Biological Science (Genetics)

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK 2:1 honours degree.

Months of entry

January, April, October

Course content

Modern genetics research seeks to provide a systems-level understanding of biology by relating genome sequence to function and phenotype. Research in the Department of Genetics covers a wide spectrum of biological problems, united by the application of genetics tools and approaches. Research themes range from the analysis of basic mechanisms in cell biology relating to the mechanics of division, migration and communication, through the large-scale analysis of genome regulation and epigenetic control, to aspects of population biology focused on issues of ecological and evolutionary significance.

Modern genetics has today evolved beyond its traditional boundaries to become a fundamental part of biology and medicine. The Department reflects this pervasiveness, with research interests encompassing several high-impact themes, including functional genomics and systems biology, developmental genetics, epigenetic inheritance, evolution and population genetics, microbial genetics, and cell biology.

The Department of Genetics hosts between 50 and 65 postgraduate students across 25 research groups, researching a wide range of biological problems, from population genetics and ecology to the detailed analysis of genome sequence. The Department is based in a historic building on the Downing Site but has research groups located in the Gurdon Institute, Cambridge Systems Biology Centre and Sainsbury Labs as well as an impressive range of local, national and international collaborations.

MPhil students in the Department will undertake a one-year project under the supervision of one of our group leaders, where they will develop an original research question and address this through laboratory or computer-based research. They will receive training in appropriate research methods and in literature research skills to prepare them for writing an MPhil thesis within the year. The MPhil course also includes research skills training and could be seen as preparation for a further research degree.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature applicable to their own research;
• demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
• shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies; and
• demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.