Faculty Of Science.
Masters Courses in Bioscience. Training the next generation of skilled bioscientists.
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UK NUMBER FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH AND TOP FIVE FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH Research Excellence Framework, 2014
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience The University of Sheffield is a world top 100 university in the QS World University Rankings. We are a member of the UK’s Russell Group of top research-led universities and the most recent Research Excellence Framework placed us in the top 10 per cent of all UK universities. The Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey has ranked us in the top five in the UK for accommodation for five years in a row, and our Students’ Union has been voted the best in the UK for ten years running. The city itself is a thriving cultural centre, home to major festivals, beautiful outdoor spaces, a wealth of sports, and all on the doorstep of the spectacular Peak District National Park (pictured). Sheffield has a reputation as one of the friendliest, greenest and most affordable cities in the UK. www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate www.sheffield.ac.uk/international
UK NUMBER ONE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH TOP FIVE FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
Discoveries in bioscience can save and improve lives all over the world. Biological and medical researchers at the University of Sheffield are studying organisms at every level. They are learning more about disease and illness to unlock new treatments, and finding new ways to meet global food demands while protecting the environment. To beat these challenges, we’re training the next generation of bioscientists to lead new innovations in academia, industry, healthcare and environmental work. There is a growing demand for skilled, multi-disciplinary bioscientists, so our MSc and MRes courses are designed to build on your undergraduate knowledge and equip you for roles in major organisations and research institutes around the world, including the NHS. Training is led by internationally recognised researchers from the Departments of Animal and Plant Sciences, Biomedical Science, and Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, where understanding of biological systems, organism interactions and medical treatments deepens every day. Our MSc courses have more lectures covering topics at the forefront of bioscience, whereas our MRes courses include a bigger research project for you to focus on. But all of our bioscience degrees have something in common: the chance to learn advanced scientific theories and techniques that you can put into practice in state-of-the-art facilities. There’s lots of advice and support along the way too, to help you make new discoveries in a great career after you graduate.
MSc COURSES IN MOLECULAR AND CELLUAR BIOLOGY
Biomedical Science 4 Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery 6 Human and Molecular Genetics 8 Molecular and Cellular Basis of Human Disease 10 Molecular Biology and Biotechnology 12 Neuroscience 14 Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine 16 MSc Human Anatomy with Education
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MRes COURSES IN WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
Ecology and Environment 20 Evolution and Behaviour 22 Plant and Microbial Biology 24 MSc COURSES IN WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
Practical Entomology 26 Sustainable Agricultural Technologies 28 After your degree 30 Applying 32 3
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Biomedical Science Biomedical science is about deepening understanding of the human body in health and disease. It is the basic science that underpins medicine. Breakthroughs in biomedical science feature regularly in the news, from radical new treatments for cancer patients to innovative advances in reproductive technologies and regenerative medicine. Over the last twenty years, research into the human genome and molecular processes has revolutionised our understanding of biological systems. If you have a strong interest in modern biology and are keen to study at the forefront of the discipline, this research-led masters degree is designed for you. The course covers practical and theoretical training, with examples drawn from the forefront of biomedical research that is undertaken at the University of Sheffield. The demand for skills in biomedicine is increasing as the research base broadens and industries adopt the new technologies that are used in this area. This means that graduates with this set of skills and knowledge have good career prospects, including further training or PhD opportunities.
