MSci (Hons) Microbiology and Immunology Integrated Master's degree at Keele University

Explore fundamental concepts in the understanding of the structure and function of biological molecules, from the three-dimensional structure of proteins and the activity of enzymes to the progress and organisation of major metabolic pathways. Develop key skills in data analysis, presentation and communication where you will report the outcomes of laboratory investigations in the study of enzyme kinetics.

Explore how our immune system protects us against infection, and the role microbes play in the diversity of ecosystems. Case-based learning tutorials support understanding of core concepts, as you work through real-life cases in microbiology and immunology, building knowledge and communication skills.

Introduce you to the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Explore how different pathologies can develop because of dysfunction in these systems and their impact. Through an innovative group-based activity you will produce a short video animation drawing on a select module topic.

Develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across your programme and deepening your understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support your development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks from invited speakers, including former graduates, and further employability skills workshops will support you in reflecting

Introduces you to the fundamentals of molecular cell biology. Explore how genetic information is stored, replicated and processed; the roles played by nucleic acids in the production of proteins; how proteins get to their final locations within cells and how cells interact with each other and communicate to co-ordinate their activities.

Explore how we can study and manipulate genetic material, including sequencing technologies, gene cloning, and genetic engineering. Learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules, and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs.

Explore how our immune system develops, the cellular basis of our immune response, and gain functional insights into immune protein and pathogen structure. Develop key skills in data analysis, reporting the outcomes of laboratory investigations using immunotechniques, and will explore the Protein Data Bank, used by scientists to enable breakthroughs in science through the visualization and analysis of 3D structures.

Explore a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. Consider approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies, and the use of select viruses and microorganisms as research tools. Develop key skills in literature analysis and communicating to different audiences through the production of your own textbook-style chapter on a select module topic.

Further expand and consolidate your practical competencies through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations in more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Develop higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information from online sources, including journal databases and generative AI. Further sessions will also support you in evaluating your career readiness with employability skills-focused workshops in areas including CV writing and interview technique.

Explore different forms of experimental design including traditional lab-based research and systematic reviews. Learn how to correctly apply a range of statistical methods and draw scientific conclusions, preparing you for your final year independent research project, postgraduate study or employment in a data-driven world. Develop key skills in teamwork and communication as you work in small groups and contribute to an authentic, online student conference.

Explore how cells communicate with each other and their environment to respond appropriately to different stimuli, including the major classes of signalling molecules, different receptor types, and their mode of action. Evaluate how dysregulation of cellular communication contributes to different disease states, and how these pathways can be targeted for therapeutic intervention.

Focus on how the immune system works under physiological and pathological conditions, including infectious disease, vaccination, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and autoimmune and inflammatory pathologies, assessing current and proposed treatment strategies. Active group discussions using case studies and real-world scenarios support core module content, whilst laboratory report assessment enable development of independent, enquiry-based approaches.

Explore some of the applications of key genetic concepts at the level of the individual and the population. Focusing mainly on medical genetics, learn how a person's genetic make-up can affect their health and how to estimate genetic risk and explore some of the applications of molecular genetics in the study, diagnosis, and treatment of genetic diseases. Develop key skills in digital literacy and communication by producing a group webpage.

An excellent opportunity to carry out a substantial piece of meaningful research, drawing together skills in experimental study design, critical interpretation of data, and professional competencies. You can choose from a range of projects depending on your interests/career ambitions, including lab- or field-based research, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, teaching and learning, or outreach. This culminates in a thrilling and authentic student conference that gives you an opportunity to celeb

Delve into the study of viruses, covering their structure, replication, and the diseases they cause. Explore viral genetics, host-virus interactions, mechanisms of viral transmission, and emerging viral threats. Discuss detection and prevention strategies, how to improve pandemic preparedness, and the use of novel biotechnological methods to combat the burden of viral infectious diseases.

Develop skillsets needed to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. Explore a range of communication methods to present and disseminate findings to inform and enthuse both scientific and lay audiences. Develop a suite of valuable transferrable skills for the employment market and ensure those who truly understand scientific issues are heard.

Focus on career-readiness, helping you to consolidate and articulate the professional skills, attributes and competencies you will have developed across your degree. Refine interview techniques and write covering letters, personal statements and a high-quality CV. Explore the current employment marketplace, identifying opportunities and building your social media profile for future employers. Consider discrimination, unconscious bias, and develop strategies to support resilience and wellbeing.

Explore the theoretical and practical aspects of parasitic diseases of humans, considering such topics as the life cycle of select parasites between vector and host, the pathogenesis of parasitic infection and their diagnosis and treatment. Investigate challenges to effective treatment and transmission control, including socio-economic and cultural factors. Develop higher-level skills in the critical analysis and interpretation of data through evaluation of current research in the subject.

Study current trends in disease themes in the field of microbiology and immunology, and how microorganisms can be used as an alternative tool in multiple fields e.g. biocontrols of environmental pests or microbiome manipulation. A case study aligns to each theme, with investigation of current clinical interventions and how experimental approaches inform improvements to future therapeutic interventions. Develop your communication skills by curating a themed edition of a journal, selecting latest

Introduced to a range of cutting-edge omics approaches used extensively across the life sciences sector. Through hands-on data handling exercises you will develop a theoretical appreciation of and practical competence in core genomics, proteomics and metabolomics approaches. Undertake a whole transcriptome analysis for the purpose of differential gene expression detection from raw RNA sequencing data, developing and demonstrating competence in a highly sought after analytical skill.

In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial. This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhance your employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. You will be supported via a range of activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. This module has built-in flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement