Biochemistry with Neuroscience Keele University

Overview

The Biochemistry with Neuroscience, MSci degree from Keele University offers a focused exploration of key biochemistry concepts, ranging from the structure-function relationships of the major building blocks of life, such as nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and proteins, to the regulation and control of metabolic pathways, gene expression, and cellular activity.As you progress through the course you will apply core knowledge of these topics to understanding the structure and function of antibodies, hormones and cell receptors and their roles within multicellular organisms, as well as experimental methods applied in areas of biotechnology and genetic engineering.Alongside study in core areas of Biochemistry you will also study a strand of neuroscience focused modules across all three years of the course, where you apply your knowledge of cellular biochemistry and molecular biology to the study of the nervous system. This will provide you with a strong grounding in key principles of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuropharmacology. You will explore how such knowledge from across both disciplines is advancing our understanding of the molecular basis and treatment of conditions ranging from diabetes and cancer, to neuropathologies such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia and other disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems.  A comprehensive laboratory programmes runs throughout the course utilising our state-of-the-art David Attenborough laboratories, where you will develop key skills in diverse biochemical and molecular biology techniques. Here you will directly apply theoretical knowledge from across the programme and develop skills in experimental study design and optimisation through experiential, enquiry-based learning, culminating in your final year research project.You will also develop key transferable and employability skills related to the critical evaluation of scientific literature, data analysis and interpretation, including computational and bioinformatics tools, effective communication in a variety of formats, and teamwork.Options to include a work placement year, study abroad or an international year of study provide further experiential learning opportunities developing additional employability skills. Shorter optional placement modules provide added flexibility for experiential learning alongside your studies in a range of industries and employer settings, including an education-focused optional module for those interested in a career in teaching.A range of third year optional modules in areas of cutting-edge bioscience research gives you greater flexibility to tailor the structure and content of your programme to your own interests and career goals. The MSci fourth year of study is designed to enable you to enhance your employability and subject-specific knowledge through development of advanced problem solving and communication skills. You will develop enhanced research skills in the critical evaluation of scientific literature and in the design and conduct of an authentic research study, where you will formulate a complete research strategy and produce a grant proposal.

An experiential period of professional practice immersed in research culture during your final year extended research project will support you in developing higher-level independent technical and analytical skills through hypothesis-driven enquiry, supported by your academic supervisor and wider research team. The skills and attributes developed here will be of particular value for those looking to continue in a research career, such as further study to PhD level, working in industry or wider bioscience sector. 

Career opportunities:

This programme will help you to graduate with the advanced research, technical, analytical, communication and problem-solving skills to continue in a research career, such as further study to PhD level, work in industry or the wider bioscience sector.

Careers and routes directly related to this degree include:

• Analytical chemist
• Clinical sciences
• Forensic scientist
• Pharmacologist
• Science teacher
• Toxicologist

Please note you will need to take further postgraduate study to enter some of the professions listed above.