Taught course

Systems and Synthetic Biology

Institution
Imperial College London · Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology
Qualifications
MRes

Entry requirements

Our minimum requirement is a 2.1 degree in physical sciences, engineering, mathematics, life sciences or biomedical sciences.

A suitable grounding in mathematics is required, for example: A-level Mathematics grade A.

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the higher College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for postgraduate applicants.

Months of entry

October

Course content

The MRes programme at the Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology is organised in association with the EPSRC National Centre for Synthetic Biology and Innovation (CSynBI) and the Centre for Integrative Systems Biology and Bioinformatics (CISBIO).

The course provides graduate students from life sciences, engineering and physical sciences with a platform to overcome traditional barriers to work collaboratively on the ‘big problems’ and applications in synthetic and systems biology. Students gain intensive hands-on experience in a combination of experimental biology and modelling in order to understand, predict and redesign biological pathways. There is a link with the BIOS Centre at King’s College to facilitate the integration of this research with emerging ethical, legal and societal issues.

The taught elements of the course include introductory modules that cover essentials for both life and physical scientists, as well as modules on experimental systems biology, theoretical systems biology, synthetic biology, and advanced technologies. In addition to conventional lectures, the course requires active engagement by students through practicals, bench work, case studies, proposal writing, journal clubs, and an eight-month interdisciplinary research project. Only these activities will be marked; there will not be any formal written exams.

For further enrichment of the programme, close connections to industry and medicine will be provided through research projects from corresponding members of the Institute, as well as additional courses and workshops.

Fees and funding

We offer a range of scholarships for postgraduate students to support you through your studies. Try our scholarships search tool to see what you might be eligible for.

For more information on the Postgraduate Master's Loan scheme and other funding opportunities that are available, please visit our Fees and Funding website.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MRes
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Jennifer Bennett
Email
Jennifer.bennett@imperial.ac.uk