Neuroscience with Integrated Placement Year MSci

The research project is a year-long module. Preparatory work including a literature review and familiarisation with laboratory techniques and protocols occurs in the autumn semester, with the bulk of the practical work in the spring semester. You will choose the topic of your project from a list of suggestions and will finalise the experimental plan after consultation with your supervisor. Each project will involve collection of data by means such as experiment, questionnaire or observation, as well as the analysis and interpretation of the data in the context of previous work.

In the Biological Psychiatry module, you'll explore the science behind mental health, starting with the brain's structure and function, and the role of neurotransmitter systems in behaviour and mental well-being. You'll examine how early-life stressors affect brain development and mental health in later life, and critically discuss risk factors for psychiatric disorders, including genetics, the gut microbiome, and substance misuse. The module also covers traditional treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and the latest in psychedelic pharmacology, as well as the non-medicinal use of brain-affecting drugs.

You'll delve into real-world applications and societal impacts, learning how biological insights can lead to improved treatments. By the end of the module, you'll understand the ethical considerations surrounding psychiatric treatments and gain a deep appreciation of the latest research driving the field forward. This comprehensive overview will equip you with a thorough understanding of the biological underpinnings of mental health and the advancements in psychiatric care.

This module delves into the genetic, biochemical, and pathophysiological foundations of neurological disorders, shedding light on how dysfunction arises in the brain and nervous system. You’ll explore key topics such as neuron-glial cell interactions, neurotransmitter systems, synaptic plasticity, neuroinflammation, and blood-brain barrier dysregulation. Additional focus will be placed on molecular mechanisms like protein misfolding, cellular stress, and synaptic dysfunction that contribute to neurodegeneration.

The module also examines interdisciplinary fields like neuroimmunology and neuro-oncology, investigating immune interactions in autoimmune diseases and brain cancers. Emphasising real-world applications, it highlights how scientific discoveries drive advancements in diagnostic tools, innovative treatments, and improved patient outcomes. By understanding these complex mechanisms, you’ll appreciate the pivotal role of research in addressing neurological disorders and shaping healthcare.

In this module, you’ll explore the biological processes behind ageing and their impacts on human physiology, health, and frailty. You’ll delve into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of ageing, investigating how they affect the entire body and contribute to age-related conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and liver diseases.

You’ll also examine how nutrition and exercise play critical roles in regulating metabolism and reducing disease risks. The module highlights their dual role in disease prevention, progression, and as therapeutic interventions. By evaluating strategies for promoting healthy ageing and managing diseases, you’ll gain valuable insights into supporting well-being throughout the ageing process.

This course aims to explain the background and rationale for the development of bioinformatics and computational biology. It will reveal the scope and role of bioinformatics resources and how they underpin scientific research globally, and illustrate the expedience of bioinformatics tools in molecular and cellular biochemistry research. Students will gain direct experience of using bioinformatics tools to process and interpret biological data

In this module, you'll integrate the scientific knowledge you've acquired throughout your degree, focusing on how this knowledge informs policy decisions and shapes societal outcomes through effective public engagement. You'll explore the intersection of science and policy, learning how to communicate complex scientific concepts to various stakeholders to foster positive societal impacts.

The module aims to further develop your transferable skills, including critical thinking, reflection, and presentation to both lay and professional audiences. You'll enhance your communication and teamwork abilities, learning to effectively convey scientific knowledge to different stakeholders. By the end of the module, you'll be well-equipped to use your scientific expertise to influence policy and engage with the public meaningfully.