MSc in Integrative Biology

Integrative 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 (jointly with the BBSRC, Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, and AstraZeneca) 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.

Course Structure

Students are required to accumulate 180 credits comprising 120 credits in Part I, provided as taught modules, delivered in the Autumn and Spring semesters and consisting of a mixture of compulsory and optional topics, with a qualifying barrier for progression to the 60-credit Part II Project component completed in association with scientists and submitted for assessment at the end of the final semester.

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge, understanding and skills in the following areas:
● The mathematical and computational techniques required to produce useful and effective mathematical models of biological systems including spanning the physical scales from chemistry, through molecular and cellular biology, to whole organism anatomy and physiology, and population biology
● The information and informatics resources available to make these models
● The application and understanding of Integrative Biology techniques to a specific research project
● The role of multi-disciplinary work in Integrative Biology
● The application of Integrative Biology in the private sector

Criteria for admission

Candidates will normally hold a second class or higher Honours Degree in biological science, bioinformatics or computer science, or an allied discipline, providing sufficient background for the course. Students with lower grades may be offered a position based on an in-depth interview process.

Relevant workplace experience may, in some circumstances, be accepted as qualification for entry to this course. Applicants who wish to gain experience for PhD study or as a basis for industry are encouraged to apply as this MSc caters for both. An A-level, GCE or equivalent in Mathematics is also highly recommended due to other Mathematical content in the MSc.

International Students

Applicants whose native language is not English must attain a British Council IELTS average final score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.0 in each element or a TOEFL paper-based test score of 550 or computer-based test score of 213, with a minimum score of 4 in the Test of Written English, achieved no more than 2 years prior to admission. Students may also apply to undertake a full-time intensive English language and academic preparation course of appropriate length in the Centre for English Language Education.