MSc Immunology of Infectious Diseases

Most immunology courses focus on non-communicable diseases such as cancer, but infectious diseases represent an increasingly important cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. We’re one of the few universities to offer an immunology course that is devoted to this area. We’ll help you understand the whole research process, from the fundamental discoveries at the forefront of the field to the application of findings and vaccinology.

What you will learn

• Master the basic principles of host immunity against the diverse range of pathogens that confront human populations
• Explore the immunology of a whole range of infectious diseases, from viral to fungal, bacterial to different types of parasites
• Apply scientific concepts, evaluate primary scientific data, and carry out techniques for assessing immune responses to pathogens
• Learn how to plan, design and conduct research and use these skills to investigate basic immunological mechanisms and applied issues in the immunology of infection
• Discover our unique mix of expertise in immunology, vaccinology, molecular biology, virology, bacteriology, parasitology, mycology and clinical medicine

The aims and learning outcomes are detailed in the programme specification.

What sets us apart is our global profile in infectious diseases research – we have world-class expertise in a whole host of areas including tuberculosis and malaria, as well as neglected tropical diseases such as worm infections and leishmaniasis. You’ll be taught by our global community who will introduce you to the whole spectrum of challenges societies face around the world.

The flexible nature of the degree means you’ll be able to focus on the areas that interest you, whether that’s the development of vaccines, parasitic infections, or another area of this fascinating subject. You’ll also carry out an original research project which might involve travel to somewhere like Asia or Africa. Past students have looked at everything from characterising the development of memory B cell responses to malaria to dendritic cell metabolism during helminth infection.

Who is it for?

We’ve designed this course for anyone with an interest in immunology – in particular infectious diseases. Most of our students have studied biology or biomedical sciences at undergraduate level. However, you might have a background in medicine or veterinary studies. We also welcome intercalating medical students to help you go beyond what you’ll cover in your medical degree on this topic.

If you’re looking to gain practical experience in the lab, this course is the perfect opportunity to do exactly that. You’ll be able to work with us in our research labs, but there will also be chances for some students to go to various locations overseas for their projects to work with our partners there.

Many of our students go on to continue their research with a PhD in biomedical science or clinical research. However, you could also apply your research skills to clinical lab settings in hospitals or a role in the pharmaceutical industry.

Throughout the course, we’ll help you boost your employability and network within the field. The field trip to the British Society for Immunology Annual Conference or attending their winter school is just one of the many opportunities to meet leading immunologists, hear about their work and start building your own network.

Duration

One year full-time or split-study over two years.