Entry requirements

You should have or be expected to achieve, a minimum of a second class degree (2:2). For healthcare graduates, a pass is required. All degrees must be awarded before 1 August on the year of entry.

We welcome applications from individuals from a range of backgrounds, including humanities, science and healthcare.

We may invite you to interview if are unable to make a decision directly from your application. If you are invited for an interview you will be asked to write a short paper (no more than half a page) on a subject associated with biomedical research.

Alternative professional qualifications, or previous related experience, may be considered and we encourage you to apply.

Months of entry

September

Course content

St George’s has enjoyed an outstanding track record of research and innovation in infectious disease ever since the ‘father of vaccinology’ Edward Jenner, based here, created the world’s first vaccine (against smallpox). More recently, our research has included a focus on tuberculosis, malaria, HIV in low and middle-income countries and Covid-19.

In 2020, the global pandemic highlighted the profound and lasting impact that a devastating infectious disease can have on the human population. Research to understand how diseases like Covid-19 are contracted and spread, and what drugs and vaccines are useful in treating or preventing them, is vital to reduce suffering and try to control or eradicate the disease.

This MRes in Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity) pathway provides you with research training in fundamental aspects of bacterial and viral pathogenesis, with an emphasis on molecular approaches to understanding infection.

There are three core modules:

  • Research Methods (15 credits)
  • Statistics (15 credits)
  • Research Project Planning and Management (15 credits)

These are common to all pathways, and most of teaching will take place in the autumn term.

The specialist modules (30 credits) are specific to each of the five pathways and will run from September till February. The journal clubs (critical appraisal of papers) led by students themselves with guidance from the tutors will run from October until March. The Research Project module will start in October and runs until July/August. Students will present a poster in July and submit a final dissertation in August.

The core modules provide advanced training in the practice of biomedical research across a broad range of laboratory and computer-based biomedical science, while the specialist module prepares you to conduct high-calibre in-depth research in your chosen research field.

Unlike many other courses, our Research Project offers a chance to spend up to 9 months working as part of an active research team. This may provide an opportunity to work with clinical samples or staff on our hospital sites. For example, one past research project tested a novel vaccine candidate against tuberculosis, a global health problem affecting millions of people worldwide. Another project examined a specific house dust mite allergen which has been linked to triggering asthma, while yet another project focused on the development of antibody immunotherapy against chikungunya virus.

Information for international students

For information on how to apply, advice on visas and immigration and English language requirements please visit our international student support webpages.

Fees and funding

For information about tuition fees, funding and scholarships please visit our fees and funding webpages.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

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

Course contact details

Name
Course Enquiries Team
Email
pgenquiries@sgul.ac.uk
Phone
020 3897 2032