Core modules
Critical Analysis of Current Science Ethics and Public Awareness of Science Laboratory Research Project Retreival and Evaluation of Research Information
Choice of 2 practical modules Neuroscience Techniques Practical Cell Biology Practical Developmental Genetics Practical Physiology and Pharmacology
Choice of 2 lecture modules Cancer Biology Developmental Neurobiology Epithelia in Health and Disease Physiology of Ion Channels and Disease Membrane Receptors Modelling Human Disease Sensory Neuroscience Stem Cell Biology Tissue Engineering in Biomedical Science
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“Studying biomedical science in Sheffield was the best experience in my life! The staff was so experienced and very friendly… Thanks for giving me such an excellent and wonderful journey.” Noura Alibrahim, Saudi Arabia, 2013 graduate
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Biomedical Science Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/bms Email us at bmsadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery More targeted pharmacological approaches to developing new treatments for disease are now possible thanks to new genomic technologies. On this course, we train students in state-of-the-art labs to use the latest automated techniques in drug screening and gene discovery. You’ll be trained using human 2D and 3D models of disease and organoid systems, as well as experimentally tractable model organisms, such as Drosophila and zebrafish. During your research project, you’ll work with the world-class Sheffield RNAi screening facility to get high quality training and professional skills in pharmaco-genomics. Examples of possible projects include: • The generation and characterisation of CRISPR designed reporters to be used in early stem cell marker activation for small molecule screens • Screening alpha helical nano-peptides for enhanced anticancer therapeutics. • Screening for the role of miRNA’s in the regulation of pluripotency and lineage commitment in human pluripotent stem cells Our labs include purpose-built facilities for drug screening, laboratory automation, cellular assays, imaging and processing. Training also covers the latest pharmaceutical industry practices, with support from industry leaders, so that you’ll graduate with the skills employers are looking for.
Core modules
Critical Analysis of Current Science Ethics and Public Awareness of Science Laboratory Research Project Practical Approaches to Small Molecule and Functional Genomic Screening Retrieval and Evaluation of Research Information 3D Tissue Culture and Genome Editing
Choice of 2 lecture modules Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery Modelling Human Disease The Biotech and Pharmaceutical Industry
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Biomedical Science Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/bms Email us at bmsadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Human and Molecular Genetics This course gives students excellent postgraduate training, and leads to exciting careers in research, industry, the NHS and other clinical institutions. It is designed for students who want to know more about how human genetic diseases are diagnosed clinically at the chromosome and DNA levels. You’ll learn what causes genome instability and genetic change. Specialist clinical genetics training will prepare you for an in-depth research project based in our state-of-the-art labs. This MSc was developed in partnership with the Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service (NHS), a world-renowned clinical genetics facility, to give you the chance to work with top genetics research laboratories and clinical partners. This relationship is unique to Sheffield, with teaching support from the Director and the Head of Pharmacogenetics for the Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.
“This MSc has resulted in two excellent job NHS placement opportunities offers within three months of finishing the course, and even before graduating, proving Students have the opportunity for clinical that it made me stand out from other work placements in the Sheffield Diagnostic applicants. This MSc gave me invaluable Genetics Service, based in the Sheffield experience for the interview process by viva Children’s Hospital, as part of this course. examinations and presentations. “Due to this MSc I am now working at IONTAS in cancer therapy using antibody phage display. A second job offer from LGC as a DNA “This MSc offers without exceptional training human analyst showed, a doubt, thatinthis chromosome imaging and analysis, using the MSc not only made me employable but gave same techniques equipment wedoors use me a choice. The and course opened that many for our clinical services. We work closely with for me professionally but additionally allowed the University of Sheffield to ensure that the me to make some lasting friendships.” medical genetics components of the course Alice 2015 graduate are of Luther, the highest standard. We now have a IONTAS,graduate Cambridge masters from this course working in our clinical diagnostics facility.” Duncan Baker Head of Pharmacogenetics Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
Examples of possible projects include: • Genome stability of industrial CHO cell lines: to improve manufacturing efficiency of therapeutics produced by CHO cells and used in the treatment of human cancers • Reduction of karyotypic evolution in cultured human cell lines: to improve clinical protocols used by healthcare institutes in the UK and across Europe, for genetic investigations of prenatal and oncology patients
Core modules
Laboratory Techniques in Molecular Bioscience Research Project Advanced Research Topics Literature Review
Choice of 3 lecture modules Genome Stability and Genetic Change The Genetics of Human Disease Human Fertility and Reproduction Genomic Science Stem Cell Biology The RNA World
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“The research project was the best part of the course and I thoroughly enjoyed it, even if it got intensive at times. The knowledge and skills I have gained from the whole experience are valuable beyond words” Naasiha Sheikh, India, 2016/17 student
