University of Leicester

What you'll study

This is an MRes with a strong emphasis on laboratory and translational research. The programme combines taught training in experimental and analytical techniques with an extended independent research project. You will develop competence in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication and critical appraisal of the cardiovascular literature.

• Research project: A substantial laboratory or translational research project under the supervision of an academic or clinical researcher, culminating in a dissertation and oral presentation. Projects typically span the majority of the programme and may include bench experiments, patient‑based studies or computational analyses depending on the supervisory team.
• Research methods and professional skills: Core training in statistics, bioinformatics, research governance, reproducibility and scientific writing.
• Advanced cardiovascular topics: Modules covering cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology, molecular and cellular mechanisms of heart disease, vascular biology, atherosclerosis, heart failure, arrhythmias and cardiometabolic influences.
• Techniques and technologies: Practical training in laboratory techniques common to cardiovascular research such as cell and molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, imaging approaches, haemodynamic measurements, and where available, specialist equipment and preclinical models.
• Optional learning: Seminars, journal clubs and workshops on clinical trial design, translational pathways, regulatory considerations and entrepreneurship in biomedical science.

Assessment is by project dissertation and viva, laboratory reports, coursework and presentations. The balance between taught elements and the research project makes this degree ideal preparation for PhD study or a research career.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK upper second‑class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in a relevant subject such as biomedical science, physiology, pharmacy, medicine, pharmacology, or a closely related discipline. Consideration may be given to candidates with a lower second (2:2) together with relevant research experience or strong postgraduate experience.

• Research experience: Prior laboratory or research experience is highly desirable and strengthens an application.
• Application materials: A CV, personal statement describing research interests and goals, and two academic or professional references are normally required. Some applicants may be invited for interview.
• English language: International applicants will need to meet the University’s English language requirements; typical offers ask for a standard postgraduate English qualification (for example IELTS or equivalent).

Career prospects

Graduates from this MRes commonly progress to PhD study or take up research positions in academic groups, hospital research units or the biomedical/biotechnology industry. The programme equips you for roles such as:

• PhD researcher in cardiovascular science or related fields
• Research scientist in pharmaceutical or medical device companies focusing on cardiovascular therapeutics or diagnostics
• Clinical research roles and trial coordination in the NHS or contract research organisations
• Preclinical development, regulatory affairs, or translational research support
• Scientific publishing, policy or communications roles that value rigorous research training

The practical research training and transferable skills you gain — experimental design, statistics, data management and scientific communication — are valued across research‑led careers.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester has an active research community in cardiovascular and vascular biology, offering multidisciplinary supervision that spans basic science to clinical translation. The programme benefits from close links with local NHS hospitals, providing opportunities for patient‑facing translational projects and exposure to clinical cardiology research.

• Research‑led supervision from academics with expertise in cardiovascular physiology, molecular mechanisms of disease and translational approaches.
• Access to well‑equipped biomedical laboratories and core facilities for imaging, histology and molecular analysis.
• A curriculum focused on practical skills and research methods that supports progression to PhD study or research careers in industry and healthcare.
• Opportunities to engage with seminars, clinical collaborators and entrepreneurial support available through the University to help translate research into impact.

Taken together, the MRes provides concentrated, hands‑on training in cardiovascular research within a university environment that emphasises translation and collaboration with clinical partners.