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MSc|Postgraduate Taught

Biomedical and Clinical Research

Entry year
2025/26
Entry requirements
2.2
Duration
1 year (Full-time)
Places available
Uncapped (Full Time)
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Introduction
Healthcare research is rapidly growing with an increasing demand to identify the mechanisms of pathophysiology of disease and demonstrate proof-of-concept evidence of the efficacy and importance of new discoveries and treatments. Furthermore, there’s a need to test new technologies and therapies in clinical trials for better clinical care outcomes for patients. Subsequently, we offer a great opportunity for graduates who can undertake basic and clinical research and translate it into improved medical treatments for patients. This Master of Science programme in Biomedical and Clinical Research programme provides a strong learning environment for such graduates.

Who is the programme for
The MSc in Biomedical and Clinical Research is a research-intensive programme designed for students seeking to excel in academic research, clinical translation, clinical trials and the life sciences industry. This programme provides rigorous training in advanced research methodologies, critical analysis and innovative thinking – equipping graduates to tackle the most pressing biomedical and clinical challenges of the 21st century. With a string emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, the programme welcomes students from diverse backgrounds including biomedical sciences, medicine, dentistry, nursing, pharmacy and allied health specialities. Participants will engage in cutting-edge research projects, working alongside leading academics and clinicians to translate scientific discoveries into meaningful healthcare advancements. For medical and dental students, this MSc can be pursued as an intercalated degree, enhancing both research and clinical expertise. Additionally, the programme serves as a springboard for PhD , positioning graduates for leadership roles in biomedical innovation, clinical trials, and translational medicine.

Who we are
The MSc in Biomedical and Clinical Research is provided by the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine (WWIEM). The Institute’s mission is the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs in understanding mechanisms of disease to improve health outcomes, and its vision is to be an international hub of excellence in innovation and discovery to cure disease and improve health. WWIEM is strategically placed to provide expertise for the Institute for Research Excellence in Advanced Clinical Healthcare (iREACH) centre, based at QUB. iREACH brings together the expertise of clinicians, life scientists and data scientists with experienced industry partners in a collaborative approach to clinical trial delivery.

About the MSc programme
In this programme students will undergo theoretical (didactic) and practical (project-based) training in biomedical and clinical research with an emphasis on clinical translation. One of the programmes objectives is to learn the research journey that spans between pathophysiology of the disease and translating that knowledge to develop novel diagnostic or therapeutic strategies to improve health. The modules focus on research related to the broad spectrum of expertise available in the WWIEM. The acquired skills range from a strong fundamental understanding of high-quality biomedical research, advanced experimental techniques to conduct research involving animal and in vitro disease models. The training also allows students to develop expertise in conducting clinical research to include observational studies as well as design and implementation of clinical trials, and the use of health informatics such as Electronic Health Records and how this information can be leveraged for translational bioinformatics research.

The programme is research-intensive and focuses on developing proficiency in experimental design and execution, regulatory and ethical aspects, data analysis and interpretation. Dedicated sessions will also emphasise training on scientific communication, presentation, grant writing, publishing, and use of social media in dissemination of findings.

The programme offers comprehensive research training with access to over 60 research groups and the state-of-the-art research facilities at the WWIEM. Research facilities include Central Technology Units for Imaging and Genomics which are leading the way in research excellence, in addition to the Clinical Trials Facility and the Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit.

The strong links between the WWIEM and the biotech or biopharmaceutical sectors provides a stimulating experimental and translational environment, while also expanding your career opportunities.

Biomedical and Clinical Research highlights

Student Experience

This MSc incorporates interdisciplinary elements throughout the course, which contribute to the delivery of innovative education and research training. Our students interact with PhD and post-Doctoral scientists along with their academic leaders in an intellectually stimulating environment. We aspire and achieve a culture that fosters research excellence. We strive to maintain a mentoring and supportive culture, which allows our students to have a sense of camaraderie and professional satisfaction.

