MPhil in Molecular Mechanisms of Human Disease

University of Cambridge

Biomedical science is currently undergoing a revolution, as the application of whole-genome sequencing technologies fundamentally change the way in which we understand the causes of both common and rare human disease. However, while sequencing is changing the speed and depth with which disease is diagnosed, it alone frequently does not lead directly to patient benefit. To develop new drugs and treatments, scientists need to develop sophisticated cellular models and understand pathological changes occurring within cells at molecular resolution. This combination of cellular, genetic and informatic tools is the next frontier of biomedicine, and one in which both academic and pharmaceutical industries are hiring rapidly. To equip students with skills to participate in this exciting new field, this program is designed to provide an exceptional postgraduate education in the molecular basis of human illnesses, their diagnosis, and potential treatment options. It combines taught content that spans diagnosis, cellular and molecular approaches and drug/diagnostic development with extensive hands-on research experience in cutting-edge research labs. The course introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are: to give students with relevant experience at first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.