The MRes Molecular Bioscience programme provides a thorough understanding of key approaches for studying biological processes at the molecular level. It takes advantage of XJTLU’s advanced English-language capabilities, distinctive international features and state-of-the-art research facilities.

The programme covers biotechnology-related topics such as molecular biology, protein biochemistry and drug discovery, as well as post-genomic biology (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and bioimaging), and bioinformatics, such as acquisition and statistical analysis of large-scale biodata. It also places a major emphasis on providing project management skills. After these taught modules, the programme focuses on an in-depth research project and specialised dissertation. Customised individual learning plans are designed for students, in keeping with their backgrounds and career aspirations. Successful completion of the programme leads to the award of an MRes degree from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.

The Department of Biological Sciences at XJTLU has internationally respected investigators in this field of research with excellent teaching and laboratory infrastructure. Students have the opportunity to carry out world-class research in a dynamic, transnational environment.

The Department has academic staff recruited from top universities and institutes around the world, thriving undergraduate and graduate programmes and first-rate research facilities.

Biology is one of the most exciting scientific disciplines of the 21st century. The insights it provides into life processes, together with advances in genomics, diagnostics and therapeutic drug development, are having a major impact on humanity. Our department with its dynamic and international staff, aims to make fundamental discoveries as well as to address some of the most pressing challenges facing society.

The MRes Molecular Bioscience programme prepares graduates for advanced research in both international and Chinese university settings, as well as in the bioindustrial sector such as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

By the time you graduate from the MRes Molecular Bioscience programme, you will have:

• developed key employable skills such as data analysis, report writing, team-building/networking and project management
• a range of critical interdisciplinary research skills and a internationally recognised qualification from a globally respected university.

Minimum Entry Requirements

UK

Upper second class (2:1) honours

China

• 1st tier universities: 75 percent or above
• 2nd tier universities: 80 percent or above

Note: Chinese applicants are not required to take the MoE postgraduate entrance exam.

North America

3.0 Cumulative GPA (out of 4) or 3.2 Cumulative GPA in the final two years of your undergraduate programme

Other Regions

Equivalent academic qualifications

Academic Background

An undergraduate degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent) in a life science-related discipline.

English Language Requirements

If English is not your native language or if you have not studied in English at degree level, you will need to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You should normally possess one of the following qualifications:

• IELTS: 6.0 (minimum of 5.0 in all sections)
• TOEFL iBT: 80

In exceptional circumstances, individual cases will be considered on their own merits. You may be required to attend interviews or tests to further demonstrate your English proficiency.

If you miss the English language requirements by 0.5-1.0 of an IELTS band, or a similar number for other English language exams, you can be admitted to the programme after successful completion of our four- or six-week intensive English presessional course.

You can also apply to take the XJTLU English language test in lieu of an IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent. Based on the score, students may be admitted or may be required to take and successfully complete the four- or six-week intensive English presessional course.

Additionally, students may be required to complete English language courses on a pass/fail basis as part of the additional learning activity requirement during their studies at XJTLU.

Core Modules

• Research methods in biotechnology
• Research methods in post-genomic biology
• Research methods in bioinformatics
• Project management
• Research project
• Dissertation.

Additional learning activities

The completion of additional learning activities is required to complete your masters degree. Normally, required ALA hours will be distributed evenly across each semester, amounting to 200 hours per semester. Part-time programmes will normally require 100 to 150 hours per semester.

ALAs offered include:

• Personal and employability skills
• Laboratory rotation
• English language modules
• Chinese language classes for non-native speakers
• Graduate teaching assistantship
• Work placement.

Other appropriate academic activities are also available, such as participation in level three undergraduate modules and the department’s research seminar series.