The University of Sheffield
Prospective Postgraduates

Mechanistic Biology - MSc

Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science

Study at the cutting edge of biological sciences, where modern biological techniques are combined with the use of new technology and the quantitative and computational methods of the physical sciences.

About the course

1 year full time

This course is aimed at molecular bioscience graduates who wish to further develop their maths, computer programming and physics skills in a way that fully integrates with their substantial biological knowledge. These skills are increasingly important in the highly interdisciplinary field of modern molecular and cellular biology.

You'll use the mathematical, physical, and computational tools that underpin mechanistic modelling and advanced physical methods for observing, analysing, understanding and predicting biology, including cutting edge nanotechnological tools.

Entry requirements

You'll need a minimum 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in a biosciences subject with a strong molecular component, such as biochemistry, molecular microbiology, molecular genetics, or molecular biology. We also require grade B minimum in A Level Maths or equivalent.

English language requirements for overseas students

IELTS average score of 7 with no less than 6 in any one component. TOEFL minimum score of 100 in the Internet-Based Test (IBT).

Entry requirements for international students 

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Course content

  • Mathematics for Mechanistic Biology
  • Computing for Mechanistic Biology
  • Physical Biology
  • Modelling and Simulation of Natural Systems
  • Biological Nanotechnology
  • Biophysical Chemistry
  • Research across the disciplines in Mechanistic Biology
  • Translational Mechanistic Biology
  • Research Project

Teaching

  • Lectures
  • Example classes
  • Seminars

AssessmentEssays

  • Essays
  • Presentations
  • Problem assignments
  • Open-book, traditional and multiple-choice examinations
  • Dissertation
  • Oral presentation of the project results and analysis

Fees and funding

We are offering BBSRC funded studentships, which provide a stipend and cover tuition fees. These will be awarded by competition to the most highly qualified applicants. We also be provide a number of places where the tuition fees are already covered.

Financial information for postgraduate taught courses

Any questions?

If you'd like to know more about any aspect of our courses, contact us:

Dr Jeremy Craven
E: c.j.craven@sheffield.ac.uk
T: +44 (0) 114 222 4323

Jayne Wilson MBB


About the department

The course is run by the Krebs Institute, an interdisciplinary and cross departmental grouping at the University of Sheffield. The course will be administered by the Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, with modules provided by the Departments of Physics, Computer Science, Biomedical Science and Chemistry.

Taught modules will also be provided by the Departments of Physics, Computer Science, Biomedical Science, and Chemistry. Research symposia and projects will be contributed from all parts of the Krebs Institute.

Your course will be taught by internationally recognised scientists from departments across the physical and life sciences.

Environment and facilities

Our students thrive in the rigorous but friendly environment, where we offer a range of courses spanning the molecular biosciences. We provide a stimulating, fully equipped environment and modern research community.

Apply now

You can apply for postgraduate study using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It is a quick and easy process.

Postgraduate Online Application Form