How can our MSc by Research programmes help your career?

Opportunities to develop and practice your skills

The programme provides a wide range of techniques you can learn from especially if you are choosing projects from different subject areas; which offer opportunities to show off and show that you are willing to learn! There are also several sessions geared towards writing and submitting grant proposals which are precious experiences and practice for anyone looking to apply for a PhD!

Pui Lai

Events to inspire your future

You do need to be self-motivated… but there are so many resources to help with your future career plans within the programme, through the University of Edinburgh Institute of Academic Development (IAD) and with seminars hosted by the Deanery of Biomedical Sciences. The Biomedical Sciences postgraduate society host regular social and networking events that have included a panel discussion on ‘how I got a PhD’ from current doctoral students, practical sessions on presenting skills and seminars on how to move from ‘Academia to industry’ led by industry representatives.

Natalie Courtney

Experience and support

I considered this programme to be a stepping stone to a PhD in biomedical science, and it has fulfilled my expectations in this respect. From the beginning of the programme you are in the lab, fully integrated with one of the University’s research groups. This gives you large amounts of practical experience early in the year (unlike many master’s programmes), which is gives you plenty to talk about in PhD applications and interviews around Christmastime. As well as putting on multiple seminars that enable you to gain relevant skills and talk to current PhD students, all the academic staff I have approached have been more than helpful – in fact their advice and support were absolutely invaluable in me obtaining a place on a PhD programme funded by the Wellcome Trust next year.

Susanna Riley

I attended some seminars early on in the program about how to make a successful PhD application, and what PhD study is like (both organized by the IAD here at the university). I was very focused on my next career steps and have already been accepted onto a PhD. Throughout my time on the programme the supervisors I have worked with have always been open and generous with their advice and guidance.

Tyler Brant

Find out more about our range of research areas for PhD study