Biological Sciences (Biochemistry) MPhil University of Liverpool

The goal is to understand the biochemistry and cell science underlying normal development and how it goes awry during human diseases. Our research programmes are generously funded and span disciplines from essential protein biology and glycobiology to cell signalling and gene regulation. Our research of fundamental biochemistry puts the cell's chemistry into the context of the whole organism in normal and diseases states. By understanding the causes of a disease, we can control symptoms or eradicate it.

The key principle behind our research is the recognition that to elucidate cell, organ or organismal function in health and disease requires an integrated approach utilising the best available cutting-edge technologies. Research programmes are generously funded through grants from the BBSRC, MRC, Wellcome Trust, British Heart Foundation, North West Cancer Research, European Commission and other organisations. Our investigators are involved in translational research for applications in drug discovery and tissue engineering.

Many of our students are recognised for the role they play in communicating their science to the wider community. On completing their PhDs our students have taken competitive post-doctoral positions in the UK and abroad, or elect career paths in the NHS, government or the commercial sector. As an Institute devoted to Integrative Biology, we span the range of biosciences from the fine-scale resolution of biomolecular structure through the genome-wide analysis of cells and organisms, to the evolution and ecology of organisms in their natural environment. Underpinning this diversity, we offer world class facilities and infrastructure for research, and superb links to internationally excellent partners in both the academic and industrial sectors.

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) can be thought of as a shorter version of the PhD. It requires the same research skills, training, planning, and project management. It can be a way to assess whether you wish to undertake doctoral research - or it can be taken for its own sake.