Master of Science - Biomedical Science

The MSc Biomedical Science programme at the University of Derby allows students to gain an advanced understanding of clinical concepts of diseases and their pathophysiology through laboratory-based investigation using cutting-edge methodologies. It develops critical reflection on biomedical theories and practice, fostering a flexible approach to problem-solving in biomedical science. Students can choose one of three specialist options in clinical immunology, advanced cellular pathology, or clinical haematology and transfusion science, providing opportunities to pursue specific interests in healthcare science.

The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, ensuring a high standard of teaching. It equips students with advanced research skills, including the Multi-OMICS approach in disease diagnosis, drug development, and understanding mechanistic intracellular pathways. Independent research is conducted in the University of Derby’s laboratories, NHS hospital pathology (subject to availability), or approved workplace settings under the supervision of highly qualified research-active academics and pracademics. The programme bridges the gap between an undergraduate degree and a PhD, or can serve as a stand-alone research qualification.

Specialised laboratory facilities support research projects, including a molecular laboratory with qPCR equipment, an imaging suite, human cell culture facilities, a dedicated microbiology laboratory, and an analytical suite with GC/MS, HPLC, AAS, UV-Vis, IC, and a scanning electron microscope. The new £1.75 million OMICS Facility provides training in emerging fields of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics.

Strong connections with the University Hospitals of Royal Derby and Burton NHS Trust, Nottingham University Hospital Trust, and other healthcare providers enable collaboration on research projects, offering opportunities to network with professionals, enhance career prospects, and develop research with real-world impact.

The experienced teaching team covers a diverse range of subjects, with previous research projects in areas such as infectivity and pathophysiology of Covid-19 and other viral pandemics, nanotechnology, dementia, obesity, diabetology, virology, microbiology, and cancer research.