Programme Overview

This new programme aims to provide you with a firm foundation in biomedical research by enhancing your knowledge, understanding and critical awareness of the scientific method, as well as extensive practical experience in an area related to your interests. Taught units provide intensive training in research methodology, experimental design, statistical analyses and data interpretation. Skills training in verbal and written communication is also emphasised. The core of the programme is an 8-month research project, conducted within one of the University of Bristol’s internationally recognised research groups in either the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry or the Faculty of Medical and Veterinary Sciences. Opportunities will be available in laboratory or clinical-based investigations. This programme is suitable for medical, dental and veterinary students interested in pursuing a research-intensive intercalation option after three years of study. It is also suitable for graduates in medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and bioscience subjects who wish to develop their research skills before embarking on a research/clinical career in academia or the pharmaceutical industry. It provides the ideal foundation for further studies leading to a PhD.

Programme Information

Duration: Full-time for 1 year. Part-time may be possible.
Start date: 21st September 2015
Available places: 15
Fees for 2015 entry: UK/EU £5,000; overseas £14,300 plus mandatory £4,000 bench fee for all students.

Entry Requirements

This programme is aimed at high calibre students with a genuine interest in scientific research. For intercalating medical, dental and veterinary students an average mark of at least 60 percent in the first and second years of their programmes is expected. For graduates in medicine, dentistry and veterinary sciences, an overall mark of at least 60 percent is required. For science graduates, the requirement is an upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent).
Intercalating students can only register on the programme after completing three years of their clinical programme. Medical students should apply in Year 2 for post Year 3 enrolment.

International students must meet our minimum English language requirement of an IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with at least 6.5 in each band.

Further Information and Application

For further information and to apply please click 'Apply Now' by 31st July 2015

Programme Structure

This programme is delivered by research scientists and clinicians through lectures, practical sessions, seminars and tutorials.
Unit 1: Introduction to Research Methods in Health Sciences Research (10 credits). This unit introduces a variety of research methods used in basic and applied clinical research including: finding and reading relevant research information; presenting research results; basic statistical analysis; data interpretation; ethics; public engagement; and commercialising research.
Unit 2: Further Research Methods in Health Sciences Research (20 credits). This unit aims to further develop knowledge and practical experience in statistical analyses, experimental design and laboratory methods and includes training in the use of a statistical software package and practical experience in several laboratory techniques.
Unit 3: Project Proposal in Health Sciences Research (20 credits). This unit involves planning and writing a research project proposal, which includes a literature review, aims, impact, research plan, ethical considerations, contingency plans, timetable and references.
Unit 4: Research Club in Health Sciences Research (10 credits). This unit aims to develop your ability to present, critically evaluate and discuss scientific findings by contributing to journal clubs, attending and summarising research seminars and presenting your own research.
Unit 5: Research Project in Health Sciences Research (120 credits). During this unit you will gain extensive experience in scientific / clinical research by conducting an independent project related to an area of interest to you. You will write-up your research in the form of a thesis, present and discuss your work in a viva and research symposium.