Course summary

The aims of the MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit are to study the biology of the mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell. There is a growing realisation that the dysfunction of various aspects of mitochondrial biology is connected to major neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and that as the major source of reactive oxygen species, the mitochondrion is likely also to be involved in ageing. Therefore, the Unit is developing its interests in the cell biology of mitochondria and is linking its activities to clinical science. For students wishing to continue on to the PhD, the MPhil provides a good foundation for future research studies. The MPhil in Medical Science (MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit) aims to:

• give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision; and

• give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.