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
“This MSc has helped me secure a place on the NHS Scientist Training Programme for genetics by making me stand out during the application process and at interview. The research project in particular has provided me with knowledge, skills and confidence that will see me through my training post at the Sheffield Children’s Hospital and beyond.” Bethaney Green, UK, 2015 graduate, Trainee NHS Healthcare Scientist
Based in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/mbb Email us at linda.harris@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Molecular and Cellular Basis of Human Disease This course is informed by whole genome sequencing, to train students in how animal models can be used in therapeutic studies and basic research into disease mechanisms. New molecular genetic and cellular approaches to understanding human disease and disease processes in model systems are well established in Sheffield, with some of the world’s foremost research in these areas being carried out on our campus. As the research base broadens and industry begins to adopt new technologies, the demand for the specialist training that Sheffield offers is expected to continue to grow. In this way, this course will prepare you to meet the needs of the healthcare industry and academia. For your research project, you’ll be based in the University of Sheffield’s specialist Bateson Centre, with access to model organisms such as mice, chick, drosophila and zebrafish. Facilities include an electron and light microscopy centre, a PCR robotics facility, a flow cytometry unit and a dedicated RNAi screening facility. Examples of possible projects include: • Are skeletal muscle stem cells impaired in the Duchenne muscular dystrophy mdx mouse model? • Identification of Rac1-mediated mechanisms to accelerate skin healing • The impact of the stress hormone cortisol on seizure susceptibility in a new zebrafish genetic model of epilepsy
Core modules
Critical Analysis of Current Science Ethics and Public Awareness of Science Laboratory Research Project Practical Cell Biology Practical Developmental Genetics Retrieval and Evaluation of Research Information
Choice of 2 lecture modules Cancer Biology Epithelial Physiology in Health and Disease Modelling Human Disease
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“I chose to apply to the Biomedical Science department of the University of Sheffield for my MSc because of their great reputation for teaching and the quality of research being carried out in the department. “The taught modules were very relevant, focusing on current research papers, and the practical modules gave good opportunities to see, first-hand, the benefits of multiple different model organisms. The extra core modules focusing on critical evaluation of current literature helped to develop my critical appraisal skills – an essential skill in science that is often overlooked in similar courses. Equally, the ethics and public understanding of science module made me consider an area of growing importance in research that I hadn’t previously focused on, and has driven me to participate in a number of public outreach and science communication events, which is another area the University is very strong in.” Gareth McCathie, UK, 2013 graduate, PhD researcher in Biomedical Science
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Biomedical Science Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/bms Email us at bmsadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Molecular Biology and Biotechnology This wide-ranging course is designed to prepare students for a variety of exciting bioscience careers across research, industry and academia. As a student in Sheffield, you’ll have access to world-class research facilities and learn from top academics. You’ll become a confident and independent researcher, with the knowledge and skills that employers across medicine and agricultural science are looking for. Your laboratory training will teach you techniques including protein and DNA isolation, Western analysis, ion exchange chromatography, protein overexpression, plasmid construction and BLAST DNA sequence analysis. You can then put these skills into practice in your own research project. Examples of possible projects include: • Plant genetic engineering • Engineering proteins of commercial importance for enhanced function • Gene function analysis by random mutagenesis
Core laboratory modules
Advanced Research Project Laboratory Skills in Molecular Bioscience
Core lecture/tutorial modules Advanced Research Topics Literature Review Cells as Factories
Choice of 3 lecture modules Advanced Bioprocess Design Project Advanced Biochemical Engineering Microbiology of Extreme Environments Plant Biotechnology The RNA World
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
“I am very happy with the programme. It is flexible but also it asks you to give everything and little more. The course has helped me to have different approaches in biology and biotechnology. There is a lot of lab work that gives you more confidence when you are doing your own experiments. We have the best teachers and equipment and we finish in just one year.� Joshua Gonzalez, Mexico, 2016/17 student
Based in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/mbb Email us at linda.harris@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Neuroscience The focus of this degree is on sensory systems – how they work and how damaged systems can be treated when things go wrong. Training is based around genetic models of disease, plus electrophysiology, regenerative medicine and computer simulation techniques. You’ll complete a research project at Sheffield’s internationally recognised Centre for Sensory Neuroscience, and graduate with a range of cell, animal or computer-based skills you can use to investigate sensory systems. For your project, you’ll have access to experimental tractable model organisms, including mouse, Drosophila and zebrafish, and purpose-built facilities for studying these systems. You’ll have all the tools you’ll need to examine and analyse a range of cellular structures within our electron and light microscopy centre, PCR robotics facility, flow cytometry unit and RNAi screening facility. Examples of possible projects include: • New botulinum molecules for use in chronic pain • Function of the transcription gata3 in the mammalian inner ear • Development and distribution of ribbon synapses in hair cells of the zebrafish neuromast
