Course summary

You will take core modules on theory, practicals, workshops, research methods and ethics in Biotechnology and visit industrial sites to get a comprehensive view on current technologies used in an academic and industrial setting. The programme will foster and enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with modules that encourage you to analyse complex problems, and design and evaluate effective solutions. In recognition of the significance of effective communication and collaboration in biological sciences, the programme will also include opportunities for students to work collaboratively and present their work. The Department of Biosciences considers global issues such as healthy ageing, food security and control of disease and the existential conditions of climate change and sustainability. Why Durham University? We take a research-led approach to teaching that develops both the theoretical and practical knowledge that is needed in order to be able to contribute in a meaningful way to tackling these issues. The expertise of our academic staff is wide-ranging. Specialisms feature bacteria, plants, animals and humans with an emphasis on biotic and abiotic stress, signalling and environmental adaptation, cell structure, function and development, and human health and disease. We have an engaged and vibrant community of more than a hundred postgraduate students and researchers, who come here from all over the world to conduct their research and develop their skills. Postgraduate biosciences at Durham provides a unique opportunity to really shape the future. Rankings 5th in The Complete University Guide 2025 4th in The Guardian University Guide 2025 Facilities we have a huge range of state-of-the-art technology, which is widely used by the postgraduate community for research work. The highly specialised equipment includes electron and confocal laser scanning microscopy, transgenic studies, genomics, DNA analysis and proteomics, bioinformatics, remote sensing, ecological field sampling and computer modelling. Other departmental facilities are also world-class, including extensive greenhouses, environmental control chambers, cell technology facilities, microscopy suite, facilities for next generation sequencing and proteomics, and dedicated powerful computers for bioinformatics. Careers Opportunities Your experience in the Department also develops more personal attributes, sought by employers, to help you take the step into a stimulating and rewarding professional career. Recent postgraduates have gone on to succeed in a wide range of roles in teaching, the health sector, industrial R&D and biotechnology, management, accountancy, conservation, ecological and environmental services, journalism, environmental and biological patent law, pharmaceuticals, the civil service and the armed services.