English and Academic Skills modules focused primarily on our international students are offered throughout the academic year by qualified teachers of English for Academic Purposes. Students can also book 1:1 session for individual guidance on English language and academic skills at any point.

World Class Facilities

You will be taught and mentored within the WWIEM a purpose-built institute at the heart of the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences Campus, boasting state-of-the-art research facilities. We have access to cutting-edge core facilities such as Advanced Imaging Unit, Genomics Unit, and Flow Cytometry Unit and Biosafety 1, 2, and 3 level laboratory facilities. Additionally, we have access to the Clinical Trials Facility and the Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit.

The programme offers comprehensive research training with access to over 60 research groups that are leading the way in research excellence and innovative healthcare. Central to this programme is a multi-disciplinary team of academic and clinical specialists. The project work may focus on, but is not limited to, research related to the broad spectrum of expertise available in the Institute. Our thematic strengths include:
• Infection Biology and Host Response
• Immunology in Health and Disease
• Vascular and Cell biology (stem cell biology and organoids)
• Inflammation and Repair
We host international clinical expertise in the disease areas to include:
• Respiratory Disease and Critical Care
• Vision Science and Ophthalmology
• Infectious Disease and Virology
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Neurological Disorders
• Diabetes and Multi-morbidities
(a limited number of scholarship opportunities may be available depending on the theme and diseases areas)

Professional Accreditations

You will have an opportunity to obtain a formally accredited certificate of training in good clinical practice (GCP) which is a necessary requirement prior to conducting clinical trial research. Students working with animal models of disease will also receive official training in animal handling, leading to a UK official animal handling personal license.

Student Testimonials

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my MSc. The taught component was very stimulating, and it was a privilege to learn from such experts in the field of immunology. I self-funded this MSc as a clinician to facilitate a career break, and I was fortunate to work with a supervisor who was encouraging in both my project and ongoing career goals. This course was well balanced, the module directors have been both supportive and expected a reasonable amount of self-directed learning. I was able to work remotely by performing a systematic review which was flexible to my needs and suited my aims.”

“I completed an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science and decided to undertake the MSc. This MSc stood out to me as it offered students the choice of what area they wanted to study whether it be cardiovascular diseases or infection and immunity. Semester one was in-person lecture-based learning, which was great to experience again. Lectures were always extremely interesting and interactive with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. The assignments associated with each module, provided a great foundation for the research project. Semester two focused entirely on the research project, which you choose in semester one. I have been investigating the potential role of insulin in the regulation of neutrophil anti-microbial functions in the context of type 2 diabetics and infectious disease. Although the work was intense, I have really enjoyed my project in the lab. The guidance provided has been excellent and all supervisors/module co-ordinators have been extremely helpful throughout. Overall, I would say MSc is an extremely demanding and intense course but offers many rewarding experiences and opportunities. I have learnt so much throughout this course and have developed many invaluable skills that will translate into working life.”

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Course content

Course Structure

The MSc in Biomedical and Clinical Research is a full-time postgraduate programme delivered over one year. The programme will primarily be of interest to students with undergraduate degrees in Biomedical Science or Healthcare Science related fields. Students will undertake 2 core taught modules, Core Research Skills and Clinical Translation (20 CATS each; total 40 CATS). Then, depending on their field of interest, students have a choice of optional modules on offer that include Advanced Research Skills (20 CATS), Clinical Trials (20 CATS), Statistics in Public Health and Medical Research (10 CATS) and Health and Biomedical informatics and the Exposome (10 CATS). Students will also undertake an intensive research project (60 CATS) from a list of laboratory or non-laboratory projects that are offered and supervised by the academic faculty. Depending on the research project selected, students will be guided to select relevant optional modules that will suit laboratory, clinical or bioinformatic projects.

The MSc is awarded to students who successfully complete 120 CATS points (60 CATS taught modules, 60 CATS Research Project, and 60 CATS Dissertation).

