Cell Biology and Molecular Bioscience

Cells are the basic unit of life. Understanding how cells grow and change prepares you to work in fields that didn’t even exist 10 years ago. For example, cell analysis has emerged as an important tool for the identification of potential therapies and treatments for chronic diseases. The cell analysis global market size is projected to reach £41.53 billion (USD 55.3 billion) by 2030 (Grandview Research).

Industries are investing in cell imaging, molecular analysis of cells and cell culture. Demand for graduates with these skills is rising.

Develop vital cell and molecular bioscience skills employers want

On our cell and molecular bioscience degree you'll:

• study topics including physiology, microbiology, evolution and genetics;

• choose from subjects such as the animal cell, systems biology and biological control mechanisms;

• gain practical advanced lab skills that underpin cell biology and molecular bioscience;

• build in-demand computational skills such as programming, statistics with R, and bioinformatics;

• explore key molecular techniques (PCR, genomics, proteomics, cloning, gene editing);

• discover emerging technologies including single-cell omics, lab-on-a-chip systems, and synthetic biology.

Assessment designed to mirror real scientific work

On our cell and molecular bioscience course, you’ll be assessed in ways that reflect professional and research outputs. They include:

• preparing research proposals,

• conducting data analysis and interpretation,

• delivering scientific presentations,

• compiling full research reports.

This helps ensure you graduate ready for the workplace.

Undertake a lab-based placement

As part of our degree in cell and molecular bioscience, you can do an optional lab-based placement. This is your chance to work with industry-standard equipment, follow protocols and standard operating procedures. You’ll apply good laboratory practice in a professional environment.

Past placements have been with E&O Laboratories, Scottish Water and Merck. Recent student projects completed include:

• Expressing genes involved in Golgi secretion.

• Study of immunoglobulin M and monoclonal antibodies from Cod.

• PCR analysis of marine microorganisms in a changing climate.

• Proteomics analysis of the biofilm inhabiting plastic debris.

Be part of a vibrant life sciences community

As a cell and molecular bioscience student, you’re taught by expert staff. They are active researchers and regularly update their teaching with new discoveries and techniques. For example, the Molecular, Microbial & Evolutionary Biology group work on diverse problems such as:

• What molecular mechanisms do diverse microbes use to cope with environmental challenges?

• How is the history of life recorded in the genomes of organisms?

• How do microbes in the environment affect our health and wellbeing?

There's an opportunity to network and make future connections at a conference where you’ll get the chance to present to an audience of managers from life science companies.