Biosciences (MRes)
The MRes helps to improve your research skills and may enable you to undertake a research project in the laboratory of an internationally-renowned scientist.
The Master of Research (MRes) in Biosciences is a one-year programme designed to provide a valuable postgraduate qualification that enables individuals to undertake a substantial 6-month research project in the laboratory of an internationally-renowned scientist. The programme is well suited for someone thinking of undertaking a PhD but wishing first to learn more about research in biosciences, and also for those seeking careers in research outside academia.
Programme aims
To equip postgraduates with the essential skills, techniques and direct laboratory experience necessary to pursue a future career in research.
The MRes course really immersed us into the world of scientific research through doing a 6 month lab project in which time we saw the inner-workings of a lab group and also got to work with more senior researchers in the field. My research was also published and this was a very proud moment! Overall the experience helped me decide where I wanted to go in the future and I’m now studying Medicine. There is a strong research focus as clinical practice and research are becoming more intertwined, and MRes has definitely prepared me for this.
Key facts
| Mode of study | Full-time |
|---|---|
| Qualification | MRes |
| Full-time duration | 1 year |
| Start dates | September |
The programme consists of two stages:
Stage 1 (60 credits)
Stage 1 is taken between September and January.
Students complete taught modules totalling 60 credits, which can lead to the award of a Postgraduate Certificate in Biosciences.
All modules listed below are compulsory.
Research Techniques in Biosciences (20 credits)
To understand the major research disciplines in modern biosciences. Assessment is a portfolio consisting of literature-based research and practical exercises such as DNA technology, field and population sampling, stem cell biology and neuroscience technology.
Data Handling and Statistics (20 credits)
To train students in logical thinking and critical analysis of numerical data. Students study aspects of both statistical analysis and bioinformatics. Assessment is based on several assignments completed during term and a submitted mini-project.
Key Skills in Research Practice (20 credits)
To provide knowledge, understanding and experience of a range of foundation skills necessary to be a professional scientist. Assessments range from writing a scientific article, presenting a poster, developing a research grant proposal and giving a scientific talk. A full description of each Stage 1 module can be requested by email.
Stage 2 (120 credits)
Stage 2 takes place between February and September.
Students must complete a Practical Project, write a Dissertation (100 credits) and present their work as both a Poster and an Oral Presentation (20 credits).
The project starts in February and finishes in August. Students undertake their projects with a member of academic staff in one of the School’s divisions, or in another School within the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences.
Our research is organised into four divisions:
Biomedicine
The Biomedicine division focuses on the molecular mechanisms of normal and disease systems and the processes that drive repair and regeneration.
Molecular biosciences
This innovative division focuses on the molecular mechanisms underpinning biological function.
Organisms and environment
This division focuses on the biology of whole organisms and their roles and interactions in changing ecosystems, in infection and health, and at the population genetic level.
Neuroscience
The Neuroscience Division pursues a broad range of neurobiological research, aimed at finding out how the brain works.
The Research element of the MRes programme takes place during Stage Two. The majority of MRes research projects are undertaken in the School of Biosciences. We also support projects arranged in other Schools (e.g. Medicine and Psychology) within the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences..
Our research in the School of Biosciences is organised into four divisions:
- Molecular biosciences: This innovative division focuses on the molecular mechanisms underpinning biological function.
- Neuroscience: The neuroscience division pursues a broad range of neurobiological research, spanning from molecular to behavioural levels.
- Organisms and environment: This division focuses on the biology of whole organisms and their roles and interactions in changing ecosystems, in infection and health, and at the population genetic level.
- Biomedicine: We focus on the molecular mechanisms of normal and disease systems and the processes that drive repair and regeneration.
MRes in Biosciences graduates mainly follow career paths in either academic research or industry.
Approximately 55 – 65 % of our MRes students continue with their studies and successfully complete a PhD.
Other graduates have gained employment as consultants, nature conservationists, teachers and laboratory technicians.
The MRes degree and research experience are key to enabling these career paths.
Funding
Master's Excellence Scholarships
Scholarships available worth £3,000 each for UK/EU students starting a master’s degree.
Alumni Discount Scheme
Available for Cardiff University graduates who are planning to start an eligible master's programme in 2024/25.
See our latest PhD studentships and projects and find out more about other funding opportunities.
Tuition fees
Fees for our postgraduate research programmes are currently being reviewed and will be published in the spring.
Students from the UK
Get the latest information on postgraduate fees.
Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland
Get the latest information on postgraduate fees.
Students from the rest of the world (international)
To apply all applicants must submit an application using the online application system.
Applicants must provide evidence that they have met or working towards meeting the entry requirements.
Please note that applicants must upload two written references with their application – these are required for all candidates. Although the application form asks candidates to fill in a research proposal, please note that we do not require candidates to complete this at this stage. In order to submit the form you must write ‘N/A’ in the text box.
All successful candidates will be expected to take part in an interview, either face-to-face or via Zoom.
Intake
Approximately 20-25 students per academic session.
Applicants should normally possess a higher education degree with Class 2.2 (Lower Second Class) Honours (UK), or an equivalent academic qualification.
This programme is suitable for graduates in Biosciences or Environmental Sciences with an interest in bioinformatics, statistics, molecular biology or biomedicine. Also, graduates in computational sciences, mathematics, physics and engineering are strongly encouraged to apply, with the proviso that they have a genuine interest in biological questions (which can be highlighted in your statement of interest during the application process).
Applications will also be considered from candidates who have a minimum of 5 years relevant commercial experience who only wish to undertake Stage 1 of the Programme (Postgraduate Certificate).
English language requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English must either have obtained an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each element, or have a recognised English qualification.
Please read our English language requirements for more details.
