Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) (Research)

This is a specialised PhD Programme that follows an agreed research training model in bioinformatics.

Students will develop an understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of life, and its applications in health, medicine or food biosecurity, preparing you for a career in research or industry.

Biosciences research has huge impact in helping people live longer and healthier lives. With the World Economic Forum identifying healthcare as one of the top 10 Global Challenges for 2030, there is a growing demand for specialists in this field. This course provides you with an understanding of the molecular basis of biological systems and focuses on applying this knowledge to improve human health and disease, food biosecurity and sustainable biotechnologies.

With the successful completion of the programme, you will graduate with the specialist knowledge and employability skills for a career in academic, clinical, industrial or commercial sectors anywhere in the world. Recent examples of graduate roles include a Bionformatics Consultant, an Analyst, a Production Technician and an Agricultural Engineer.

Programme content
Learning

• Doctoral skills online

• Doctoral skills workshop

• Interaction and networking

• Laboratory sessions

• Lectures

• Online resources

• Practical sessions

• Research project

• Seminars

• Supervisory team

• Tutorials

• Video materials

• Workshops

Taught content
For the Integrated PhD in Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) programme you will be enrolled on the MSc Molecular Biosciences (Bioinformatics) in your first year. You will take courses at Master’s-level, where you will be expected to undertake training through two research projects and critically analyse research through seminar presentations and written work.

The unique course structure is designed in consultation with clinical and industrial partners to give you the specialist knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in molecular biosciences. You’ll gain extensive research experience by carrying out two research projects, working in dedicated postgraduate labs and with researchers from the Department of Life Sciences.

The course also includes a ‘Broadening horizons’ unit, giving you the opportunity to further strengthen your employability by doing a project addressing the challenges of global environment sustainability. You’ll apply your skills related to either entrepreneurship, teaching, media and communication, or public engagement.

Your MSc will be awarded upon successful completion of both the MSc and doctoral research stage of the programme. In the event you successfully complete the MSc but do not transfer to the research stage, your MSc will be awarded at the end of year 1.

Research content
Progression to your research stage in year 2 will be subject to successful completion of the MSc (with a minimum overall programme average of 50%, including 50% in the dissertation), and acceptance by a lead supervisor for the research project. Your thesis proposal and interdisciplinary supervisory team will be decided by the end of the first year. In years 2 through 4 you will conduct your PhD thesis research.

Although the registration period for an integrated PhD programme at the University of Bath is 5 years it is expected that you will submit your PhD thesis within 4 years of commencing your studies.

Professional Development
Professional development is a crucial element of doctoral study, not only in supporting your research but also as part of your longer term career development. Our DoctoralSkills workshops and courses will help you build your skills and help you succeed in your doctorate.

Please check the University of Bath website for the most recently published course detail.

• Coursework
• Data analysis practical
• Dissertation (MSc route only)
• End point assessment
• Essay
• Multiple choice examination
• Online assessment
• Practical work
• Presentations
• Seminar
• Thesis
• Viva Voce

Assessment description
Most research students who ‘do a PhD’ register in the first instance as probationer for the programme of PhD. Confirmation of PhD registration is subject to your passing an assessment process, which normally involves submission of written work and an oral examination.

Candidates are expected to carry out supervised research at the leading edge of their chosen subject, which must then be written up as a substantial thesis.

The final stage of the PhD programme is the oral or viva voce examination, in which students are required to defend the thesis to a Board of Examiners.