Neuroscience MRes

Help advance understanding of the nervous system by training in cutting-edge neuroscience techniques

Our research seeks to understand how the nervous system, the most complex and highly organised part of the body, is able to generate perception, thoughts and behaviour. We then apply this understanding to seek solutions to real-world problems, like promoting healthy ageing, stroke recovery, spinal cord injury repair.

To address such neuroscientific problems, this 1 year MRes will enable you to spend most of your time in an active laboratory, learning and applying cutting edge techniques. Take a moment to look at the areas below and discover which lab research team you could become a part of. If you don’t see an exact match but have an idea of what you would like to do – please contact Samit Chakrabarty.

• Neuroengineering
• Molecular neuroscience
• Neurodegeneration
• Neural circuits
• Neurotrauma and repair

Find out more about our Neuroscience research.

The programme will begin by giving you an overview of the field of neuroscience and the inclusion of advanced tools and techniques useful in interrogating it for preclinical and clinical purposes.

The modules on this course will introduce you to the data analysis tools and fundamentals of bio imaging, both of which will be using data from real experimental scenarios. The use of core statistical models (classification, regressions), for analysis of different time-series datasets provided by the local researchers will be introduced during the data analytics module. During this module you will also analyse and interpret the large scale biological and biomedical data for physiological markets.

You will be provided with the basics of use of algorithms towards solving complex problems like diagnosis of function or improved function with therapies.

At the end of the course you will be able to do the following;

• Develop an understanding of normal neurological function in vertebrates to enable better understanding of dysfunction.
• Use of technologies to interrogate the neurological dysfunctions in the vertebrate population (animal and human diseases)
• Design, conduct experiments and research projects to better the neuronal systems.
• Analyse the data using appropriate methods and statistical techniques, and interpret, critically discuss and draw conclusions from these data.
• Establish efficacious use of new tools and their outcome evaluation to enable easy transfer of knowledge to preclinical and clinical scientists.
• Provide insight into how this information can then be transferred towards drug discovery, diagnostics, biomarker screening for patient stratification, improved rehabilitation and technological adaptations.
• Introduce use of big data analysis, use of mathematical algorithms and software pertinent to study of the nervous system and development of new tools involving capture of biological data, processing and its use for producing a define output.

For more details about your modules see below table.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Neuroscience MRes in the course catalogue

Entry requirements

BSc 1st class or 2i, or equivalent (for example a pass in MBChB, BDS), in a relevant scientific discipline, normally biological or biomedical sciences, but a natural sciences or engineering graduate will be considered subject to evidence of biological knowledge at an appropriate level.

English language requirement: IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in in any single component. Alternative English language requirements that are acceptable are:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) of 92 with no less than 21 in listening, 21 in reading, 23 in speaking and 22 in writing#
• Pearson (Academic) of 64 overall with no less than 60 in any component
• Cambridge Advanced English (CAE) of 176 overall with no less than 169 in any component
• Trinity College Integrated Skills in English of a Pass in ISE II or above (if taken in the UK)

How to apply

This link takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.
 
If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Documents and information you’ll need:

• completed online application form (for Taught Postgraduate Study)
• completed supporting statement highlighting why you wish to pursue this course and how this aligns to your future ambitions
• full CV
• transcript of degree examination marks achieved to date
• copy of final degree certificate (if completed)
• evidence of English language qualification (non-native English speakers only)
• copy of passport (if you’re an overseas student).

Admissions policy

Faculty of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Admissions Policy 2020

Fees

• UK/EU: To be confirmed
• International: To be confirmed

Read more about paying fees and charges.

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For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

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Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs

There is a need for students to be trained in the outlined neurological aspects of this programme, with a view of understanding the underlying biological principles, if we are to keep up to speed with changes in future research and to develop new tools for medical interventions

There is an increasing demand for people skilled in the knowledge of biological sciences applied to healthcare in the form of medical and biological technology needing. The knowledge of innovative use of fresh developments in the fields of data gathering and analysis is critical and is leading to a drive forward towards an innovative and disruptive technological development for improving diagnosis and therapies for mental health, mobility and common conditions like pain.

Upon completion of this programme you will be well-placed to undertake a PhD in this field or as junior research assistants if working in an academic or industrial environment.

There are career opportunities in neurotechnology, neuroscience and electroceuticals worldwide with industries and start-ups like GSK and BIOS Health to name a few. Yorkshire, UK and internationally based companies working in the sector of healthcare data analytics, imaging and neuropathology, healthcare app development and of course the new NHS Digital are such possible avenues for jobs

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.