Teaching

At present MyCIB offers 2 masters degrees and contributes to some undergraduate teaching modules. We will be developing further short courses in the future.



We are now accepting applications for the academic year 2009/2010.


MSc in Integrative Systems Biology


Integrative Systems Biology is an exciting, new and developing field of study and research. It involves the production and application of predictive mathematical models, collaboratively developed by scientists with varying backgrounds, such as Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Computing, Medicine, and Engineering. The models produced are mathematical descriptions of actual biological systems and are used to understand and find solutions to problems facing society, both currently and in the future. Specific models are being developed across the life sciences spectrum, including Industrial Microbiology, Pharmacy, Medicine, Agriculture and Environmental Biology. Problems in scientific areas as diverse as bioremediation, drug metabolism, cancer growth, heart and lung disease, obesity, and even the effects of global warming on crop yields are currently being addressed using the multidisciplinary integrative biology approach.


It is unlikely that any individual will possess advanced expertise in all areas required. However to succeed in industry or academia more generally, it is imperative that graduates have an appreciation and "working knowledge" of other disciplines. This facilitates cross-disciplinary communication and understanding, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to solving problems of major importance. Therefore the overall goal of this programme of study is to provide graduates with the core skills required to work effectively in a multidisciplinary scientific environment.


The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) has recently committed over £60 million to promote the development of six flag-ship Integrative Biology Centres (one at the University of Nottingham) and to train students and scientists with the required skills. The UK e-science project is £250 million project, jointly funded by several UK research councils to promote Integrative Biology among other subjects. The Medical Research Council has committed more than £12 million to the Integrative Mammalian Biology project. Clearly there is a great opportunity for recent graduates to move into this emerging area, as the skills acquired will be in high demand by both industrial and academic research groups.


There is one bursary of £2000 available to Home and EU students. If you are interested in finding out more about our Masters of Integrative Systems Biology programme, please email Please click on the following links for the MSc Integrative Systems Biology Prospectus, MSc Integrative Systems Biology Prospectus in Chinese and the MSc Integrative Systems Biology Poster.


MRes in Advanced Genomic and Proteomic Sciences


Offered jointly with Nottingham Trent University.


Advanced Genomic and Proteomic Sciences develops the work done on genome sequencing to predict a variety of biological responses, ranging from drought resistance in plants to predicting the clinical response of cancer patients to chemotherapy.


The course has been designed to meet the interdisciplinary and collaborative nature of the post-genomic technologies field and is suitable for those with experience or qualifications from a variety of backgrounds e.g. biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, mathematics or medical disciplines.


The course aims to develop individuals with the technical skills and scientific knowledge required by the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. It is also beneficial to academic research laboratories investigating the future progression of predictive biology.


If you are interested in finding out more about our Masters of Research of Advanced Genomic and Proteomic Sciences programme, please email Please note that the Masters of Research has only a small part of teaching and a large research component.