Cancer Sciences

Entry requirements

You should have a 2:1 Honours degree in the life sciences or biomedical sciences.

Months of entry

September

Course content

With rapid advancements in cancer research, innovative minds are crucial to overcoming remaining challenges. This programme immerses you in every aspect of the field, from understanding cancer pathogenesis to developing cutting-edge therapies.

You'll gain the advanced skills needed for PhD study or a successful research career while contributing directly to pioneering research efforts in Birmingham. Through focused modules and a hands-on research project, you'll achieve a deep understanding of cancer research, positioning you at the forefront of this vital field.

The modules have a bench to bedside approach, bridging the gap between fundamental research and clinical application. You'll gain insights into how basic discoveries lead to treatment development and why some novel therapies may not succeed.

This course also hones your skills in experimental design, including proper controls and data analysis, ensuring scientifically sound results.

You'll also explore cutting-edge genetic and epigenetic techniques and advanced cancer models like organoids, which offer deeper insights into cancer biology and drug responses. Additionally, you'll study the cancer microenvironment, key to understanding tumour growth and immune interactions, especially in immunotherapy.

• Projects are generally laboratory-based and provide skills in designing, performing and communicating cancer research.
• A large range of research projects are available and can be on anything from cancer causes and diagnosis to treatment.
• You’ll study alongside cancer clinicians and clinical trial specialists.

The University of Birmingham is a major centre for cancer treatment, both adult and paediatric. It’s also home to the West Midlands Genomic Medicine Centre (part of the 100,000 Genomes project), led from University Hospital Birmingham, and has a CRUK Cancer Clinical Trials Unit (CRCTU).

Fees and funding