Core modules
Critical Analysis of Current Science Ethics and Public Awareness of Science Laboratory Research Project Neuroscience Techniques Practical Developmental Genetics Retrieval and Evaluation of Research Information
Choice of 2 lecture modules Computational Neuroscience Developmental Neurobiology Sensory Neuroscience
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Biomedical Science Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/bms Email us at bmsadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Stem cell and regenerative medicine is at the forefront of future therapies to repair diseased and damaged organs. This is an area where the academic research base is constantly broadening, so demand for graduates with the specialist knowledge that Sheffied offers students is high, as organisations in industry latch on to new technologies. You’ll be trained in the latest human embryonic stem cell techniques by experts in the University of Sheffield’s Centre for Stem Cell Biology. Your training programme includes an independent research project, with access to purpose-built facilities for studying genetics and molecular physiology. There is specialist equipment for high throughput and high content analysis, as well as an electron and light microscopy centre, a PCR robotics facility, a flow cytometry unit and a dedicated RNAi screening facility. Examples of possible projects include: • Unravelling the role of cell:cell contacts and colony size in fate determination of human pluripotent stem cells • Characterising the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into neuromesodermal progenitors • Characterisation of subpopulations of otic progenitors derived from human embryonic stem cells
Core modules
Critical Analysis of Current Science Ethics and Public Awareness of Science Human Embryonic Stem Cell Culture Techniques Laboratory Research Project Practical Cell Biology Retrieval and Evaluation of Research Information
Choice of 2 lecture modules Modelling Human Disease Stem Cell Biology Tissue Engineering in Biomedical Science
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“The Department of Biomedical Science was like a big family who supported and encouraged me to achieve my highest potential and independence as a young scientist. The MSc program in Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine allowed me to develop excellent technical and research skills, while interacting with outstanding leaders in the field.” Mona Nazemi, Iran, 2016 graduate, research associate at Sheffield RNAi Screening Facility
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY
“I decided to study Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine at the University of Sheffield because of the great international reputation of the program and because Sheffield is at the forefront of stem cell research globally. “I particularly liked the hands-on nature of the program. In addition to being taught novel concepts and stem techniques, I was encouraged and enabled to carry out ground-breaking research using state-ofthe-art equipment and imaging facilities, and I have gained invaluable research experience as a result of my research project.” Oladolapo Bello, Nigeria, 2015 graduate, Solution Provider at Access Bank in Nigeria
Based in the Department of Biomedical Science Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/bms Email us at bmsadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Human Anatomy with Education Human anatomy is at the heart of many disciplines, from bioscience, medicine and dentistry, to archaeology and forensic science. But few universities offer training to help meet the global demand for accredited anatomy teachers. On this course, you can learn the specialist techniques and knowledge to train the anatomy experts of tomorrow.
Teaching accreditation This course has been designed to align with the UK Professional Standards Framework of the Higher Education Academy. By completing this course, you will be eligible to apply for Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy. This is the professional accreditation required of Higher Education practitioners in the UK.
The Medical Teaching Unit at the University of Sheffield is one of the few laboratories in the UK where you can learn human anatomy through cadaveric dissection. You’ll be able to learn through whole-body dissection and have access to a wide range of plastinated specimens, professionally dissected wet specimens and anatomical models. As well as reflecting on pedagogical issues, you’ll have the chance to teach undergraduate anatomy students and gain lots of practical experience for your CV. You can then focus on a learning and teaching topic that interests you for your dissertation.
“I have absolutely loved the Human Anatomy MSc so far. I have been able to learn in an explorative way through weekly cadaveric dissection, which is a fascinating experience. This course is the first to offer FHEA accreditation which is supported through opportunities to teach level 2 biomedical science students on a weekly basis. By teaching regularly and exploring new learning strategies in weekly tutorials, I have been able to continually improve my pedagogical skills.”
Core modules
Anatomy of the Trunk and Limbs Students and the Learning Environment Anatomy of the Head, Neck and Brain Curriculum and Programme Development Action Research Project: Scholarship in Learning and Teaching
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Annalise Richards, current student who has already secured a job as an Anatomy Teacher at the University of Bristol.
