Analytical Bioscience (Taught)

This analytical bioscience course provides you with up-to-date knowledge and extensive practical experience in modern methods used in the molecular biosciences, biomedical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Why choose this course?

• It focuses on practical applications, so you will gain hands-on training that is highly valued by employers in advanced laboratory skills, data analysis and computational methods.

• It benefits from being embedded in a research-active environment in which you will be taught by experts in the field.

• You will join a unique student cohort made up of students from a variety of science-based disciplines, academic and professional backgrounds, and from all age groups.

What you will learn

You will learn in detail about the molecular basis of all life. You will also learn how to work with and analyse DNA, genes, proteins and small biomolecules using a variety of modern laboratory-based techniques and computational tools.

How you will learn

On this course each module is delivered through a mixture of theory and practical classes, based either in the laboratory or a workstation room.

If you choose to study the MSc, you will also have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and new skills to an area of current biochemical research by completing an independent research project.

If you choose to study the Postgraduate Diploma, you will study fewer modules and you do not complete a dissertation.

This course follows both a daytime and evening timetable.

Highlights

• Birkbeck offers you state-of-the-art instrumental and computing facilities.

• In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), in a joint submission with UCL, Biological Sciences at Birkbeck were ranked 11th in the UK, with a research environment supporting world-leading and internationally excellent research.

• We carry out extensive work with the Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, a joint initiative with University College London.

• Birkbeck's natural science research plays a valuable role in identifying fundamental biological and physical structures and fighting disease.

Careers and employability

On graduating successfully from this analytical bioscience course you will have gained an array of important transferable skills, including:

• working safely, efficiently and independently in a biomolecular laboratory setting, using a range of equipment and instrumentation

• analytical skills, including a sound understanding of commonly used statistical methods

• independent problem solving

• scientific reporting, both oral and written

• time organisation and completing projects to deadlines.

Studying this course will prepare you for further study at PhD level and also for a career path in a range of fields and professions including:

• research scientist in a university or industry life sciences setting

• quality control analyst

• scientific sales

• science writer or working in scientific communication

• healthcare or education sector.

Some of our graduates from this course have gone on to be employed at various organisations including GSK, the NHS and Syngenta.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.