Course summary

Unlock the science behind one of the world’s most pressing health challenges with Brunel’s Cancer Research MSc - a programme designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience to make a real-world impact in cancer biology, diagnostics, and therapy. This programme offers a deep dive into the genetic and epigenetic foundations of cancer alongside innovative approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Whether you're an aspiring scientist or healthcare professional, you’ll gain the expertise needed to contribute to cutting-edge cancer research and clinical advancements. You'll gain specialist training on the genetic and epigenetic hallmarks of cancer, tumour microenvironments, and key signalling pathways. You’ll explore cutting-edge diagnostics like liquid biopsies and therapies including immunotherapy and targeted treatments - plus, critically evaluate current research through journal clubs. On this degree, we explore the molecular and cellular basis of disease covering key topics in genetics, epigenetics, immunology, and pharmacology. You’ll investigate how gene regulation, chromatin structure, and non-coding RNA influence disease, and how model systems - from cell lines to organoids - are used to investigate new therapies. We'll teach you how to design and conduct robust scientific studies meaning you'll gain practical experience in lab techniques, statistical analysis, and omics technologies, while also learning about research ethics, data integrity, and the responsible use of AI in science. You’ll also develop the ability to present complex scientific ideas clearly and persuasively to both expert and public audiences. From journal articles to media releases, you’ll learn how to tailor your message and make your research matter. Whether you’re aiming for a career in biomedical research, clinical diagnostics, or the pharmaceutical industry, this degree will prepare you to make a real-world impact in science and medicine.