Biomedical Research (Molecular Basis of Human Disease)
  • Postgraduate taught
  • MRes

Biomedical Research (Molecular Basis of Human Disease)

Train for a career in biomedical research and specialise in molecular mechanisms and structural biology.

Receive broad training for a career in biomedical research and specialise in molecular mechanisms and structural biology

Learn how to investigate disease pathways and explore potential therapeutic interventions on pressing human diseases

Complete two five-month research projects and examine cutting-edge developments in the field

Course key facts

Minimum entry standard

  • 2:1 in an appropriate subject

View full entry requirements

Course overview

Build multidisciplinary skills in biomedical research on this Master's course, specialising in molecular mechanisms and structural biology.

You'll explore fundamental disease mechanisms and the scientific methodology used to unravel these mechanisms.

Broad training is provided in a range of biomedical research areas. These include structural molecular biology, biochemistry and biophysics, cell biology and clinical/pharmaceutical applications.

You'll build transferable skills through a programme of grant writing, technical workshops and journal clubs. You'll also investigate disease pathways and potential therapeutic interventions on pressing human diseases.

Two extensive research projects provide an opportunity to apply your expertise to areas of interest within this specialism.

Choose your stream

You have the option of choosing our general biomedical research stream, or one of seven specialisms. All of our biomedical research streams have the same course structure and each stream has its own tailored set of projects alongside a core programme of lectures, seminars and practical classes.

You should consider which stream is right for you according to your career aims and background. If an offer of admission is made, it will correspond to a specific stream. Switching streams is not possible once you have commenced your studies.

Is this stream for you?

This stream is for students with a biochemical or biophysical background interested in pursuing further education in a medically relevant area, and those with a biomedical background interested in understanding fundamental mechanisms behind disease processes.

This stream is delivered by the Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction in collaboration with the Department of Infectious Disease.

Structure

This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.

Find out more about potential course changes.

Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.

You’ll take all of these core modules.

Core modules

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning methods

  • Demonstrations and seminars
  • Workshops
  • Computing labs
  • Journal clubs
  • Blackboard virtual learning environment
    Virtual learning environment
  • Four students sitting in a tutorial
    Tutorials
  • Lab-based learning
  • ID badge for site visit or facility tour
    Facility Tours
  • Person at lectern giving speech
    Lectures
  • Debates

Balance of assessment

Key

  • Grant writing exercise
  • Research projects

  • 10% Grant writing exercise
  • 90% Research projects

Assessment methods

  • Microscope for lab work
    Laboratory-based research
  • Computer-based research
  • Oral presentation
  • Poster presentation
  • Papers from a written report
    Research reports
  • Oral assessment

Entry requirements

We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.

How to apply

Apply online

You can submit one application form per year of entry. You can choose up to two courses.

Tuition fees

Home fee

2024 entry

£20,150

Overseas fee

2024 entry

£43,250

Scholarships

The Dean’s Master’s Scholarships

Value per award

  • £10,000

Who it's for

  • All students applying to study a Faculty of Medicine Master’s programme beginning in October 2024
Find out more

The Dr Jean Alero Thomas Scholarships

Value per award

  • Partial or full tuition fee at the Home rate

Who it's for

  • All students applying to study a Faculty of Medicine lab-based Master’s programme beginning in October 2024
Find out more

How will studying at Imperial help my career?

doctor

Strengthen your career prospects as aspiring Anaesthetists and Intensive Care physicians.

Person surrounded by small images of other people

Cultivate a robust network within an inclusive Division, fostering valuable connections with academics and clinicians.

Man pointing to a screen

Participate in Departmental Research symposia, offering exposure, critical appraisal skills, expert engagement, and staying updated in the field.

Graduate Cap above rolled Degree

Develop key academic skills to support your progress to PhD or medical school.

3 People standing together, one with a speech bubble

Develop essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, crucial for success in professional healthcare environments.

Magnifying glass over a research paper

Get support with grant applications and publication of research findings, enriching academic and professional portfolios.

Person in a bubble surrounded by 4 skills

Participate in Departmental Research symposia, offering exposure, critical appraisal skills, expert engagement, and staying updated in the field.

Terms and conditions

There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.

Read our terms and conditions

You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.

Programme specifications