A Postgraduate Diploma Exit qualification is available to those students who have successfully completed 120 CATS points (60 CATS, taught modules and 60 CATS research project).

A Postgraduate Certificate Exit qualification is available to those students who have successfully completed 60 CATS points of taught modules

Semester 1

Semester 1 comprises 3 months of intensive teaching, which includes the two core modules, and if selected, one optional module on advanced research skills or statistics.

SCM8145 Core Research Skills – CORE module, 20 CATS
In this module students learn the skills that embed excellence and rigour into the scientific approach to a research question. Active researchers teach students the core skills of designing and methodological approaches to testing a research hypothesis. Taught elements include database searches and approach to systematic reviews, basic principles of laboratory and clinical research design, regulatory requirements governing research, public involvement with science, data analysis, presentation, dissemination and communication of science. Students can undertake additional training in Good Clinical Practice, or training in animal handling procedures for a Home Office personal licence.

SCM8181 Clinical Translation – CORE module, 20 CATS
This module provides detailed theoretical and practical introduction about clinical translation. It focusses on state-of-the-art methods on research and clinical translation related to vascular, respiratory and infection/immunity related diseases. Current therapeutic approaches are also covered together with potential future strategies based on cutting edge translational research. The full spectrum of translational research is covered from animal and human models of disease through to the design and implementation of clinical trials.

Topics covered:
• Gene Therapy /CRISP/CAS9
• Drug development / repurposing
• Stem Cells / Reprogramming- Cell based Therapies
• Harnessing the immune system for therapeutics
• Pharmacokinetics / Pharmacodynamic studies
• Vaccine Development
• Developing new ways to tackle Antimicrobial Resistance
• Exploiting omics for therapeutics
• Harnessing the Microbiome
• High throughput drug screening
• Biomarker discovery
• Commercialisation
• Clinical Trials

SCM8180 Advanced Research Skills – OPTIONAL module, 20 CATS
This module provides a detailed theoretical and practical introduction to advanced research skills. It will provide a depth of knowledge of the research process and practical skills for the design and conduct of research studies, including data collection and analysis.

Topics covered:
• Preclinical Research Experimental Design.
• Advanced human cell culture, including stem cells.
• Advanced Imaging Training such as confocal microscopy.
• Single Cell RNA Sequencing
• Multi-dimensional parameter analysis of cell populations
• Bioinformatics
• Statistics
• Organoids / 3D Culture Systems
• 3D Printing
• Microfluidics
• Proteomics and Metabolomics

SCM8167 Statistics in Public Health and Medical Research – OPTIONAL module, 10 CATS
The module is delivered as lectures, and skills-based SPSS (a statistical package) computer laboratory practical's, and focuses on handling research data, performing statistical analysis and interpreting statistical output. It is delivered by a team of statisticians based in the Centre for Public Health.

Topics covered:
• Screening and presentation of data
• Sampling, estimation & confidence intervals
• Hypothesis testing - Proportions
• Hypothesis testing - Means and ANOVA
• Non-parametric methods
• Linear regression
• Logistic regression
• Survival analysis
• Systematic reviews and meta-analysis: methods
• Age-standardisation: methods•

Semester 2

SCM8148 Health and Biomedical informatics and the exposome – OPTIONAL module, 10 CATS
In this module students acquire the knowledge and skills to understand some of the most important concepts in health informatics and how these can be integrated with translational bioinformatics to facilitate the development of precision medicine approaches. This module also includes an introduction to the concept of the exposome and the contribution of biomedical informatics in exposome research. The module covers different aspects of health informatics including the basic structure of Electronic Health Records and how the information contained in these resources can be leveraged for translational bioinformatics research.

