Keele University

What you'll study

The programme blends taught modules and an extended research project to provide both theoretical grounding and practical laboratory experience. Core themes include biomaterials and scaffold design, stem cell biology and differentiation, bioprocessing and bioreactor technology, cell and tissue characterisation, and the regulatory and ethical framework surrounding clinical translation. Teaching typically combines lectures, seminars, hands-on laboratory sessions and design workshops.

• Principles of Tissue Engineering – cell–material interactions, extracellular matrix, strategies for tissue regeneration.
• Biomaterials and Scaffold Design – synthetic and natural materials, fabrication techniques, mechanical and biological performance.
• Stem Cell Biology and Differentiation – stem cell types, signalling pathways, directed differentiation and applications.
• Bioreactors and Bioprocessing – scalable culture systems, perfusion, mass transfer and process optimisation for cell manufacturing.
• Cell and Tissue Characterisation – microscopy, histology, mechanical testing and molecular assays used to evaluate constructs.
• Regulation, Ethics and Translation – quality systems, regulatory pathways, GMP considerations, clinical trial design and ethical issues in regenerative therapies.
• Research Methods and Statistics – experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication.
• Independent Research Project – a substantial laboratory- or design-based dissertation project, often carried out alongside academic supervisors and, where available, external partners in industry or the clinical environment.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as biomedical engineering, engineering, biomedical science, biology, medicine, pharmacy or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a lower-class degree plus significant relevant work or research experience may also be considered.

Practical laboratory experience and a grounding in cell biology, biochemistry or materials science will strengthen an application. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with UK higher education requirements. Entry is also subject to meeting any other statutory or professional requirements the University specifies.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped to work across academia, industry and the clinical sector. Typical career paths include research and development roles in biotech and medtech companies focused on regenerative therapies, positions in cell and gene therapy manufacturing and quality control under GMP, regulatory affairs and clinical trials management, biomedical engineering roles within hospitals and clinical services, and continuing to PhD study in tissue engineering or related fields.

Other opportunities include technical roles in contract research organisations (CROs), product development or consultancy for companies developing biomaterials, implants and regenerative devices, and roles in scientific publishing or policy where technical knowledge of regenerative medicine is required.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers an interdisciplinary environment that encourages collaboration between engineering, biological and clinical researchers. Teaching is delivered by academics with expertise in biomaterials, cell biology and translational medicine, supported by hands-on laboratory sessions and project supervision tailored to student research interests. Keele's campus-based community and links with local NHS trusts provide opportunities to engage with clinical perspectives, while the University’s emphasis on small-group teaching and research-led modules supports close staff–student interaction.

The programme is designed to give a balance of theoretical knowledge, practical laboratory competence and an understanding of the regulatory and translational pathway necessary to move regenerative therapies towards clinical application.