Medical Science (MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit)

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK 2:1 Honours Degree.

Months of entry

January, April, October

Course content

The aims of the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit are to study the biology of the mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell. There is a growing realisation that the dysfunction of various aspects of mitochondrial biology is connected to major neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and that as the major source of reactive oxygen species, the mitochondrion is likely also to be involved in ageing. Therefore, the Unit is developing its interests in the cell biology of mitochondria and is linking its activities to clinical science. For students wishing to continue on to the PhD, the MPhil provides a good foundation for future research studies.

The MPhil in Medical Science (MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit) aims to:

• give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and
• give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.

Learning outcomes

The MPhil provides specialist training in scientific methodology relevant to the project subject area and based on the expertise of the supervisor and research group.

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;
• demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.