Biomedical Science - Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer

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

Explore the characteristics of cancer from inflammation to genome instability while carrying out research that could save lives.

One in two people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime (NHS). But there is hope. Research is not only improving future treatment, but the World Health Organization say 30-50% of cases are preventable.

Studying this course, you’ll explore the Hallmarks and Enabling Characteristics of Cancer. This includes looking at areas such as invasion and metastases, deregulating cell energetics, avoiding immune destruction and genome instability. We’ll also discuss how research can identify genetic, environmental, and behavioural risk factors.

Kickstart your research career

Research and innovation are in our DNA. Our academics have paved the way for advancements in cancer research, including creating thalidomide analogues for cancer treatment, developing cancer antibodies through plant engineering, and researching new therapies to stop advanced skin cancer.

You’ll learn from experts exploring DNA replication and repair, as well as experts who are unravelling oncogenic processes and developing anti-cancer strategies.

Why St George's?

1. NIHR Clinical Research Facility – we carry out early-phase translation and complex clinical studies. Our clinical trials benefit from our expertise in measuring laboratory endpoints on site and with rapid turnaround.
2. Expert research community – you’ll have access to specialist equipment and expertise in clinical, epidemiological and laboratory research. Your project might involve working with clinical samples or staff on our hospital sites.
3. Intense research training – completing an MRes means you’ll spend nine months working on a research project and receive one-to-one training. Past students have even been listed as authors of published papers.

Course content

Whichever biomedical science pathway you pick, you’ll complete three core modules: Research Methods, Statistics and Research Project Planning and Management.

All of the core modules provide advanced training in biomedical research and help you interpret data. You’ll develop specialist skills in tissue culture, handling of clinical specimens, flow cytometry, gene cloning and protein techniques, microbiological techniques and more.

You’ll also study clinical and pathological aspects of cancer and the molecular mechanisms behind the disease. At the same time, we’ll discuss current treatments and how research translates into novel treatments.

Your research project

Unlike MSc courses, you’ll complete an extensive research project which involves spending up to nine months working as part of a research team. This may provide an opportunity to work with clinical samples or staff on our hospital sites.

During the first term, you’ll meet potential supervisors and pick a project. Past projects explored the cellular pathways involved in cell proliferation and cell death, and the cancer cell response to treatments and metabolites.

Careers

Biomedical scientists work at the cutting edge of research and medicine, helping to solve some of the most threatening diseases and conditions facing mankind. Specialising in this vital area, your work will have the potential to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

By the end of the course, you’ll be confident planning and managing a research project. This includes knowing how to write a research proposal​, evaluate published research​ and identify good quality research. You’ll also have advanced skills in data handling, scientific communication and using technology to support research projects.

Some of our graduates work in research-active healthcare roles, while others engage with clinical research as trial managers or laboratory scientists. You might find opportunities in:

• Academic biomedical research institutes and universities​
• Clinical medicine and hospitals​
• Pharmaceutical industry​
• Science communications and journalism​
• Teaching

With your extensive research experience, you’ll also stand out as a candidate when applying to continue to PhD study.

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.