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
Subject keywords Human Anatomy Cadaveric Dissection Teaching Accreditation Pedagogical Skills
Based in the Department of Biomedical Science Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/bms Email us at bmsadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MRes Ecology and Environment Biodiversity is threatened by climate change and other consequences of the growing human population. To solve some of the biggest challenges facing humanity, we need researchers with an in-depth understanding of ecosystems. On this course, you can study how different organisms and environments interact. Research approaches vary from controlled environment and field experiments, to mathematical modelling, and analysis of long-term data sets and palaeontological collections. The Department of Animal and Plant sciences is home to world experts in many branches of the global ecosystem, including population dynamics and interactions between organisms, marine, arctic and desert habitats, and the effects of climate change on plants, birds, fish and insects. Researchers work with farmers, industry, conservation agencies and government departments to develop new research projects into sustainability issues.
“The Masters in Research has provided me with the opportunity to define my own research questions and independently carry out every stage of the project, with the support of a very motivating supervisor. This degree has equipped me with the skills needed to pursue a career in science, and has certainly helped me to secure a PhD on the genetics of butterfly adaptation to climate at the University of Cambridge.� Gabriela Montejo-Kovacevich (pictured), Spain, 2016 graduate, PhD researcher at University of Cambridge
Research skills classes
Advanced Biological Analysis Advanced Trends in Biology Research and Study Skills in Biology Tutorials
Research project
Research Project in Ecology and Environment Literature Review
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Gabby’s research project was on managing timber logging in the Amazon rainforest through the study of butterflies. With 50 million hectares of Brazilian forest now open for logging, it is crucial to work alongside logging companies to prevent biodiversity loss. She spent three months in the Amazon recording butterflies and has developed models that predict the responses of butterflies under different logging scenarios.
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
Subject keywords Global Change Ecology Biodiversity Science Tropical Forest Conservation Palaeoecology and Palynology Environmental Pollution Agricultural Ecology Urban Ecology Based in the Department of Animal and Plant Sciences Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/aps Email us at aps.mres@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MRes Evolution and Behaviour The connection between how organisms have evolved and how they behave is a fundamental principle of biology. It can show us why organisms are the way they are, and answer deep questions about the diversity of life on earth. Sheffield’s expertise spans sexual selection and sexual conflict, ecological immunity, cooperative behaviour, the evolutionary genomics of adaptation and evolutionary developmental biology. We are home to the NERC Biomolecular Analysis Facility, which trains researchers in state-of-the-art molecular genetics techniques. There are a range of systems you can study for your research project, from humans, birds and fish to insects and snails. Researchers are currently investigating sperm competition in birds, the development of shark teeth, butterfly pattern variation and much more.
Research skills classes
Advanced Biological Analysis Advanced Trends in Biology Research and Study Skills in Biology Tutorials
Research project
Research Project in Evolution and Behaviour Literature Review
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Subject keywords Evolutionary Genetics Speciation Bioinformatics Animal Behaviour Molecular Ecology Life History Evolution Disease Biology
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
“As someone returning after a break of study, the Research and Study Skills module helped to get me up to speed with critical reading of research literature and different forms of writing. The media training day was a good introduction to the communication of scientific ideas to a wider audience. I found the lively series of departmental and research group seminars, as well as other seminars within the department, such as the Science in Policy series, very informative and interesting and I enjoyed writing a popular science article based on one of the departmental seminars.� Tamora James, UK, 2015 graduate, PhD researcher in Animal and Plant Sciences In her research project, Tamora constructed a demographic model with which to investigate the persistence of alternate coat colour variants in a population of wild Soay sheep. She used life history and genotype data from a long-term study to fit the model, leading to predictions about the long term stability of the coat colour polymorphism.
