Microbiology and Immunology (Hons) Keele University

Overview

Throughout the Microbiology and Immunology (Hons) degree from Keele University you will gain a solid grounding in biology, biochemistry and physiology of viruses and microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and parasites, together with the role of the immune system in defending the body against infection from pathogens. Our overarching aim is to equip you with the multidisciplinary skills and knowledge employed by scientists in these fields. 

In microbiology there is a particular emphasis on host-pathogen interactions, the diseases these can cause, the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, as well as their wider application in biotechnology and their critical roles in global ecosystems, including interactions within key plant and animal hosts. 

Immunology explores the enormous diversity of the human immune system, and how such knowledge is essential in the development of new biotechnological approaches to disease treatment and prevention, such as vaccines.

The core laboratory programme delivered in our state-of-the-art David Attenborough and Central Science Laboratories will enable you to develop hands-on practical skills within modern research techniques. You will also receive research training in experimental design, practical techniques, and data analysis.

Career opportunities:

Many students with Microbiology and Immunology degrees seek careers in scientific industries including:

• Academic research at the cutting edge of new discoveries
• Laboratory technology in industry roles exploring the commercial application of biological technology, such as pharmaceutical development
• Healthcare industries, such as medicine, nursing or public health policy and regulation

You may also wish to further your knowledge by progressing to postgraduate study.

Key transferrable skills you can develop include:

• Acquiring, analysing, synthesising, evaluating, and summarising information and ideas from a wide range of sources including textual, numerical, verbal, and graphical
• Preparing, processing, and presenting data using a range of qualitative and quantitative techniques, including the use of specialist statistical programmes, spreadsheets, and relevant digital resources
• Communicating effectively with a range of audiences using written, verbal, and graphical approaches with accurate scientific terminology
• Working effectively in a team in a respectful manner that is inclusive of different points of view, lived experiences, and strengths and weaknesses to achieve collaborative goals
• Applying the principles of good academic practice to ensure academic and professional integrity, including appropriate use of citations, references, and recognition of other sources such as generative AI
• Developing and sustaining effective approaches to lifelong learning, including effective time management, organisation, and reflective practice

Jobs that a graduate of this course could pursue include:

• Allergist

• Environmental scientist

• Epidemiologist

• Food safety expert

• Food technologist

• Immunologist

• Laboratory technician

• Microbiologist

• Parasitologist

• Public health inspector

• Technical writer

• Virologist