Course summary

Work with scientists and industry to study the genetics behind rare inherited diseases, and how discoveries in the lab are translated into innovative new treatments. Course description Lead academics: Professor Mimoun Azzouz and Professor Janine Kirby This course is designed to give you knowledge and training in a cutting-edge area of science, which you can apply to a wide range of roles in a growing industry. You’ll study the genetics behind rare inherited diseases, and how cell and gene therapies provide treatment options that can be tailored to individual patients. In the laboratory, you will explore a range of topics and techniques in molecular and cellular biology. You will also learn how scientists work with industry to translate a discovery into a marketable healthcare product, covering topics such as manufacturing, quality control, regulation, safety and clinical trials. As an Advanced Cell and Gene Therapies student, you will be learning from the experts who run our Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre (GTIMC). Researchers at this multi-million-pound facility are working to accelerate the development of gene therapies into life-changing treatments. The Sheffield team work with pharmaceutical companies and other organisations in an expanding global gene therapy network, which creates unique learning opportunities throughout the degree. Some of our collaborators give lectures, and you may have the opportunity to be part of a project with one of our industry partners during your 20-week research project. You will be based within the Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN) – an internationally recognised centre of excellence, where top researchers are working on groundbreaking treatments to improve the lives of patients with neurodegenerative disorders. Externally to the GTIMC, we've created collaborative links with a wider gene therapy landscape, involving several major pharmaceutical companies. Some of the course content is provided by external partners such as academics from other advanced therapies centres, as well as pharmaceutical partners. Internships and training courses This course involves: a 20-week hands-on internship at one of our GTIMC partners to enhance your theoretical knowledge and practical skills targeted training courses to develop your viral vector skills – available through the partnership between Centre Processing Innovation and the National Horizons Centre. Please see our University website for the most up-to-date course information