Based in the Department of Animal and Plant Sciences Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/aps Email us at aps.mres@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MRes Plant and Microbial Biology Plants are central to the global ecosystem. In Sheffield, we study them from every angle: from the molecular level up to whole organisms, in the context of ecosystems, industry and major global challenges. On this course, you can examine the effects of past, present and future climates on plants and the wider environment, as well as the roles that plants can play in solving problems such as food security. Topics you can cover in your research project include plant development, photosynthesis, plant-mycorrhiza, plant-parasite and plant-pathogen interactions, and the effects of climate change. Placements give you a chance to explore industrial applications of plant science. The researchers who help teach this course are skilled in a range of advanced molecular techniques, including molecular genetics, metabolomics, fluorescent imaging, gas exchange analysis and carbon isotope analysis. The Department of Animal and Plant Sciences is home to P3, a global centre of excellence for translational plant science that works with many external collaborators.
Research skills classes
Advanced Biological Analysis Advanced Trends in Biology Research and Study Skills in Biology Tutorials
Research project
Research Project in Plant and Microbial Biology Literature Review
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“During my MRes I was integrated into the research group, attending and contributing to lab meetings. This meant that I felt like a valued member of a team, not just a lone masters student. I also had the opportunity to present findings from my research to a range of industrial professionals, and to collaborate with experts in other universities. “Both the tutorial programme and the science communication workshop were highlights of my degree. The tutorials opened up opportunities to discuss contemporary issues in science with experts from the department and the communication workshop equipped me with skills in communicating science to the public. “Towards the end of my course I was offered a job with Mouchel Ltd., a civil engineering company whose area of expertise is in road and other infrastructure development. For my MRes project I investigated the ecology of roadside verges in the city of Sheffield. This experience directly fitted with Mouchel’s focus. As such, I was a perfect fit for the position I was offered.” Joel Rowlands (pictured), UK, 2016 graduate, ecologist at Mouchel Ltd.
Subject keywords Plant Biotechnology Soil Health Genomics Food Security Sustainable Agriculture Plant-Microbe Interactions Climate Change Biology Plant Immunology
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Animal and Plant Sciences Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/aps Email us at aps.mres@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Practical Entomology Entomology is increasingly at the forefront of addressing global challenges such as food security and disease transmission. By using insects as model organisms across science we can make discoveries that impact society for the better. The MSc Practical Entomology course focuses on equipping you with in-depth and handson experience of the specialist entomological techniques and practices that underpin the study of insects. You’ll learn how to produce museumquality levels of sample preparation, material and archiving and how to establish and maintain insect cultures to be able to apply your skills to your entomological interests. The biggest part of the course is the individual research project. Here you’ll spend three months conducting independent research with the opportunity to work with specialists at the Natural History Museum, London. You’ll also spend a week in a research station in Portugal undertaking experiments on insect-pollinator systems to cement your learning, ready for an exciting career in insect-related research, policy and beyond. Our research entomologists are among the best in the world. They have experience in the field and in the lab and are the people who will train you in the practical skills needed to be an effective scientist working with insects. The course is designed to suit all skill levels: whether you’re keen to start exploring your passion for entomology, or you’d like to further your existing skills and knowledge in entomological practice.
Core modules
Taxonomy and Archiving Husbandry Anatomy and Imaging Field Course Scientific Skills and Project Management Individual Research Project
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Subject keywords Entomology Food Security Disease Transmission Model Organisms Anatomy Taxonomy
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Animal and Plant Sciences Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/aps Email us at aps.pgadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
MSc Sustainable Agricultural Technologies How will we feed nine billion people by 2050? It’s a challenge with complex solutions. In the UK alone, it’s estimated that £1.2bn is lost annually from the value of our soils due to mismanagement. Investment and research into agri-tech is growing and here at Sheffield, our MSc Sustainable Agricultural Technologies course draws on our world-leading expertise in the field, training the next generation of skilled professionals to drive positive changes in agricultural practice and policy. This course is designed to give you a breadth of understanding of the agri-food system as a whole. You’ll learn about the major issues in sustainable agriculture and receive training in how to apply cutting-edge techniques used in crop and soil science. The biggest part of the course is the individual research project where you’ll spend three months over the summer in our P3 centre for translational plant and soil biology, working with our world-leading researchers. You’ll also get the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice through external placements with our industrial, government and NGO partners, preparing you to become a future leader in the agricultural sector.
