Course summary
The course is hosted by the Department of Clinical Neurosciences and is supported by the School of Clinical Medicine. Students will benefit from a wide range of world-leading experts, including via seminars, journal clubs and social events. The course provides the ideal foundation for a future PhD or industry position. Its main aims for students are: Comprehensive Knowledge: Equip students with a broad understanding of neurological and neuro-oncological disorders, including the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the nervous system. Cutting-Edge Research: Equip students with the skills and knowledge to engage in cutting-edge research in clinical neurosciences. This includes developing innovative therapeutic strategies, and contributing to the understanding of neural mechanisms underlying neurological and neuro-oncological disorders. Research Competence: Foster the ability to design, conduct, and critically appraise research, encouraging evidence-based practice and innovation in the field. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Promote teamwork and collaboration across various neuroscientific and medical specialties to provide holistic patient care. Ethical Practice: Instil a strong sense of ethics and professionalism, ensuring that students are prepared to handle the complexities of research work with integrity. Research Training: To acquire transferable knowledge and expertise in the design, analysis and critical appraisal of research as well as communication and team building in a research environment. Lifelong Learning: Encourage a commitment to continuous learning and professional development to keep pace with advancements in the field. Learning Outcomes By the end of the programme students will: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. Understand the role of the immune system in neurological diseases and be able to apply this knowledge in research settings. Develop the ability to design, conduct, and critically appraise clinical research, contributing to evidence-based practice in neurosciences. Demonstrate the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, integrating knowledge from various neuroscientific disciplines. Exhibit a strong understanding of ethical principles in clinical research. Be knowledgeable about cutting-edge treatments and technologies in neurology and neuro-oncology, and understand the neurobiological mechanisms behind those treatments. Enhance their ability to communicate effectively with research peers. Be prepared to address health challenges in diverse healthcare settings, understanding the global context of neurological diseases. Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, staying updated with advancements in the field.
Assessment method
Thesis / Dissertation In addition to the taught component of the course (Michaelmas Term), participants will complete an individual research project, which will form some of the course assessment. Participants will be provided with a range of potential research projects, working with Principal Investigators and/or senior researchers in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences. Students will present their proposed project in peer review small group sessions and will be required to submit a project plan prior to beginning work on the project under the guidance and management of the research project manager with support from the supervisor and course directors. Students will be given time and will be supported in the first 4 weeks of Michaelmas Term to meet with supervisors to discuss potential projects, and to develop a research project outline. Students will be advised to write up the research project to comprise: 1) a comprehensive literature review of the field, providing the background to and context of the research project; and, 2) a dissertation outlining the project outcomes: aims, methods, results, data analysis and discussion, with a final presentation. The dissertation will be marked on quality of writing, flow of narrative, inclusion of appropriate literature, level of critical appraisal; clarity, detail, and reproducibility of methods and sound interpretation of results. Importantly the dissertation should present original research that contributes new knowledge or insights to the field, demonstrating the student's ability to conduct independent and innovative work. The dissertation will make up 60% of the overall assessment, while the oral presentation of the research findings will account for an additional 10% of the final mark. Essays Essay: Will be on a topic related to one of the course modules (<5,000 words). It will be marked on insight into the topic area and should present ideas in a clear and logical manner, with well- structured paragraphs and smooth transitions between points. The essay should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the topic, providing insightful analysis and supporting arguments with relevant evidence. Submission will be on the last day of Lent Term. 20% of the total mark. Written examination Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) test: Knowledge assessed based on Michaelmas Term taught material at around week 2 of Lent Term. Scored on accuracy of understanding the questions related to each sub-topic in Michaelmas Term lectures. 10% of total mark.
Entry requirements
Applicants for this course should have achieved a UK Good II.i Honours Degree.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
University of Cambridge
The Old Schools
Trinity Lane
Cambridge
CB2 1TN