholarshipsWithin the School of Biological Sciences, a number of highly competitive research
scholarships are available each year to new postgraduate research students.
Further details are available on the School website.
www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/biology/postgraduate/fees-funding
Wellcome Trust Four-Year PhD Programme in Cell Biology Awarded to five outstanding graduates per year, this programme provides
experience of advanced techniques in cell biology in an excellent research
environment. www.wcb.ed.ac.uk/phd
Other sources of funding
Commonwealth Scholarships For students who are resident in any Commonwealth country, other than the UK.
www.dfid.gov.uk/cscuk
Fulbright Scholarships Scholarships open to US graduate students in any subject wishing to study in the
UK. www.iie.org/fulbright
Marshall Scholarships Open to outstanding US students wishing to study at any UK university for at least
two years. www.marshallscholarship.org
Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships A number of scholarships open to citizens of Canada, China, India and the US,
undertaking masters-level study in Scotland.
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/saltire
A large number of scholarships, loans and other funding schemes are available for your postgraduate studies. You can find the full range at www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding.
Awards are offered by the School of Biological Sciences, the College of Science & Engineering, the University of Edinburgh, the Scottish, British and
international governments and funding bodies.
Below we list a selection of potential sources of financial support for postgraduate students applying to the School of Biological Sciences. Where an
entry does not include a web address, please use the web link above to navigate to the particular award.
The University of Edinburgh Graduate Discount SchemeWe offer a 10 per cent discount on postgraduate fees for all alumni who have graduated with an undergraduate degree from the University. www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/discounts
Robert Starr
MSc High Performance Computing
Scotland’s Saltire Scholarship
“The Scottish Government’s initiative to attract international
students from Canada, China, India and the US through the
Saltire Scholarship Scheme as well as the University of
Edinburgh’s help and support for international students has
helped provide me with an opportunity that I would never
have conceived prior to starting my studies at Edinburgh.”
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Research council awards
Research councils offer awards to masters, MPhil and PhD students in most of the Schools within the University of Edinburgh. All studentship applications from the research councils must be made through the University, through your School or College office. Awards can be made for both taught and research programmes.
Normally only those UK/EU students who have been resident in the UK for the preceding three years are eligible for a full award. For some awards, candidates who are EU nationals and are resident in the UK may be eligible for a fees-only award. www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/research-councils
Financial aid
The Canada Student Loans ProgramThe University is eligible to certify Canadian student loan applications. Full details
on eligibility and how to apply can be found online.
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/canadian-loans
The Student Awards Agency for ScotlandThis department of the Scottish Government has offered loans to postgraduate
students in the past. At time of going to press arrangements for study in
2013/14 were under review.
www.saas.gov.uk
US Student LoansThe University is eligible to certify loan applications for US loan students.
Full details on eligibility and how to apply can be found online.
www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/us-loans
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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How to applyTaught programmesFor taught masters programmes, you will in
most cases need a UK degree with a minimum
2:1 classification, or its international equivalent,
generally in a related area. It is expected that
you will have a good understanding of the field
you propose to study, and at least some relevant
work experience.
Entry requirements for some programmes may
vary, so check the details for the specific
programme you wish to apply for.
To apply for one of our taught masters
programmes, simply visit www.ed.ac.uk/pg/
degrees and make your application online. It’s
a straightforward process, and you’ll be able to
set up an online account, which lets you save
your application and continue at another time.
If you’re considering a particular programme
and have questions, please contact the
postgraduate team within our Biology Teaching
Organisation to discuss them with you. See Get
in touch, page 20.
Research programmesWe encourage applications from UK, EU and
international applicants to our research
programmes. Competition for funded places is
fierce so please ensure you apply early; our first
application deadline is in December each year.
Your application will be judged on academic
excellence (in most cases we expect a 2:1 or
its international equivalent) and clear evidence
of interest in and suitability for research with
one of our supervisors. We interview all
shortlisted applicants.
If you are interested in applying for a research
degree, your first step is to identify your area of
interest and explore the research possibilities
within that group. Visit www.ed.ac.uk/
biology/phdproj.
You should also discuss your proposal with
potential supervisors. Visit www.ed.ac.uk/
biology/people.
UK students should see also the PhD projects
available through the EASTBIO Doctoral Training
Partnership. Visit www.eastscotbiodtp.ac.uk.