Core modules
Crop Science, Biotechnology and Breeding Agricultural Ecology in a Changing World Soil Science Issues in Global Food Security Advanced Analytics Techniques in Agricultural Research Scientific Skills and Project Management Individual Research Project
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Subject keywords Food Security Sustainable Agriculture Soil Science Biotechnology Genetic Engineering Agricultural Ecosystems
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience WHOLE ORGANISM BIOLOGY
Based in the Department of Animal and Plant Sciences Find out more at www.sheffield.ac.uk/aps Email us at aps.pgadmissions@sheffield.ac.uk
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
After your degree Our students come from all over the world for their degrees. They go on to great careers in academia, industry, healthcare and environmental work. But while they’re studying, our students make Sheffield their home, and many decide to stay after they graduate. They find jobs and further training in and around the city, or remain with the University of Sheffield to complete a PhD. We work hard to help our students get into the careers they are most interested in. The university runs workshops on CV writing, job hunting and preparing for interviews, and many bioscience students have the chance to complete work placements, meet with potential employers and get one-to-one careers advice. Our Careers Service will continue to support you for three years after you graduate.
Our students have come from... Azerbaijan Bahrain Brunei Bulgaria Canada China Cyprus Ecuador France Greece India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Jordan
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Kasakhstan Kuwait Lithuania Malaysia
Mexico Nigeria Portugal Saudi Arabia Spain Sri Lanka Tanzania Sudan Thailand Sweden Turkey Taiwan USA
Sheffield
London
Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
“Four days after completing my course I began working in the Research and Development department at the biological control company Bioline AgroSciences, a subsidiary of the InVivo group. My work here focuses on developing new rearing methodologies for beneficial insects and mites used in biological crop protection. “I have no doubt that my experience of researching insect diet and immune systems during my degree aided me immensely in acquiring this job. Additionally, the skills that I draw upon on a daily basis (the use of R, rigorous experimental design, the synthesis of plausible hypotheses, collecting data methodically, discussing ideas with colleagues, etc) were all honed during my time at Sheffield.” Kyle Bettles, UK, 2016 graduate, research and development at Bioline AgroSciences
“I found it really enjoyable to study my subject at this university, particularly because of the small group sizes which help one to have a more in-depth understanding of the subject and provide opportunities for further activities. For me, the most valuable aspect of the course is that I always found out something new. I felt like I was dealing with the cutting edge of science. Although it was sometimes challenging, it was very interesting to work out, to understand what was going on with recent publications regarding stem cell and regenerative medicine, and potential discoveries that may change the world one day. “In my opinion, Sheffield is one of the best places to live in as a student. You can always find someone helpful, otherwise the university’s Students’ Union is always there. Since there are students from almost all cultural backgrounds, you always find it much easier to be a foreigner.” Nadia Rostam, Iraq, 2013 graduate, lecturer at the University of Sulaimani
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
Applying To apply for one of our courses, complete the University of Sheffield’s postgraduate online application form. You can access the form at www.sheffield.ac.uk/ postgraduate/taught. We normally ask for applicants with a good 2:1 honours degree in a bioscience subject, or equivalent. You can find out which qualifications we accept from other countries at www.sheffield.ac.uk/international. Masters courses begin in September. We accept applications for MSc courses all year round. For MRes courses, international students should apply before 31 July in the year they plan to start their degree, and other students should apply by the end of the third week in August. Remember: • Masters courses often fill up quickly • Visa applications can take up to four months to process
English language requirements If English is not your first language, we’ll need you to have one of the following qualifications: IELTS: Average grade of 6.5 or higher TOEFL: Overall score of 100 or higher Indian Standard X and XII: At least 70% in both These may vary from course to course, so please visit the University of Sheffield website for the most up-to-date information. The University’s English Language Teaching Centre offers language courses for students to prepare them for their studies before they start. Visit www.sheffield.ac.uk/eltc.
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Faculty of Science Masters Courses in Bioscience
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The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it’s up-to-date and relevant. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, for the reasons detailed above, changes may need to be made to modules, courses, entry requirements and fees between the date of this publication and the start of your course. This publication is correct as at the time of print, but please see one of the websites below for the most up-todate information about this course. Copyright Š The University of Sheffield 2018
Any questions? Department of Animal and Plant Sciences The University of Sheffield Alfred Denny Building Western Bank Sheffield S10 2TN
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www.sheffield.ac.uk/aps /SheffieldAPS @SheffieldAPS
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www.sheffield.ac.uk/mbb /SheffieldMBB @SheffieldMBB