The MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology is the first scientific, research-intensive course of its kind in Ireland and aims to recruit highly-motivated, enthusiastic students with an interest in research. With internationally-recognised researchers in the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, the MRes combines a 12-month research project with select taught modules to enhance each student’s individual skill set.
A 12-month research project in the areas of bioanalysis, bioinformatics, proteomics, cancer biology, cell signalling, gene expression, trafficking, molecular genetics, neurobiology, RNA, translational control, or synthetic biology A strong focus on development of presentation and writing skills required for a successful research career, including research proposal writingGeneral and transferable skills in laboratory techniques and safety, research ethics and integrity, information literacy and science communication.
The MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology is comprised of an orientation and induction week, four course modules (two core modules and two electives), attendance at seminars and a research project and dissertation. Students will participate in a university-wide research induction event, complete a laboratory health and safety training session, and meet with the MRes coordinator to discuss their research student learning plan, including selection of modules.
Core Modules
- Scientific Communication of Current Topics in Molecular Cell Biology
- Scientific Research Planning and Proposals
Elective Modules
Students will take two of the following modules:
- Scientific Training for Enhanced Postgraduate Studies
- Biotechniques
- Information Literacy Skills
- Scientific Outreach and Communication
- Introduction to Research Ethics
With permission, students can opt to take Statistics and Data Analysis for Postgraduate Research Students or other relevant modules to fulfil the elective requirement.
Seminar Series
As part of the MRes, students will attend research seminars in the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology Seminar Series. Presented by both external and internal speakers, you will hear about the latest research developments from experts in their fields.
Research Project and Dissertation
The largest component of the MRes degree is the research project. Students will select or design a project, together with your supervisor, and begin your research in week two. Work on your project will be compiled into an MSc dissertation.
By completing the MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, students will gain invaluable experience in all aspects of research – from hands-on, practical skills to experimental design, planning and project-management. Students will be a working independently, but also collaboratively within a selected research group within the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology. The MRes is designed to give you the best start for your scientific research career.
The MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology is the first scientific, research-intensive course of its kind in Ireland and aims to recruit highly-motivated, enthusiastic students with an interest in research. With internationally-recognised researchers in the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, the MRes combines a 12-month research project with select taught modules to enhance each student’s individual skill set.
A 12-month research project in the areas of bioanalysis, bioinformatics, proteomics, cancer biology, cell signalling, gene expression, trafficking, molecular genetics, neurobiology, RNA, translational control, or synthetic biology A strong focus on development of presentation and writing skills required for a successful research career, including research proposal writingGeneral and transferable skills in laboratory techniques and safety, research ethics and integrity, information literacy and science communication.
The MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology is comprised of an orientation and induction week, four course modules (two core modules and two electives), attendance at seminars and a research project and dissertation.
Candidates must:
- possess an honours primary degree (minimum 2.1 honours or equivalent) in the biological sciences, medicine or pharmaceutical sciences.
- be approved by the MRes coordinator and programme team, including the Head of the School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology.
The number of places is limited and decisions on entry to the programme will be made on the basis of the candidate’s performance in his/her primary degree and interview according to the following criteria: academic qualifications, research experience and focus, scientific understanding, personal statement and strong recommendations from two academic referees.
English Language Requirements
Applicants that are non-native speakers of the English language must meet the university-approved English language requirements available here.
For applicants with qualifications completed outside of Ireland
Applicants must meet the required entry academic grade, equivalent to Irish requirements, please find our grades comparison by country here.
International/non-EU applicants
For full details of the non-EU application procedure please visit our how to apply pages for international students. In UCC, we use the term programme and course interchangeably to describe what a person has registered to study in UCC and its constituent colleges, schools, and departments.
Not all courses are open to international/non-EU applicants, please check the fact file above.
For more information please contact the International Office.
The MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology is designed to give students a research-intensive experience but at a degree level lower than a PhD. Taught modules are focused on generic and transferable research skills, rather than discipline-specific knowledge. There is an emphasis on data analysis, interpretation, problem-solving and time- and project-management. Students also develop skills in presenting and writing science, posing a research question and development of a research proposal. Students completing the MRes in Biochemistry and Cell Biology will be competitive to secure funding, obtain a PhD position or enter directly into employment within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sectors.
1. Choose Course
Firstly choose your course. Applicants can apply for up to two courses under one application. Details of taught courses are available on our online prospectus.
2. Apply Online
Once you have chosen your course you can apply online at the online application portal. Applicants will need to apply before the course closing date. There is a non-refundable €50 application fee for all courses apart from the Professional Master of Education (Secondary School/Post-Primary Teacher Training) which has a €100 application fee.
Applicants for the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health Nursing must apply on the PAC website when the programme opens for applications.
3. Gather Supporting Documents
Scanned copies of the following documents will need to be uploaded to the online application portal in support of your application. Applicants may need to produce the original documents if you are accepted onto a course and register at UCC.
- Original qualification documents listed on your application including transcripts of results from institutions other than UCC
- Any supplementary items requested for your course.
Please log into the online application portal for more details.
4. Application Processing Timeline
Our online application portal opens for applications for most courses in early November of each year. Check specific course details.
5. Rounds
For courses that are in the rounds system (Irish and EU applicants), please check the rounds closing dates here.
Questions on how to apply?
Please use our web enquiry form to contact us.
Dr. Susan Joyce,
MRes Coordinator
School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology
University College Cork
T: +353 21 420 5421
E: mresbiochem@ucc.ie