The final step is to formally apply through our
online admissions system. Go to www.ed.
ac.uk/pg/degrees and follow the prompts.
The system will allow you to set up an account
so that you can save your application and
revisit it at another time.
For more information on postgraduate
research degrees, visit our Graduate School
website at www.ed.ac.uk/biology/
postgraduate.
Alternatively, we are happy to talk to you
about any specific enquiries. See Get in touch,
page 20.
Joining us from overseasInternational applicants are advised to check
the University’s website to find out more
about their visa options and our Integrated
English for Academic Purposes (IEAP)
programme. Please visit www.ed.ac.uk/
international/ieap.
International agentsThe University has certified representative
agents in the following locations: Brunei,
Canada, China, Gulf Region, Hong Kong, India,
Japan, Jordan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria,
Norway, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South
Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey,
Zambia and Zimbabwe. International
applicants can use an agent to help guide
them through the application process if
necessary. Contact details for all our agents
can be found at www.ed.ac.uk/studying/
international/agents.
Please note:
• English language requirements can be affected by government policy so please ensure you visit our website for the latest details. www.ed.ac.uk/english-requirements/pg/cse
• Your English language certificate must be no more than two years old at the beginning of your degree programme.
• A degree from an English-speaking university may be accepted in some circumstances.
• Cambridge tests are accepted only for applicants who do not need Tier 4 visas to enter the UK.
English language requirementsStudents whose first language is not English must show evidence of one of the qualifications in the box below.
Abbreviations: IELTS − International English Language Testing System; TOEFL iBT − Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test; CPE − Certificate of Proficiency in English; CAE − Certificate in Advanced English
IELTS 6.5 (with no score lower than 6.0 in each section)
TOEFL iBT Total 92 (with no score lower than 20 in each section).
Pearson Test of English 61 (with no score lower than 56 in each section)
Cambridge CPE Grade B
Cambridge CAE Grade A
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Wissam Mehio
PhD Computational Biology
“I gained a lot from my postgrad research experience at the School of Biological Sciences. The School contains many
research groups that often collaborate on big projects. Students with different backgrounds and skills (from wet lab
scientists to software programmers) combine their efforts to advance further in a field that is becoming more
interdisciplinary every day. My supervisors were always available for help and their advice was aimed at opening the door for
more possibilities, keeping me always on edge and thinking ahead. The School was clearly focused on helping students and I
truly believe that the skills of critical thinking and teamwork, along with a renewed independence, determination, and
multicultural awareness, couldn’t have been better gained anywhere else than at Edinburgh.”
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
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Get in touchContact usFor more information about taught MSc
programmes, please contact:
Vicky Mactaggart
Biology Teaching Organisation
G5, Darwin Building
King’s Buildings
Mayfield Road
Edinburgh, UK
EH9 3JR
T: +44 (0)131 651 7052
For enquiries relating to specific programmes,
please refer to the contact details provided for
each programme listing.
For more information about our postgraduate
research programmes, please contact:
Dr Caroline Proctor
Graduate School of Biological Sciences
117, Darwin Building
King’s Buildings
Mayfield Road
Edinburgh, UK
EH9 3JR
T: +44 (0)131 650 5327
To discuss your PhD proposal, you should
identify potential supervisors at
www.ed.ac.uk/biology/people.
Visit usOur postgraduate Open Day is your
opportunity to come and meet current staff
and students. Our next campus-based Open
Day takes place on Friday 23 November 2012.
For further details, please visit
www.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate-open-day.
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Published byCommunications and MarketingThe University of Edinburgh
Designed by Hamlin Danielswww.hamlindaniels.co.uk
Photography by Paul DoddsYao HuiAndrew LeeNorrie RussellLaurence Winram
Printed by J Thomson Colour Printerswww.jtcp.co.uk
The University of Edinburgh Biological Sciences Postgraduate opportunities Prospectus 2013 entry
EDINB E56
This publication is available online at www.ed.ac.uk and can be made available in alternative formats on request. Please contact [email protected] or call +44 (0)131 650 2252.
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© The University of Edinburgh 2012. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the University.The University is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336.
Semester 1:
16 September–20 December 2013
Semester 2:
13 January–23 May 2014
Postgraduate Open Day:
23 November 2012
Induction Week:
9–13 September 2013