Newcastle University

What you'll study

The programme brings together core biotechnology techniques and marine-focused applications. Teaching typically covers molecular biology and genomics as applied to marine organisms, algal and microbial biotechnology, natural product discovery and bioprospecting, and applied aquaculture and environmental biotechnology.

• Core laboratory skills: DNA/RNA methods, PCR and sequencing workflows, proteomics approaches, microscopy and imaging, sterile culture and cell-line work where relevant.
• Omics and bioinformatics: genomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic data generation and analysis with practical training in data handling and interpretation.
• Marine biotechnology topics: exploitation of marine microbes and algae for high-value compounds, bioprocessing of marine feedstocks, biosensing and biomaterials from marine sources.
• Bioprocessing and scale-up: fundamentals of fermentation and downstream processing, considerations for moving discoveries towards pilot-scale or commercialisation.
• Environmental and policy context: sustainability, regulation and ethics of marine bioresource use, and the role of biotechnology in marine conservation and aquaculture.
• Research project/dissertation: an extended research project under academic supervision, often involving laboratory work, field sampling (where applicable) and data analysis, providing experience in project design, execution and scientific communication.

Delivery normally combines lectures, practical classes, seminars and supervised research. Optional modules or short field components may give hands-on experience with coastal sampling or working at University-affiliated marine facilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in a relevant subject such as biology, marine biology, biochemistry, biotechnology or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus relevant industrial or research experience may also be considered.

Applicants should demonstrate practical laboratory experience and familiarity with molecular biology or microbiology techniques. Evidence of academic research ability (for example a strong undergraduate project) is an advantage for selection onto the research-led components.

International applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements; evidence of proficiency through a recognised test or prior study in English will be required.

Career prospects

Graduates are well positioned for a range of careers that bridge biotechnology and the marine sector. Typical destinations include:

• Research and development roles in marine biotechnology companies and SMEs working on natural products, enzymes or algal technologies.
• Quality control, process development and bioprocessing positions in industrial biotechnology and aquaculture businesses.
• Environmental consultancies, monitoring agencies and NGOs focusing on marine resource management, conservation and sustainable exploitation.
• Analytical roles in contract research organisations and laboratories offering genomic or metabolomic services.
• Further research: many graduates progress to PhD study in marine science, biotechnology or related interdisciplinary fields.

The programme’s combination of practical skills, data analysis and a substantial research project helps graduates demonstrate employable laboratory and project-management capabilities valued by employers.

Why study at Newcastle University

Newcastle University offers strong research and teaching in the biosciences and marine disciplines, with access to coastal field sites and specialist facilities. The university’s links with regional and national research organisations and industry partners provide opportunities for applied projects and collaborative placements.

Students benefit from supervised research training and practical modules designed to build transferable laboratory and analytical skills. The nearby coastal laboratories and opportunities for fieldwork give direct exposure to marine sampling and species used in biotechnology research.

As a research-led institution, the university supports interdisciplinary projects that connect molecular biotechnology, ecology and policy — equipping graduates to work across academic, public sector and commercial settings focused on sustainable marine innovation.