The module introduces some of the methods and tools (e.g. natural language processing (NLP) or coding tools) relevant for the extraction and reuse of clinical information for research purposes. Additionally, the course introduces the concept of the exposome, and its relevance for the development of precision medicine approaches. This will include a description of an emerging domain, exposome informatics, providing an insight about the main data types and sources relevant for exposome research. Finally, the course provides an integrative perspective and view of how all these elements work together to foster new comprehensive research approaches where biomedical informatics plays a key and central role

SCM8188 Delivering Clinical Trials – from protocol to patient – OPTIONAL module, 20 CATS
This module provides an overview of research processes and infrastructure that include:
• Setup of a clinical trial
• Collecting and managing data in trials
• Managing the conduct of a trial
• Patient screening, eligibility, consent, and randomisation
• Managing risk and reporting adverse events
• Basic laboratory procedures and documentation

On completion of this module the student will have gained an understanding of:
• Foundational knowledge of clinical research delivery, focused on clinical trials.
• Research delivery and regulatory infrastructure in Northern Ireland and the wider UK.
• The necessary skills required to facilitate the set-up and successful operational delivery of a clinical trial, including screening, eligibility, consent and randomisation.
• The processes involved in effective data collection, trial management and oversight.
• The ethical framework involved in clinical trials, and the steps needed to ensure the safety of trial participants and delivery of the research.
• The practical skills required to manage study documentation, data entry and laboratory sample processing.

SCM8146 Research Project – CORE module, 60 CATS
The Research Project is a major component of the programme, allowing the student to conduct high quality research during the MSc in Biomedical and Clinical Research. All projects will be performed in the WWIEM under the supervision of renowned academics with active research programmes in biomedical and clinical research and bioinformatics.

On completion of this module the successful student should be able to:
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the chosen subject area.
• Recognise the importance of planning and preparation required to undertake a research project.
• Apply foundational research skills to address a research question.
• Carry out a detailed research-based project.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical issues associated with the subject area and research.
• Analyse data and synthesize research findings.
• Demonstrate the ability to collate and critically assess/interpret data

SCM8147 Dissertation – CORE module, 60 CATS
This Module comprises the write-up contribution to the overall research element of the Programme. It follows on from the Research Project. The Dissertation will present the student’s personal studies of the literature, a description of their study design and execution of their project, data presentation, analyses and interpretation, followed by critical discussion and conclusions. The Dissertation will be submitted electronically (15,000-20,000-words).

Teaching Times

9:00am - 5:00pm

Learning and Teaching

Introduction

Learning opportunities associated with this course are outlined below:

At QUB, we deliver a high-quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable students to achieve their full academic potential. QUB has a long-established international reputation in experimental and translational medicine, achieved through the recognised metrics of high impact peer review publications, significant international research funding, the generation of exploitable novel intellectual property and the establishment of successful spin-out companies. Recognising the need for appropriately qualified scientific and healthcare graduates, this MSc programme offers a research intensive, student-oriented programme that will provide high quality candidates with the research rigour, the innovation culture and the leadership skills to be at the forefront of global biomedical and clinical revolution.

We do this by providing a range of learning experiences which enable our students to engage with subject experts, develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.

Class times vary throughout morning and afternoon, and through a combination of course lectures, practical experiences and self-directed study to enhance employability.

Assessment

Assessment

  • Assessment is varied to enable students to demonstrate mastery of learning by a variety of methods. Assessment methods include a combination of individual and group oral presentations, written and social media assignments, completion of a logbook, examinations and a dissertation.

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Modules

Modules

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

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Entry requirements

Entrance requirements

Graduate

Normally a minimum of a 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a biological sciences-related subject. Evidence of equivalent professional qualifications (MBBS, BDS or BVSc) or experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Intercalating Medical and Dental Applicants:
i) QUB:
Intercalating medical and dental students within QUB will be considered if:
a) QUB 3rd year students – must pass all 3rd year modules at first attempt achieving an overall profile of 2.2 equivalent *.
b) QUB 4th year students – must pass all 3rd year modules at first attempt achieiving an overall profile of 2.2 equivalent * and also pass all 4th year modules at first attempt.
c) have permission to intercalate from either the Director of Medical Education or Dentistry as appropriate.

