Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of organisms too small to be visible with the naked eye, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. This course will cover an area of science fundamental to the understanding of life on this planet – from human and animal disease, better food production to microbial involvement in global cycles.

You will study a range of microbiological topics with a biomedical focus, such as bacterial resistance to antibiotics, the use of microbes in biotechnology, and how new pathogens, such as the cause of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), emerge and cause disease.

By studying at Leeds, you’ll be part of the next generation of expert scientists, developing specialist knowledge and skills, whilst building on the foundations of microbiology within areas such as immunology, genetics, biochemistry and cell biology.

This integrated Masters (MBiol) gives you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project. You may also choose to apply for our 3 year BSc and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance.

Course highlights

• Weekly practical classes in the first two years of your degree, with the option to experience working in a research lab in your final year..

• Our teaching is research-led at every stage of your degree, ensuring that you engage with cutting-edge scientific developments and techniques from the start of your studies through to your final-year projects.

• Experience world-class facilities and be part of a cutting-edge research-active environment.

• Enjoy outstanding graduate employability opportunities amongst top employers, both within and beyond scientific research.

• Gain further practical experience and boost your employability through our Year in Industry programme.

• Experience life and learning in a different country through our study abroad programme, where you'll gain fresh perspectives and develop skills valued by employers.

Flexible degrees
Microbiology is a specialist degree within the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, which offers you flexibility throughout your time at Leeds.

All our School of Molecular and Cellular Biology degree courses share the same set of compulsory modules in the first year. A key benefit of having a common first year is that at the end of year 1, there are opportunities to transfer onto degree courses in Biological Sciences and Biotechnology and Enterprise, subject to approval. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.

Facilities
The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is an international research hub with outstanding facilities for structural biology, biophysics, cell biology and imaging.

This is underpinned by a recent £17 million investment by the University and a large grant portfolio from major external funders (the Wellcome Trust, Royal Society, BBSRC and MRC). These facilities underpin our research-led teaching and allow us to offer final-year projects at the frontier of modern research.

Recently refurbished teaching labs and dedicated computer clusters will allow you to develop your practical and computational skills during the first two years of your course. The Student Opportunity Team provides expert support for preparing applications for placements, internships and jobs.