MSc Pathogen Evolution

at University of Exeter

The MSc Pathogen Evolution uses an evolutionary framework to understand pathogens providing interdisciplinary training in core skills ranging from molecular to environmental and evolutionary aspects of pathogen biology. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the immediate importance of understanding the evolutionary processes that underlie pathogen infections and it has become evident that training scientists in the field of pathogen evolution is more relevant now than ever before.

This course draws on the research within our Biosciences department and the overlapping specialisms in the fields of evolutionary microbiology. The taught modules will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to prepare and develop your research project.

The research project, which will be supervised by one of our world-class microbiology research groups, ensures that you will experience all aspects of carrying out a research project, from conception and research design to experimental work, data analysis, interpretation and presentation. Many of our Biosciences students have the opportunity to be included as co-authors on the Department’s published research papers.

A series of guest lectures from prominent researchers in the field will further enhance your experience and provide unique opportunities for networking.

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

Modules

• Research Project
• Statistical Modelling
• Advanced Topics in Pathogen Evolution
• The Global Antimicrobial Resistance Crisis a,b
• The Art of Science a
• Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease b

Normally at least a 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject is required, although a 2:2 with relevant experience will be considered.

Relevant subjects include: Biological Sciences, Cell Biology, Ecology, Ecology and Conservation, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Marine Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Plant Science, Zoology.

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

• IELTS

Overall score 6.5. No less than 6.0 in any section.

• TOEFL

Overall score 90 with minimum scores of 21 for writing, 21 for listening, 22 for reading and 23 for speaking.

2022/23 entry

UK fees per year:
£11,500 full-time

International fees per year:
£24,500 full-time

This programme will provide you with a diversity of skills that will equip you for a range of sectors of work but it will particularly prepare you for PhD study or a career in research.

Graduate attributes include:

• project and experimental design
• strong laboratory techniques
• scientific writing
• public speaking and communication skills