Master of Science - Molecular Biotechnology with Placement Year

University of Hertfordshire

Intended for graduates of the biological and biosciences, this MSc course provides specialist knowledge of molecular biology and biotechnology. This exciting and fast-moving area of bioscience is having an enormous impact on biotechnology. Analysis and manipulation of genes and genomes have provided the foundation for the development of new diagnostic methods, biological drugs and improved enzymes and proteins. New vaccines, synthetic antibodies and improved crops have also benefitted from advances in molecular biotechnology.

An important component of the programme is the opportunity to conduct a 12-month placement. Students will expand, develop and apply the knowledge, understanding and skills acquired in the taught year of the degree in a work-based situation.

On this MSc Molecular Biotechnology with Placement Year programme, students will:

• Gain a thorough understanding of molecular biology, genetics, cell biology and protein science.
• Be taught Advanced techniques in recombinant DNA technology, protein analysis, genomics and bioinformatics.
• Study the latest plant and animal genome sequencing projects, gene-editing technology, next-generation DNA sequencing, high throughput analysis and bioinformatic data analysis.
• Gain a critical understanding of applied molecular technologies for improvements in plant and animal systems.
• Research progressive areas such as metabolic engineering and surface display systems.

The course has a strong practical basis giving students training in research methods and experience of laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. These include gene knockout methods and next-generation sequencing analysis. There are excellent facilities for biomolecular analysis, including cell culture, DNA and protein manipulation. Plus, students will have access to the latest equipment for PCR, qPCR and 2D protein gel analysis systems for use in laboratory experiments and project work. 

Learners can benefit from University's strong relationship with GSK and Astra Zenca and be a part of innovative guest lectures delivered by leading researchers in the biotechnology industry.