University of Central Lancashire(UCLAN)

What you'll study

The MRes Cancer Biology is centred on a substantial research project typically carried out within a research group, supported by taught modules that build specialist knowledge and research skills. Core study areas commonly include molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer, tumour microenvironment and metastasis, cancer genetics and epigenetics, targeted therapies and resistance mechanisms, and translational approaches to diagnostics and therapeutics.

Typical taught components and practical training you can expect:

• Research Project: A major independent research project supervised by an academic, involving experimental design, data collection, analysis and a thesis or dissertation.
• Research Methods and Statistics: Experimental design, quantitative analysis, biostatistics and critical appraisal of primary literature.
• Advanced Laboratory Techniques: Practical training in molecular biology (PCR, qPCR), cell culture, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, western blotting and microscopy.
• Bioinformatics and Omics: Introduction to genomic/transcriptomic data analysis, basic bioinformatics tools and interpretation of high-throughput datasets.
• Translational Cancer Biology: Study of preclinical models, biomarker development, drug discovery pipelines and the interface between bench research and clinical application.
• Research Integrity and Professional Development: Ethics, reproducibility, data management, science communication and preparation for postgraduate research careers.

The programme emphasises hands-on laboratory experience, critical thinking, and the production of a substantial written thesis and an oral presentation of research findings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in biomedical science, biological sciences, biochemistry, molecular biology or a closely related subject. Candidates with a lower-class honours degree or a different academic background may be considered if they can demonstrate relevant research or professional experience, or evidence of recent laboratory-based study.

International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications and an appropriate level of English language proficiency. Applicants will usually be asked to provide an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining research interests, and one or more references. Where relevant, a short interview with academic staff may be part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MRes Cancer Biology move into a range of research and professional roles. Common next steps include progression to a PhD or other doctoral programmes, careers in academic or industry research laboratories, roles in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, clinical trial support, diagnostics and biomarker development, and positions in regulatory affairs or quality assurance.

Other opportunities include scientific publishing, science communication, technical research support, and roles within public sector research organisations or health-related charities. The programme’s strong emphasis on practical skills, project management and data analysis makes graduates attractive to employers who require experienced laboratory researchers and scientifically literate professionals.

Why study at University of Central Lancashire(UCLAN)

UCLan offers the MRes within a research-active environment with access to well-equipped laboratories, core facilities and supportive supervision from academics working in cancer and molecular biosciences. The university has established research groups focused on cell signalling, tumour biology, translational medicine and diagnostics, providing a range of potential supervisors and project topics.

Students benefit from integrated training in both laboratory techniques and research methodology, close links with regional healthcare and industry partners, and opportunities to present work at internal seminars and external conferences. The postgraduate research community at UCLan provides mentoring and professional development to help prepare students for research careers or further study.