MSc by Research
Bio-Sensing Technology

About this course

• Entry year: 2012/13
• Course code: C7101
• Applications: University
• Level: Postgraduate
• Department: Applied Sciences
• Campus: Frenchay
• Duration: One-two years
• Delivery: Full-time and part-time
• Study Abroad: No
• Programme leader: Roy Pemberton
• Key fact:

  The Institute of Biosensing Technology (IBST) is the first of its type in the UK. It aims to develop academic/industrial partnerships to address the techological challenges posed by each of these sectors - from the development of novel technology for detection and measurement of biological systems to the integration of biological systems into novel sensing technology. For more information on the IBST please visit www.biosensingtech.co.uk

Introduction

Biosensing is an exciting and rapidly developing area which receives increasing attention and has a wide range of applications. Biosensing technologies can be applied to detection, monitoring and quantification of a wide range of compounds/analytes in the bio-medical, environmental, agri-food, forensic, bio-security and other areas.

The MSc by Research (MRes) course offers a unique combination of taught and practical study. Research projects are designed to create an opportunity for students to develop skills in their own particular areas of interest. The course is distinctive in its kind: there are strong interdisciplinary and industrial elements involved in the study, with interlinked technologies and application areas creating a unique learning platform. The integration of teaching practices provides students with an excellent background for future employment in the competitive work environment.

The course is designed for recent graduates and working scientists who wish to gain fundamental knowledge and practical experience in the biosensing field. The course is available as a full-time of part-time route. The part-time route is suitable for students who are employed full-time within industry, NHS or other relevant organisations.

(Photo by Hisks)

Structure

Content

The course consists of 60 credits of taught material and a 120 credit research project.

Core module

Biosensing Technologies (30 credits). This module covers bio-recognition elements, physical transducers, operating principles and case study examples which form the basis of biosensor construction and operation.

Option modules

You will choose one of the following:

Practical and Critical Issues in Research (30 credits). This module covers advanced molecular (bio)chemical/biomedical manipulation and analytical techniques; training in the skills required to undertake an original research project.

Industrial and Operational Case Studies/Group Project Challenge (30 credits). This module covers advanced technologies in electronics/robotics/sensing technologies; training in the skills required to undertake and original research project.

Specialist subjects offered include:

Analytical Principles used in biosensing (electrochemical, optical, magnetic, impedance, evanescent wave, piezo-electrical, micromechanical); Transcuders and principles of signal transduction; (Biological) recognition elements; Case studies in biosensing research; Applications of biosensors; Biosensors in business.

Molecular genetic techniques including DNA isolation, gene cloning, PCR, and protein expression; Microarrays, 2D gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing and Mass Spectrometry protein analysis. Finding, using and making sense of information; Principles of good experimental design and analyses; Characteristics of a good project, research paper and review article; Effective communication skills.

Electronics/robotics; novel intelligent systems; programming; (bio)sensor integration; Problem solving; Research process; Project management; Industrial case studies.

Research Project

A research project of 120 credits is undertaken for the award of MRes. Full-time students carry out the project over three semesters under the supervision of specialist subject tutors. Block-release students perform the research project in their own laboratory.

A Postgraduate Diploma will be awarded to students who undertake a short (60 credit) research project.

Assessment

Each module is assessed by a written examination and coursework. Coursework may be in the form of a case study, study pack, poster or oral presentation.

The Research Project is assessed by written dissertation and poster/viva voce examination.

Special Features

Careers/further study

Entry

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally have:

• An honours degree awarded by a UK institute of higher education of at least lower second status, in a relevant subject which includes significant biological, biochemical, biomedical, engineering or electronics content related to the vocational specialist subject to be studied.
• Qualifications deemed equivalent by the Course Leader.

Fees

Current fees are:

UK/EU students: £4,410

Overseas students: £11,250

How to apply

Please apply for this course by clicking on the link in the 'next steps' red box on the right hand side of this page.

For further information

• Telephone: +44 (0)117 32 82977
• E-mail: Roy.Pemberton@uwe.ac.uk