The MPhil in Computational Biology is a 10-month course aimed at introducing students to quantitative aspects of biological and medical sciences. It is intended for mathematicians, computer scientists and others wishing to learn about the subject in preparation for a PhD course or a career in industry. It is also suitable for students with a first degree in biosciences as long as they have strong quantitative skills.
Preliminary courses
All students joining this course are required to attend an introductory course in Molecular Biology. This session is usually scheduled at the start of the academic year (October) just before formal lectures commence. There is also a Recommended Reading List.
Course Structure
The course combines taught lectures (October-April), followed by a summer research project (April-July). There are typically 3 taught modules over 2 terms (Michaelmas and Lent). The course consists of core modules including bioinformatics, scientific programming with R and genomics, course content may vary from year to year. Courses are delivered in association with several departments from across the University, and neighbouring institutes.
Research Project
Students undertake a mandatory research project (April to July) in either a university or industrial laboratory. The Department will compile a list of possible opportunities which students can discuss directly with the host laboratory. Where appropriate, students may request to organise their own project and submit a proposal, subject to approval of the Course Director. At the end of the research project students are required to submit a project report and present their work.
Assessment
The taught modules for this course are assessed by coursework (typically two assignments per module). Assignments involve significant computational elements. Students are required to complete a research project which is assessed by a project report of no more than 15,000 words and a presentation.
Course Director
Course Director Professor Stephen Eglen is a computational neuroscientist based in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics.
For further information please see Applications and Funding