ii) External:
An external medical or dental student wishing to intercalate will be considered if:
a) they have successfully completed all assessments at first attempt for the year in which they are applying.
b) they have achieved at least an overall Upper Second Class Honours degree standard as determined by their University.
c) they have have permission to intercalate from their Medical or Dental School, as appropriate.

iii) International:
a) Applicants who are currently studying an overseas Medical (e.g. MBBS or MBChB) or Dental degree at a recognised institution acceptable to the University, may apply.
b) Applicants must have passed all assessments at first attempt for the year in which they are applying, normally 3rd year for those completing a 5 year programme or 4th year for those completing a 6 year programme.
c) Applicants may be required to provide details of the medical or dental curriculum they are studying in order to confirm compatibility.
d) Have permission to intercalate from their Medical or Dental School, as appropriate.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 31st July 2025 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal.

Please note: A deposit will be required to secure a place on this course.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

English Language Requirements

An IELTS Academic test score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the four elements or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University (taken within the last 2 years).

International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

  • Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
  • Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.

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Careers

Career Prospects

Introduction

The programme is designed for students wishing to pursue a career in biomedical and clinical research, whether it is in academia, clinical practice, industry or government. The programme will also provide an excellent platform for progression to PhD programmes either in Queen’s or worldwide.

Employment after the Course

Upon completing the course, students with a biomedical background often secure positions in industry or within the health service, leveraging their skills in healthcare informatics or clinical research. Others may pursue a PhD and embark on an academic career.

Alumni Success

In five years, I envision myself thriving in a dynamic role within the healthcare sector, leveraging my expertise in industry, healthcare informatics or clinical research. Whether driving innovation in a leadership position, contributing to groundbreaking health solutions, or advancing research and mentoring future professionals in an academic setting, my goal is to be at the forefront of transformative advancements in healthcare

Prizes and Awards

The top ranked candidate in the year will receive a Book Prize and Certificate of Merit.

Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

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Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £9,995
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £9,995
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,995
EU Other 3 £25,800
International £25,800

Experimental Medicine/Cancer Medicine

1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

All tuition fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

More information on postgraduate tuition fees.

Additional course costs

Students have the option to hire a locker, at a cost of £5 per student, per year.

Terms and Conditions for Postgraduate applications:

1.1  Due to high demand, there is a deadline for applications. 
1.2  You will be required to pay a deposit to secure your place on the course.
1.3  This condition of offer is in addition to any academic or English language requirements.

Read the full terms and conditions at the link below:
https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/MHLS/terms-and-conditions/

MacQuitty MSc Experimental Medicine Scholarship

The MacQuitty Experimental Medicine Scholarship will award £17,600 to pay full postgraduate fees for one year to one student who is a permanent resident in Northern Ireland and who has been accepted onto the Queen’s School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences MSc Experimental Medicine.

The remaining sum will be given as an additional bursary to support accommodation fees, study materials, food, living and travel expenses. Please refer to the advertisement in the link below for further information. An application form should be submitted to the Postgraduate Professional Development office by email to the pgoffice.smdb@qub.ac.uk no later than Wednesday 8 May 2024, 10am.
Link to MacQuitty Scholarship Advertisement

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

How do I fund my study?

The Department for the Economy will provide a tuition fee loan of up to £6,500 per NI / EU student for postgraduate study. Tuition fee loan information.

A postgraduate loans system in the UK offers government-backed student loans of up to £11,836 for taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas (excluding Initial Teacher Education/PGCE, where undergraduate student finance is available). Criteria, eligibility, repayment and application information are available on the UK government website.

More information on funding options and financial assistance - please check this link regularly, even after you have submitted an application, as new scholarships may become available to you.

International Scholarships

Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.

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Apply

How to Apply

Apply using our online Queen's Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Apply now

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

Download a prospectus

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