Biomedical Science - Reproduction and Development

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

Study this pioneering degree to carry out research that improves fertility and helps identify, treat or manage birth defects.

Reproduction is a fascinating process, but it doesn’t always go to plan. Many couples struggle to conceive. Some experience miscarriage. And, according to NHS statistics, one in 47 babies are born with a congenital anomaly – anything from cleft palate or limb defect to heart conditions or spina bifida.

This course is for you if you want to carry out research that improves fertility and helps identify, treat or manage birth defects. Joining us, you’ll study the interplay between genes and physiology and the complications that can arise.

Kickstart your research career

Research and innovation are in our DNA. Edward Jenner, the ‘father of vaccinology’ who created the world’s first vaccine (against smallpox), completed his medical training at St George’s in 1770. More recently, our research has helped accelerate the treatment of tuberculosis, malaria, HIV and Covid-19.

You’ll meet experts improving diagnosis and counselling for unexplained infertility and creating new therapies and diagnosis for neonatal disorders. We’ll also reveal how we’re using rare disease models to understand human development and reproduction.

Why St George's?

1. Pioneering pathway – our specialist pathway is one of a few of its kind in the UK that focuses on the science behind reproduction, embryo formation and fetal development.
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 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.

While sharpening your research skills, you’ll learn about the genetic basis of birth defects and underlying molecular mechanisms. We’ll also take a closer look at events during early pregnancy when the placenta forms and disruptions which result in disorders, such as pre-eclampsia.

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 have explored the effects of progesterone on placenta development, vascular function during pregnancy, and molecular mechanisms of polycystic ovary syndrome.

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. Your work will have the potential to improve diagnosis, genetic screening and counselling for families affected.

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.